Grote ES 335 Style Semi Hollow Electric Guitar - Sound Samples and Review

[@themurrayfishingexperience1607]

Well sir....you sold me on this. This was an outstanding review....honest and insightful. I just ordered one and I can’t wait until it arrives. I’ll let you know how it goes!!

[@HorizonMelt]

I got mine on eBay for $260. Gorgeous purple. I was ok gambling the money in case it wasn't any good. Fact is, I love it. I've played it at several shows and it gets tons of compliments.

[@aaroningram9465]

I bought this model last Christmas, dropped a Pearly Gates humbucker in the neck poxition, and it SCREAMS!!! One of my absolute favorite guitars. And I own 23 very nice axes

[@nutopiansg7613]

BEST DEMO OF THIS GUITAR ON YOU TUBE-THANK YOU

[@johnpeccarelli2389]

Thank you for the most thorough and eclectic demo I’ve ever seen for the Grote (and for that matter, any) electric guitar! Mine is on the way- can’t wait to get it!

[@jtemprile]

I picked one up myself - at the time it was $159 on Amazon and I figured what the heck. I Too am AMAZED at the quality for the money - the neck is nice, and mine was fairly playable right out of the box. I agree the packaging seemed a little minimal, but the thing arrived miraculously in perfect condition. I was not expecting much, and indeed was pleasantly surprised. Once again $159.... so good!

[@stevekehrtastic9292]

Mine came shipped in the standard shipping box, but since I got the upgrade Grote Amazon package deal with a nice padded gig bag, (for an extra $10)( $179 total), it was extra safe, and secure during shipping. Two thumbs up! Plays like a professional guitar should. :)

[@dougmaggs4295]

thank you that is the Best demo I have seen wheel done I will be watching for more cheers mate

[@stevekehrtastic9292]

This was a very good review! Thanks Tony. Got My New Grote from Amazon today, (4/5/21) for $179 but it included a really, really nice very high quality padded gig bag, (and a cable, and a couple picks, which I didn't need since I use wireless transmitters, and prefer to use thin .50 picks.) Without the gig bag Amazon is now selling these at $169 (guitar only), so believe me it was definitely worth up-grading to get the gig bag for a tiny extra $10. My Red Grote ES 335 style semi-hollow came perfectly set-up right out of the box!! I got one from the newest batch Amazon just received as of April 2021. Free Shipping of course! Only took 4 days for delivery, and that was over the weekend too! Was going to order in March 2021, but those sold out the day before I could place the order. Aside from simple tuning the strings up, my Grote is absolutely flawless except for a tiny ding in one of the chrome pick-ups, but not very noticeable. The intonation was spot on, and I'm always a stickler about that too. Out of my collection of now 14 guitars every one of the others (some new, some used), had to be set-up, and some needed complete rebuilds even. Also very impressed with the string action. Even the strings themselves seem to be high quality, and I will use them through out their lifespan before replacing. Also as Tony Lee Glenn pointed out, I can cleanly, and easily reach the 22nd fret even with my short fingers! None of my other guitars can compare except my Ultra Lite Traveler 22 frets, and my Hofner shorty which is a full 24 frets. I will definitely give two thumbs up for this guitar as I personally like cheaper priced guitars. Oh, I also got a new Hard Luck King Bombshell Series 18 ( Stratocaster style), at a close-out price of $149 in early 2020, that also came in very quality, and needing very minimal set-up. I love guitars, and building up my collection!

[@chrismeinke-rl8sr]

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[@chrismeinke-rl8sr]

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[@chrismeinke-rl8sr]

UhhhI' hi uuuuy

[@RangerR61]

I purchased a Grote 335GC from Amazon. Very pleased with the neck and fret setup. Installed a new set of wires and starting the initial setup. Plays well out of the box, keep the gain down 1/2 or so and enjoy.

[@jazzydog]

This is my first time listening to Grote guitar. Nice demo sound & playing. Cheers.

[@guppy2022]

I bought the sunburst 335. Works well right out of the box. Build quality is very good and the neck has no sharp frets. I will keep this one.

[@topherbarrow4631]

I just ordered the same guitar. Should me here next week. How is yours holding up?

