Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (9)
$379.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (14)
$379.99
Amazon
4.5 (37)
$379.99
Reverb
5.0 (18)
$379.99 New
$315.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (17)
$379.99
zZounds
4.0 (6)
$379.99
Thomann
4.4 (53)
$477.00 $469.00 $8.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£499.00

Average Price: $383

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel". 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

Immerse yourself in the lush tones of the Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel guitar, a captivating blend of tradition and innovation. This solid body electric guitar is part of the iconic Electromatic Series, a testament to Gretsch's timeless legacy in the world of music.

Designed for musicians seeking the rich, unmistakable resonance of an electric Hawaiian guitar, the Gretsch G5700 delivers in spades. Its chrome single-coil pickup lays the foundation for a sound that is both powerful and nuanced. With dedicated volume and tone controls, you have the ability to shape your sonic output to your liking.

The G5700 is not just about performance; it's a visual treat as well. Its chrome hardware, unique position markers, and art deco control plate provide a stunning vintage visual vibe that evokes the classic era of music. The guitar's Tobacco Sunburst color adds a touch of warmth and elegance, making it a standout piece on any stage.

Please note that the case is sold separately, and the original strings are Fender 250H 0.12 - 0.52.

Key Features:

  • Part of the Electromatic Series
  • Mahogany neck
  • Plastic fingerboard
  • Nut width: 47.6 mm
  • Scale: 572 mm
  • 1 single coil pickup
  • Volume and Tone controls
  • Chrome hardware
  • Color: Tobacco Sunburst
  • Original strings: Fender 250H 0.12 - 0.52

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape Electromatic Lap Steel
Body Material Mahogany
Body Finish Gloss Polyurethane
Radius Flat
Fingerboard Inlay Circle/Triangle/Square/Diamond
Number of Frets 28
Scale Length 22.5"
Nut Width 1.875"
Nut Material Synthetic Bone
Bridge/Tailpiece Chrome-plated Cast Zinc Bridge
Tuners Open Gear Tuning Machines
Bridge Pickup Gretsch Single-coil
Controls 1 x volume, 1 x tone
Strings Nickel Plated Steel, .012-.052
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What type of pickup does the Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel use?

The Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel features a Gretsch single-coil pickup, which delivers a bright and clear tone suitable for classic lap steel sounds.

What is the scale length of the Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel?

The Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel has a scale length of 22.5 inches, which is typical for lap steel guitars, allowing for smooth playability and accurate intonation.

Is the Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel is suitable for beginners, offering straightforward controls and a solid mahogany body that provides a sturdy playing experience.

What tuning options are popular for the Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel?

The Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel can be tuned to various open tunings, with A6 and C6 being popular choices for lap steel players.

Does the Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel come with a case or gig bag?

No, the Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel does not come with a case or gig bag; these must be purchased separately.

Living Room GD

Living Room GD

How to get started on Lap Steel!

Video thumbnail for How to get started on Lap Steel! by Living Room GD

How to get started on Lap Steel!

Living Room GD

Living Room GD

Video thumbnail for Lap Steel Improvising 1# - Gretsch G5700, Multibenders from Duesenberg by 0wen95

Lap Steel Improvising 1# - Gretsch G5700, Multibenders from Duesenberg

0wen95

0wen95

Video thumbnail for I installed Certano Benders on a Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel Guitar by Kbald

I installed Certano Benders on a Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel Guitar

Kbald

Kbald

Video thumbnail for The Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel Guitars | Gretsch Presents | Gretsch Guitars by Gretsch Guitars

The Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel Guitars | Gretsch Presents | Gretsch Guitars

Gretsch Guitars

Gretsch Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel with Duesenberg Multibender by 0wen95

Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel with Duesenberg Multibender

0wen95

0wen95

Video thumbnail for Try Slide Guitar Today! - Gretsch Lapsteels by Andertons Music Co

Try Slide Guitar Today! - Gretsch Lapsteels

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel by Jack Fossett

Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel

Jack Fossett

Jack Fossett

Video thumbnail for Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel by astringsuk

Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel

astringsuk

astringsuk

Video thumbnail for Introducing: Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel + Tom's 4 Fav Lap Steel Tunings by Mannys Music

Introducing: Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel + Tom's 4 Fav Lap Steel Tunings

Mannys Music

Mannys Music

Video thumbnail for Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel Review by Aggressive Elevator Music

Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel Review

Aggressive Elevator Music

Aggressive Elevator Music

Video thumbnail for Pink Floyd - High Hopes Solo Cover with Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel by Guitariran

Pink Floyd - High Hopes Solo Cover with Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel

Guitariran

Guitariran

Reviews

PROS

  • Beautiful art-deco design in multiple finishes like sunburst and jade green.

