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Average Price: $11,500
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Description
Step back in time with the 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that pays homage to an era of rock and roll innovation. Revered by musicians for its distinctive style and sound, this vintage gem captures the spirit of Chet Atkins with its signature Filter'Tron pickups that deliver a warm, articulate tone. Its eye-catching orange finish and iconic horseshoe headstock inlay not only make it a visual delight but also a collector's dream.
Crafted for both versatility and comfort, the 6120 features a laminated maple body that enhances resonance while reducing feedback, making it ideal for a variety of musical genres. The aluminum swing-arm Bigsby tailpiece allows for smooth vibrato effects, adding a dynamic range to your music. With unengraved block fretboard inlays and a comfortable neck profile, this guitar ensures playability without sacrificing vintage aesthetics.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a passionate collector, the 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins offers a harmonious blend of classic design and modern playability. Immerse yourself in its rich, full-bodied sound, and let your creativity flow as you explore the depths of its tonal capabilities.
Key Features:
- Signature Filter'Tron pickups for warm, articulate sound
- Laminated maple body for reduced feedback and enhanced resonance
- Iconic orange finish with horseshoe headstock inlay
- Aluminum swing-arm Bigsby tailpiece for smooth vibrato
- Unengraved block fretboard inlays
- Comfortable neck profile for improved playability
Product specs
| Brand | Gretsch |
| Model | 6120 Chet Atkins Hollow Body |
| Finish | Orange |
| Year | 1956 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Archtop Electric Guitars, Hollow Body Guitars |
| Artist | Chet Atkins |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Tremolo Tailpiece |
| Color Family | Orange |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gretsch Nashville |
| Model Sub-Family | Gretsch Chet Atkins Nashville |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | SS |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 24.5" |
| Series | Gretsch Artist Signature |
| Top Material | Maple |
| Wood Top Style | Plain |
FAQs
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What kind of tone can I expect from the 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins?
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The 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins is known for its warm, resonant tone with a rich midrange, thanks to its hollow body construction and maple top. It's ideal for genres like rockabilly, jazz, and country.
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Does the 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins feature a tremolo system?
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Yes, the 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins is equipped with a tremolo tailpiece, allowing for subtle vibrato effects and enhancing its versatility for various playing styles.
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How does the neck profile of the 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins affect playability?
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The 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins features a set-neck construction with a comfortable, slightly chunky neck profile, providing a smooth playing experience suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
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What is the pickup configuration on the 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins?
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The 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins has a single-coil pickup configuration, offering a bright and articulate sound that complements its hollow body design.
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Is the 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins suitable for beginner guitarists?
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While the 1956 Gretsch 6120 Chet Atkins is a high-quality instrument with a distinctive tone, its historical significance and price point make it more suitable for experienced players and collectors.
Videos
VintageandRare
Gretsch Chet Atkins 1956 / VintageandRare.com / Guitar Doctor / Doc Pittillo
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gretsch G6120CST Chet Atkins.
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User experience
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Selling directly can fetch a higher price, but dealing with potential buyers and ensuring authenticity can be burdensome.
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Use cases and applications
Build quality
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Finish work around engraved letters might show significant sanding, affecting aesthetic but not structural integrity.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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Pat talks about buying the first electric guitar he ever saw in his life from the sons of his neighbor Mr. Sumner.
What other guitars have you collected? I didn’t really remember much about Mr. Sumner’s guitar except that it was red and it was beautiful, and it wasn’t a Gibson. Then about two years ago, the sons called me after the dad had died, because they remembered the guitar making an impression on me, and they asked if I’d be interested in buying it. They’d had it appraised, and it was a ’56 Gretsch Chet Atkins 6120. They named a price, and it was very reasonable, so I now have the first electric guitar I ever laid eyes on. And it’s an incredible guitar. The guy basically never played it; it’s in flawless condition.
"I mean, come on man, look at the flame on that top. I had to have it." - Zac Brown
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gretsch G6120CST Chet Atkins, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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