[@guppy2022]

@@topherbarrow4631 Still in very good shape and still sounds very good.

[@mns8732]

As soon as I saw your video review I ordered mine. The guitar was packed very well, looks and sounds great. Lucky find!

[@tonyleeglenn]

Glad yours was nice. I love mine. Super guitar considering the price.

[@boblittle2529]

Nice demo! Bought one of these guitars this week on the strength of your review alone. I lucked out on the quality I think - it must have been made on a good day. No issues with the frets, the pickup height, or any of the little cosmetic flaws you pointed out. The only thing I have noticed is that the volume pots are hyper sensitive. It goes from dead silent to real loud in about a 1/4 turn. I can work around that, though. Now if I could just play as well as you....

[@tonyleeglenn]

So glad you got a good one Bob. Man, I like playing the one I have. Sweet tones, and it puts me in a real jazzy blue mood. Thanks for watching.

[@SultanOfTwang1956]

@@tonyleeglenn Hello there :-) First and foremost, I'd just like to say what an utterly fantastic video/review of the Grote 335 style guitar this is. Thanks a million for having posted/sharing it. Was very comprehensive, straightforward, informative and thoroughly enjoyable, entertaining to watch. You have some really, really mad playing skills, and are extremely inspiring :-) Anyhoo as others on here had commented, based on that fact alone, I decided to pull the trigger and order one for myself, and I'm thrilled beyond words that I did. I ended up choosing the black with white binding, and red/black speckled pickguard. I am so, so ecstatic to say that I really got one heck of a gem, because right out of the box everything is immaculate. I went over it with a fine tooth comb, and didn't find one single flaw anywhere, I was absolutely astounded. Thanks again, and I truly, deeply, sincerely wish you and all your loved ones the very very best :-)

[@tonyleeglenn]

@@SultanOfTwang1956 Wow Thomas - what a nice comment. So glad you did pull that trigger. I'm loving every guitar I get from these folks, and they seem to be improving their quality all the time. Really hope you have a great time with your new instrument! Many thanks again for watching and commenting!

[@tomberlied7260]

I just bought one. Will be here Friday! Watching your review made me feel good! I payed $151 on cyber Monday!!!

[@fraterfraxinus6293]

Thank you for this review. I just ordered one for my mama for Christmas.

[@bigflanks294]

Does it hold tune

[@fraterfraxinus6293]

@@bigflanks294 Yes it does. It stays in tune very well with 11's on it. I changed the tuners on it, but it stayed in tune with the original tuners just fine.

[@joeobrien167]

Picked one of these up a few weeks ago, love it. Semi-hollows weren't a style that I was willing to pay a lot for but still wanted one to fool around with and the infamous Firefly FF338 was out of stock everywhere so I took a gamble on one of these. Other than some buzz in the tune-o-matic that I'm trying to figure out, I have no complaints at all. Had an Epiphone DOT studio about 12 years ago that I got for nothing from MF which is the only other 335 style I had ever really played and this is every bit as nice as that was.

[@bigblueplanet1968]

Remove the pickguard. Its the biggest culprit in rattle. The pickguard sucked on mine. Terribly cut.

[@robinicus1133]

I bought a Grote from Amazon tonight based on your playing alone. Your guitar seemed to hold a tune well. I was vacillating between this guitar and Firefly but opted for this because 1. Firefly's trapezoid inlaids aren't set well, 2. Their pickups are microphonic, 3. Some of their fret edges can be a little sharp, 4. I prefer the jack on the side of the body as opposed to the front. Changing pickups can be a pain sometimes but if the Grote's sound good I'll keep them. If the tuning gear ratios are high, say 18:1, I'll keep them otherwise I'll just swap them out with locking tuners.

[@tonyleeglenn]

Not sure about the ratio on the tuners - but a nicer set would indeed be a good improvement. In the future I do plan to swap out the pickups, but at low to medium gain these do sound nice. The build on this guitar is just great. Be advised that you might need to do a bit of setup. I worked with the bridge a bit before I was happy - but that neck and fretwork are really nice for a guitar in this price range. The wood and finish are really pretty. Hope you like it Robin!

