5 Gretsch Electromatics!! One Backing Track, Play along ,and Introduction

[@danielsurratt6296]

Just want to say thanks for taking the time to shoot this. I’m trying to decide between the 5422 and the 5622 and this is one of the only videos I’ve found that directly compares them. I initially was thinking the 5622 but this has me swaying toward the 5422.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi Daniel. They are really quite different beasts. If you are going to do lots of ud higher gain playing then the 5622 suits more. The 5422 is titall hollow, so is more touch responsive, but will feed back at higher volumes. Ahhh...the joys of choice!!

[@stevechurchill9730]

I ordered one today! I could not talk myself out of this one. Great demo.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi steve......you will not regret it sir!

[@davidconboy5822]

Great video, thank you. Retired and just started out playing for the first time. I did a lot of research before making my purchase. I went with a 5622T and have no regrets. I envy your level of playing. :)

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi David. Thanks for watching, and I,m glad it helped in your choice. Great guitar by the way!! Just remember , one day, a long time ago, I picked up a guitar for the first time and knew nothing, and could'nt play an E chord!!! Just love it and put in the time. Anyone can play, it's up to you how well!!!

[@margaretzabinski9977]

Your demos really make it easy to compare tones. Thanks for all your help.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

My pleasure!

[@mrbesserwisser7447]

Those without centerblock definately sounds different, more gutsy ring to them. My preferred choice now. Thanks for this good demo!

[@nicoamadovega]

Thanks Damon! Great and super helpful effort!! Awesome playing! ✨🎸👏🏻👏🏻🧞‍♂️

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Thanks Nicholas.....you are very kind dude🎸👍😁

[@theblytonian3906]

Haha. I'd like them all! You'd be the best international representative face for Gretsch guitars quite separate from your actual day job as such Damon. You many vids have been invaluable in triaging my first two of hopefully many future Gretsch guitar purchases. I've found my personal niche with the Gretsch sound, Electromatic build quality, features and playability. Many to love making it so hard to choose just one, or even two, but in the cull the G5232T in DCM and G5422TG in WS both won the day for my wallet, purchased in that order. Love playing them both! Thanks.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Thanks for the kind words mate. Much appreciated . You need more Gretsch I think?

[@mrcollins63]

Great video on a subject which is important to us consumers. Your skills are impressive! Thanks for the video!

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Glad it was helpful!

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Thaaaanksndude😆👍😁💖

[@blookbleak]

Thanks for the video. Beautiful great sounding guitars, but hearing that 5420 always gives me the goosebombs!

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

They are indeed wicked and awesome 😎

[@jimmythefish]

I got a 5622T in that imperial stain last year and absolutely love it.

[@kublaicarl4818]

Oh yeah the 622 sound great mate, might think bout getting one myself

[@tedwrink]

I found this just in time,I’m off to get a 5420 tomorrow but was wondering what the others sound like as well,they all sound great but I’m going with the 5420 for now and who knows what I’ll end up buying later Thanks for taking the time to do this video and all the best bud

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

colin little hi Colin......enjoy...great guitar, and surprisingly versatile 😁🎸

[@sandybryson1211]

Great Demo, Thank You. I can't Decide which one I like Best but I Own a 5420T. Since I am a NOVICE Player, I can't Play as Well as You do but I Very Much Enjoy Listening to you Play.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi Sandy. Thanks for watching. They are all cool. The biggest difference is really the ones that have a center block, that runs down the middle of the body, that stops feedback at higher volume. The 5420 and 5422 are both totally hollow, so are very responsive and great for jazz, blues, country etc. As for the playing, just keep practicing dude, it takes time and effort, but it’s a lot of fun.🎶😀

[@robertprice5039]

I liked the thinner Hollow-bodies the best. The G5410 and the G5422. My current band is doing a late 50s / early 60s Retro thing, so the mid forward Rat Rod is my choice for my needs. I ordered one a few days ago, and it will be coming tomorrow.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Very cool! You will love it dude

[@skateborg]

I just got new G5410T Electromatic Hollow Body "Rat Rod" --- my first Gretsch.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Very cool guitars Kevin

[@jaehwikim_paul]

4:14 5655 6:44 5422

[@UmbertoRonco]

I've discovered Gretsch very late when i got one to review....now i fell in love and i'm planning to by the 5420T. Great playing in your hands every one of those guitar sounded great

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi Umberto. Thanks for the kind words. 5420T is a great guitar, and out of those probably the most tradition and 'Gretschy' you will love it.

