Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Hollow Body Guitar with Bigsby – Orange: A Comprehensive Review
Gretsch guitars have a long and storied history, with their unique sound and style capturing the hearts of musicians worldwide for decades. The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Hollow Body Guitar with Bigsby in Orange is a stunning example of the company’s dedication to quality and innovation. This review will delve into the various aspects of this beautiful instrument, from its design and construction to its versatility and playability.
Design and Construction
The G5420T Electromatic Hollow Body in Orange is a true testament to Gretsch’s commitment to craftsmanship. The guitar features a 5-ply maple body with a high-gloss finish, providing both durability and a gorgeous aesthetic. The vibrant orange color is eye-catching and sure to make a statement on stage or in the studio.
The guitar’s neck is also made of maple, with a comfortable U-shaped profile that allows for easy playability. The fretboard is crafted from rosewood, offering a warm and smooth playing surface with 22 medium jumbo frets. The headstock features the classic Gretsch logo and vintage-style open-back tuning machines, further adding to the instrument’s retro charm.
One of the standout features of the G5420T is the addition of a Bigsby B60 vibrato tailpiece. This iconic piece of hardware allows players to add subtle pitch variations and expressive bends to their playing, making it perfect for various genres, from rockabilly to blues and beyond.
Electronics and Hardware
The G5420T is equipped with two Black Top Filter’Tron humbucking pickups, which deliver the quintessential Gretsch sound. These pickups are known for their bright, articulate tone with a touch of warmth, making them ideal for cutting through the mix in a live setting. The guitar also features a three-way pickup selector switch, allowing players to choose between the neck, bridge, or both pickups in combination.
The master volume control and individual pickup volume controls provide ample flexibility for fine-tuning your sound, while the master tone control allows you to shape the overall tonal character of the guitar. The Adjusto-Matic bridge with secured rosewood base ensures accurate intonation and easy adjustments, while the Graph Tech NuBone nut contributes to increased sustain and improved tuning stability.
Versatility and Playability
One of the most appealing aspects of the G5420T Electromatic Hollow Body is its versatility. While it may be most closely associated with rockabilly and country styles, this guitar is equally at home in genres such as jazz, blues, and even rock. The Filter’Tron pickups provide a broad range of tones, from warm and mellow to bright and twangy, ensuring that you’ll never be left wanting for sonic options.
The hollow body construction further adds to the G5420T’s versatility, granting it a rich, resonant tone with plenty of natural sustain. This makes it an excellent choice for both rhythm and lead playing, as well as fingerpicking styles.
As for playability, the G5420T is incredibly comfortable to play, thanks in part to its slim neck profile and smooth rosewood fretboard. The Bigsby vibrato tailpiece may take some getting used to for those unfamiliar with the system, but once you’ve adjusted to its unique feel, it becomes an invaluable tool for adding expression and nuance to your playing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Eye-catching design and high-quality construction
- Versatile tonal options thanks to Filter’Tron pickups and hollow body construction
- Bigsby vibrato tailpiece adds extra expressiveness to playing
- Comfortable neck and fretboard for easy playability
Cons:
- The Bigsby system may require some getting used to for those unfamiliar with it
- The hollow body design can be prone to feedback in high-gain situations
Conclusion
The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Hollow Body Guitar with Bigsby in Orange is an exceptional instrument that offers players a versatile range of tones and a comfortable playing experience. Its stunning design and top-notch construction make it an excellent choice for guitarists of all genres and skill levels.
Whether you’re a rockabilly enthusiast, a jazz aficionado, or a blues player searching for the perfect hollow body guitar, the G5420T is well worth considering. With its iconic Gretsch sound, eye-catching appearance, and timeless appeal, this instrument is sure to become a cherished addition to any guitarist’s collection.
