Gretsch hands down, I love my Epiphone’s and will always choose them over Gibson for consistent quality and price but Gretsch seems to have that special sauce that no other guitar manufacturer has, that Gretsch sound and lighter body automatically puts them at the head if the pack for me.
@@evil1st Les Paul is a 24/5 scale just like on a Gibson, so there both easy to play. it just comes down to personal taste, i like the sound of the Gretsch myself, but I've played Epiphone LP Standards for years. i actually have a Gretsch, but they feel totally different than a Gibson or Epiphone. there best suited for rock and blues, maybe even country.
The Les Paul has a muddy sound. I really love the Gretch sound. It has that concert sound that reaches out and grabs people. Its almost shocking how clear and defined the notes are on the Gretch. Both are great guitars, but I have loved Gretch for years, because they have a $4000 sound for under $1000.
great review, the Gretsch for me. I love how you used an affordable amp as well, just gives people a better taste of how it sounds for the majority of us who don't own outrageously expensive amps.
you prolly dont care but does someone know of a tool to get back into an Instagram account..? I was dumb forgot my login password. I appreciate any tips you can offer me!
@Asher Emanuel I really appreciate your reply. I found the site on google and im in the hacking process now. I see it takes quite some time so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
@@cooltunesmadeeasy I couldn't agree more. Most players go right into a show-off-rift, that's does me no good. This video allowed me to hear both guitars. How refreshing! Triple.
You are a great guitar player… I will say when I started I quit when I heard Eddie Van Halen and started playing again when Cobain came around. Us regular guys want to see guys like you play. That’s what sells instruments to us. You are a cool guy too!
I own Fenders, Epiphone, Fernandes, Schecter, PRS, Squier and two Gretsch's. Out of all of them the Gretsch by far are the best sounding hands down. Better clarity and cuts through any mix without hassle of having to add pedals. The volume blending is something you won't find on any other guitars.
@@lueymeteora1410 my lespaul is a 60’s tribute US made and my Gretsch is a G5422t (not US made) they are both on the same price range her un Canada. Around a 1000$
Thanks for this! And let me just say that I love your presentation. You focus on the sound of the guitar, making it not just a demonstration of how awesome and fast guitarist you are.
Very revealing, I was just wondering which one of those would suit me better and now I'm sure it's Epiphone. Thank you for not standing in the way of each guitar showing its true personality.
I really love your reviews, Chris. Great playing. Great explanations. Also, it's helpful that you actually play the same riffs on each guitar you compare so the differences (if any) become readily apparent.
Yes .. I have the Gretsch 5439T Silver sparkle.. it was perfect upon purchase.. after a year I changed the pickups to TV Jones Brian Setzer in the neck and a Powertron in the bridge.. it just wails now.. huge tone.. Nice job on the review/demo my man!!
First, thanks for showing the clean tones. That's really all I needed to hear. Second, I do have Gibson and Epiphone LP's, and my new G5230T seems to offer a little more variation of tones. Plus the overall quality of the Gretsch was a very pleasant surprise, particularly the black walnut fingerboard.
Chris, I'd like to let you know that you have inspired me. 4 days ago I was at my LMS; looking at the Gretsch G5220. I fell in love with the guitar, but as someone that has never played I turned to the internet for advice. I've seen many videos on the G5220. But your video really stuck out to me. The sounds you are able to make with the guitar is simple but amazing. Once I make my first guitar purchase, one of my goals is to play the exact notes you played on this video. I really appreciate your approach and wanted to let you know you have motivated me and I'm sure many others. Thank you again. Triple
I’ve tried all three Gibson, Gretsch, and Epiphone. I’ve found that Gretsch has the best feel, tone, sound, and it holds tune 100x better than Gibson and Epiphone. But the black top filtertrons are great pickups but after about a year I changed over to some TV Jones classics. I haven’t found a guitar that has the same feel and sound ever since.
I own a epi less paul, and a gibson less paul. I just picked up the 2020 jet5220 and I love it! It gives my $2000 gibon a run for its money. But, never just take my word for it, go play one. I was shocked on the quality of this guitar at the price point. I really think Fender keeps the prices down on these for some reason.
New to playing as in never played, Turing 60 this year. I went to my LMS today and fell in love with the Gretsch G5220, since I can't afford a Gibson Les Paul Custom. Payday is Friday, crossing my fingers as I'm seriously considering making the plunge. This video was helpful and timely. Thank you! Triple.
Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Jet Ft with Gibsby, sounds better that the G5220, because it has Black To Filter´Tron Pick Ups (G5220 has Board'Tron Pick Ups, whiche are good, but less brilliant, less worm and less clean than the G5230) Good Luck
I have a Les Paul and I THOUGHT I wanted another... Until I tried the Gretsch at the music store yesterday. I decided to walk away to think on it and will probably decide next week but, as expected, the Les Paul feels EXACTLY like the one I own already. And that's great, good for Epiphone for keeping the build quality consistent. HOWEVER, because of the unique and bright sound you get with Gretsch pickups and the different feeling playability, combined with already owning a Les Paul, the Gretsch is a lot more compelling for me personally at this time. I'll probably end up buying it. Edit: Bought the Gretsch. 😁😁
Windows Media Player I’ve since played a Gretsch with and without a Bigsby and the Bigsby is the root of the tuning issues. My G5420t rarely stays in tune despite all the work I’ve done to it, but I borrowed my friend’s G5220 (which doesn’t have a bigsby) I only had to tune that once the whole time I had it, which was like 3 weeks
@@tuckerlane7995 Gretsch tuning issues come either from an unreliable Bigsby, or one of those "space control" bridges that doesn't have individual-string intonation. These Electromatic Jet guitars with solid tailpieces and tune-o-matic bridges are as stable as anything Gibson with a similar setup.
The Gretsch G5657T is on sale on MF for $549 from $799. I wanted the gold top on sale for $399 from $449 but I can't decide. I've never played either but can't miss this deal.
Bought the Electromatic Jet BT a couple months ago. It amazes me. Can not believe the price! The pickups are hot, producing great overdrive and responsive pick attack. The guitar just comes alive in your hands. Yet when you roll it back you can pick like Chet, or twang with the best of them. After fiddling with the control configuration, I really like it. You can paint a rainbow of usable tones. Only adjustment I made was to round the square corners of the nut. Neck plays like a dream. Fit and finish is excellent. The heads are tight and the gear ratio has a bit more travel in that I was used to, but this is a real plus for working with digital tuners.
Nice video, well done! I think both guitars are great choices but as for me I'm going with the Gretsch. I like them in general and they have their own sound . That is why I ordered one. I had a korean-made duo jet years ago with s Bigsby that I sold. However now that I am playing more regularly I tried one of these out in the store and ordered one, can't wait to get it! I like something that's a little different too.