[@thirdgearband]

@@damonthegnomeoftonechivers I’m looking at a white gold trim G5420TG the year 2018 fender special run made in Korea for $700 with the case. Is that a good price?

[@RavenMadd9]

thank you ....short person here ....thinking of buying one ....great video

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

All the best guitar players are short...........🎸😝👍

[@miketw10]

Which one gives nearest to the classic Rock n Roll clean Gretsch sound of the 50s-60s?

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

The nightly 5420t....the closest to a 6120 nashville!

[@bciecko1]

I have the 5655tg limited. Is center block is chambered. I believe it differs from the non limited in that as the center blocks aren't chambered in the regular version. It's what I've read at least. I love my 5655 though. Streamliner too and a 5420 on the way but T-Armonds are going in it.

[@martinmahony149]

I don't why it's because I play a 5622t or what, but this demo gave me the spine tingles when you played the 5622t! It's a pity Jimi never seemed to play Gretsch. He'd have dug 'em.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Thanks man!!! Means a lot dude.

[@mattgalloway241]

I am buying a Gretsch for my son for Christmas and am torn between the 5420T and the Limited Edition 5422TG. Both have fantastic colors but the 5420 is thicker, offering more of that Rev Horton Heat rockabilly styling, as well as the rounder top, while the 5422TG has gorgeous gold and appears to be your preference among the two. Could you help me decide between the 2? Thanks for all you do

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

HI Matt. You are spot on. If you are really into the whole Rockabilly vibe, then the closest you will get is the 5420T. The '22 is double cut, but still ttally hollow and a more alround performer. If you love th the 50's rockabilly vibe, check out the Rat Rod 5410t, slightly thinner and a matt finish...very cool.

[@testify64]

Got to be the lovely 5422t a lovely sounding axe, very bluesy...

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

That was my fave to be honest...very responsive.

[@theblytonian3906]

One of their best, but I'm now 'owner pride' as well as player biased. I thought it sounded great with the former years' Black Top Filter' Trons, but the new FT-5E Filter'Trons now fitted to them take it to a new level. For the money, utterly tone-a-licious.

[@davidfrye5928]

I picked the g5622Twhat was your favorite

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

I like the 5422!

[@davindra67]

In my opinion the 56s and the 5410 are my prefered beautiful playing as well👏😍

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Thanks you so much..you are very kind sir!!!

[@TigerRogers0660]

Nice playing Damon! I've ordered the G5655TG. Tiger.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Excellent choice dude!!!

[@kyotosal]

I have a 5420T but hearing these others. I really liked the5655 and the 5422 also. Have to admit that they all sound great though. Listen to Clint Curtis play his black 5422 which are really hard to find.......Sal : ). Thanks for this comparison!

[@harukanaa]

Hello, that's a nice playing. And how would you compare the 5655t and 5422t, I'm torn between these 2.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi there. The 56 has a centre block so is a bit more focussed at higher gain settings and doesn’t feedback. A little bit more compressed tonally. The 5422 is totally hollow so it has that real jangle and open vibe to its tone. It’s very touch sensitive to how hard you pick as well. More traditional Gretsch tone really, where’s the 5622 veers into 335 territory .🎸👍😁

[@boriskumer6060]

Fantastic and very helpful review ... I have my G5220 solid body and after listening to the comparison I feel it would make a great combo with G5422T ... I think I am sold ... 😁

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Do it Boris!! You know it makes sense.....5422T is the most touch sensitive of them all.

[@boriskumer6060]

@@damonthegnomeoftonechivers Could you please share some thoughts on Bigsbys on these guitars? As I can see the hollowbodies have a different Bigsby system (without tension bar) than the centreblocks ... Does this make any difference in tuning stability of these two types of guitars? I have never owned a Bigsby guitar and there are all sorts of internet ''experts'' that know everything about it ... Well, I know who to ask ... 😉

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

@@boriskumer6060 Hi Boris...thanks you for trusting me in matters of the Twang!!! I couldn't detect any real difference between the Bigsbys. They all loosen up a little with use. These guitars now all have pinned bridges which helps massively with tuning stability. Buy remember, its a very old peice of technology, and should be treated with love and respect. Just a gentle wobble...no Hendrix or Vai antics or it will go out of tune. heavier strings, well streched and some graphite in the nut slot all help. Cheers!

[@boriskumer6060]

@@damonthegnomeoftonechivers Thanks man ...

