There's nothing quite like "that great Gretsch sound". The luminous, sparkling highs, the sweet mid-range and the room-filling low end of the best Gretsch guitars have captivated musicians and audiences alike for decades. Over Gretsch's tenure as one of the leading forces in all things country and rock 'n' roll, the guitar giant has amassed a dedicated list of disciples from retro guitar heroes George Harrison, Chet Atkins, Eddie Cochran and Bo Diddley, to modern six-string pioneers Jack White, John Frusciante and Pat Smear.
With a company history that spans more than a hundred years, it can get a little confusing if you are trying to nail down which is the best Gretsch guitar for you - but don't worry, we're here to help. We've hand-selected what we believe are the best examples of Gretsch's outstanding craftsmanship, style and sound from across their entire catalogue.
From the super affordable Streamliner range to the ever-popular Electromatic line, all the way to the Professional series, we have a guitar for everyone here - we've also made sure to group them by series to make it a little easier to find what you are looking for. So, if you are on the hunt for an elegant electric guitar that oozes sophistication and class - and has a sound to match - join us as we count down our favourite Gretsch guitars available right now.
Best overall
✅ Buy if you want a Falcon on a budget: A Professional Falcon will set you back just shy of $4,000, so getting one this well spec’d at this price is nothing short of incredible.
❌ Avoid if you don’t like big guitars: This guitar is ginormous, so I don’t recommend it for small players.
Whether it was seeing John Frusciante play this gigantic guitar in the legendary video for the Red Hot Chili Peppers' mega-hit Californication, Dave Grohl in the video for Foo Fighters' energetic Monkey Wrench, or the countless performances by The Cult's axeman Billy Duffy, every guitarist can remember the first time they gazed upon the majestic beauty of the Gretsch White Falcon.
Along with the Falcon's striking good looks comes a sound like no other. Equal parts bright and present, with a bass response to die for, this is easily one of the best-sounding hollowbody guitars in the world.
The Synchromatic version keeps the important aspects of this legendary guitar but manages to bring that pretty hefty price tag down to something most of us normal players can afford. Nestled between the already-affordable Electromatic line and the premium Japanese-made Players Edition, the Synchromatic collection - featuring the Falcon and Nashville - may be built in China, but to us it feels every bit as good as its pricier brethren.
As you’d expect, the model boasts a 2.5-inch deep maple body with a Semi-Arc bracing design, an ebony fingerboard, and even has a real bone nut installed, too. It also sports a B60 V-Cutout Bigsby and a set of Hi-Fidelity Filter’Tron pickups. Plus, it comes bundled with a Deluxe hardshell case and is available in the classic Snowcrest White or the sleek and goth-tastic Black.
Best on a budget
✅ Buy if you want to keep costs down: This is about as affordable as it gets if you want that classic Gretsch tone at a wallet-friendly price.
❌ Avoid if you don’t like large guitars: Again, this is a big guitar, so it's not recommended for small players. They do offer Jr models, though.
Since launching in 2016, the Streamliner range has been the go-to way for beginner and budget-conscious musicians to achieve the legendary tone of a Gretsch. Over the last few years, the Streamliner series has ballooned into a massive offering, with plenty of guitars to suit all playing styles - but we thought we'd stick to the fairly traditional styling of the G2420.
While the Streamliner may look like a retro Gretsch, it actually delivers a more contemporary tone thanks in part to the Broad'Tron BT-2S humbuckers. These slightly hotter pickups have been specially designed for this series, with a focus on a tighter bass response and a more aggressive midrange - perfect for all your blues rock needs.
So if you're looking for a modern twist on the well-trusted Gretsch formula that comes in at a very reasonable price, then the Gretsch G2420 Streamliner is the guitar for you.
"The addition of the impressively lively, dynamic Broad’Tron BT-2S pickups only enhances the Streamliner formula. As a result, the G2420 makes a great workhorse for blues, jazz and rockabilly players."
Read our full Gretsch G2420 Streamliner review
Best for the studio
✅ Buy if you want to record at home: This is the ultimate recording guitar, sounding particularly good straight into an interface.
❌ Avoid if you don’t need extra switches: There is a lot going on with this model. If you like things simple, I suggest going for the more standard G5622.
Billed as the first ever collaboration between the famous Abbey Road Studios and a guitar brand, this gorgeous guitar is packed with studio magic right out of the box.