Both are great guitars at their price point. My personal preference is for the Gretsch but if an Epi were to fall in my hands I wouldn’t be at all upset. Thanks for a great side by side, just what the doctor ordered.
Terrific review of both guitars, sir. Thank you for the way you discussed each of these amazing guitars in a way that a beginner, like me, can understand.
Both Epiphone and Gretsch produce good quality and good sounding guitars at affordable prices. In this case it really all comes down to whether you prefer the sound of a standard humbucker or a ‘tron type pickup.
Hi Chris. Thank you for an excellent review. I saw this one year ago and bought a Gretsch Jet BT. It is everything I expected it to be. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
I own 4 gretsch guitars. 3 streamliners and on electromatic. I'll take them over any epiphone model there is sound wise and build quality. All 4 have there own gretsch sound.
Great Review...I'll take the Gretsch. I think the quality is a step higher than the Epi but that is just my personal opinion. I own 2 Gretsch...both offshore Electromatic Jets, 1 BT and 1 FT w/Bigsby. I also own 2 Gibson Les Paul standards and 20 other guitars. I've been going to the Gretsch's lately. They get this vowel-ly sounding tubular tone when you set the tone control and volumes just right. Going for Japanese made Gretsch next.
It seems to me the broad'tron pickups have some kind of circular ringing effect that the Les Paul wasn't doing. Almost like tremelo of some kind. That's pretty cool
Not only is the Gretsch better sounding, they play better, they're a lot lighter cause they are chambered and they look way cooler! It's not trying to be a Les Paul, it has its own awesome sound. Get the one with the bigsby and you have a way cool guitar!
I think that the grestch has a modern sound (clear, punch) while the epiphone is more vintage (more mid, less bright) . But damn that grestch is damn beautiful. Looks so good. I want it just by seen it.
I’ve always been a Gibson fan, despite their issues. I still own a J45. Acoustic and love it. Ive owned Les Paul’s but now I have and play Gretsch’s and don’t plan on owning anymore Les Pauls. The Pro Jet I own can achieve anything a Les Paul can and its put together very well and with Gretsch’s, you don’t have to worry about cosmetic blemishes. Seems they have more care during finishing.
Papa Ruffy, same here, I love Gibson guitars mostly SGs and Firebirds, I owned a nice Les Paul Custom (used) years ago and sold it. It was a nice guitar but it was also heavy. I am kind of like you in that if I can buy a Gretsch I don't really have a need for a Les Paul. I finally got a brand new G5220 in Casino Gold and I love it. I like the brightness and trebly/twangy, sounds I can get out of it. I think the quality control is pretty remarkable for these guitars especially for these ones that are made in China. Other than having a loose volume knob that I simply I'll loosen the set screw and repositioned it and tighten it back down it was fine. Gretsch pays a lot of attention to the small details there was no blemishes or detox in the guitar. Earlier in the year I bought a brand new Gibson SG special and it had some defects in The Binding and had fret buzz in a couple of different areas on the guitar and I ended up having to exchange it for another one! I have had no such issues with my Gretsch and it was a third of the price. Not knocking Gibson but just saying these Gretsch guitars are a great value for the money and right up there if not better in quality. I can't imagine how nice one of the Gretsches are that are made in Japan!
Although I've been a Les Paul fan for hundreds of thousands of years, I've owned about a dozen Epiphones (I just bought my first NEW Gibson LP,) that Gretsch is a seriously good guitar. The new Double-cut Gretsch Electromatics are even better, IMHO. It would be great to have both. Diggin' the videos too!
Great review - tasteful and really helpful! I own a 68 Gibson LP Custom & the recent Epi 59 w Gibson Pick-Ups - been thinking about something a bit different and will be shopping for affordable Gretsch solid-bodies this week - many thanks for this comparison!
Also talking about your skill on the guitar, most people aren’t going to be judging that in these type of videos, they’ll be listening to how the guitars sounds and the differences between them, and the way you played is perfect for comparisons.
Nice review! I've owned an Epi LP years ago and sold it when I wasn't really playing. Now I'm looking to get another, I was between these 2, leaning towards a Jet RatRod that I really liked. Going to pick it up tomorrow. Just decided. Thanks!
I keep coming back to this video trying to choose between an Epi and the Gretsch and that first clean strum on the Gretsch gets me every time. What’s odd is that into hard rock, classic rock, and near metal and that undistorted voice is speaking to me,
For me the jet was a much brighter sound, I think a set of round wound jazz strings and either a bigsby or a deusenberg tremolo would really go well with the Gretsch jet, just my preference
I have it with the bigsby and love it. I hate their strap locks however and need to get replacement knobs as mine pulled out of the body. Awesome light guitar but those locks always made me feel like i was going to drop it
Les Paul was working for Epiphone when Gibson purchased the company. The original Les Paul was an Epiphone. I have Gretsch Country Gentleman natural finish that cost more than my rusting old pickup truck but is an excellent extremely versatile long scale thin body arch top. For solud body my choice is either one of my hardtail Music Man Silhouette.
Something is getting me with that Epi chords, when notes combine they sound crazy good, the grestech sounds more natural (Like an acoustic), but that Epi tone is crazy good not talking about balance/natural/flat etc. But the opposite imbalance sounding so good, don't know how to describe it smh
Im a biased Fender guy and I freakin love me some 335's and SG's, but Gretsch seems to make guitars better than Squire/Fender or Epiphone could ever make. They have a unique sound that just juts out at you and they look amazing. Whoever designs those guitars is a genius.
Wow the Gretsch takes the cake in the comment section happy because I’ve trying to find a good first guitar and I think I found it with y’alls help. I was interested in getting the Gretsch pro jet but then was told to checkout the Gretsch Electromatic BT then I saw this comparison and was like here we go again trying to figure out which guitar to go for but with y’all’s take on it I think I’m deciding on the Gretsch thanks. I have one question Gretsch Electromatic Jet BT or Gretsch Jet Electromatic FT?
I've owned approx. ten Epiphone Les Paul model guitars. I took delivery of a Gretsch g5220 last week and the only Epiphones that even come close to the Gretsch in terms of dynamic sounds were the ones that came with Gibson pickups. And the Gretsch just felt like a more solid and better made instrument. The Gretsch Blacktop pickups are light years ahead of the Epiphone Alnico Classic & Probucker pickups. (Oh, and, the Gretsch name is owned by the Gretsch family but the guitars are manufactured by Fender.)
Might get hate for this but I like the Gretsch because it seems to be doing its own thing in looks and sound. For me, I rather wait until I can afford a Gibson Les Paul if I wanted a Les Paul model rather than getting an Epiphone clone despite how good they are. Sure a bit pretentious maybe. But it has a similar feel to me like buying a fake watch. It just doesn't give me the same feeling you know? I am most likely trying to justify my purchase here but still. Between these guitars for me personally? I pick the Gretsch instantly without a doubt.
