Finding The Perfect BUDGET Electric Guitar | Are Cheap Guitars Good?
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- Опубліковано 15 бер 2020
- Dave Onorato and I head down to a local guitar shop to try out some budget electric guitars to see if we can find a good cheap guitar!
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Rhett Shull You should get that Gretsch! I love mine!
What was that cinnamon red like color Gretsch
There are thousands of affordable guitars just as good as any "famous brand" ones, and which quite often play and sound way better. A good 2nd hand LTD Viper 400 with good PUs will often be better than most Gibson, for instance. Of course, if you're a "snob" and you need that "brand" on the headstock you'll never ever get to even try such options.
I just don't care where the guitar comes from, nor what's on the headstock. I play a 2nd hand LTD EC1000, and I'm just as comfortable with it for to play anything ranging from classic Rock to Blues, Jazz, and even Rock'a'Billy (with a split coil push-pull to thinner both Seymour Duncan humbuckers, and a newly installed Duesenberg Tremolo).
Hutto
@@juantovar5084 l
Camera crew walks into guitar store:
That one guy: so anyway I started powerchording
I don't know about you but when I walk into a guitar store my playing instantly reverts to a "never picked up a guitar in my life" ability.
If you do a video about upgrading a guitar, please talk about they "whys" of doing upgrades and demonstrate some before/after sound and playability stuff. For some of us, we do not have as much of a discerning ear or playing technique to be able to hear or feel the differences or at least know what to listen for or feel. Thanks. Love your channel.
not thought about this, for those who have spent countless hours on the internet it's obvious but yeah I had no idea before I started, that'd be a great video for a lot of info in one place
I think that's a great idea. Also, when doing an audio comparison and you describe sounds that you're trying to achieve you might use terms like glassy, ice pick, or fizz for a description. However, some people don't know what that means.
Perhaps you could put in yhe video audio examples for the nomenclature used? If you already have covered this could someone post a link?
@@hazrusInc Not that I disagree, but myself, I have to play a guitar to really hear what the guitar sounds like to myself. I've had people play my guitars and they sound a lot different. I've noticed , through the years I have a same kind of sound to an extent, whether I may be on a Fender (single coil) or a Les Paul (Humbucking) type. Or even an amp difference at times.
Yeah, there are bargains to be found in upgrade hardware, sources, installation, and DIY info would be awesome!
I would like to know about a bone nut and saddle for acoustic upgrade.
gretsch is one of the best guitars period. theyre under utilized, under appreciated and they have filtertrons instead of what we see today as humbuckers. they have this bright and twangy sound to them, if you get their "solid" body it does more than exceptionally well for blues, jazz, country, rock, metal and even pop. theyre almost like a lost relic in the guitar world. seems only people with a good ear end up getting one.
I agree with everything you said, unfortunately not every gretsch guitars have filtertrons and those guitars which have filtertrons aren't really budget anymore. Their entry level line, the Streamliner have Broad'trons which sounds very similar to normal humbucker PAFs. But they're great guitars regardless but I just find it very unfortunate that you still have to pay premium price to get that authentic Gretsch sound.
I was gifted a 1963 Gretsch Corvette from my grandpa. Takes a lot of maintenance and the neck is a thicc boy by modern standards. But it still shows up on 80% of my recordings
I agree. I just traded up a guitar for a hollowbody Gretsch, pretty much like the one in the video but in a Dark Green with a Bigsby, because of the feel and the sound. Its a $600 guitar and I just love it! I have a Gretsch sparkle jet 59 vintage select customized and I play the hollowbody more now.
Yep, just bought an import jet. Fantastic blues/rock guitar for a fraction of the price of a Gibson.
Didn’t even mention rockabilly.
"Taking a budget guitar and turning it into something great" The most rewarding thing to do, my favorite pastime...🤘🎸
Mine too.
Been doing the same thing for years. And even upgrades don't have to cost a lot either. GFS pups are one of my favorite upgrades to do.
I don't know, but there's something about buying used, cheap guitars that is so satisfying. Whether its meeting the previous owner and hearing their story as a musician and with the guitar, or just the grind of waiting and checking to see what's available in the local area, driving for miles to pick them up... It's so much better than just hitting order and getting exactly what you want in 3-4 working days.
Agreed. The sense of satisfaction out of breathing new life into an instrument is pretty hard to beat.