This guitar’s secret weapon is an all-new electronic circuit inspired by EMI’s legendary Rumble filter, a tech originally built to kick out unwanted low-end rumble from classic Abbey Road recordings. Now, you get that same filter at your fingertips, letting you dial in polished, mix-ready tones straight from the guitar, no fancy pedals or plugins needed. Add in custom-wound Filter’Tron pickups, described by Abbey Road’s own engineers as having “a real, beautiful attack,” and you’re set for a seriously pro sound.
Build-wise, this guitar oozes vintage class. The maple body is lightweight yet resonant, with a lush Walnut finish and gold hardware for maximum mojo. It comes bundled with a plush burgundy case, a nod to the legendary studio’s décor, and the attention to detail is everywhere, from the blue case lining to the Abbey Road logo on the headstock.
Playability is top-notch, with a nice low action, comfy neck, and 10-gauge strings as standard, making it easy to play for all styles. Sonically, the Studiomatic is versatile. The Rumble filter offers three distinct tonal options from classic Gretsch chime to vintage '60s jangle, and the pickups handle everything from clean Beatles-style arpeggios to big, fuzzy leads with clarity and punch.
All in all, the Gretsch Abbey Road Studiomatic is more than just a collector’s piece; it’s a gig-ready, studio-worthy guitar with a ton of character and a direct line to music history.
"This guitar is a love letter to one of the most famous recording studios of all time. Every detail feels thoughtfully designed, and thankfully, it has the playability and sound to match. Okay, most people won't need the more extreme setting of the onboard Rumble circuit, but it will certainly come in handy for some."
Read our full Gretsch Limited Edition Abbey Road RS201 Studiomatic review
Best for rock
✅ Buy if you want to play lots of gain: The centre block in the models helps keep feedback at bay.
❌ Avoid if you want classic Gretsch tones: If you are after the iconic sound of a fully hollow Gretsch, this isn't the model for you.
It's fair to say that Gretsch's Electromatic range has gone from strength to strength over the last few years, with many seeing the series as not just a viable alternative to the more expensive Professional line but as a great collection of electric guitars in its own right.
This more affordable range is an offshoot of the core lineup, made primarily in Korea, which allows Gretsch to keep the costs down, but don't worry, they certainly don't scrimp on features or the build quality.
This stunning double-cutaway guitar features a chambered spruce centre block, meaning it will perform better at higher gain settings compared to vintage examples, while the 12"-radius fingerboard with 22 medium jumbo frets is a joy to play.
To top it all off, the Black Top Broad'Tron humbucking pickups deliver the quintessential Gretsch tone, and the licensed Bigsby B70 vibrato tailpiece allows you to add some subtle movement to your chords.
Best for beginners
✅ Buy if you are a beginner: This is a fabulous beginner-friendly instrument in our opinion.
❌ Avoid if you want classic Gretsch tones: If you are after the legendary sound of a fully hollow Gretsch, this isn't the model for you. It is great for punk, though!
The Gretsch CVT Double-Cut is a modern revamp of the classic Corvette, giving off serious Jetsons-meets-rock vibes. If you’re picturing Gretsch as just big hollowbodies, this solidbody will surprise you. The CVT brings a double-cut mahogany body, two punchy Twin Six humbuckers, and a bolt-on Performance C mahogany neck, aiming for a spot between a Strat and an SG. It’s got carved bevels for comfort, a slick Whychwood finish, and crescent “thumbnail” inlays on a laurel fingerboard.
Now, we’d say the hardware is basic but solid. The sealed tuners, a chunky wraparound bridge with intonation adjustment, and all controls feel satisfying and sturdy.
Out of the box, the action is a bit high on our review model, but a quick truss-rod tweak sorts it out. The 12” radius and C neck shape make bends and chord work easy, and access to upper frets is a breeze. At 3.3kg (7.27lbs), it’s a medium-weight guitar, and well balanced on a strap.
Soundwise, the Twin Six pickups deliver on power and clarity. The neck is warm and woody, ideal for clean and indie rhythm parts, while the bridge pickup has bite for punky chords or rock leads. They don’t really “twang” like classic Gretsch, but they’re articulate, mid-punchy, and happy with distortion.
At around $414/£499, it’s a killer value for a retro-looking, modern-playing, gig-ready workhorse that feels ideal for beginners.
"Offering retro looks combined with modern playability, the Gretsch CVT Double-Cut packs a lot of punch sonically, and just as much when it comes to value."
Read our full Gretsch Electromatic CVT Double-Cut review
Best solid body
✅ Buy if you don't like large guitars: Coming in around the size of a Les Paul, this model is more manageable for smaller players.