Anneke: You'll get no hate from me. If you scroll up/down and read my comments you'll see I would recommend this Gretsch ahead of any Epiphone that doesn't come with Gibson pickups.
I just purchased a Gretsch G5220 in gold. I went ahead and got a Yamaha TRBX304 bass as well. Hoping to learn how to play both. They are scheduled to be here on Tuesday (March 15, 2020). Looking forward to playing 5 or more days a week. Any advice on best play to get UA-cam lessens? Thank you again. Triple
I'm in the market and I'm tossed up between these 2. I was leaning toward the epiphone but it seems it is VERY muddy, especially when it's driven. the Gretsch seemed to sound so much better clean or dirty. the notes were nicely articulated. I realize a lot can be done in the setup but I'm looking for something easy. I dont play electrics so I'm a newby and eager to learn. I have been playing acoustic guitar (rhythm mostly) for 30+ years so i am really looking for a great tone, easy to play (getting old and my hands are starting to give out,) and well built of course. I think I am worse off than what I was after watching lol I really leaned toward the epiphone... now I'm lost :( hahaha i sure wish I was to SA but I'm north of Dallas, a bit of a jaunt to come see you Chris. Thanks for the great review
The Gretsch blows that Epiphone out of the water. If you're looking for the absolute bets bang for your buck in terms of sound, playability, and build quality, Gretsch is the best on the planet. I picked up the P90 Junior and even that $349 guitar blows out anything short of the full American Gibsons.
The Gretsch sounds way better. It has character. The Epiphone just sounds flat and dull. There's no sparkle to it. I did go out and compared the G5220 to even higher end Gretsch guitars. There is something about these pickups that I liked a lot more. Saved me $1000 as well. Only complaint on the G5220 is the pots and switches are not great. They are usable, but for a little money, I replaced them and the controls are much smoother now.
I got a Gretsch Electromatic Jet BT and I'm impressed with it! Beautiful finish ("firestick red") and great action and setup right off the rack (it wasn't in a box...). It has a nice 12" neck radius, and a good chunky, but not fat, feel. The pickups are loud, and twangier than the usual fat-sounding humbucking-style pickups everything else has, and when strummed it almost sounds like a hollow body instrument, with it's chambered-body resonance- and there's excellent sustain, too. I guess if you want to sound like a Les Paul, you should get a Les Paul, but the Gretsch has a lot of good tone of it's own that you can express yourself with.
Gretsch can go from crunchy to twangy which is great for my play style. You can definitely get the Tom Petty sounds without spending big bucks on a Rickenbacker guitar.
One thing this video also demonstrates is how much more comfortable the Gretsch is to play while sitting down. Switch back and forth between the clips and you’ll notice the Gretsch is slightly shorter in length and wider in the body than the Epiphone. As a result, the Gretsch sits higher up on your lap and the neck feels much closer and more comfortable. Even though it lacks a belly or forearm carve, it feels as comfortable to play as a Stratocaster, the guys at Gretsch have cracked the code. Plus, it sounds better to.
I have the electromatic pro Jet 5435 tg with blacktop filtertrons and a Bigsby. Straight awesome at any price. My first Gretsch and based on my experience with them, not my last. I can’t imagine that a Les Paul would achieve anything drastically different than what I can achieve with the Gretsch. Next Guitar will be another Gretsch, the G100CE Synchromatic Archtop. I have nothing but praise for Gretsch guitars and I don’t play the pro level stuff, too much $ for me.
Great channel with quality unbiased content and Cooper demos are great, he is an awesome player. Did you compare the G5220 to the Epiphone Muse Les Paul introduced in 2020? Is the Muse LP has the same darker sound? With the Muse in the market, now the Muse is $50 less. I was hooked on the G5220 until I ran into the Muse LP and now I'm undecided. I'm a beginner looking to buy my first electric guitar to play mostly classic rock, hard rock, progressive rock such as pink floyd and maybe a little metal at home for fun. I haven't tried them in person. The G5220 Cooper demos in another video is played only clean while the Muse series is demoed in overtone and high gain as well.
I’m a relative beginner aged 65. Have an affinity squier strat which is great but looking for an upgrade to inspire me to practice more and have been looking at loads of review videos all over UA-cam for an affordable guitar. I have been torn between Epiphone Les Paul, Gretsch 5220, Vintage VSA500 or Ibanez AS73. All around £400 here in uk (550$ US). All great guitars but after watching this video I’m now sure I’m going for the Gretsch as it’s a great looking and sounding guitar. Like the fact it’s chambered, has the multi volume controls and like a previous reviewer I like the fact it was played on an affordable amp so at least I know what I could sound like with loads more practice😂😂. Ps thanks for a sensible review - much appreciated. Too many on the net way too self interested. Thanks
I used to luv The Les Paul but now I think I like this Gretsch much better, IMO it even looks better than the LP! and I like the slightly bigger body style as well.
Thoughtful review! Thanks for showing me an option I hadn't considered before. And thanks for playing simply and using sustained chords so I could really hear the guitar. I do have a question - if you roll off the tone control a little, can the Gretsch be made to sound more like the Epi LP?
A little bit, but not much, honestly. I have that Gretsch, and recently I posted a video in my channel where the tone is rolled a little bit off for the first 30 seconds. It's not a demo, but it might give you an idea. The thing is that the pickups don't only differ in the high end frequencies, but their whole response is quite different. To me, that Gretsch is the Les Paul Killer, in a sense that it gives a fuller and more dynamic response, with a range from indie, blues, jazz, shoegaze, country and everything else I tried so far! Never seen a Les Paul do that.
@@olderebelam-o Thanks. Watched your vid. It does sound to me like the Gretsch is more balanced from string to string than the Epi LP. 90% of the time, I play acoustic and went with an Larrivee L-09 as the most balanced guitar I could afford. The Gretsch 5220 seems to fall between the Tele (bright) and LP (warm) - at least to my ears. And where I would want a 1 electric solution for adding some fills to my mostly AG tracks, the Gretsch would seem to fill the bill.
