• Registered: 2009-03-24
  • Posts: 3

Topic: Gretsch 5120 ??

Hello all,
     
               I,m  an old guy(63) and never played before. I've been taking lessons for about 2 months and am really enjoying it. I'm determined to learn to play. I'm using a borrowed guitar and am ready to buy my own. I want to play blues and a little rock,not intereseted in anything other than entertaining myself(no metal or ear splitting shredding,not that that's not great for those who like it) Anyway I'm liking the Gretsch 5120 and would like some input from some real players. What do you guys say??
                                                               Thanks, Pete

2 Reply by craig23 (edited by craig23 2009-03-24 23:12:36)

  • Registered: 2008-10-02
  • Posts: 192

Re: Gretsch 5120 ??

The Gretsch 5120 is the Asian copy of the American made Gretsch 6120. Not that there is anything wrong with that. I have a Epiphone Dot, which is a copy of the Gibson 335. Its a great guitar. The difference between the two is that the 5120 is made of plywood instead of solid wood. The F holes are not bound. The pickups are not as high output. They skimp on the inlays. This is all done to keep the price down. So the guitar is not as flashy as its daddy. What really matters though is the sound coming out of it. Only the most experienced ear will be able to tell the difference. It will make a great guitar. It should also hold its value fairly well. Pay the extra money to have it professionally set up. It will not come set up well.

  • From: Central Flatland
  • Registered: 2007-05-30
  • Posts: 223

Re: Gretsch 5120 ??

The 5120 is produced by Fender Musical Instrument Company, under contract from Gretsch.  It is NOT a copy of anything, it is a distinct model with unique features, and is currently produced in Korea (By the way, all Gretsch guitars are laminates (plywood), except for a very few which have solid spruce tops).  It is an excellent value both soundwise and fit-and-finish.  I have two, a black 5120 and a walnut 5122 (the double cut version).  Both bought from Musician's Friend, both played very well right out of the box.  Set up is easy, but if you're inexperienced, I agree with Craig23 above-- have it done by a pro.  You'll also have some sonic benefit by having them put 0.11 gauge strings on at the same time- fuller, more pleasing sound as opposed to the factory 0.10's (trade off here, as the .10's will be a bit easier to play if you're just learning).

One issue to be aware of, many players find that the stock Tune-O-Matic bridge saddles soon start to vibrate in their slots, which can cause an annoying rattle (nothing you can hear through an amp, just acoustically).  You can fix this with a small drop of clear nail polish at the screw head; quick and cheap.

"There's such a fine line between genius and stupidity."
                              --David St. Hubbins