[@2010njdevil]

Great video and answered the questions I had regarding response and tone for each of them. Surprised how the 5622t sounded "smoother" than I thought it would.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

i think the centre block ads some mid to the tone, as do the BT Pickus as opposed to the more open and airy Filtertrons.

[@Bri5150]

Hey, Damon! I bought my first Gretsch last week after watching a video of you playing it. I bought the Gretsch G6659TG Players Edition Broadkaster Jr. CB Single-Cut with String-Thru Bigsby and Gold Hardware - Cadillac Green. The guitar is killer! I was wondering if you can you decode my model # for me? I can't seem to find it on the net. Thanks!

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

amazing. So glad to hear you like it. 6659 is the code for the body shape. So it's a Broadkaster, but smaller, so JNR, CB means that it has a centre block down the middle to alleviate feedback at higher volumes. TG means gold hardware. Players edition means it has things like a pinned bridge and locking tuners to make it more usable than a vintage model. See....simple!!!!!!

[@kennyhutchison5013]

Cheers for this Damon. Im currently considering my first Gretsch and really torn. I'm a small guy and can see the appeal of the 5655t jnr but I have a Les Paul and feel it might cover similar ground. Im actually looking for something with low output jangle again as an alternative to my les Paul. I can't decide between 5622t, 5422t or Rat Rod. I play in church but also punk/ indie bands. (45 year old guy, who never moved on). I was thinking Gretsch as while I love a telecaster I prefer shorter scale. Any advice?

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi Kenny....I too am a slightly shorter guitarist! But I do use a 335 a lot and also a Les Paul. If you want something that would work in a lot of styles, but with a real Gretschy twang and definition,I would go for the 5422T....the 5655 and 5622 both have Broadtrons , so tonally would be more similar to the Les Paul.

[@kennyhutchison5013]

@@damonthegnomeoftonechivers thanks Damon, that's helpful.

[@capefearcapt4679]

The 5420T seemed to sound the best to my ears.

[@philclarke4598]

Love your videos. Be good to explain the numbering system, also what to expect from the different pickups, and material eg mahogany over others.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

excellent idea Phil

[@alanthorndyke5241]

I am looking to replace my '70's Tele as I am now playing more softer rhythm style and find the Tele far to "twangy" for my needs. What would you suggest in the Gretsch range to give a softer sound.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

I would try a 5422, hollow and more mellow.

[@rigo.matias]

If you know what is the best for praise and worship, im looking into the g5422t because at my church we play at really clean, and dirty and at high but not soo high volumes

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

I would go for a centre block guitar for higher gain.....5622 is a good choice....

[@chiman730]

The 5420, 5622 and 5622 sound almost the same, except 5655 and the red rod distinct from the other three.

[@kevsimpson88keys77]

immense! 5420 sound 5410 looks

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Thanks Kev. I do love how the Ratrod looks as well!

[@breadcakerecords]

What colour is that 5622T? Can only see online the burst barrel and imperial stain with the gold pickguard.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Brown.....

[@reflexionesjm706]

Hi, (sorry for my bad English) I had bought 4 5422tg one 5420 because I love the sound but I have ended sold them every time because filing to me to hard to play it, I have played guitar for many years, I love hollow body, special the gretsch but to hard to play, any suggestions? I lower the action to help a little but still filling hard. I have played a Gibson es335 for a week I love the soft strings, I haven’t lowered the action, was perfect out of the box, but I returned it because things change on my work and can’t have a $3k guitar right now, special because my main instrument is the bass, when I heard your video makes me want to order another 5422 but I’m fray that I’m ending returning or sale. The 5410 is the same hard compare to 5422? The difference is just a little beat? I appreciate any advice? Thanks for your time

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Have you tried a centre block? Like a 5622? Very playable with a cntre block to stop feedback? One of these , especially with a stp tail bridge, should be as easy to play as a 335. Don't forget the 5420/22 bth have a thicker body, so try the 5622.