Hello. Excellent as all of your didactic review videos. I have tried both, Epiphone Custom les Paul Vs Gretsch G5230 Electromatic Jet FT; The amazing Gretsch G5230T and even the Gretsch G5220T, sound better, no matter if we play in clean or with distortion. Another dimension: Gretsch G5230 sound much more brilliant, worm, higher quality in all senses. Besides, the gorgeous gretsch, not only has a clearly superior sound gamma, but-as if it was few- looks as a U$D 1500-2000 guitar, spending 40% less. Amazing instrument. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Other Choise: Fender USA or Fender Mexico (or Japan), Squire or Epiphone, etc I have a Fender Stratocaster Made in USA. I have tried about 10-12 Fender Stratocasters Made in Mexico. The sound of the one from the USA is "incomparable! Although the quality of the Fender Mexico has improved a lot, it does not even come close to the sound of a Fender USA. The difference in money is not just a whim, but resides in the fact of the high quality of materials, be it body, soul and fingerboard woods, Pick Ups USA and not Asian, as well as the quality control (unit by unit) of Fender USA I have even read that people who on purpose bought Fender Stratocasters from Mexico and Japan saying: I'll change the Pick Ups, I'll change the tuners, etc. And, even so, they haven't been able to emulate the sound of a Made in USA Stratocaster, as incredible as it may seem. DON'T BE FOOLED FOR THE SQUIRES. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ My friend William bought a "good" middle price Squire, $550. When I bring my Fender USA and we play on the same Marshall MG FX 100 Watts RMS Amplifier, no treble, mid and bass settings, same reverb, "no pedal effects",i order to appreciate the real sound of both instrumentes, the Squire sounds like a 5th grade guitar. It is preferable to wait, save and buy "original". This week, I was 2 minutes away from buying an Epiphone Les Paul Classic Heritage 50's Made in Mexico, very nice, good look, etc, in order to emulate the sound of the Gibson Les Paul. Result: I tried it and I didn't like it ("harsh, dry" sound). I tried the beautiful Epiphone Custom Les Paul Mexican (U$D 950-1000) and it sounded good enough. But, then I saw from the side a Gretsch G5220 T Made in USA (U$D 450 aprox) I have tried it out and as unbelievable as it sounds, the Gretsch G5220 "sounded much better and more Gibson-like sounding"!!!! And at an impossible price. I could not believe it. Not to bore you anymore: I discarded the long-awaited and already determined and beautiful cherry-colored Epiphone Custom Les Paul and bought myself, Thank God, a fabulous Gretsch G5230 Electromatic Jet FT Single-Cut with Gibsby Vibrato (USD 650, even better than the G5220, since it comes with a Pick Ups "Filter'Tron Black Top", with an ultra-clean, bright, warm, enveloping and also powerful sound, when used with Over Drive Distortion, which leaves you mega surprised and -as incredible as it may seem- I already tried it to define with the Gibson Les Paul Studio for U$D 1,795 And definitely, the Gretsch G5230T "beats" it in tone quality by far, whether it's Fender-like clean sounds or Gibson-like heavy sounds. A real "gem". I do not recommend it: "I recommend the super ultra mega", with all my heart. And since I was a child I dream of Gibsons and I am a huge fan of Epiphone Les Pauls.
Lost for lost, I tried a beautiful Ibanez SA460 QMW (USD 900-EUR 825) And believe me: you won't buy your sound with any of these, Gretsch. Inferior and more expensive the Ibanez) Colorary: I saved U$D 300 or EUR 275 and got a dream guitar. I bought the color Firebird Red. And I have a Boss GT-100 pedal and a just bought Zoom GX1 Four (a wonderful cheap miniature U$D 120= $2,200 MXN) And I repeat: it looks like a $1500-2000 guitar!!! Please, guys, before buying a Squire, Epiphone, Ibanez, Schecther, Jackson, etc, watch the many tutorials on the Gretsch G5220-G5230-G5232, etc, with "listening to your tones with quality headphones" and then decide what to buy . Thanks for sharing your important data. God Bless you all, Robêrt Älmâr
Gretsch hands down, I love my Epiphone’s and will always choose them over Gibson for consistent quality and price but Gretsch seems to have that special sauce that no other guitar manufacturer has, that Gretsch sound and lighter body automatically puts them at the head if the pack for me.
I think the Gretsch also has a 24.6 inch scale so its easier to play than most guitars.
@@evil1st Les Paul is a 24/5 scale just like on a Gibson, so there both easy to play. it just comes down to personal taste, i like the sound of the Gretsch myself, but I've played Epiphone LP Standards for years.
i actually have a Gretsch, but they feel totally different than a Gibson or Epiphone. there best suited for rock and blues, maybe even country.
The Les Paul has a muddy sound. I really love the Gretch sound. It has that concert sound that reaches out and grabs people. Its almost shocking how clear and defined the notes are on the Gretch. Both are great guitars, but I have loved Gretch for years, because they have a $4000 sound for under $1000.
great review, the Gretsch for me. I love how you used an affordable amp as well, just gives people a better taste of how it sounds for the majority of us who don't own outrageously expensive amps.
Thanks for commenting!
you prolly dont care but does someone know of a tool to get back into an Instagram account..?
I was dumb forgot my login password. I appreciate any tips you can offer me!
@Collin Jerome instablaster ;)
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you say you are the worst guitar player on the internet. you do just fine, and your are a very nice personality for this internet universe. keep it up
Amazing demo unlike most are trying to show off guitar skills..awesome. Comparison and your thoughts i agree with you...awesome!
@@cooltunesmadeeasy I couldn't agree more. Most players go right into a show-off-rift, that's does me no good. This video allowed me to hear both guitars. How refreshing! Triple.
Thanks for the proof and actual proof of the wonderful Gretsch!
if you wanna see the worst Guitar Player in the Internet, you should definity check out my newest Clip. I couldn't play worse believe me 😂
You are a great guitar player… I will say when I started I quit when I heard Eddie Van Halen and started playing again when Cobain came around. Us regular guys want to see guys like you play. That’s what sells instruments to us. You are a cool guy too!
I own Fenders, Epiphone, Fernandes, Schecter, PRS, Squier and two Gretsch's. Out of all of them the Gretsch by far are the best sounding hands down. Better clarity and cuts through any mix without hassle of having to add pedals. The volume blending is something you won't find on any other guitars.
The Gretsch definitely is a better choice
A comparison that actually allows us to hear the guitar... makes a very welcome change.
I own both a Lespaul and a Gretsch. And my Gretsch is always my go to guitar.
Andrew Smith which Gretsch do you have?
@@jonathanhudak2059 G5422T
Andrew Smith...nice 👍 thank you
That's amazing.
Are they this price point , both of them?
Or are they US made?
@@lueymeteora1410 my lespaul is a 60’s tribute US made and my Gretsch is a G5422t (not US made) they are both on the same price range her un Canada. Around a 1000$
Thanks for this! And let me just say that I love your presentation. You focus on the sound of the guitar, making it not just a demonstration of how awesome and fast guitarist you are.
Just bought my first Gretsch and it's already my favourite guitar!
I like the sound of the Gretsch. A bit brighter and cleaner through the ranges.
The Gretsch has a lot more clarity.
Very revealing, I was just wondering which one of those would suit me better and now I'm sure it's Epiphone. Thank you for not standing in the way of each guitar showing its true personality.
I really love your reviews, Chris. Great playing. Great explanations. Also, it's helpful that you actually play the same riffs on each guitar you compare so the differences (if any) become readily apparent.
