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Description
The Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley electric guitar is a distinctive instrument that pays homage to the legendary blues guitarist Bo Diddley. With its unique rectangular shape, this solid body electric guitar stands out on any stage, making it a favorite among musicians who value both great sound and visual flair. Equipped with dual high-sensitive Filter'Tron pickups, this guitar delivers the iconic Gretsch tone, known for its clarity and powerful projection. The mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard offer smooth playability, ensuring that your hands glide effortlessly along the frets.
The G6138 Bo Diddley features a master volume control, a master tone control, and a three-way pickup selector switch, giving you versatility in crafting your sound. The Adjusto-Matic bridge with a Bigsby B50 tailpiece provides excellent tuning stability and allows for expressive vibrato effects. Whether you're playing rock, blues, or any genre in between, this guitar is equipped to handle it with style and grace.
Built for performers, the Gretsch G6138 combines vintage aesthetics with modern reliability, making it an excellent choice for both collectors and active musicians.
Key Features:
- Unique rectangular body shape inspired by Bo Diddley
- Dual high-sensitive Filter'Tron pickups for clear, powerful sound
- Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
- Master volume and tone controls with three-way pickup selector
- Adjusto-Matic bridge with Bigsby B50 tailpiece for stable tuning and vibrato
- Vintage aesthetics with modern reliability
Product specs
| Brand | Gretsch |
| Model | G6138 Bo Diddley |
| Finish | Red |
| Year | 2000 - 2020 |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Artist | Bo Diddley |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Shape | Non Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Red |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Model Family | Gretsch Bo Diddley |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Offset Body | Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Series | Gretsch Artist Signature |
| Top Material | Maple |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile like on the Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley?
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The Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley features a comfortable set-neck construction with a maple neck, which provides a smooth playing experience suitable for various playing styles.
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What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley?
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The Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley is equipped with a dual humbucker (HH) pickup configuration, delivering a rich, full-bodied tone ideal for rock, blues, and classic Bo Diddley-style rhythms.
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Is the Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley suitable for beginners?
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While the Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley offers professional-grade features, its unique design and straightforward controls make it accessible for beginners interested in exploring its iconic sound.
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What is the body material of the Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley, and how does it affect the sound?
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The Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley features a solid mahogany body, which contributes to its warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain, making it perfect for rhythm-driven music.
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How does the Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley's non-cutaway body shape influence playability?
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The non-cutaway design of the Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley provides a distinct aesthetic while maintaining a comfortable playing experience, though it may limit upper fret access compared to cutaway models.
Videos
gakkicentertokyo
まさぐり王子 - Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley
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Artist usage
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Here is Dan at The Wiltern on Sept 19, 2019 playing "Howlin' for You" on a Gretsch Bo Diddley with a Bigsby tailpiece and slightly modified knobs. This show kicked off their 2019 "Let's Rock" tour after an almost 5-year hiatis.
He is seen playing this guitar when Jack Towell takes the solo. It must be noted that the version seen here has a white pickguard added to it, which was not on the factory line.
Alison Mosshart can be seen using a Gretsch Bo Diddley guitar in this video of Dead Weather on Live with Jools Holland, at 0:40.
Bo Diddley can be seen here with his signature G6138 guitar, based on the custom rectangular1958 Gretsch.
Mauricio usó una Gretsch Bo Diddley en la gira "ven aquí por chile en verano de 2024, por el tailpiece es probable que sea la G6138
In this 2014 photo shot during the recording of the Red Sided Garter Snakes' debut album, Fielding is depicted tuning a Bo Diddley signature guitar.
According to the official wiki :
Gretsch Bo Diddley prototype (firebird red) - Borrowed for use in the video for "(She Was A) Hotel Detective" (1986).
Gonzalo usó esta guitarra para la canción "quién fuera" durante toda la gira "ven aquí" por chile en verano de 2024
In a Facebook post, Jeff Pinkus shared a photo featuring his Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley guitar, which was recently returned to him.
Used onstage in open-E tuning for slide during Hanoi Rocks' millenial rebirth era (2002-2009), notably on the song Gypsy Boots
Album Usage
The Gretsch G6138 Bo Diddley 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 G6138 Bo Diddley, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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