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Description
Step into the world of vintage musical allure with the Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean, an iconic semi-hollowbody electric guitar that embodies the timeless spirit of rock and roll. Originally released in 1958, this guitar was designed in collaboration with legendary guitarist Chet Atkins, offering musicians a piece of history with a modern twist. The 6119 is renowned for its elegant simplicity, yet it packs a punch with its rich tonal versatility.
Crafted with a mahogany body and a maple top, the 6119 delivers a warm, resonant sound that's perfect for anything from rockabilly to jazz. This guitar's aesthetics are subtly enhanced with simulated F-holes and a lustrous rosewood fingerboard, while the pearl thumbprint inlays add a touch of sophistication. The addition of two Filter'Tron pickups, a feature introduced in 1961, allows for a dynamic range of tones, from clear and crisp to deep and throaty, making it a favorite among notable musicians like George Harrison and Brian Setzer.
The Bigsby tremolo tailpiece gives players the freedom to explore their creative expression with smooth vibrato effects, while the metal bar bridge ensures stability and sustain. Whether you're performing on stage or jamming in the studio, the Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean is more than just a guitar; it's a partner in your musical journey.
Key Features:
- Mahogany body with maple top
- Rosewood fingerboard with pearl thumbprint inlays
- Simulated F-holes for classic look
- Two Filter'Tron pickups for versatile sound
- Bigsby tremolo tailpiece
- Metal bar bridge for enhanced sustain
Product specs
| Brand | Gretsch |
| Model | 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean (2 Pickup) |
| Finish | Orange |
| Year | 1961 |
| Categories | Archtop Electric Guitars, Hollow Body Guitars |
| Artist | Chet Atkins |
| Body Shape | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Tremolo Tailpiece |
| Color Family | Orange |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gretsch Tennessean |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Gretsch Artist Signature |
FAQs
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What kind of pickups are featured on the Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean?
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The Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean is equipped with two humbucking pickups, which are known for their warm, full-bodied sound and reduced noise, making them suitable for a variety of music genres.
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Is the Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean suitable for jazz music?
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Yes, the Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean's hollow body and humbucking pickups produce a rich, resonant tone that is well-suited for jazz and other styles that benefit from a warm, expressive sound.
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What type of neck does the Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean have?
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The Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean features a set-neck construction, which enhances sustain and stability, offering smooth playability for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
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Does the Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean come with a tremolo system?
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Yes, the Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean includes a tremolo tailpiece, allowing for expressive pitch modulation and vibrato effects during performance.
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How many frets does the Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean have?
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The Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean is designed with 22 frets, providing a wide range for both high and low notes across the neck.
Videos
frettedamericana
1961 Gretsch Tennessean 6119 Chet Atkins 00603
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean.
Build quality
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Owners note that the binding on older models tends to crumble over time, suggesting careful handling or potential repair needs.
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Frets are typically narrow and low, common in vintage models, which can affect playability.
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The thick poly finish on the Gretsch 6119 can develop cracks, which should be cleaned carefully to avoid reducing the guitar's value.
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Setup and maintenance
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Some users report action adjustments necessary around the 12th fret due to minor fret buzz, advising careful setup to maintain playability.
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Owners recommend a nut slot dress and polish, and possibly replacing the nut for better tuning stability.
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Multiple users suggest checking the saddle placement and consider a modern Adjusto-Matic bridge to resolve tuning issues.
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Neck resets might be needed, with a bolt under the heel dot making adjustments easier.
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When restoring, prioritize neck binding and fret leveling; avoid full refinishing to maintain the guitar's vintage appeal.
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Other
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Described as having a distinct warm, mid-range tone that suits rockabilly and classic rock styles, reminiscent of tones from the mid-60s era.
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Comparisons
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Compared to modern Gretsch models, the 1965 version is praised for its unique tonal character and vintage appeal, though it may require more maintenance.
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User experience
Features and functionality
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The instrument may have a zero fret, with a plastic nut acting only as a guide, impacting string stability.
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Mods and upgrades
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Some users recommend the VibraMate Spoiler for easier restringing with a Bigsby vibrato system.
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Value and pricing
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Despite being a mid-range model in the 60s lineup, in mint condition, it's valued at around $3,000; restoration costs might exceed its present market value.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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I have friends who are Gretsch aficionados, and it seems that ’58 is the year to have. It was the first year of the Filter’Tron, and those are the shit. I have three ’58s, all in the Chet line: a 6120 [Chet Atkins Hollowbody], a 6119 [Chet Atkins Tennessean] and a 6122 [Chet Atkins Country Gentleman].
In this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBdMdxpZiM8) at 0:39, Nick can be seen playing with this Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean.
Single pickup Gretsch 6119 with Bigsby as seen in the "Another 45 Miles" promo from 1969.
Michelle Branch is confirmed to use a Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean, as evidenced by a photo of her playing this vintage guitar.
Furry, fuzzy and fun that about sums up my guitar philosophy and sound on “Run Baby Run” the single from our latest album, “At Home With Southern Culture on the Skids”. Here is the short video I did for Vintage Guitar Magazine with the gear I used on the tune. Thanks for watching!
Luckily, there was paper called The Exchange And Mail, which advertised all different kinds of used stuff and, lo and behold, there was a guy selling a Gretsch Tennessean Cherry Red with a Vox AC30 amp. I went to London in the rain with my dad. He cracked a deal with the guy and that really got me going. I still have that guitar hanging at home on my rack.
Album Usage
The Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gretsch 6119 Chet Atkins Tennessean, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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