❌ Avoid if you hate flashy finishes: Personally, I love the look of this guitar, but I can see how it may be too much for some.
If you want that classic Gretsch chime and head-turning looks without breaking the bank, the G5230T Electromatic Sparkle Jet FT is calling your name. Gretsch’s signature style shines through, both literally, thanks to the Gold Sparkle finish, and sonically, with those FT-5E Filter’Tron pickups dishing out the brand’s instantly recognisable bell-like tones.
It’s a solidbody electric with a chambered mahogany body and arched maple top, so you get some weight relief and plenty of resonance. The mahogany neck and laurel fingerboard feel comfy, especially with the ‘Thin U’ profile and 12” radius, perfect for everything from bluesy bends to jazz chords. Out of the box, it’s set up well, with low action and medium jumbo frets for easy playability.
The hardware is reliable for the price: chunky Gretsch knobs, an Adjustomatic bridge, and a Bigsby Licensed B50 for those vintage wobble vibes. The Bigsby, though, can be finicky with tuning if you get too wild, but that’s just the nature of the beast at this price point. The tuners feel a bit budget, but they do the job.
Sonically, this guitar does what Gretsch does best, with sparkling cleans, snappy single notes, and bright overdriven chords. The Filter’Trons are versatile, shining through everything from classic rock to indie, though you might wish for a tad more low-end beef. Still, it’s a legit Gretsch sound at a wallet-friendly price.
If you want a workhorse with serious sparkle and that unmistakable Gretsch vibe, the 5230T Electromatic Sparkle Jet FT delivers.
"With quintessential Gretsch Filter'Tron sounds and sparkles to die for, there's much to enjoy here – just be careful with that Bigsby."
Read our full Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Sparkle Jet FT review
Best signature
✅ Buy for rockabilly or old-school styles: This guitar is incredible at producing those legendary retro tones.
❌ Avoid for gained up sounds: This model is full hollow and can have issues with feedback when introduced to a lot of distortion.
Brian Setzer has been proudly flying the Gretsch flag since the beginning of his career and his G6120TFM-BSNV Nashville model flawlessly showcases his love for the retro brand.
The Stray Cats six-string slinger has opted for a remarkable flame maple top that's carried over to the headstock, 1959 trestle bracing and oversized F-holes, which are believed to give "improved sonic projection".
To help Setzer perform his famous lightning-fast licks, the Nashvile's neck is equipped with a 9.5" -12" compound radius ebony fingerboard with rolled edges - although it is worth noting that this guitar does sport a V-shaped neck profile, which some modern players may struggle with.
At the heart of the instrument is a duo of TV Jones Brian Setzer Signature Filter'Tron pickups, which are tight and articulate, with a hotter output when compared to vintage Nashville models.
Best vintage
✅ Buy if you like smaller models: This model is more manageable for smaller players who want a Flacon with a smaller frame.
❌ Avoid if you hate flashy instruments: Some see this as a gaudy guitar; if that's you, we suggest looking elsewhere.
Often found in the shadows of its more famous and higher-soaring big brother, this flightless Gretsch has long been criminally overlooked. It may not offer the same depth of sound as its larger counterparts, but this chambered mahogany beaut offers a completely different sonic experience for Gretsch fans - and is a personal favourite of this writer.
As you'd expect, this Vintage Select Penguin is designed to mimic the golden age of Gretsch design, delivering a retro-inspired instrument that looks like it just jumped straight out of the '50s. That said, it's not all style over substance. Tonally the G6134T-58 will transport you back to a simpler time.
The magnificent TV Jones Classic pickups ooze retro charm, delivering the unmistakable clarity and bite the Penguin is known for.
"Some might think that the price tag takes the biscuit, but we reckon there’s never been a better time to p-p-p-pick up a Penguin."
Read our full Gretsch G6134T-58 Vintage Select ’58 Penguin review
Best for country
✅ Buy if you are a George Harrison fan: Harrison put this model to great use; if you want to recreate this tone, it's a good place to start.
❌ Avoid if you want a vintage spec guitar: As brilliant as this guitar is, this version isn't fully vintage accurate.
The famed Country Gentleman pretty quickly outgrew its name, with everyone from George Harrison, Johnny Marr and Jonny Buckland, to Elvis Presley and Richard Fortus proving this esteemed gent can do way more than country.
The Country Gentleman's 2" thick maple body delivers a lively, bright tone, while a fully sealed top - yeah, those f-holes are painted on - provides some much-needed feedback control at louder volumes.