Thank you very much for commenting and telling us that! We really appreciate it!
Yes .. I have the Gretsch 5439T Silver sparkle.. it was perfect upon purchase.. after a year I changed the pickups to TV Jones Brian Setzer in the neck and a Powertron in the bridge.. it just wails now.. huge tone.. Nice job on the review/demo my man!!
First, thanks for showing the clean tones. That's really all I needed to hear. Second, I do have Gibson and Epiphone LP's, and my new G5230T seems to offer a little more variation of tones. Plus the overall quality of the Gretsch was a very pleasant surprise, particularly the black walnut fingerboard.
Chris, I'd like to let you know that you have inspired me. 4 days ago I was at my LMS; looking at the Gretsch G5220. I fell in love with the guitar, but as someone that has never played I turned to the internet for advice. I've seen many videos on the G5220. But your video really stuck out to me. The sounds you are able to make with the guitar is simple but amazing. Once I make my first guitar purchase, one of my goals is to play the exact notes you played on this video. I really appreciate your approach and wanted to let you know you have motivated me and I'm sure many others. Thank you again. Triple
I’ve tried all three Gibson, Gretsch, and Epiphone. I’ve found that Gretsch has the best feel, tone, sound, and it holds tune 100x better than Gibson and Epiphone. But the black top filtertrons are great pickups but after about a year I changed over to some TV Jones classics. I haven’t found a guitar that has the same feel and sound ever since.
How do you like the Classics compared to the Blacktops? What are the main differences? Thinking about switching to them.
@@lauren12546 I'm thinking of doing the same .Did you change pick ups,if so is it better tone.
I own a epi less paul, and a gibson less paul. I just picked up the 2020 jet5220 and I love it! It gives my $2000 gibon a run for its money. But, never just take my word for it, go play one. I was shocked on the quality of this guitar at the price point. I really think Fender keeps the prices down on these for some reason.
New to playing as in never played, Turing 60 this year. I went to my LMS today and fell in love with the Gretsch G5220, since I can't afford a Gibson Les Paul Custom. Payday is Friday, crossing my fingers as I'm seriously considering making the plunge.
This video was helpful and timely. Thank you! Triple.
Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Jet Ft with Gibsby, sounds better that the G5220, because it has Black To Filter´Tron Pick Ups (G5220 has Board'Tron Pick Ups, whiche are good, but less brilliant, less worm and less clean than the G5230) Good Luck
Epi for overdrive, Gretsch for cleans. Beautiful sounds.
Chris Cornell played Gretsch in Soundgarden so it really depends what you do with it.
@@philipschiffman9070 oh yes sure! I use my own Gretsch guitar all the time for overdriven sounds
I have a Les Paul and I THOUGHT I wanted another... Until I tried the Gretsch at the music store yesterday. I decided to walk away to think on it and will probably decide next week but, as expected, the Les Paul feels EXACTLY like the one I own already. And that's great, good for Epiphone for keeping the build quality consistent. HOWEVER, because of the unique and bright sound you get with Gretsch pickups and the different feeling playability, combined with already owning a Les Paul, the Gretsch is a lot more compelling for me personally at this time. I'll probably end up buying it.
Edit: Bought the Gretsch. 😁😁
Is the Gretsch better than the LP? I was always put off by the Gretschs tuning issues.
@@olliedylan1381 just about all Gibson style guitars have tuning issues
Windows Media Player I’ve since played a Gretsch with and without a Bigsby and the Bigsby is the root of the tuning issues. My G5420t rarely stays in tune despite all the work I’ve done to it, but I borrowed my friend’s G5220 (which doesn’t have a bigsby) I only had to tune that once the whole time I had it, which was like 3 weeks
@@tuckerlane7995 Gretsch tuning issues come either from an unreliable Bigsby, or one of those "space control" bridges that doesn't have individual-string intonation. These Electromatic Jet guitars with solid tailpieces and tune-o-matic bridges are as stable as anything Gibson with a similar setup.
The Gretsch G5657T is on sale on MF for $549 from $799. I wanted the gold top on sale for $399 from $449 but I can't decide. I've never played either but can't miss this deal.
GRETSCH ✌😃
i'm goin' to get that model pretty soon....my first gretsch...
@@mytelecasterworld3336 we are both thinking the same thing -- maybe about Christmas time
Just bought myself a double cut jet in Tahiti red for Christmas. Getting my Malcom Young on! Love those Filtertrons!
Gretsch is a lovechild of Gibson Les Paul and Fender Strat😁
I have this Pro Jet
Gretsch Guitars FSR Two-Tone Electromatic Pro Jet with Bigsby Electric Guitar Candy Apple Red and White G534TG. Love it!
Thanks for the comparison, I never thought of buying a Gretsch but it is now on my list.
Bought the Electromatic Jet BT a couple months ago. It amazes me. Can not believe the price! The pickups are hot, producing great overdrive and responsive pick attack. The guitar just comes alive in your hands. Yet when you roll it back you can pick like Chet, or twang with the best of them. After fiddling with the control configuration, I really like it. You can paint a rainbow of usable tones. Only adjustment I made was to round the square corners of the nut. Neck plays like a dream. Fit and finish is excellent. The heads are tight and the gear ratio has a bit more travel in that I was used to, but this is a real plus for working with digital tuners.
Thanks for a straight ahead demonstration.
You are very welcome!
Those Broad'Trons have a wonderful clarity, and can handle high gain as well!
Nice video, well done! I think both guitars are great choices but as for me I'm going with the Gretsch. I like them in general and they have their own sound . That is why I ordered one. I had a korean-made duo jet years ago with s Bigsby that I sold. However now that I am playing more regularly I tried one of these out in the store and ordered one, can't wait to get it! I like something that's a little different too.
Good choice!
Thank you A.MCenter! 👍
Both are great guitars at their price point. My personal preference is for the Gretsch but if an Epi were to fall in my hands I wouldn’t be at all upset. Thanks for a great side by side, just what the doctor ordered.
Terrific review of both guitars, sir. Thank you for the way you discussed each of these amazing guitars in a way that a beginner, like me, can understand.
Both Epiphone and Gretsch produce good quality and good sounding guitars at affordable prices. In this case it really all comes down to whether you prefer the sound of a standard humbucker or a ‘tron type pickup.
Hi Chris. Thank you for an excellent review. I saw this one year ago and bought a Gretsch Jet BT. It is everything I expected it to be. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Guess I'll be the "outlier" here and choose the Les Paul for tone. Even though I wanted to pick Gretsch until the demo. Cheers, Don Norman
Your demo was great ! Not only well structured, but beautiful too
Gretsch I’ve owned two and they Rock.
