Gretsch G5238 Pro Jet

I had been looking for 'retro' Guitars and found this one at a Daddy's store in MA. I picked it up with a high quality moulded hardshell case for $155.

Obviously, the sparkle finish make it look quite unigue, but I also liked the retro styling of the pickups and knobs. But it was the sound that hooked me. I used to play a Les Paul then switched to a Strat. This guitar has the bottom and fullness of the Paul but the sparkle and twang of a Strat. I thought perhaps I was not hearing it correctly so I played it through headphones. Then I compared it to an Epi Strat. That was much thinner. I thought perhaps the copy was not up to quality of a real Strat so I then compared it to a $1200 Strat. The Electromatic still sounded quite different. I then tried an Epi Paul and it sounded muffled compared to the Electromatic. I tried a Real Leas Paul and it sounded a bit better but still much more muffled than the Electromatic. I'm not sure if it is the strings, pickups or body on this guitar, but something (or all three) makes it quite unique and a very nice addition to my Strat. It is like having a Strat with more low end and a more midrange snap.

Hard to play in tune. I have large/strong hands and fingers and I find myself bending the nexk as I play which makes the pitch rise. Likewise, the frets and action are high so if I apply anything more than a light fretting presure, the strings go out of tune. Very frustrating! I'll try setting the action lower and if that does not help, perhaps get it refretted. Not sure if there is a way to strenthen the neck/body connection at all so it will not flex.

For what I paid, the value is very high. Well constructed and good quality components for the money for what I can see so far. Tunners may be a bit weak though.

If you want something between a Paul and Strat, check this one out.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com