[@SultanOfTwang1956]

@@tonyleeglenn Hello there :) First and foremost, I just wanna say that you've got some absolutely mad, mad, mad, mind blowing playing skills, I mean you plain flat out pure get down :) I am a beginner guitarist myself, and hope one day I'll be able to play even half as good as yourself, you are very inspiring. Anyhoo, after stumbling across this video presentation, you also further inspired me to jump off the fence and choose the Grote 335 as my first guitar. This being the case, I was kindly wondering if I should be immediately focused on getting a bunch of upgrades done on it before I start playing it? I

[@greenvortex7]

Thanks so much for this great video and demonstration. I went looking for a Firefly for left handed but could not find any and amazon actually suggested the Grote! So back to youtube to find a video. Great gratitude for giving a great sampling of sounds. So many videos only showcase the 'overdrive' of these guitars. You showed the great versatility to the sound of this guitar. And by all means - excellent playing! Kudos 10 stars, liked and a sub!

[@tonyleeglenn]

Just now saw your nice comment. Many thanks - appreciate you watching.

[@greenvortex7]

@@tonyleeglenn you are divinely and wondrously welcome. 😀

[@chrismeinke-rl8sr]

😅

[@chrismeinke-rl8sr]

​@@tonyleeglenn😅😅iioo

[@uhoh007]

You look so surprised! And you make it sound great. I have one coming, thanks for this.

[@cheebadog112]

Nice detailed review!, Thanks so much! Will buy this based on your demo.

[@nightlightabcd]

I found these on Ebay and was impressed, but I had not heard of Grote, but I know of Pevey. I watched a few reviews of this guitar and they all seemed to like this guitar. I was impressed with your review and plan on getting one my self! Thanks for a great informative review!

[@tonyleeglenn]

Just know it probably won't be perfect - but for the money it will impress you I think. Be patient with it and adjust the string height and maybe truss the neck a little if you like. Let it settle in a day or two, and then look out - very nice cheap guitar!

[@GGHaj12]

Tony, great review. I just wanted to let you know that your review was spot on about the Grote ES 335 Style Semi Hollow Electric Guitar. I will tell you about my experience in ordering this guitar through Amazon. I got it on this Wednesday and the pick guard was nicked up, blemished, and scratches. Your assessment of the tuners was spot on. The guitar I had did not stay in tune at all. I was constantly having to re-tune it. I am not as handy as you are with guitars. I didn't want to go to guitar center and get the adjustments. I decided to return it. It's too bad I liked the action on the neck and the look. If people want a guitar like this I highly recommend the Epiphone ES 339 Semi-Hollow it costs close to $500.00 but it's worth it for the sound quality and performance. Thanks for your review it was honest and helpful.

[@garymcaleer6112]

I just purchased an exotic tobacco flame top version @ $260. ETA, mid July. Happy 4th, bro! Looking at jazz guitars over several days, listening to tone examples the prices were beyond my reach (living on S.S.). But when this Grote came into view, I smiled. :^) I was hoping to hear some sounds from this instrument. And you're the man of the hour! A few years ago I bought Grote's flame top 12-string and had it setup for six. I will tell you, brother Tony that it is the most harmonically balanced guitar I've ever heard. Every chord is caressingly clean. Some sounds you can hear all day. Thanks for your post. You made my day.

[@tonyleeglenn]

I really appreciate your kind comment Gary. I love that little guitar. Much sound for the price for sure. Good luck with your jazz endeavors. I could never get that smart about my playing - ha!

[@garymcaleer6112]

@@tonyleeglenn Thanks, brother Tony. I'm just an old concert violinist who lost my career for going to church. But I have fun composing for other instruments while I doodle! :^) All the best!

[@lewisfuller-cy3ir]

I ordered the one with the brown flamed maple top (simulated) and trapezoid tailpiece. It will be here tomorrow. I can't wait to play that beauty.

[@franksturgeon5153]

That Molly Hatchet Dreams song is always easy to spot. Sounds good.

[@davidlalremruata]

I keep coming back here to your channel because I must really like your review. I tried my level best to try and buy me a Grote guitar but political situations between India and China means I cannot buy it direct from China and Grote has no Indian dealers (I've spoken to their Customer Service). I really love the high nasty sound you got out of the one in your hand. So, happy new year. I hope it still makes you happy in 2023. If ever I managed to get hold of my own Grote semihollow electric guitar I'll be sure to let you know. Good day.