[@scottmontgomery5513]

I really appreciate the video. Thanks. The comparison helps, and fun to listen. Somewhat torn between the 5410, 5420, and 5422. Still. I am looking for basically my first guitar. I had an acoustic for about two months around 20 years ago. I also could use a suggestion for an combo amp. I will be a beginner, but my preference in music is rockabilly, blues, and some rock... I live on Texas, so some country, too.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Tyhanks dude....have you tried the Fender Modelling amps? great tones and effects and excellent value. thanks for watching

[@MrJones-ge5sl]

For my taste, the Rat Rod as an ever so slight edge on the 5422TG... it splits the best of the 5422 and the 5420, IMHO. I have the 5422TG on order. I had a chance to pick up the black Rat Rod, but am holding out for the white version... they're rare here in Canada.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

I love the Ratrod. It has a slightly softer and more compressed tone than the 5420 or 5422. The 5422 is an exceptionally reactive and open sounding guitar, like a Es330 or Casino. Very different tones to the Ratrod.🎸👍🏻

[@MrJones-ge5sl]

@@damonthegnomeoftonechivers The profile Richard from Guitarist did on the 5422TG a few years ago on YT is one of my ATFs... what great tones... very "open", as you say. Would love to see you do a more in-depth side-by-side with the Rat Rod and the 5422!

[@siddyx]

Love your videos Damon, can you tell me is the gretsch 5655tg a balanced guitar to hold? I'm ready to purchase but worried it might be neck-heavy ? Thanks

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi Julian. I have never had any issuse With that? The only guitar I've ever really noticed that with is an SG.

[@Gunn27]

Hi there, really good video. I've been trying to get my hands on a G5622T in Imperial Stain for a while now but nowhere seems to have them available in the UK? Any suggestions as i've been trying for anout 3 months.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

I,m sure some will be instores soon....keep looking dude. well worth trackng one down.

[@rimbraketakesthewin7846]

Greetings Sir. Can the rad rod handle green day, blink 182, foo fighters ? can you do a demo ?

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Greetings indeed. For older heavier applications I would go for a centre block guitar, if you Idle the single cut style, I would try a 5655t.

[@codyschwab6221]

I dig the same music, also some QOTSA. I’m probably getting the G5622T. It sounded great in this demo! Looking forward to hearing it with a fuzz or distortion.

[@johngretta8476]

So which did you like best? I bought a 5422 but still may swap for a 5655.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

5655.........killer !!!

[@reneliebregt6319]

Great comparison 👍😁

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Glad you liked it

[@justinwallen2911]

I like the brown one Gretsch. But I like the warmth of the Rat Rod plus I have a rat rod I love it good video

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

That is the 5422...really responsive. The RatRod is a whole warmer beast!!

[@DavidMartinez-zo5nj]

I have a g5422tdc that is completely hollow, in the video it was the one that sounds sweeter, the central block felt a little more aggressive, I guess it is the difference between a hollow body and a semi-hollow

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

You are spot on David!!

[@JAVIER-bp6bt]

Congratulations on your videos. What guitar would you recommend to start a G5420t or a G5422tg? Thank you.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Depends on what you are playing? If it’s more rockabilly and jazz then the 5420, the 5422 is a bit more versatile for rock/pop/blues etc🎸😁

[@davegordon6737]

Good stuff thanks!!!!

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Thanks for watching!

[@tonyl6203]

Is there better upper fret access with the 5655 with the smaller, thinner body? :-)

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Yes mate. The bigger bodies are harder to deal with in terms of access, and the smaller thinner body helps in that.

[@martinstehlik9901]

Thanks for the fantastic review, Damon. I'm choosing between 5420 and 5410 Rat Rod. The somewhat chunky size of the classic 5420 bodies puts me off a bit. Anyway, the high gloss polish and colour choices, as well as a more classic feeling attract me more to them compared to the matt finished Rat Rods. Sound-wise from your review, I liked the Rat Rod slightly more. Any hint for this dilemma? Many thanks, as well as for your highly informative reviews and inspirational playing. Martin

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi Martin. The Rat Rod does feel considerably thinner when you play it, even though it’s only about an inch thinner. That and the matt finish really does shave off a considerable amount of top end and gives it a more compressed and middle heavy tone. For pure clean the 5420 is killer, but the 5410 is a more rounded instrument with wider applications, especially when any kind of drive is added. Thanks for the kind words.

[@martinstehlik9901]

Damon Chivers Many thanks Damon, I can't wait to compare them and choose mine. Then only I need your fingers and it's sorted :-) Have a great day and a lot of inspiration for your next vids. Martin

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Inspiration I can supply...not sure about the fingers! Go get 'em

[@seanbrubaker6535]

Hi. Great video. I have a Les Paul (57 Classics) and an SG (Dirty Fingers). Also, I'm a fairly new beginner. Looking for something different than what I have, something along blues sound and alike. I LOVE the Rat Rod, but seeing your video can't ignore the 5420/5422. Will the Rat Rod fit the bill or would you suggest the 20/22? I'm assuming only difference with the 20's is single/ double cut? Also, do you believe I'd be better with the Filtertrons than the Broadtrons? Thank you!!! Your opinion will be appreciated and respected.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi Sean....I would say that the '20's suit more Jazz/Blues/Swing etc...whereas the 5422 is a more all round performer. The 5422 is really reactive to your playing nuances.