@@ardatukenmez2890 I traded guitars about a year and a half ago just to try something different. When I was trying it through the guy's setup, it was alright but I figured I might just trade it again shortly after. When I got it setup through my own gear though in the comfort of my home I was blown away. It's a 1980 Ibanez Musician, which somehow went up in value almost immediately after the trade, lol.
@@mattdyck9931 they were good basses, and are still sought after. However, most used instruments for sale, are NOT of that calibre. Depends on what your after, really. . . . you wont find the tone of a'76 Stingray, in a 3rd rung Indonesian Stingray look alike . . . but, if you had the urge for say, a RED one . . . . you may find the 2nd hand lot is just the right . . err . . Color
I have a used vicente taytay tomas made in spain 1970
Its impressive how indestructible these classical guitars are and they sound great plus they are super lightweight
Best experienced I've had with a used guitar
I *know* right?! For some reason, buying a guitar used kindof takes the "pressure" off for me as well. I am much more likely to actually "buy in to" a guitar and play it without being self conscious if I bought it used. I find a new guitar off the wall can be somewhat intimidating. Plus, having a story of the great deal you got, or the journey you went on to pick up the guitar sticks with the instrument!
You’re doing the Lord’s work. Dave is a boss and you’re cinematographer should get a raise!
Yeah, give Tilly a raise! Haha.
I wish I had resources like this when I was growing up. You guys are awesome! Thanks for doing what you do. I like how honest you are in your opinions
What I've learned:
-Every cheap guitar is hard to beat
no it is easy- smash it against something.
Nothing is hard to beat if you grind enough levels.
@@vladv5126 ain't that the truth
I'd rather hear 'hard to beat" than "circle back".
@@vladv5126 bloodborne laughs at uou
As a budget heavy man, videos like this are definitely up my alley! The Perfect Budget guitar might seem subjective, but I think there are many ways to determine so. Thank you for the work!
I own a couple of high- mid-range guitars, but I also have a budget Gretsch and I absolutely love it. Great tone, great feel, fast neck, super action, and just great fun to play. Well-made, and no bad stuff. It is my go-to for just picking something up and playing because it feels so good and resonates so well, even unplugged. Got it new for just over $400. Easily one of my best purchases.
I love how informative your videos are and without the attitude. Keep up the good work, you're helping so many of us out. Thank you sir.
G&L guitars are greatly underrated. I bought my first one back in 1993 while on a mission to look for a Fender Strat. Had to have the salesperson tell me what the hell a G&L was. When I learned they were built by Leo Fender & George Fullerton I immediately picked one up and played it,... 20 or so minutes later I told the salesperson to ring it in,... and that was after I had played about 8 Fender Strats in the same store. I still have that guitar USA made G&L Strat today and it plays and sounds like the day I bought. The fit and finish are perfect and the Dual Fulcrum tremolo keeps the guitar in perfect tune,... WAY better than the Fender Strat. I buy as many used G&L guitars as I can,... preferably those made in the early 80's to early 90's which have an average price of about $1,000. A true bargain when you consider the top notch quality.
Jerry Cantrell is known to be a big fan and user of G&L's. They were made in Indonesia, don't know if they still are but the quality of workmanship at that plant has a great reputation. I know Leo was happier with what they built than the stuff Fender was cranking out even back when he owned it.
got a usa made l2500 its an 01 been played hard, gigged and well traveled rock solid never let me down still sounds and plays like a dream just brought it to the shop for minor fret work a scratchy pot and new imput jack not bad for 20 years imo
yes - love my G&L S-500 Tribute. Around 500-600 bucks. Love the high output pickups, the extra pickup combinations and the PBT tone control for bass roll-off - an absolutely excellent tone-shaping tool that should be on every electric to cut the mud. I have shot this out against quite a few real fender Strats and have found that it is easy to replicate a "real" fender by dialing volume and both tones back to 8 (give-or-take), and having the extra bit of headroom to push things is really nice. And fingerboard is a tad on the wide side which definitely works for me.
@@WhoWouldWantThisName G&L Tribute guitars are made in Indonesia. The rest of G&L guitars are made in Fullerton California. The Tribute series is a great bargain. Unless they changed things, all the Tribute guitars have G&L pickups and bridges. The body and neck are made by Cort in Indonesia and assembled by them.
I bought a G&L Tribute Legacy here in Australia about 16 years ago. Great value instrument with a tremolo that leaves Fender way behind.