[@peterpanassow7814]

Tony, fantastic review!! Thanks for posting. 👍

[@jimcamp2423]

Sounds like you were very fair about the review, you put in the set up effort & perhaps the the extra build quality a more expensive guitar would have done to it.

[@stevekehrtastic9292]

Sometimes it's all about which batch your guitar comes from. Quality can vary batch to batch. Price is not necessarily a factor. Even much more expensive guitars may require a complete set-up. My experience with cheap guitars is that they will all play, and sound great with some TLC. :)

[@rebeccaabraham8652]

I've just received their full archtop - and it's a stunning instrument; seriously considering one of their current 335 models, in the future. I'd say they're probably one of the top chinese manufacturers - and I hope they'll be around for many decades to come!

[@joedavis8481]

I bought the grote thinline tele a couple months ago and I was blown away by the quality and playability for $135. Fast forward to a week ago I really wanted a 335 but I only play at home so I'm not paying for a gibson. I bought this guitar and just like the tele , this thing is a steal ... mine was very playable out of the box and yes after a week of playing it , it seems to be better after a week or so. I did already order hipshot lockers for it but it is staying in tune right now. I have a nice set of humbuckers that I will eventually put in it ... I paid $239 on Amazon and imo it's a steal

[@tonyleeglenn]

You are spot on with your assessment. It really is a great guitar for the price. Hard to beat.

[@MartinBryan]

Great review! Love your playing too.

[@raycyr263]

I have this Grote guitar and was able to get one when they first came out for $159.00 shipped! It has good fit and finish and after I set it up, played great. Happy with it and you should grab one when you see it cuz they go fast! Enjoy and thanks for your review Tony.

[@laurameeks8653]

I just bought one for $169, on amazon, the next day, they were selling for $189. I haven't received it yet, but excited based on this review

[@DominiqueWillkins]

Great Demo! Thanks for your work.

[@MrBecker666]

Just ordered one too and it didn't disappoint I'll touch it up as I go but will try a jam session as is 1st & go from there

[@CoyoteDuran1]

Thank you for the cool review, Tony! My wife ordered one for me for Christmas (and it's been acclimating to the temperature in our apartment for the past couple of days) and I can't wait to open it! I'll let you know my thoughts after I give a test run. Your mention about the high gain and feedback doesn't really break the deal either. Semi-hollows are known for feedback with high gain anyway. :)

[@tonyleeglenn]

It is an outstanding guitar for the money. If it isn’t set up just perfectly out-of-the-box be sure to be patient with it and work on it a little. It can be made to play as good as any guitar your bar.

[@CoyoteDuran1]

@@tonyleeglenn, oh, I have patience by the truckload, Good Sir. I set up my own guitars (saves a LOT of money), so I love to fuss over them.

[@michaelcarter5345]

Excellent demo video!

[@christophermorrow5995]

You’ve been super helpful to me man. I got a vox vt20x after watching your video and this guitar will be delivered on Monday!

[@6foot951]

Christopher Morrow make sure you send the warranty card in to vox. I had a vt35 years ago and the speaker blew out about 6months later , they repaired it free

[@DirtyDiezel]

Subbed your channel because this review is on point! I upgraded my Grote to Epiphone DOT Pro 335 pickups and Epiphopne Lucille wiring, 6 way switch , 3 way switch and pots and WOW is it damn near a LUCILLE! Im selling my actual Lucille now because the Grote is so playable and comparable to the real thing.,

[@ranman58635]

Wow! What a comment. I'm waiting on my blue burst now! Almost got the Epiphone but there were only used one's at that price. It was 340 out the door for that one.

[@johnfaunce20]

Beginner, was going to by a kit I found this on amazon for less money I love it.

[@flyingjoed]

Hello from Buford, GA! Thanks for the great review! Gonna get one of these in a leftie. I'm ambidextrous, but lean more left, though I have always tried to learn to play on right-handed guitars because right handed guitars are always easy to find Thing is, I've just never been able to play like I feel I should be able to play as much as I practice. If I'm just messing around, and I play air guitar, I always play left handed. It just feels more natural. Anywho, thanks again and you got a new sub!