They also jazz
They also metal.
they def Van Fleet
I own 4 gretsch guitars. 3 streamliners and on electromatic. I'll take them over any epiphone model there is sound wise and build quality. All 4 have there own gretsch sound.
I appreciate that you let us hear what the guitars can do, rather than what you can do.
Epiphone vs Gretsch:
- neck - 5:10 vs 7:26
- both - 5:46 vs 7:46
- bridge - 6:17 vs 8:07
Great Review...I'll take the Gretsch. I think the quality is a step higher than the Epi but that is just my personal opinion. I own 2 Gretsch...both offshore Electromatic Jets, 1 BT and 1 FT w/Bigsby. I also own 2 Gibson Les Paul standards and 20 other guitars. I've been going to the Gretsch's lately. They get this vowel-ly sounding tubular tone when you set the tone control and volumes just right. Going for Japanese made Gretsch next.
It seems to me the broad'tron pickups have some kind of circular ringing effect that the Les Paul wasn't doing. Almost like tremelo of some kind. That's pretty cool
Not only is the Gretsch better sounding, they play better, they're a lot lighter cause they are chambered and they look way cooler! It's not trying to be a Les Paul, it has its own awesome sound. Get the one with the bigsby and you have a way cool guitar!
hi is it as light as a epi sg? i remember picking one up and it was pretty light. hoping the gretch will be that light
RunningSD yes, it's essential hollow, so it's much lighter.
I love the Les Paul tone, but You can get the Gretsch to do that. You can’t get the Les to do the Gretsch.
EXACTLY!!!
Fantastic review. you clarified many doubts for me about both guitars. Thank you from Madrid (Spain) and apologise for my english
Gretsch electromatic and streamliners are the highest quality guitars out there at this price point. Better than any epiphone I've ever played.
Nice sound of the Gretsch Electromatic Jet BT.
I think that the grestch has a modern sound (clear, punch) while the epiphone is more vintage (more mid, less bright) . But damn that grestch is damn beautiful. Looks so good. I want it just by seen it.
I’ve always been a Gibson fan, despite their issues. I still own a J45. Acoustic and love it. Ive owned Les Paul’s but now I have and play Gretsch’s and don’t plan on owning anymore Les Pauls.
The Pro Jet I own can achieve anything a Les Paul can and its put together very well and with Gretsch’s, you don’t have to worry about cosmetic blemishes. Seems they have more care during finishing.
Thanks for sharing!
Papa Ruffy, same here, I love Gibson guitars mostly SGs and Firebirds, I owned a nice Les Paul Custom (used) years ago and sold it. It was a nice guitar but it was also heavy. I am kind of like you in that if I can buy a Gretsch I don't really have a need for a Les Paul. I finally got a brand new G5220 in Casino Gold and I love it. I like the brightness and trebly/twangy, sounds I can get out of it. I think the quality control is pretty remarkable for these guitars especially for these ones that are made in China. Other than having a loose volume knob that I simply I'll loosen the set screw and repositioned it and tighten it back down it was fine. Gretsch pays a lot of attention to the small details there was no blemishes or detox in the guitar. Earlier in the year I bought a brand new Gibson SG special and it had some defects in The Binding and had fret buzz in a couple of different areas on the guitar and I ended up having to exchange it for another one! I have had no such issues with my Gretsch and it was a third of the price. Not knocking Gibson but just saying these Gretsch guitars are a great value for the money and right up there if not better in quality. I can't imagine how nice one of the Gretsches are that are made in Japan!
Super helpful video. I was looking at both of these guitars and it helped me decide. Thank you!
Although I've been a Les Paul fan for hundreds of thousands of years, I've owned about a dozen Epiphones (I just bought my first NEW Gibson LP,) that Gretsch is a seriously good guitar. The new Double-cut Gretsch Electromatics are even better, IMHO. It would be great to have both.
Diggin' the videos too!
Definitely agree with that!
Love y’alls videos, especially the lower and mid end guitars, being a poor boy I am always looking for a great deal, thanks.
Great review - tasteful and really helpful! I own a 68 Gibson LP Custom & the recent Epi 59 w Gibson Pick-Ups - been thinking about something a bit different and will be shopping for affordable Gretsch solid-bodies this week - many thanks for this comparison!
Also talking about your skill on the guitar, most people aren’t going to be judging that in these type of videos, they’ll be listening to how the guitars sounds and the differences between them, and the way you played is perfect for comparisons.
Nice review! I've owned an Epi LP years ago and sold it when I wasn't really playing. Now I'm looking to get another, I was between these 2, leaning towards a Jet RatRod that I really liked. Going to pick it up tomorrow. Just decided. Thanks!
I keep coming back to this video trying to choose between an Epi and the Gretsch and that first clean strum on the Gretsch gets me every time. What’s odd is that into hard rock, classic rock, and near metal and that undistorted voice is speaking to me,
I’m going gretsch plus it would be a great combo with my Tele
In a world just oversaturated with gibson sounds, its soooo refreshing to hear Gretsch guitars being played
Actually ironically you hear more
Actually ironically you hear more
Actually ironically you hear more
The gretsch in all areas. Great guitars right out of the box.
That Gretsch sounds nice. I understand the Tele/les Paul love-child comparison.
For me the jet was a much brighter sound, I think a set of round wound jazz strings and either a bigsby or a deusenberg tremolo would really go well with the Gretsch jet, just my preference
I have it with the bigsby and love it. I hate their strap locks however and need to get replacement knobs as mine pulled out of the body. Awesome light guitar but those locks always made me feel like i was going to drop it
@@joewalsh8217 8 pounds is light?
@@globalnova absolutely!
@@joewalsh8217 haha. Well, my Maserati only does about 155 so ...
@@globalnova slow poke
Just picked up the Gretsch, thanks for the video!
Hello from Australia! Am looking at buying the Gretsch 👍
Les Paul was working for Epiphone when Gibson purchased the company. The original Les Paul was an Epiphone. I have Gretsch Country Gentleman natural finish that cost more than my rusting old pickup truck but is an excellent extremely versatile long scale thin body arch top. For solud body my choice is either one of my hardtail Music Man Silhouette.
I own both of these guitars and I like them both but the the gretsch really stands out sound wise and even on appearance.
Thank you Chris! Great review and extremely helpful!
Something is getting me with that Epi chords, when notes combine they sound crazy good, the grestech sounds more natural (Like an acoustic), but that Epi tone is crazy good not talking about balance/natural/flat etc. But the opposite imbalance sounding so good, don't know how to describe it smh
Im a biased Fender guy and I freakin love me some 335's and SG's, but Gretsch seems to make guitars better than Squire/Fender or Epiphone could ever make. They have a unique sound that just juts out at you and they look amazing. Whoever designs those guitars is a genius.