Now, like the Players Edition Falcon above, the Gretsch G6122TG pays homage to the guitars of yesteryear while also giving players the modern features they've come to rely on - such as a 12"-radius ebony fingerboard, beautifully rolled edges and medium jumbo frets.
A brief history of Gretsch
The Gretsch brand dates all the way back to 1883 and was founded by Friedrich Gretsch, a German immigrant who settled in the USA. The now guitar giant had fairly humble beginnings, starting life as a small music shop in Brooklyn, New York, where Friedrich would import and sell a range of instruments - not limited to guitars.
Spotting a gap in the market and determined to give his customers what they wanted, Gretsch would eventually start to produce their own guitars - turning the modest music shop into one of the most popular and enduring guitar brands of all time.
In the beginning, Gretsch primarily offered acoustic archtops aimed squarely at the jazz musicians of the day, but by the '50s, Gretsch would be a household name, having furnished popular acts such as Chet Atkins and Eddie Cochran with eye-catching and superb-sounding guitars.
By the '60s, Gretsch was still riding high, with a very famous Liverpudlian introducing a whole new generation to this fab brand. However, The Beatles' connection wasn't quite enough to save Gretsch from what would come next.
By the end of the Swinging Sixties, Friedrich would retire after years of service to the wonderful world of guitar, selling the company to the Baldwin Piano brand. Unfortunately, mismanagement of the Gretsch name and a seismic shift in the musical landscape would result in Gretsch shutting down production in the early-80s. By the middle of the '80s, the Gretsch moniker would be returned to its rightful owners, with Fred W. Gretsch - the great-grandson of Friedrich - buying the company back from Baldwin, restoring musicians' faith in the brand.
That brings us to the modern era of Gretsch where things take another turn. In 2002, Gretsch teamed up with former rival and fellow guitar titian Fender. The big F would now handle all the manufacturing and distribution of Gretsch guitars worldwide, helping to keep the legacy of this legendary brand alive. This new partnership would prove incredibly fruitful, with Gretsch producing a wide range of new guitars and vintage reissues to much critical acclaim.
How to choose a Gretsch guitar
Choosing the right Gretsch guitar can feel like a pretty big decision, but it’s also a really fun one if you know what to look for. First off, think about the kind of music you want to play. Gretsch guitars are famous for their bright, jangly sound, which is perfect for rockabilly, country, indie, and even blues. If you’re after a classic rock ‘n’ roll vibe, you might lean towards a hollowbody; for those looking to keep feedback at bay for heavier sounds, a solid or semi-hollowbody might suit you better.
Next, pay attention to the pickups. Gretsch guitars often come with Filter’Tron or Broad’Tron pickups, which give that signature chime and clarity. If you want something warmer or a bit grittier, look for models with humbuckers or maybe P-90s. It’s worth trying out a few to see which sound speaks to you.
Comfort is a big deal, too. Gretsch guitars come in different body sizes and neck profiles. If you’ve got a smaller frame, you’ll want a guitar that doesn’t feel too big. Some of the bigger hollowbodies can feel a bit cumbersome if you’re not used to them.
Budget is another thing to keep in mind. Gretsch offers a range from affordable entry-level guitars right up to professional models. For us, the Electromatic series is a great middle ground. It offers great quality without breaking the bank.
Finally, don’t forget the looks! Gretsch guitars are known for their eye-catching finishes and flashy hardware. Whether you’re drawn to a classic orange, a sparkly silver, or a vintage white, pick something that makes you want to pick it up and play every day.
In the end, the right Gretsch is the one that feels and sounds right to you, so try a few and always trust your ears and hands!
Gretsch range explained
The Gretsch electric guitar line can be separated into three main categories, with each offering its own unique characteristics and price points.
Streamliner
The Gretsch Streamliner series is the most affordable of the three lines, but don't worry, these guitars still feature many of the classic Gretsch design elements you've come to expect from this legacy brand. Manufactured in Indonesia, the Streamliner range includes a wide array of guitars that will suit almost any player.
From retro-inspired hollowbodies to stripped-down versions of the Jet and even junior models, this is a fun range of guitars that offers a lot of features for very little money.
Electromatic
The Gretsch Electromatic series is a step up from the Streamliner range, with a more premium build quality and higher-end components. Now produced in Korea, these guitars have been incredibly popular thanks to their outstanding price point and impressive build quality.
Much like the Streamliners, the Electromatic range offers guitars that will satisfy traditionalists and modern players alike - with fully hollow options as well as centre block versions.