Great choice on the Gretsch! It took me over 20 years to decide to try a non U.S. made Gretsch. I own somewhere north of 10 vintage U.S. Gretschs and love every one of them. I got caught up in the whole " if it ain't made in the U.S. it sucks" thing when it comes to Gretsch guitars. Finally picked up a foreign version... and fell in love all over again. I have to honestly say that Gretsch just makes good stuff.
I have a Gretsch G5420T and it's an amazing guitar. The build quality is flawless and I don't even feel a need to change pickups.
I also own a Mexican Fender strat from the Road Worn series, which might stretch the definition of "budget" a bit, but it's nitro finished and definitely the loudest strat I've ever played (when strummed acoustically, like Dave mentioned in the video). I just love how it resonates and do believe that's something you should look out for, regardless of price.
Happened to me exactly the same with that same Gretsch .Didn't know what I was after .
Tried it ,Loved it and got it .There and then .3 years later and still love it .
I get a charge out of the phrase “gig-able guitar”.
As if anyone listening to your band would know the diff between a $2500 American Strat or an $800 Mexi with upgrades.
Especially the way I play. XD
I think they mean in terms of reliability/how it would hold up on tour. You don't wanna run into input or electronics issues when you're out on the road.
@@colina1330 The phrase ''spare guitar'' comes to mind.
@@colina1330 that’s why I used the word “upgrades”
The same happens with effects. Noboby in the audience Will ever tell the diffrence between a very expensive boutique fx and a chinese clone.
Rhett, that Gretsch G2622 is the big brother of my G2655. I've had mine for almost a year and love it. Last December I put a Vibramate/B5 on it. The smile has not left my face.
You guys make an excellent team. Highly informative video. Thanks.
Thanks guys! Superb video on a great topic! It's great to have someone in the area really reaching out to the whole country. I love what you guys & Rick Beato are doing. Keep it up!!
"These are hard to beat" - every guitar he's picked up. LOL.
true but he’s referring to best buck in each guitar style
Hahaha yeah, but let's be honest. We all know that feeling of picking up a guitar that strikes you immediately
Tryna keep his paycheck coming in lol
@@TheDistortionPrinciple he's explaining all the common defects with every guitar, so I'd say your negativity is unwarranted lol
That's a good salesman
I wish I had this kind of video when I was just starting out! Now I typically build my own electrics but this video was great because I felt like I got the rush of checking a guitar store inventory without leaving my couch and get to hear you guys talk about all the thoughts that run through my head.
I’m a huge fan of those Gretsch streamliner hardtails. I’m not a super big bigsby fan, but my last guitar center run had a streamliner model that was an FSR in a blue like a dark blue ice blue metallic but it had P-90 soapbars (which isn’t normally on those models) with cream covers. The tone was so sweet, the action and build quality was so good, and just looking at it was so inspiring to play and play differently, I’m still kicking myself for not buying it.
Awesome video! Totally stoked to see your video about upgrading budget guitars. Keep up the good stuff!!
I love the small UA-cam channel feel I get from watching these videos, even if your channel has significantly grown since I first watched your videos. It feels a lot more conversational than a video that feels like something trying to be sold
That's gold Rhett!! Thank you ever so much!
I’ve been saying for years (and selling), that Gretsch semi-hollows are the best bang for the buck...I’m even contemplating grabbing the green 3 PU one...but I really don’t need another SH...but it is filter tron 🤔🤔🤔. Great video per usual.
This is such a great and valuable resource. Thanks to you both for sharing this knowledge
Bin doing that for years. Upgrades are so satifying. I would love to see a video before and after kind of thing.
The only problem I have with local stores, particularly the larger stores, is they don't do setups on the guitars they have on the racks. They can have a great guitar, but it plays like crap because they take it out of the package and hang it straight onto the wall. That can be the same if you order online as well, but they just don't do the instrument justice.
and conversely when a shop DOES set up their guitars, its so rare that you almost always end up walking out with one because they are "special" lol
The larger music stores are usually chains right?
@@LexanderMiller yes, that is the case.
@@RadRumblings , probably! If it plays well, and sounds good acoustically as stated in the video, everything else can be changed. So, it would be a winner if the price is right!
Literally 90% of the guitars I try in my area shops play like shii and are in *desperate* need of a setup. It's definitely kept me from buying guitars I likely would have otherwise.
In their defense; they lack employees who are capable of doing proper setups, fret work and repairs. The one or 2 guys they do have are usually already overwhelmed with repairs already and have no time to set up new guitars or do fret/nut work.