  • Versatile pickup allows for a range of sounds from clean to overdriven.

  • Easy to use for beginners and intermediate players; straightforward plug-and-play setup.

  • Great tone clarity, especially when paired with certain amplifiers like Peavey.

  • Highly praised for its clear, in-tune sound quality.

  • Enjoyable to play, inspiring for learning new techniques.

  • Cost-effective for the quality offered, great value for beginners.

  • Wide range of tonal possibilities with smooth volume and tone knob sweeps.

  • Strong and reliable construction at its price point.

CONS

  • Cheap components, especially tuners and plastic control plate.

  • Fretboard may warp or scratch easily over time.

  • Volume and tone controls may feel cheap and lack precision.

  • Some units have manufacturing defects like cracks or improperly drilled parts.

  • Requires modifications for optimal professional use.

  • Fingerboard design and materials feel subpar and wear easily.

  • Lack of included accessories like a gig bag or steel.

  • Issues with Gretsch customer service and availability of replacement parts.

  • Limited tonal variety without modifications or additional equipment.

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel.

Features and functionality

  • The G5700 allows direct mounting of palm benders due to ample wood behind the bridge, avoiding awkward extensions.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners enjoy using the G5700 for string bending techniques that mimic pedal steel sounds, ideal for exploring diverse musical styles.

    Source
  • Owners often run the G5700 through guitar pedals like reverb and fuzz, enhancing its versatility in live and recording setups.

    Source

User experience

  • A player who gigs regularly with the G5700 reports satisfaction with its sound quality, highlighting its suitability for live performances.

    Source
  • The string spacing on the G5700 is well-received by those accustomed to playing dobro, indicating a comfortable transition between instruments.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Amazon slide bars require reshaping to match the quality of vintage bars; owners recommend dremeling and sanding for optimal performance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The G5700 is considered a decent starter lap steel, but some users suggest vintage Rickenbackers as a more collectible alternative if available at a reasonable price.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The G5700 works well with modelers like the Helix and full-range flat-response (FRFR) cabs, allowing for extensive sound customization.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

With its retro charm and versatile sound, the Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel is a stylish nod to the past, ideal for players seeking that throaty single-coil tone. It shines in both clean and overdriven styles, making it a versatile choice for recording artists. However, the string spacing might feel cramped for some, and the light factory string gauge may require an upgrade for certain tunings. Despite these minor quirks, the G5700 remains a great entry-level lap steel that doesn't demand expert slide skills to deliver impressive results.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
michael_r_johnson

Inexpensive, but solid, lapsteel

I love this lapsteel, though it’s the only one I’ve owned. Sound is pretty good, but I think a better pickup would improve the tone. It’s reliable and simple and fun to play.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nils Lofgren uses Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel

Nils Lofgren

Guitarist, Singer

Crazy Horse

...
Verified via reverb.com

Nils Lofgren owns a Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel, as detailed on Reverb. This instrument, known for capturing the classic '50s Hawaiian electric guitar sound, features a solid mahogany body, chrome string-through-body bridge, and a single-coil pickup, delivering exceptional sustain and rich tone.

See how Jared Monaco uses Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel

Jared Monaco

Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Seen on the Gretsch websites page for The Maine. (http://www.gretschguitars.com/artists/artist/TheMaine/)

See how Lulu Santos uses Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel

Lulu Santos

Guitarist, Music Producer

Vimana

...
Verified via Instagram

"...eu vejo um novo começo d era... LapTosh d MackinTop"

See how Adam Schlesinger uses Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel

Adam Schlesinger

Guitarist, Bassist

Fountains of Wayne

...
Verified

In the provided image from Pitchfork, Adam Schlesinger is clearly seen using a Gretsch G5700 Lap Steel, as it is positioned on his lap among his guitars.

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 G5700 Lap Steel, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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