I’m so lucky to have both
Wow the Gretsch takes the cake in the comment section happy because I’ve trying to find a good first guitar and I think I found it with y’alls help. I was interested in getting the Gretsch pro jet but then was told to checkout the Gretsch Electromatic BT then I saw this comparison and was like here we go again trying to figure out which guitar to go for but with y’all’s take on it I think I’m deciding on the Gretsch thanks. I have one question Gretsch Electromatic Jet BT or Gretsch Jet Electromatic FT?
I've owned approx. ten Epiphone Les Paul model guitars.
I took delivery of a Gretsch g5220 last week and the only Epiphones that even come close to the Gretsch in terms of dynamic sounds were the ones that came with Gibson pickups.
And the Gretsch just felt like a more solid and better made instrument.
The Gretsch Blacktop pickups are light years ahead of the Epiphone Alnico Classic & Probucker pickups.
(Oh, and, the Gretsch name is owned by the Gretsch family but the guitars are manufactured by Fender.)
Clarification: This Gretsch is manufactured in China for Fender using specs laid out by Fender/Gretsch.
Might get hate for this but I like the Gretsch because it seems to be doing its own thing in looks and sound.
For me, I rather wait until I can afford a Gibson Les Paul if I wanted a Les Paul model rather than getting an Epiphone clone despite how good they are.
Sure a bit pretentious maybe. But it has a similar feel to me like buying a fake watch. It just doesn't give me the same feeling you know?
I am most likely trying to justify my purchase here but still. Between these guitars for me personally? I pick the Gretsch instantly without a doubt.
Taste is nothing to be ashamed about haha
Anneke: You'll get no hate from me. If you scroll up/down and read my comments you'll see I would recommend this Gretsch ahead of any Epiphone that doesn't come with Gibson pickups.
Still beautiful affordable guitars for sure!
I just purchased a Gretsch G5220 in gold. I went ahead and got a Yamaha TRBX304 bass as well. Hoping to learn how to play both. They are scheduled to be here on Tuesday (March 15, 2020). Looking forward to playing 5 or more days a week. Any advice on best play to get UA-cam lessens? Thank you again. Triple
Paul Davids, undoubtedly the best tutor on UA-cam 😊
I own them both...the GRETSCH is by far..better fit n finish...better sound...better electronics...even looks better...plays better
Gretsch all the way! nice video!!!
I'm in the market and I'm tossed up between these 2. I was leaning toward the epiphone but it seems it is VERY muddy, especially when it's driven. the Gretsch seemed to sound so much better clean or dirty. the notes were nicely articulated. I realize a lot can be done in the setup but I'm looking for something easy. I dont play electrics so I'm a newby and eager to learn. I have been playing acoustic guitar (rhythm mostly) for 30+ years so i am really looking for a great tone, easy to play (getting old and my hands are starting to give out,) and well built of course. I think I am worse off than what I was after watching lol I really leaned toward the epiphone... now I'm lost :( hahaha i sure wish I was to SA but I'm north of Dallas, a bit of a jaunt to come see you Chris. Thanks for the great review
The Gretsch blows that Epiphone out of the water. If you're looking for the absolute bets bang for your buck in terms of sound, playability, and build quality, Gretsch is the best on the planet. I picked up the P90 Junior and even that $349 guitar blows out anything short of the full American Gibsons.
That V-shaped tailpiece on the Gretsch is just the coolest.
I already have an Epiphone Silverburst, so I'll go get the Gretsch.
Awesome!
@@AlamoMusic I went and did it last week. I went and bought a Gretsch G5232T in Midnight Sapphire! It's gorgeous!
The Gretsch sounds way better. It has character. The Epiphone just sounds flat and dull. There's no sparkle to it. I did go out and compared the G5220 to even higher end Gretsch guitars. There is something about these pickups that I liked a lot more. Saved me $1000 as well. Only complaint on the G5220 is the pots and switches are not great. They are usable, but for a little money, I replaced them and the controls are much smoother now.
I got a Gretsch Electromatic Jet BT and I'm impressed with it! Beautiful finish ("firestick red") and great action and setup right off the rack (it wasn't in a box...). It has a nice 12" neck radius, and a good chunky, but not fat, feel. The pickups are loud, and twangier than the usual fat-sounding humbucking-style pickups everything else has, and when strummed it almost sounds like a hollow body instrument, with it's chambered-body resonance- and there's excellent sustain, too. I guess if you want to sound like a Les Paul, you should get a Les Paul, but the Gretsch has a lot of good tone of it's own that you can express yourself with.
They are semi hollow I believe chambered
I think the Gretsch tuners are Gotohs. I have installed Gotoh locking tuners in a G2622 and they are a direct swap with no drilling required.
Good review, fair and balanced.
Gretsch can go from crunchy to twangy which is great for my play style. You can definitely get the Tom Petty sounds without spending big bucks on a Rickenbacker guitar.
I really wish they did a double cutaway gretsch with the 20.8 scale of a rick 325 😲
That was a good clear comparison
I found a 2019 Electromatic Jet in Aleutian Blue in mint condition at a pawn shop! Paid it $500 cdn. Simply gorgeous guitar and we'll finished!
One thing this video also demonstrates is how much more comfortable the Gretsch is to play while sitting down. Switch back and forth between the clips and you’ll notice the Gretsch is slightly shorter in length and wider in the body than the Epiphone. As a result, the Gretsch sits higher up on your lap and the neck feels much closer and more comfortable. Even though it lacks a belly or forearm carve, it feels as comfortable to play as a Stratocaster, the guys at Gretsch have cracked the code. Plus, it sounds better to.
Thank you. Nice work!
It you will have time, please make video with PRS SE standart and ESP 256/401
Thank you.
The Gretsch looks and sounds stunning ....and the rosewood finger board looks wayyy better than the Epi.
That finger board gets us to!
Great reviews! Thanks.
I have the electromatic pro Jet 5435 tg with blacktop filtertrons and a Bigsby. Straight awesome at any price.
My first Gretsch and based on my experience with them, not my last. I can’t imagine that a Les Paul would achieve anything drastically different than what I can achieve with the Gretsch.
Next Guitar will be another Gretsch, the G100CE Synchromatic Archtop.
I have nothing but praise for Gretsch guitars and I don’t play the pro level stuff, too much $ for me.
Please do the new double jets with bt pups when u get them!
Great channel with quality unbiased content and Cooper demos are great, he is an awesome player. Did you compare the G5220 to the Epiphone Muse Les Paul introduced in 2020? Is the Muse LP has the same darker sound? With the Muse in the market, now the Muse is $50 less. I was hooked on the G5220 until I ran into the Muse LP and now I'm undecided. I'm a beginner looking to buy my first electric guitar to play mostly classic rock, hard rock, progressive rock such as pink floyd and maybe a little metal at home for fun. I haven't tried them in person. The G5220 Cooper demos in another video is played only clean while the Muse series is demoed in overtone and high gain as well.