Would love to see a video of you guys buying a "budget" guitar and upgrading it. I just bought my first guitar - an Epiphone Les Paul Standard - so I was pleased to see you guys say good things about those guitars. I'm just a beginner, but it would be great to learn more about how to buy and upgrade used, or entry level, guitars.
Great vid guys! So happy that ADM is still around - I've been going there since the 80's. Gotta shop local!!!!
I really enjoy this video, you guys just moving down to earth bringing out the best knowledge of the simple instruments capabilities etc just
keep these videos rolling maan for as you know there are many musicians who live in doubts concerning their instruments and end up paying tons senior just for not knowing stuff or what to look out for.... thanks again ,keep it coming masters ...🎓
Holy crap, I never realized that Dave is a badass guitarist.
Man, that's a great little music store...wish we still had them in my area.
Guitar center came in my city, gave a bunch of stuff away and cut prices until they broke all small music stores. Then raised their price, now they are the only thing we got.
This was right in my wheelhouse. I’ve been shopping. My local guitar shop guy loves the Gretsch also. Great video, thanks Rhett!
Rhett: Thanks for all you do for this wonderful hobby of mine. I am just learning guitar and mandolin at almost 60. Recent purchase was a Squier Telecaster. Working on a pedalboard based on Mason Marangella's suggestions., beginning with the isolated power supply, a 1 Spot Pro 12... I wish I could afford your super effects like the Timeline, Big Sky and Mobius. Perhaps someday.
I am also writing my own music far too late in life, but enjoying Cubase 10, UAD plug-ins, and NI Komplete 11, along with the Helix Native plug-in. Please keep posting videos, as there is so much I need to learn. Tim Pierce's site is also a favorite.
I have one of those streamliners, it's a really well built guitar, and plays great. I keep recommending it to everyone :) It's my favorite at the moment, has been for a while.
I’ve been trying to spread the word. Tried one out at a shop and loved it so much my wife said, “We’re buying this. Don’t argue.” Pots are cheap and has a plastic nut but everything else is great.
Whats the best budget guitar you've ever played?
The Sterling James Valentine signature is my go-to guitar, and I paid like $850 CAD for it
an early 2000's Epiphone DOT ...... replaced the pickups with a set of stock Gretsch H/S Filtertrons ....... I was an idiot and sold it when I was on a quest for a Gibson R8. Miss that guitar more than any that I've owned(even the R8).
I had an Epiphone es 335 pro that was great for the money.
A (UK) guitar shop I particularly like had their annual guitar show, at which there were bargains to be had. I bought a Vintage Paul Brett Statesboro parlour acoustic. It was at the knockdown price of £70 (normally £99, I believe). It is all laminate but it sounds and plays just beautifully. I struggle to believe a guitar this good can be made at that price point.
I purchased a Michael Kelly Custom Patriot from ebay for £199. They were £769 originally! Little known brand, but It feels solid In the hand. Korean-made, I have no idea about possible upgrades though. The bridge pickup sounds very thin to me. I wouldn't know what else to tinker on It.
Yes, would love to see some videos on upgrading more affordable guitars!
I would love a video of performing upgrades to a less expensive guitar. Tell why you would change the pickups or what is wrong with in and be in-depth about it. Maybe make it a 2 part video. You And Dave have skills that most of us don’t have access to locally. I video like that would definitely be down my alley! Thanks Rhett
I've the cheapo Squire Mustang, one of the best guitars I've ever played. It's fantastic, one of the best rock sounds I've gotten. I personally keep it in Eb standard, dunno if that'll change things.
Saw the Gretsch in the thumbnail, instant click and 'like'. Picked up a G5220 Electromatic Jet single-cut about nine months ago, and it's been easily as good as my American Deluxe Telecaster. Such a great value for money.
bthalko agreed. I bought one in December, had it set-up, and it plays and sounds great after breaking it in a bit.
I absolutely love the Blacktop Filtertrons that they have in those. I have one at home myself and love it.
I love my g5220. I first played the g5230 or whatever has the bigsby but don't have the need for that, so I found a g5220 at another location and knew almost immediately that I was going to walk out with it and I did. A killer deal at $450 + tax new in Dec 2019 and now they are selling for $550.
Really great advise! I also like the approach to shop locally with the people who are neighbors. And yes there are great guitars out there in your price range! Thanks!
