Hands-On Review of Gretsch Electromatic Duo Jet
A while back I traded in some old gear I was not using, and browsed for something that might catch my eye. I saw a gold finish Electromatic Duo Jet hanging on the wall and decided to give it a try. I'd heard that these guitars were built in China and did not expect very much. Boy was I wrong.
This guitar has incredibly low, loose and fast action. The fret work was excellent (to be honest, much better than a 60s Classic Players Strat I own) and small fret wire lets my hands just fly up and down the neck. Very smooth and very comfortable.
The guitar features 2 mini humbucker. The tone and volume balance between the 2 positions is perfect. This is the first guitar I've owned that has mini humbuckers, and all I can say is I had no idea what I was missing. They give me a bit more heft than single coils, but are also sparkly and detailed. Definitely sounds like a Gretsch. Add an addictive Bigsby and you've got vibe to spare.
This guitar is a monster that plays as good or better than any guitar I own - including guitars costing 4 times as much. I can't help but wonder if the Chinese made models are this good, what must the American made top-of-the-line models be like?
If you've never played a Gretsch, you really should stop by Bob's and check one out. They usually have one in stock. These are unique, distinctive, and - yea, sexy - guitars that offer an alternative to the standard Fender/Gibson food groups.
- Dan Lewis
Listen to Electromatic Duo Jet in Action
Contact Information
Phone: (518) 561-5656
E-mail: bobsmusicplattsburgh@yahoo.com
Location: 32 Plattsburgh Plaza, Plattsburgh NY