Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $699
Standard/Professional
$500
$1201+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Gretsch G5420". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is a timeless semi-hollowbody electric guitar that epitomizes the brand's rich heritage and modern flair. Crafted with a laminated maple body, it resonates with a unique blend of vintage warmth and dynamic projection. Its trestle-block bracing cleverly minimizes feedback while enhancing sustain, making it perfect for stage performances and studio sessions.
At the heart of this instrument are the FT-5E Filter'Tron humbuckers, celebrated for their articulate, bright tones that capture the classic Gretsch sound. Whether you're picking country licks or rocking out with bluesy leads, these pickups deliver the iconic twang and depth you crave, offering versatility across genres. The G5420T's tonal palette is further expanded with individual volume controls for each pickup, a master tone control, and a master volume control with a treble-bleed circuit to keep your highs sparkling at any volume level.
The guitar's playability is enhanced by a comfortable maple neck with a C profile, paired with a smooth laurel fingerboard adorned with pearloid thumbnail inlays. The Bigsby B60 vibrato tailpiece adds a touch of vintage charm, allowing for expressive pitch modulation and the creation of those signature Gretsch soundscapes. Completing the package is the Adjusto-Matic bridge and open-back tuners, ensuring stable intonation and tuning.
With its blend of classic design and modern features, the Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is an instrument that invites both seasoned players and novices to explore its rich tonal possibilities.
Key Features:
- Hollowbody with single cutaway design
- Laminated maple top, back, and sides with trestle-block bracing
- FT-5E Filter'Tron humbuckers for classic Gretsch tone
- Bigsby B60 vibrato tailpiece for subtle pitch modulation
- Adjusto-Matic bridge with laurel base for precise intonation
- Maple neck with C profile and laurel fingerboard with 22 medium-jumbo frets
- Master volume with treble-bleed circuit, individual pickup volume controls, and master tone control
- Open-back tuners and nickel hardware for vintage style and reliable performance
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Hollowbody |
| Body Shape | Electromatic Classic |
| Body Material | Laminated Maple |
| Top Material | Arched Laminated Maple |
| Body Finish | Gloss |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Neck Shape | Classic C |
| Neck Joint | Set Neck |
| Radius | 12" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Pearloid Neo-Classic Thumbnails |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Scale Length | 24.6" |
| Nut Width | 1.6875" |
| Nut Material | Graph Tech NuBone |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Adjusto-Matic Bridge with Secured Laurel Base, Bigsby B60 Vibrato Tailpiece |
| Tuners | Vintage-style Open Gear |
| Neck Pickup | FT-5E Filter'Tron Humbucker |
| Bridge Pickup | FT-5E Filter'Tron Humbucker |
| Controls | 2 x volume, 1 x master volume (Treble bleed), 1 x master tone |
| Switching | 3-way toggle pickup switch |
| Strings | Nickel Plated Steel, .011-.049 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Sold Separately |
FAQs
-
What kind of tones can I expect from the Gretsch G5420's pickups?
-
The Gretsch G5420 is equipped with FT-5E Filter'Tron humbuckers, known for delivering a bright, punchy sound with clear highs and a tight low end. These pickups are versatile, making them suitable for rockabilly, jazz, blues, and rock genres.
-
Is the Gretsch G5420T suitable for beginner guitarists?
-
The Gretsch G5420T, with its comfortable Classic C-shaped neck and smooth playability, can be suitable for beginners. However, its features, such as the Bigsby vibrato, may be more appreciated by intermediate players who have some experience with guitar maintenance and tuning.
-
Does the Gretsch G5420T handle feedback well at high volumes?
-
As a hollow body guitar, the Gretsch G5420T can be prone to feedback at high volumes. Proper amp settings and positioning can help manage this, but it may require some adjustment for live performances.
-
How does the Bigsby vibrato on the Gretsch G5420T affect tuning stability?
-
The Bigsby B60 vibrato tailpiece on the Gretsch G5420T can slightly affect tuning stability, especially with heavy use. Regular maintenance, such as proper string winding and lubrication of the nut, can help maintain tuning stability.
-
What is the neck profile like on the Gretsch G5420T?
-
The Gretsch G5420T features a Classic C-shaped neck profile, which offers a comfortable grip for most players, providing a smooth and easy playing experience suitable for various playing styles.
Videos
ProGuitarShopDemos
Gretsch Electromatic G5420T Hollow Body
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gretsch G5420.
User experience
-
High volume settings can lead to feedback issues with the hollow-body design, but this is typically not a problem at bedroom or house levels.
Source -
The guitar's lightweight nature does not correlate to cheapness, as even vintage models were similarly light.
Source -
Soloing high up on the neck can be challenging due to the large neck joint, which some players may find limiting.
Source -
Despite being made in China, multiple owners express satisfaction with the guitar's performance exceeding its price point.
Source
Setup and maintenance
-
Heavy gauge strings like 12s or 13s are suggested due to the shallow break angle at the bridge, which can enhance sound quality.
Source -
Factory nuts are often criticized for poor tone and intonation; replacing them with a bone nut is recommended for improved performance.
Source -
Factory setup might result in high action, requiring adjustments for better playability.
Source -
Dry necks are common, with owners applying lemon oil to improve feel and appearance.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
Some owners recommend using Compton one-piece bridges to enhance tone and sustain.
Source
Features and functionality
-
The Blacktop Filter'Tron pickups are praised for their ability to sing when pole pieces are adjusted close to the strings.
Source -
It's noted that the Gretsch G5420 maintains its distinct tonal character, unlike more versatile guitars like the Telecaster or Stratocaster which can be dialed into a generic electric sound.
Source
Build quality
Use cases and applications
-
Owners confirm the Gretsch G5420's suitability for power pop and rock, particularly when paired with a Vox amp for a distinctive sound.
Source -
Owners highlight the guitar's ability to handle diverse genres from indie and lo-fi to classic rock and alternative, despite common associations with rockabilly and country.
Source
Other
-
Concerns exist over potential tariffs affecting pricing, prompting some to purchase sooner rather than later.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Gretsch Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
above_dimensionGear IQ 108
-