I got both. Totally incomparable guitars.
Both are modern takes on the single cut, both are allrounders, clean, heavy and everything in between, i'd say it's very comparable.
I wish I could get a Les Paul with the Gretsch neck. Love the sound of Les Pauls but, the necks on the Gretsch are so comfortable.
I went for the Gretsch. I like the clear sounds.
I am a Gretsch guy. They are both great guitars but the Gretsch has something a little more unique in terms of tone.
I’m a relative beginner aged 65. Have an affinity squier strat which is great but looking for an upgrade to inspire me to practice more and have been looking at loads of review videos all over UA-cam for an affordable guitar. I have been torn between Epiphone Les Paul, Gretsch 5220, Vintage VSA500 or Ibanez AS73. All around £400 here in uk (550$ US). All great guitars but after watching this video I’m now sure I’m going for the Gretsch as it’s a great looking and sounding guitar. Like the fact it’s chambered, has the multi volume controls and like a previous reviewer I like the fact it was played on an affordable amp so at least I know what I could sound like with loads more practice😂😂.
Ps thanks for a sensible review - much appreciated. Too many on the net way too self interested. Thanks
Hey since you are in the UK, Andertons also makes great videos, a bit wacky but Danish Pete is a great player and they also have Gretsch videos.
I used to luv The Les Paul but now I think I like this Gretsch much better, IMO it even looks better than the LP! and I like the slightly bigger body style as well.
Thoughtful review! Thanks for showing me an option I hadn't considered before. And thanks for playing simply and using sustained chords so I could really hear the guitar. I do have a question - if you roll off the tone control a little, can the Gretsch be made to sound more like the Epi LP?
A little bit, but not much, honestly. I have that Gretsch, and recently I posted a video in my channel where the tone is rolled a little bit off for the first 30 seconds. It's not a demo, but it might give you an idea.
The thing is that the pickups don't only differ in the high end frequencies, but their whole response is quite different. To me, that Gretsch is the Les Paul Killer, in a sense that it gives a fuller and more dynamic response, with a range from indie, blues, jazz, shoegaze, country and everything else I tried so far! Never seen a Les Paul do that.
@@olderebelam-o Thanks. Watched your vid. It does sound to me like the Gretsch is more balanced from string to string than the Epi LP. 90% of the time, I play acoustic and went with an Larrivee L-09 as the most balanced guitar I could afford. The Gretsch 5220 seems to fall between the Tele (bright) and LP (warm) - at least to my ears. And where I would want a 1 electric solution for adding some fills to my mostly AG tracks, the Gretsch would seem to fill the bill.
Hello. Excellent as all of your didactic review videos.
I have tried both, Epiphone Custom les Paul Vs Gretsch G5230 Electromatic Jet FT;
The amazing Gretsch G5230T and even the Gretsch G5220T, sound better, no matter if we play in clean or with distortion.
Another dimension: Gretsch G5230 sound much more brilliant, worm, higher quality in all senses.
Besides, the gorgeous gretsch, not only has a clearly superior sound gamma, but-as if it was few- looks as a U$D 1500-2000 guitar, spending 40% less. Amazing instrument.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Other Choise: Fender USA or Fender Mexico (or Japan), Squire or Epiphone, etc
I have a Fender Stratocaster Made in USA. I have tried about 10-12 Fender Stratocasters Made in Mexico. The sound of the one from the USA is "incomparable! Although the quality of the Fender Mexico has improved a lot, it does not even come close to the sound of a Fender USA.
The difference in money is not just a whim, but resides in the fact of the high quality of materials, be it body, soul and fingerboard woods, Pick Ups USA and not Asian, as well as the quality control (unit by unit) of Fender USA I have even read that people who on purpose bought Fender Stratocasters from Mexico and Japan saying: I'll change the Pick Ups, I'll change the tuners, etc. And, even so, they haven't been able to emulate the sound of a Made in USA Stratocaster, as incredible as it may seem. DON'T BE FOOLED FOR THE SQUIRES.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
My friend William bought a "good" middle price Squire, $550.
When I bring my Fender USA and we play on the same Marshall MG FX 100 Watts RMS Amplifier, no treble, mid and bass settings, same reverb, "no pedal effects",i order to appreciate the real sound of both instrumentes, the Squire sounds like a 5th grade guitar.
It is preferable to wait, save and buy "original".
This week, I was 2 minutes away from buying an Epiphone Les Paul Classic Heritage 50's Made in Mexico, very nice, good look, etc, in order to emulate the sound of the Gibson Les Paul. Result:
I tried it and I didn't like it ("harsh, dry" sound). I tried the beautiful Epiphone Custom Les Paul Mexican (U$D 950-1000) and it sounded good enough. But, then I saw from the side a Gretsch G5220 T Made in USA (U$D 450 aprox)
I have tried it out and as unbelievable as it sounds, the Gretsch G5220 "sounded much better and more Gibson-like sounding"!!!! And at an impossible price. I could not believe it.
Not to bore you anymore:
I discarded the long-awaited and already determined and beautiful cherry-colored Epiphone Custom Les Paul and bought myself, Thank God, a fabulous Gretsch G5230 Electromatic Jet FT Single-Cut with Gibsby Vibrato (USD 650, even better than the G5220, since it comes with a Pick Ups "Filter'Tron Black Top", with an ultra-clean, bright, warm, enveloping and also powerful sound, when used with Over Drive Distortion, which leaves you mega surprised and -as incredible as it may seem- I already tried it to define with the Gibson Les Paul Studio for U$D 1,795
And definitely, the Gretsch G5230T "beats" it in tone quality by far, whether it's Fender-like clean sounds or Gibson-like heavy sounds. A real "gem".
I do not recommend it: "I recommend the super ultra mega", with all my heart. And since I was a child I dream of Gibsons and I am a huge fan of Epiphone Les Pauls.
Lost for lost, I tried a beautiful Ibanez SA460 QMW (USD 900-EUR 825)
And believe me: you won't buy your sound with any of these, Gretsch. Inferior and more expensive the Ibanez)
Colorary:
I saved U$D 300 or EUR 275 and got a dream guitar.
I bought the color Firebird Red. And I have a Boss GT-100 pedal and a just bought Zoom GX1 Four (a wonderful cheap miniature U$D 120= $2,200 MXN)
And I repeat: it looks like a $1500-2000 guitar!!!
Please, guys, before buying a Squire, Epiphone, Ibanez, Schecther, Jackson, etc, watch the many tutorials on the Gretsch G5220-G5230-G5232, etc, with "listening to your tones with quality headphones" and then decide what to buy .
Thanks for sharing your important data.
God Bless you all, Robêrt Älmâr
I used to have an Epiphone LP Standard but I really didn't like the D shape neck. Haven't tried the Gretsch yet.