There are some really helpful tips in what to look for in a mid-priced or used guitar. Thanks for the video.
That hollow body Gretsch sounded great and both of you were running the notes like it’s frets were pushing you onwards.
What model Gretsch was this?
@@brianf4879 elsewhere in the comments someone asked the same question and someone answered they have the same guitar, a G2622 Streamliner
I have the same guitar with the bigsby bridge and it’s one of the best guitar I’ve ever played.
I love Dave! He’s in a perpetual state of, “or, ya know, whatever... No big deal.” 🤷♂️
absolutely agree.. big fan of used. I picked up an blue double cut, Electromatic , Bigsby 2 yrs old (2017/18 so upgrades from previous year ) for less than half price of a new one. The plastic still on the pick guard no scratches I could see... but the toggle was a bit finicky it would cut out, the rear peg for the strap was loose , intonation was out because of the nut for some reason , so upgrade nut, new toggle new strings professional set up and WHOLELEECHEET what a difference. I put 160 bucks in it to still below half price new. And now they have gone up another 200 bucks(+/-) here in Canada at most stores from 2018...score . The deal is a big part of the fun of purchasing for me. Makes it sound better and rarely buyers remorse ...lol
Great video with terrific advice. I bought a new Epiphone Sheraton last year for $600. Great action and play-ability. Had my local guitar shop put in a Seymour Duncan Seth Lover in the neck and a Pearly Gates in the bridge and change out the pots for another $400 total. Monster sounding guitar.
Those new Indonesia Gretsch guitars absolutely surprised me too. Just saw one in a music store today and strummed it and the resonance acoustically was fantastic. Absolutely agree about the acoustically strumming and listening for the sustain, longer and louder the better! If the sustain is dead sounding then move on! Thanks for the video! Great job :)
Do you know what model Gretch he's playing in the video?
@@jayloiselle9281 I'm sure you've figured it out by now, but it's a g2622
I find the Chinese/Indonesian Gretsch's generally great, *except* for the pots. So if you're someone that's just going to dime everything, or don't mine the tone/volume knobs essentially being on/off switches, they're hard to beat. Also, I find Indonesian stuff has some of the best fretwork in the industry *period*.
I have that exact same hollow body Gretsch that Rhett was really impressed with. It's a G2622 Streamliner in the Single Barrel Stain finish. Absolutely killer guitar. A friend and I went to go jam out on some guitars at a shop one day, and out of all the guitars we played (20+ guitars with prices ranging from $150 to $1500), that Gretsch was both of our favorite guitar we played that day. I ordered one the following week.
Jack Steele so what you’re saying is that the guitar Rhett has is the Single Barrel Stain finish because I’m planning on getting either this one or the Torino Green. Does the video show a good representation of the color in person because I really like the dark brown and if it is it might the the reason I get this one over the Torino Green
That video idea, yes! That Gretsch you picked up, I have one. Left handed model. Great great sounding guitar, love playing mine!
Enjoyed this immensely. Great video, thanks guys!
I agree with what everybody says about the quality of the "affordable" Gretsch models. I have had a couple-- they were probably the best built guitars I have had, and that includes some much more expensive American made guitars. I 'll let you guess the brand!
I bought a Gretsch G5220 Electromatic Jet and it's brilliant. $650 AUD brand new. The finish is better than a $2000 guitar from an American manufacturer the retailer had in stock and the pickups are incredibly versatile.
I actually went in to the shop looking to compare a Streamliner with an Ibanez Artcore but the Jet blew me away.
I know everyone's raving about the 2020 Epiphones but they'll have to do a lot to catch up with the Gretsch for value and quality.
I’ve had a lot of guitars, but my Gretsch still sounds as good as my American Fender and better than my Gibson.
Does it start with G and end with N?
@@antma9028 great guess!
@@antma9028 Might do ; )
I have that exact Gretsch and even for recording it's just great. Best guitar purchase I have ever made
Atlanta Discount is my favorite store in the metro area. Great selection at good prices and they've always been super helpful.
Love this show. Man it was great. Thanks
That Gretsch guitar is almost exactly like the one I bought last year....I love it.
I have that gretsch, but with a bigsby. It's an absolute killer guitar I love it
Me too! Love it!
