Gretsch’s Electromatic series offers a range of mid-priced guitars that deliver classic Gretsch style and tone without the high price tag of the Professional Collection. Known for their retro aesthetics, distinct tonal qualities, and playability, Electromatic guitars cater to intermediate players and professionals who want a quality Gretsch guitar at an affordable price. Let’s dive into what makes the Gretsch Electromatic series unique, the different models available, and why they might be an excellent choice for your next guitar.
1. Overview of the Gretsch Electromatic Series
The Gretsch Electromatic series serves as a bridge between entry-level and high-end Gretsch guitars, providing the iconic looks, feel, and sound of classic Gretsch models at a price that’s accessible to most guitarists. These guitars are primarily semi-hollow and hollow-body electric models, though there are solid-body options as well. They’re built with quality materials, offer good playability, and are equipped with Gretsch’s signature features, including Bigsby tremolos, Filter’Tron pickups, and unique body shapes.
The Gretsch Electromatic series is popular among rock, blues, jazz, and country players, offering a versatile sound that can fit a wide range of genres.
2. Key Features of the Gretsch Electromatic Series
- Body Types: The Electromatic line includes hollow-body, semi-hollow, and solid-body models, each providing a different tonal quality and feel.
- Pickups: Most Electromatic guitars feature Gretsch’s Black Top Filter’Tron or Broad’Tron pickups, known for their clarity, punch, and “twangy” character that’s perfect for rock, blues, and rockabilly.
- Bigsby Vibrato: Many Electromatic models come with a Bigsby vibrato system, adding that classic Gretsch vibrato effect which is popular for subtle pitch modulation.
- Classic Gretsch Aesthetics: With vintage-inspired finishes, bound necks, oversized F-holes, and “thumbnail” inlays, the Electromatic series offers a stylish, retro vibe that’s unmistakably Gretsch.
- Quality Construction: The Electromatic series guitars are built in Asia, which helps keep costs down while maintaining quality with attention to detail.
3. Top Gretsch Electromatic Models
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular models in the Electromatic line:
Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Hollow Body
- Overview: One of the flagship models in the Electromatic line, the Gretsch G5420T is a full hollow-body guitar, offering that open, resonant sound Gretsch is known for.
- Features:
- Body: Laminated maple hollow body with classic F-holes for added resonance.
- Pickups: Black Top Filter’Tron humbucking pickups, providing a bright, clear, and slightly “jangly” sound with great articulation.
- Vibrato: Bigsby B60 vibrato tailpiece for classic tremolo effects.
- Sound: The Gretsch G5420T has a rich, open sound with a lot of low-end warmth and a chimey high end. It’s perfect for rockabilly, jazz, blues, and rock genres where a warm, resonant tone is desired.
- Pros: Iconic Gretsch tone and look, great for jazz and rockabilly, versatile Filter’Tron pickups.
- Cons: Prone to feedback at higher volumes due to hollow body design.
Gretsch G5655TG Electromatic Center Block Jr.
Overview: The Gretsch G5655TG is a smaller, semi-hollow body with a center block, reducing feedback and making it more suitable for higher gain settings. It’s compact and more manageable for players who find full-sized hollow bodies too bulky.
- Features:
- Body: Semi-hollow with a center block, reducing feedback and enhancing sustain.
- Pickups: Black Top Broad’Tron humbuckers for a more powerful, mid-range focused tone.
- Vibrato: Bigsby B70 vibrato for smooth, subtle pitch bending.
- Sound: The Broad’Tron pickups produce a thicker, more modern sound than the Filter’Trons, with increased sustain and punchy mids. It’s versatile for a variety of genres, from rock to pop to country.
- Pros: Compact and lightweight, reduced feedback, versatile sound, stylish gold hardware.
- Cons: Broad’Tron pickups may not capture the traditional Gretsch “twang” as much as Filter’Trons.
Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Jet FT Single-Cut with Bigsby
- Overview: For players looking for a solid-body guitar with classic Gretsch tone and features, the Gretsch G5230T Jet is an excellent option. It has the look and sound of a Les Paul-style guitar, but with Gretsch’s unique twist.
- Features:
- Body: Mahogany body with a maple top, offering sustain and warmth.
- Pickups: Black Top Filter’Tron pickups for that clear, articulate sound.
- Vibrato: Bigsby B50 vibrato tailpiece for classic Gretsch vibrato effects.
- Sound: The Gretsch G5230T has a bright, punchy tone that’s great for rock, country, and pop. It’s less prone to feedback than hollow bodies, making it suitable for higher volume settings.
- Pros: Solid body construction for sustain, versatile Filter’Tron pickups, classic look with single-cut design.
- Cons: Not as resonant as hollow-body models; smaller Bigsby can be more challenging to use for long vibrato phrases.
4. Who Should Consider a Gretsch Electromatic Guitar?
The Gretsch Electromatic series is ideal for:
- Intermediate Players: These guitars offer quality sound and playability that will satisfy players with a bit of experience looking for a step up from entry-level models.
- Budget-Conscious Professionals: For working musicians who want the Gretsch sound without the price tag of a high-end model, Electromatics are a great choice.
- Genre-Specific Players: Gretsch Electromatics are particularly well-suited for genres like rockabilly, jazz, blues, country, and classic rock, thanks to their warm, punchy tone and signature “twang.”
- Fans of Retro Aesthetics: If you love vintage-inspired designs, unique finishes, and stylish details like F-holes and Bigsby tremolos, the Electromatic series delivers.
5. Sound and Playability
Gretsch Electromatic guitars are generally known for their clarity and articulation, thanks to the Filter’Tron and Broad’Tron pickups. They offer a “twangy” sound that’s great for both rhythm and lead playing, especially in genres where you want notes to cut through the mix. The hollow and semi-hollow bodies provide warmth and resonance, while the solid bodies like the Jet offer a more focused, sustain-heavy tone.
The necks on Electromatics are typically comfortable, with a medium profile that suits most hand sizes. Action is generally set up well from the factory, but many players still choose to do a custom setup to match their personal preferences.
6. Pros and Cons of the Gretsch Electromatic Series
Pros:
- Affordable Price: Offers Gretsch quality at a mid-range price, ideal for intermediate players.
- Classic Design: Beautiful retro aesthetics that stand out on stage.
- Versatile Sound: Great for a variety of music styles; Filter’Tron pickups offer a signature sound.
- Bigsby Vibrato: Provides that classic vibrato effect, perfect for rockabilly and blues.
Cons:
- Feedback on Hollow Models: Full hollow bodies like the Gretsch G5420T can feedback at high volumes.
- Broad’Tron Pickups (on some models): While versatile, they lack the classic Gretsch twang of Filter’Trons.
- Weight (Solid Bodies): Models like the Jet can feel heavy compared to other guitars in their class.
7. Final Thoughts: Should You Buy a Gretsch Electromatic Guitar?
If you’re looking for a guitar with classic style, unique sound, and solid build quality without breaking the bank, the Gretsch Electromatic series is worth considering. These guitars offer a distinct voice, especially for players who enjoy retro tones and aesthetics. While they may not have the same refinement as Gretsch’s Professional Collection, they capture the essential Gretsch vibe at a more affordable price.
Whether you’re drawn to the resonant tones of a hollow body like the Gretsch G5420T, the compact versatility of the gretsch G5655TG Center Block Jr., or the solid power of the Gretsch G5230T Jet, there’s likely an Electromatic model that fits your needs. These guitars provide a great entry into the world of Gretsch and will suit players across a wide range of genres.