Gretsch G5622T Review: Quality Sound in a Budget-Friendly Package

Body And Neck:
Electronics:
Hardware:
Sound:
Value:

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Though Gretsch's hollow-body models became popular with rock and roll and rockabilly players in the 1950s and '60s, the company's semi-hollow models also enjoy plenty of success. With a solid center block, these guitars fuse Gretsch's classic acoustic warmth and brilliant top-end sound with a more durable, sturdy body that does well at loud volumes.

The G5622T, a center-block guitar in Gretsch's Electromatic line, offers a great combination of quality and value. While it's not the cheapest, this guitar is plenty affordable and makes an outstanding second guitar for any electric player. Let's take a closer look and examine why this guitar is one of the best electric guitars under $1,000.

Body and Neck

As we mentioned above, the G5622T features a solid center block running through the length of its body. That combines the best qualities of hollow-body and solid guitars — you get the warmth and resonance of the hollow acoustic wings, while the solid center limits feedback and increases the guitar's presence and punchiness.

The body itself is constructed entirely from laminated maple, with Gretsch's classic oversized f-holes and an arched top. It's only 1.75″ thick; while there's plenty of weight and space, it's easily manageable for players of all sizes. The neck, meanwhile, is maple with a rosewood fretboard. The 12.6″ radius and 24.6″ scale allow for easy bends and runs.

Electronics

Gretsch guitars are known for their famous Filter'Tron humbucking pickups. In contrast with Gibson's famed P.A.F. humbuckers, Filter'Trons provide sparkling high-end and increased clarity. The G5622T features a pair of Gretsch's HiLo'Tron pickups — they're based on the character of the Filter'Trons with extra emphasis on louder volumes and higher gain levels.

To control those pickups, the guitar uses a series of knobs in two places. The master volume knob is located above the pickguard for easy access while playing. Next to the bridge, you'll find individual volume controls for each pickup and a master tone control. The separate volume controls allow you to blend in the perfect mix of tones when you're selecting the sound from both pickups. You can choose which pickup you'd like to use from the three-way selector switch on the upper horn.

Hardware

The G5622T's most notable hardware feature is its Bigsby B-70 vibrato tailpiece. In fact, the “T” in the model's name stands for that tailpiece! As you play, the Bigsby allows you to create swooping, melodic vibrato with a smooth and natural feel.

Beyond the Bigsby, the G5622T features a standard complement of Gretsch hardware. The bridge is an anchored Adjusto-Matic model, which features individual slots for each string. Along with the vintage open-gear tuners, the bridge makes it easy to control your tuning and intonation. The thumbnail fretboard inlays are another highlight — it's a famous Gretsch feature that lends a touch of extra class.

Sound

Whether you love pristine cleans or saturated overdrive tones, you'll certainly enjoy the G5622T. All of the hallmarks of classic Gretsch sound are here, from the bright top-end to the supple articulation and dynamic range. Those qualities alone make this an excellent guitar for blues, country, rock and roll, and jazz.

However, this guitar also sounds great at louder volumes. Through overdriven tube amps, it delivers a delicious saturated sound with plenty of throatiness and bite. While it's still a treble-heavy guitar, there aren't any ice-pick tones or shrill notes here. Under heavier distortion, the G5622T responds with a rich and creamy sound that's a refreshing change from darker hard rock and metal guitars.

Conclusion

The Gretsch G5622T is one of the most versatile models in Gretsch's catalogue. Though it delivers “that great Gretsch sound” in spades, it also displays surprising range and articulation across different genres and tones. Whether you're a newer player looking to step up your rig or a more advanced guitarist in search of a change of pace, the G5622T could be a good fit for you.