@@jacobdrescher1756 What's the model number on it? Looks like a 5622 but all the RH ones I see have bigsby's instead of stoptails
Tyler Shaw g2622 streamliner
Ah, a fellow Gretsch lover. I have a double cut Electromatic hollow body, which aren't as budget friendly but, you can get a Jet for under $600 and they have basically the same hardware.
@@tylershaw3968 G2622
I've had a lot of used guitars on and out over the years and a number of the ones I didn't expect a lot out of have been stellar guitars after a good set up. One that surprised me was a very cheap Ibanez,(Roadstar II) that was in unplayable condition when given to me for next to nothing. I got rid of the trem and replaced it with a six screw Strat style trem (had to use wood filler to get rid of a slight indent routed for the original bridge). I did a minor leveling and dressing of the frets, swapped out the pots (they were seized, might have been okay if cleaned, but swapping them is cheap so just went that route). I shimmed the neck. The bridge pickup was a shrill single, so I routed out some space and put in a humbucker. I bought an HSS pickgaurd that didn't quite fit (made for a Strat) so I filed it to shape. Now that is the second best playing guitar in my collection, and I payed $40, spent $70 on parts. The bridge was rescued from another guitar, so the $70 was spent on the humbucker, the pickgaurd and the pots.
to Rhett and Dave, this was a very informative video providing a good insight on how to shop for a real buy. Much appreciated, you gentlemen provide a great service to everyone from the beginner to the professional. When you have a young boy or girl looking for their first guitar you know we dont want to break the bank in obtaining that instrument. thank you.
Here's an oddly specific tip for anyone looking at buying any recent Epiphone guitar (generally 2013 and on)... Look for one made in the Qingdao factory. I own several Epi's, and I have three that were made in that factory. They are far and away the best Epi's I have. I don't know how else to say it, they are simply all three of better quality than the others. You'll be looking for a '15' somewhere in the middle of the serial #, these are the Qingdao made models.
Something like this: xxxx15xxxxx
Trust me, they are good. Try one out for yourself.
I have an Epi Les Paul Standard Pro with a xxxx15xxxxx serial #. You're right. It's my favorite Epi.
My LP Prophecy is from the Qingdao factory. My favorite guitar hands down. Not that its got much competition, but like, even when im enjoying my Ibanez or my acoustic, i find myself drawn back to it eventually
I have an Epi Les Paul Studio LT and though it was about $250 before tax this is really an excellent guitar. It was my very first guitar and I still love it to this day. When I pick it up and play it it just seems to fit like a glove. I did a few mods to it but they were just cosmetic so everything about the guitar regarding playability is still the same as it was when I got it and I will keep this guitar forever because it plays great and was my first.
I've got an es-335 pro from that factory that is absolutely killer!
Thanks for that info man, that’s probably the most useful and helpful thing I’ve picked up in a long time.
Jack Pearson plays cheap Squires. He's a world class player & makes them sound like a Custom Shop Fender. Expensive guitars are nice but it's all in the player.
It's the pilot not the plane.
Nah, it's both. A great player sounds a lot better with good gear, and a "competent beginner" (aka can play more than "Hot Crossed Buns") will sound better and BE MORE LIKELY TO KEEP PLAYING with better gear.
Personally, I still think Custom Shop stuff is wildly unnecessary, but getting a $500+ guitar and even an amp above that is bordering on necessary for anyone beyond that very early tryout period of playing.
He doest play "cheap" Squiers, all the wiring, pots etc are changed, necks have been getting treatment etc. As long as the body is solid and you can or know someone who can upgrade it for you that guitar can become a killer tone machine.
The MIJ are some of the best.
@@steveluth3139 Nope. They're stock.
Great vid man! I have three MIM Teles and they are awesome guitars, and a Korean Gretsch 5420. My biggest surprise was when I got my daughter a Squire Mustang. it was a damn good buy. It plays nice and sounds decent for what it is and is an up gradable platform for her if she chooses to do so.
Such a great time watching you guys guitar hunt.
I remember talking about this on Sunday night live.
I actually bought that Gretsch you demoed on a whim online and was also in love with it. The action is fantastic and it sounds great for such a low price. I plan on popping some Lollartrons in there someday but other than that, no complaints on that guitar at all. Scratched that semi-hollow itch for sure!
And it's got Rhett & Dave's sweat & DNA on the strings. Don't change 'em. LOL
vannoted what model is that Gretsch?
I've always had a personal liking to filtertrons rather then lollar but to each their own.