The Electromatic guitars also benefit from a pickup upgrade in the form of the Black Top Filter'Tron humbuckers, which offer a more refined and nuanced sound compared to the Broad'Trons.
Professional
The Gretsch Professional series is the top of the line, featuring handcrafted guitars made in Japan with the highest quality materials and attention to detail - with two main options available, Players Edition and Vintage Select.
As the name would suggest, the Players Edition guitars are designed with the working professional in mind, offering players access to the best Gretsch has to offer, with modern features and manufacturing tech. In contrast, Vintage Select instruments are more focused on capturing the magic of the guitars from the '50s and '60s, with vintage appointments and specs.
FAQs
Are Gretsch guitars good for beginners?
Absolutely! Gretsch has a range of guitars that are well-suited for beginners, particularly the Streamliner and Electromatic series. These models are designed to be comfortable to play, with slimmer necks and lighter bodies compared to some other brands. Plus, they look fantastic, which can be a real motivator to keep picking up the guitar and practising.
Price-wise, entry-level Gretsch guitars are very reasonable, especially considering the build quality and sound. You’re getting that classic Gretsch chime and style without breaking the bank. So, if you’re a beginner looking for something a bit different from the usual starter guitars, a Gretsch is definitely worth considering.
What’s the difference between hollowbody and solid-body Gretsch guitars?
The main difference comes down to the body construction and the sound it produces. Hollowbody Gretsch guitars feature a large, open chamber that gives them a warm, resonant tone with plenty of natural low-end and character. They’re highly responsive to your playing dynamics and are especially suited to clean sounds, jazz, country and blues, but also classic rock ‘n’ roll.
Solid-body Gretsch guitars, on the other hand, offer a tighter, punchier sound with much better feedback control, making them ideal for higher-gain, distorted tones. There are also semi-hollow models, which sit somewhere in between, offering a balance of warmth and feedback resistance.
Your choice really depends on the genres you want to play and the kind of feel you’re after. If you love big, airy tones, go hollow-body; for versatility and punch, try a solid-body.
Do Gretsch guitars stay in tune well?
Gretsch guitars are generally reliable when it comes to tuning stability, especially if you take the time to properly set them up. Models with traditional fixed bridges usually hold their tuning well, even with regular playing.
If your Gretsch has a Bigsby tremolo, you might find tuning slips a little more often, especially if you’re heavy-handed with the whammy bar. This is pretty normal for most tremolo systems, though.
Regular maintenance can make a big difference. Some players upgrade to locking tuners for extra peace of mind. If you look after your guitar and keep it set up nicely, tuning shouldn’t be a major issue, whether you’re practising at home or gigging out and about.
Are Gretsch guitars expensive?
Gretsch offers guitars across a wide price range, so there’s something for most budgets.
At the entry-level, the Streamliner series is very affordable, giving you the Gretsch look and tone without a hefty price tag. The Electromatic series sits in the mid-range, offering upgraded hardware and finishes at a reasonable cost. At the top end, Gretsch’s Professional Collection and signature models are more expensive, featuring premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and hand-built quality. These are definitely an investment, but they’re also the kind of guitars you’ll keep for a lifetime.
Overall, whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade to a professional instrument, there’s a Gretsch that’ll fit your needs and budget.
Meet the expert
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With more than 17 years of experience, MusicRadar is the premier music-making website in the world. Run by musicians for musicians, we offer expertly written gear round-ups and high-quality, authoritative reviews by an extensive team of highly experienced industry professionals.
Below you'll find more information on the expert author of this guide.
I'm a Senior Deals Writer at MusicRadar, and I'm responsible for writing and maintaining buyer's guides on the site - but that's not all I do. As part of my role, I also scour the internet for the best deals I can find on gear and get hands-on with the products for reviews. My gear reviews have been published in prominent publications, including Total Guitar, Guitarist, Future Music, and Guitar World.com. I've also had the privilege of interviewing everyone from Slash to Yungblud, as well as members of Sum 41, Foo Fighters, The Offspring, Feeder, Coheed & Cambria and many more.
I have a massive passion for anything that makes a sound, particularly guitars, pianos, and recording equipment. In a previous life, I worked in music retail, offering advice on all aspects of music creation and selling everything from digital pianos and electric guitars to entire PA systems. I'm also a fully qualified sound engineer with a first-class Bachelor's degree in Creative Sound Production from the University of Abertay, and I have extensive experience working in various venues across Scotland.
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