TEST: Gretsch G5422 TDC

 At the beginning of the test, we'll have a little fun and see how strongly our association skills are calibrated to certain products, especially if it's an artificial expression. Complete? TWANG! Oh, did I hear individual voices proclaiming the word Telecaster? True, the Tele is also often included in the orbit of the strange-looking expression, but the top dog, or namesake, is undoubtedly the Gretsch company with its extensive range of fully acoustic and semi-acoustic electric guitars.

Now, what does Twäng mean? Completely different writers have already put their weapons down when it comes to putting into words a sound impression that is specifically shaped by the electric guitar. Only this much is certain: it is an undistorted sound, which works quickly in response without much sustain and with a characteristic midrange component.

Such instruments are very popular in the traditionally undistorted guitar sector, such as the many varieties of country or the large field of rockabilly. It's not for nothing that you find tons of Gretsch protagonists such as Chet Atkins or Brian Setzer in these musical segments. Anyone who comes to me with Malcolm Young from AC/DC should listen to the really subtle crunch on the Australians' studio albums.

In order to offer a price counterpoint to the high-price segment of the US-based company, which was founded by the German emigrant Friederich Gretsch, the company, which now belongs to the Fender Group, is relying on “Made In Korea” with the G5422TDCWS model. A little typology, “T” stands for tremolo (even if it should be “V” for vibrato), “DC” for double cutaway, “WS” for the color Walnut Stain.





construction

In contrast to the Gretsch models of the first hour, a double cutaway shape was chosen for the model mentioned above. This also generates a depth of only 57 millimeters in the hollow body, thus ensuring more comfortable handling than the full resonance models. The body wood used is linden, which is rarely used, while a maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard is a familiar choice. When it comes to scale length, Gretsch relies on the short Gibson version, meaning 62.2 centimeters.

The entire look exudes a massive vintage flair, from the framed F-holes to the double-sided binding on the body to the pearloid hump block fingerboard inlays. In order to support the acoustic character of the instrument, the bridge is only held in position by the pressure of the strings. You really need to be careful with a hard touch and thin strings, as it's all too easy to knock the bridge out of its sweet spot and ruin the intonation or playability. In my opinion, you should not put anything less than a 011 set on this instrument; 012 or the very heavy 013 ropes are welcome.

The open tuning mechanisms also seem to have been taken from an acoustic guitar, but this does not detract from their perfect mobility and precise handling. A frosted glass-like scratchboard and a licensed Bigsby Licensed B60 Vibrato also support the targeted clientele. When it comes to soft, wavering chord vibrati, the Bigsby is still the first choice; heavy dive bombs are only met with an out-of-control tuning and strings that break quickly due to the bridge construction. The guitar also has the classic control technology, which means 2 x volume, 1 x master volume, 1 x master tone.

There was something else there. What was the overarching trademark of Gretsch guitars, the ultimate epitome of the Twäng sound? Experts have long known what's coming, these are the legendary Filter Tron pickups developed by Ray Butts in 1954, here in the Black Top version. No Gretsch sound without Filter Tron pickups, it's that simple. The first double-coil pickup of its time is characterized by a hollow, throaty sound, which, in combination with the appropriate full-tube amp in the style of a Fender Bassman, Vibrolux or similar, creates the ultimate crunch gets a clean sound.

Do you want powerful crunch, possibly high-gain leads and standing artificial harmonics? Please change the guitar immediately! Do you want one of the most famous clean sounds in the world and lots of fifties and sixties esprit? You are right here!



Practice

When you pick up the guitar for the first time, you will notice how light the guitar is, as expected. Not that anyone would have expected a 5 kilo punch in the style of an eighties Les Paul, but the basswood body allows the weight to go down even further. Even if the maple neck comes into play slightly cheekily due to the weight distribution, the guitar still hangs well balanced on the strap. Despite the bridge being fixed solely by string pressure, it is astonishing how much sustain the instrument has.

The volume that the instrument produces without amplifying due to the hollow body is easily enough to complete daily finger exercises and still feel the resonance of the tone being played. The sound is crisp, quick to respond and even in unplugged mode it has the famous twang that brings tears of joy to the eyes of real disciples. The neck dimensions are practical and have the necessary dimensions without appearing bulky. There are no points of criticism when it comes to workmanship, although details that were worked on by hand, such as the edges of the F-holes, reveal slight unevenness. However, these are so small that they can be ignored and they have no influence on the sound.

Well, and on the amplifier the instrument shines with exactly the virtues that you can expect from this guitar. Wonderfully crisp, undistorted sounds with soft highs, thinned out basses and the characteristic high midrange that make up the sound of the instrument. It's nice to hear how the consistently hollow sound of the guitar penetrates the band structure perfectly even at low volumes and never lets you forget which instrument is currently in use.


Conclusion

Twäng as Twäng can, no matter how English this crude sentence structure may seem, it sums up the great flagship of the Gretsch G5422TDC. Even if everyone who has looked more closely into the history of guitars knows about this sound creation, it is still an experience again and again how characteristic the sound of the instruments from Gretsch forms its own niche.

The instrument is virtually predestined for everything that requires a crisp, undistorted attack and will become a pillar in the large area of country, western and rockabilly. It's also nice that Gretsch was able to transfer the most important trademarks from US production to the Asian area and bring a high-quality instrument with lots of twang to the market for a street price below the €800 mark.

A successful variation at an interesting price!