@@mrpotat680 These particular pickups are HB sized Broadtrons, designed specifically for this budget line - possibly one price point up as well. They're not like Filtertrons, nor Lollartrons. I think they're pretty much HB sounding, at least in my G2655 Streamliner Centerblock Junior.
Would be an odd looking adapter ring to fit Filtertrons in that route.
@@draganpetrov9594 G2622
Dude at 11:49 I could listen to you play that forever. Such a beautiful sequence of chords with a great tone Rhett!
Great video guys. Thanks Dave Onorato for picking up the Gretsch. I have been eying ones of those up in my local store.
I just bought a Gretsch G2622 because of this video! What a sound for the money. So thanks man!
I JUST picked up a Gretsch G2655T (the smaller bodied version of the one Rhett liked) and it is really nice for the money. Fit and finish is great, feels good in the hands, and sounds great. The stuff like plastic knobs aren’t great but they’re not bad either and are easily upgraded anyways. No complaints at all. Would highly recommend.
Do you know the model that Rhett liked?
@@joshuaserve1675 Gretsch G2622 I think walnut stain. I just bought one brand new in Single Barrel finish and it feels and sounds as incredible as it looks. Rock on
Absolutely love this video! Great job!
Feel is a huge thing for me especially when it comes to the neck. I was always in love with the look and sound of an SG. Played a ton of them and finally bought one and now it’s just a nice wall decoration that’s played once in a blue moon. I ended up falling in love with the J Mascis Squier jazzmaster. I played at least 30 guitars in the shop from fenders to gibsons and was still just drawn to the $400 jazzmaster. crazy how good inexpensive guitars are now a days.
That Epiphone Les Paul - I have one from about the same time (I think the last year of it being made in Korea) that’s been great for me for years. I was a kid and it was the best I could afford at the time, but has really stood up. (And there definitely wasn’t much weight relief going on with mine either!)
My buddy has a dec '02 or whatever... Great great lespaul. Better than half the gibsons ive played on.
And it weighs more than my uzi!
From what I’ve seen Harley Benton guitars have been getting rock solid reviews.... I’m planning on buying one of their Tele style guitars soon... unfortunately where I live even the “budget” prices guitars are still tipis expensive and with onl one music store, there’s zero competition.
A great strat option are the 80's Hohner St-Specials (I think they did a little higher end '59?). Stock pups are really nice...a bit more output than stock Fenders but still great strat tones. 22-fret, Roller trees, good hardware and a nice Suhr-like headstock shape all for sub-200 bucks. Most are scratched and swirled now, but people actually pay extra for "relics" so that shouldn't be too much of an issue.
Watched 3xs.
Learned something new each time.
Thanks for sharing.
I’ve said it in other threads, I have a squire classic vibe that I like more than the American made Strat I used to own. It blows my mind, the money people are willing to spend just to have that Gibson or Fender name on the head stock.
I bought one of those gretsch with a bigsby on it. Favorite cheap purchase by far. Recommend swapping the switch/pots and wires, but it’s fantastic
That's good to know. I have the same; Gretsch Streamliner with the Bigsby (same colour as this)... it sounds ace acoustically - and through my Marshall Valvestate - but I haven't played it enough (I'm busking on acoustic mostly these days) to know how best I can shape it to my needs. I'd like to get it properly set-up and played through a new amp upgrade I have in mind...
Every guitar I have owned I purchased used and my favorite is my Epiphone Les Paul Standard, my second is a Gibson SG Special with mini humbuckers. Love shopping used guitars and learning stuff.
Thanks for having Dave on this.
Yes, please do a 'sharpen my axe' style video with an affordable electric. Also, you should do a budget amp video as well. There's so much ego in fancy equipment, seeing videos like these will help a lot of people save money and still walk away with the gear they need.
That older Epi for $350 was a great deal. I find those older Korean Epis to be a lot nicer compared to the newer Chinese versions.
I have a 2004 Les Paul and you can hear the wood has dried out compared to new ones!
Picked up a G2622 from my local shop a few years ago, love that thing. Great tones, not perfect but excellent for mid gain and clean tones, and the finish and feel of the guitar are excellent! Used it on some demo tapes I recorded with my band in my kitchen.
Great store! I used to work close to it, but haven't been there in a long time. Excellent video, right on my wavelength.
Between his ring and the buttons on his jacket there will be a scratch n dent sale tomorrow. All kidding aside love your playing and vids!
Used PRS SEs are another solid choice in that price range.