[@schlippery1]

What gain pedal were you using on the 5422T it sounded amazing??

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi Jonathan....I think from memory it was a Wampler Euphoria.

[@schlippery1]

@@damonthegnomeoftonechivers Thanks Damon, makes sense, Wampler pedals are getting a great reputation :)

[@nmfl100]

Nice comparison, Noel Gallagher.

[@OleMissKicker]

Hello, how does the 5622t compare to these?

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

The 5622 is a little more focused and mid heavy due to the centreblock? Also more resistant to feedback, Think Gibson 335 Vs. 330? A great all round guitar .

[@russellparratt9859]

An interesting video, thank you. However, I don't think any backing track is necessary when doing this type of tone check comparison. I have a 5422, so I found it interesting. I would have bought the orange 5420, but a good deal on the 5422 was the clincher. All my other electric guitars are solid bodies, so the acoustic properties were what I was looking for. The 335, Ibanez, Guild, and Epiphone were all considered, but the Gretsch won easily. A great guitar.

[@bueller8278]

Thanks for this Damon! Very cool to hear the differences between them which may appear subtle on the surface but really make a difference in tone. Which is your favourite?

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi there. I think I liked the 5422 best. It has the 330 vibe, very responsive, with a really cool , very open defined top end. For rock the 5655 is very cool.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Plus there are 3’more vids to come with dirtier tones!!!

[@bikenband]

The 5420 is my favorite, but he 5422 sounds like the best of both worlds.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

It's like a Gibson 330...it's very responsive, if a little wild at higher volumes!

[@davindra67]

5622 definetely for me

[@theroguetomato5362]

My favorite is the 5422. Not surprisingly, that's the one I own.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Excellent choice...you are wise and your world is full of tone!!!

[@janf5021]

5655 - direct, rocky, bit pitchy 5420 - warmer , more singing you hear town hall effect. I like it. . 5622 i d give to a metallica band. Loud and proud and as precise as 5655 5422 I it has a „washed“ sound. its not that hard to the point or stitching as the centerblocks. 5410 Very round and warm - a lady killer, I somehow see this in the hands of Dolly Parton… Hard to decide between 5410 and 5420. As I have a chance to get the 20 with some addone Aand in the colour where it started to talk zo me (love that candilac green) i suppose i d go with thie limited edition. but definetly the 5510 would be mine too

[@AndrewSmith-yt3hg]

I own the G5422. Wow that’s all I gotta say

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

They are a great guitar. really responsive.

[@davidmesser5813]

I thought that the 5420t was the best sounding of the 5 Gretsch guitars. Just a richer grab your soul and squeeze type of sound. I am glad that I found your show. Take care. Vaughn

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Many thanks mate. The bigger body does add a different aspect to the tone, and certainly the most traditionally Gretsch sounding of the bunch. Cheers for watching.

[@igolfjtweetler4097]

I haven't played one of these for years but last time I did there was still a big gap in quality between the Japan made models and G5's.

[@mastermachetier5594]

These are made in Korea now and are a lot better even the ones in China are good . You should try one out

[@99thunderwolf]

Rat Rod for the win

[@stevechurchill9730]

5410 Rat Rod would be my overall pick. 5422 was nice too.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Hi Steve, I love the Rat Rod. A liitle mellower and compressed, killer overdriven to.

[@antonyhadjion8376]

I like the 5622. Very Santana sound.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

That center block gives the sound a much more pronounced midrange....and slightly louder pickups too.....now if I had a mark 1 Boogie here I could really Carlos it up!!!

[@Black-Jack-2022]

I have a Gretsch electromatic in black. I love the guitar, but do not like the floating brige!😎

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Some now have pinned bridges.

[@w1zard0f0h]

5420

[@billychancellor2039]

I have a G5422T in black.

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Excellent choice

[@boguszasmann6844]

Sorry but due to distorting they all sound the same , pls show their natural undistorted sound

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

But some like the distorting?

[@jimmygalleguillos1992]

Y además un guitarrista

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Certainly am Bro!!!!

[@schlippery1]

5422T... smokey full bodied and rich.....

[@damonthegnomeoftonechivers]

Much like myself!

[@sandrabecht4489]

👍🇩🇪