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Additional Informations:

Title: The Rich History of Gretsch Guitars: From Humble Beginnings to Iconic Legacy

Introduction:
Gretsch Guitars stands as a cornerstone in the realm of musical instruments, renowned for its distinctive sound, impeccable craftsmanship, and timeless design. The journey of Gretsch guitars traces back over a century, marked by a blend of innovation, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. From its modest origins in Brooklyn, New York, to its global prominence, the story of Gretsch Guitars is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and passion in the world of music.

Early Beginnings:
The Gretsch story began in 1883 when Friedrich Gretsch, a German immigrant, founded a small musical instrument shop in Brooklyn. Initially, the company focused on manufacturing banjos, drums, and tambourines, catering to the burgeoning musical scene in New York City. Friedrich's dedication to quality and innovation soon earned Gretsch a reputation for excellence, laying the foundation for future success.

Expansion and Innovation:
Fred W. Gretsch, the great-grandson of Gretsch's founder, Friedrich Gretsch, played a pivotal role in revitalizing the brand during the 1980s. Born into the Gretsch family legacy, Fred's upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for the company's heritage and a commitment to preserving its legacy of excellence in musical instrument craftsmanship.

Fred W. Gretsch took the reins of the company during a challenging period marked by shifting market dynamics and changes in ownership. However, he approached these challenges with a vision to honor Gretsch's storied past while embracing the opportunities of the future. Under his leadership, Gretsch underwent a revitalization that saw the reintroduction of classic models and a renewed focus on quality and innovation.

One of Fred W. Gretsch's notable contributions was his dedication to fostering partnerships with artists and musicians. Understanding the importance of collaboration in driving brand visibility and product innovation, he worked closely with renowned musicians to develop signature Gretsch guitar models that captured the essence of their unique styles and sound preferences.

Moreover, Fred W. Gretsch's commitment to quality control and craftsmanship ensured that each Gretsch instrument met the highest standards of excellence. By investing in modern manufacturing techniques while preserving traditional craftsmanship methods, he ensured that Gretsch guitars continued to deliver the exceptional tone, playability, and aesthetic appeal that musicians had come to expect.

Fred W. Gretsch's leadership not only restored Gretsch's prominence within the music industry but also strengthened its connection with musicians and enthusiasts worldwide. His unwavering dedication to the brand's heritage, coupled with a forward-thinking approach to innovation, laid the groundwork for Gretsch's continued success in the decades to come.

Today, Fred W. Gretsch remains actively involved in the company as a custodian of its legacy, overseeing its operations and preserving its heritage for future generations. His enduring commitment to Gretsch Guitars serves as a testament to the enduring values of passion, creativity, and excellence that have defined the brand since its inception.

However, it was the introduction of the Gretsch "Broadkaster" guitar in the 1940s that truly propelled the company to prominence. With its rich tone and elegant aesthetics, the Broadkaster became a favorite among musicians across various genres, solidifying Gretsch's reputation as a premier guitar manufacturer.

The Rock 'n' Roll Era:
The 1950s witnessed the rise of rock 'n' roll, and Gretsch guitars found favor among pioneering artists who embraced their distinctive sound and style. Iconic musicians such as Eddie Cochran, Duane Eddy, and Chet Atkins became synonymous with Gretsch guitars, contributing to their widespread popularity.

One of the most significant endorsements came from rock legend Eddie Cochran, who famously wielded a Gretsch 6120 model, affectionately known as the "Gretsch G brand." Cochran's electrifying performances and innovative playing techniques showcased the versatility and sonic capabilities of Gretsch guitars, inspiring countless musicians to follow suit.

The Golden Age of Gretsch:
The 1960s marked a golden age for Gretsch guitars, as they became the instrument of choice for an array of legendary musicians. From George Harrison of The Beatles, who famously used a Gretsch Duo Jet on the band's early recordings, to rockabilly pioneer Brian Setzer, whose high-octane performances with the Stray Cats propelled Gretsch guitars to new heights of popularity.

During this period, Gretsch introduced several iconic models, including the White Falcon, Country Gentleman, and Jet Firebird, each adorned with ornate finishes and innovative features. These guitars not only captivated audiences with their visual appeal but also delivered unparalleled tone and playability, cementing Gretsch's status as an industry leader.

Challenges and Resurgence:
Despite its success, Gretsch faced challenges in the following decades, including changes in ownership and shifts in musical trends. However, the brand's legacy endured thanks to a dedicated community of musicians and collectors who cherished Gretsch guitars for their timeless appeal and unparalleled craftsmanship.

In the 1980s, Gretsch experienced a resurgence under the ownership of Fred W. Gretsch, great-grandson of the company's founder. Fred W. Gretsch revitalized the brand, reintroducing classic models and collaborating with artists to create signature instruments that honored Gretsch's heritage while embracing modern innovation.

Today and Beyond:
In the 21st century, Gretsch guitars continue to inspire musicians around the world, from seasoned professionals to aspiring artists. The company's commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation remains unwavering, ensuring that each Gretsch guitar upholds the legacy of excellence established over a century ago.

With an ever-expanding lineup of instruments, including electric guitars, acoustic guitars, and drums, Gretsch continues to push the boundaries of creativity while staying true to its roots. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in the hands of collectors, Gretsch guitars stand as enduring symbols of musical craftsmanship and passion, embodying the spirit of innovation that has defined the brand since its inception.

Conclusion:
The story of Gretsch guitars is one of perseverance, innovation, and a deep passion for music. From its humble beginnings in Brooklyn to its global acclaim, Gretsch has remained at the forefront of musical instrument manufacturing, shaping the sounds of generations and leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. As the journey of Gretsch guitars continues, one thing remains certain: the timeless appeal and enduring legacy of these iconic instruments will continue to resonate with musicians and music lovers for years to come.