I just bought a pristine condition 2014 Zach Myers, and it plays just about like any core-model PRS I've played. I went with a pre-2018 because I believe they're now made in Indonesia.
I just bought one of the Singlecut Jr-style SEs for $300. Great little guitar.
Great video man! Well done and informative for all...
Dude you have no idea how much I enjoy your videos, keep them coming,
I have a couple of Indonesian made Squier Teles and for the money, they are amazing guitars. They punch waaaay above their weight.
Yes! I hoped Gretsch would get a look in when I saw the title of this video!
I bought a Gretsch 5220 after buying a v cheap strat copy to learn on. I can't understand why more people don't own an Electromatic. The quality of them is amazing.
I have the left of the Gretsch G2622 Streamliner it's a stunning guitar! It was also the most expensive guitar I've bought so far (£320 second hand) and I adore it. I love my Epiphone Les Paul Special II but this Gretsch is starting to take over
Brilliant. I actually owned one of those Streamliner Gretsch's ( mine was the G2622T ) which was an amazing guitar. I ended up trading it and upgrading to a G5422T Electromatic ( which was also an amazing guitar ) I wish I kept hold of both of them, and will probably reinvest in them again at some stage. I honestly believe spending £500 / £700 ( I'm in the UK ) wisely, can be a better move than spending a few thousand pounds on over priced /over hyped guitars. For the money, my personal favourite's are Eastman and Godin guitars - both extremely well priced for exceptional quality. Thanks for the video fella's, most enjoyable x
I love pawnshop guitars... I feel like I'm walking into a dog pound, looking to adopt a new family member.
I tell my friends, "A great blues guitar earns it's soul at the pawnshop."
I get that..
Yeah, I never could put that feeling into words. I don't like dogs but it's a good analogy. I passed on a Gretch today, the G2420. I loved the way it played. The tuning heads were no name and it was 550 dollars but I knew I could get at least 10 % off. Maybe more if paid for with cash. The price also gave me pause. Now I feel like I should have bought it. Worse case I change tuning machines and possibly the pick ups. It played better than the Jimmy Paige Tele. Of course it prolly wasn't set up but still, it was almost 2500 and the Gretch blew it away as far as feel and playability. I guess I'm going back today. I haven't slept all night because of this. I doubt it comes with a hardshell but I'm hoping. It was the best playing guitar in the entire store amo g the electrics, other than the high end strats. I have one so I'm not gonna be happy until I buy the damn Gretch. I knew i should have went with my gut. Played thru a early 70's Gibson solid state amp that sounded unbelievable for only 200 bucks. I'm considering grabbing that also. I don't need anymore shit but it feels like getting high and it lasts until the next day when the guilt sets in. Thank God I'm divorced. And I don't know how I went from a pawn shop feeling to my experience at a music store today. I guess I just needed to vent. But I agree, like puppies.
Joey Selder Did you go back and get the guitar and amp?
Joey Selder did u get the guitar and amp we need to know the story
@@denyel_ Yes I did. And here is what happened since. I played it and it just didn't have the same appeal once I got it home. I passed on the amp. I have enough of those anyway. So a friend of mine who knows a guy who loves Gretsch told him about my mishap and I traded him for a Mexi-strat. I was really surprised with it. So he was happy and I was happy and all ended well.
One of my favorites is a Dearmond M-77t that I've upgraded. It's from about '99 and when new was right in the same market segment as the Gretsch he's playing in this video. I had it upgraded with new electronics, a bone nut, and TV Jones classic plus pickups back in about 2004. Sounds and plays incredibly and I've only got about $900 in it total (actually spent more on the upgrades than the guitar lol). Used American G&L stuff can also be VERY affordable if you're patient and willing to be flexible on color/config. You can find them in the $600-800 range, which IMO is the sweet spot pricewise for both guitars and amps.
Yeah, those DeArmonds are real sleepers, such gorgeous guitars.
In 1985 I bought a 1981 Aria Pro II PE-R80 second hand for very little when everybody wanted Strats with pointy headstocks. A great guitar which I still use.
I bought one of them semi hollow electromatics and love it. It has a center block so no feedback on a loud stage. Perfect.
Gretsch is hitting it out of the park lately. Killer value.
Gretsch streamliner. Plays great.
Hey Rhett and Dave, please do this video on making a budget guitar great. Would love to see that
Totally into the MIM strat and Tele upgrades!! Just had both of mine worked on