[@tonyleeglenn]

Many thanks for the comment, and thanks for the sub. I hope you get a really nice one like I did. Be prepared to do a bit of setup to get it dialed in. Great instrument for the price.

[@flyingjoed]

I got it about a month ago! I love it! They had it to me in 4 days! Changed out the strings....because I broke one. Surprisingly, it holds a tune really well, though the tuner knobs are super cheap so I will change those out. Other than that, it's a beautiful guitar!

[@sober-southoftheborderever3591]

I have a ``335`` worn burst Grote guitar and I love it. Cheap and great. It plays great of the box!!

[@cedricmorgan2519]

Been watching reviews so I can find a good beginners guitar and I think I’m gonna try this one, I seriously want to learn jazz and blues

[@stevekehrtastic9292]

I know that this Grote would be perfect for you to start out on. To me it's every bit as good a guitar as some of those brands selling at around $500. I know I love my red Grote 335 style. Bought min through Amazon $179 with really nice padded gig bag included.(April 2021)

[@benallmark9671]

Well why had gone up so much ?

[@dandamerville]

Great review, Tony! Thanks.

[@robenpatricio8913]

I like that smooth playin of yours bro

[@gregmolton5197]

I have one and I am very pleased with the sound quality and using a fender amp also

[@whheaattzmayne3183]

Are you from NC? The way you talk is vaguely familiar from when I was stationed at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville

[@roberttrautwein1260]

Just bought one and its amazing on a clean amp. The pups don't overload at 9 or 10 like my Strat. Other than that, it looks brilliant and plays great.

[@tonyleeglenn]

They are making some excellent guitars. Seems like anything I buy from them exceeds my expectations.

[@roberttrautwein1260]

Update: I've noticed some fret buzz at fret 15 and above on the E and B strings. Its noticeable even when plugged in. The manufacturer will cover the bill from a guitar tech so I am still impressed by Grote.

[@TheElectricfishmusic]

Very informative and useful review.

[@edgeofeternity101]

I bought the same configuration of bridge/tailpiece only with the tiger stripe maple top/red , and it is very nice. I have a couple of PRS SE guitars, and a US Strat and a CV Tele,which are all really nice guitars, and this guitar really impressed me with the quality of the fret work especially. When I first got it, i plugged it in and the pickups did not immediately impress me, so I set it aside. I bought a set of Epi HB's to install later. I was pressed for space, so I carried it upstairs until I had time to change the pups. Well I never took the time(it sat there for like 5 months), so I decided to take it to a jam cause the action was really nice after I lowered the bridge, that was all i did to it. Man, this guitar plays very nice, and I found the sweet spot for me on rhythm was turning down the volumes to about 3 or 4, and it really sounds sweet. it has a pretty aggressive sound when turned up. I was playing it in a Fender deluxe amp. I think I'll leave the original pickups in it and turn them down. It is a smokin nice guitar for what I paid, 180 for the fancy top. It just feels very natural and like an old guitar even though it has that ultra shiny look I don't like, it still plays really great. I even found it to be nice enough that I move around to different voicings while playing. First impression wasn't that great, but after really using it in a jam, I fell in love with it.

[@tonyleeglenn]

So interesting that you had a similar experience as I did. At first I was not overwhelmed, then I made some adjustments, let it sit a week or two then started playing it a bit each day. In a short time it became one of my favoroite guitars. I like your tip about turning it down on the guitar and just cranking the amp a bit. I agree, often just and approach that's so simple can make all the difference. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@johnthompson941]

I got mine yesterday, the setup, neck, action, intonation, fit and finish near perfect out of the box. For $160 I am amazed at the quality and sound, I really wasn't expecting it to be this good.(Fender 50XL amp) Is it a $2600 Gibson?, No, as good as a $400 Epi? Yes! A decent budget semi hollow.

[@johnthompson941]

The tuning machines are my only complaint

[@tonyleeglenn]

Yes, the tuners are going to be upgraded on mine. The ones on there stayed in tune a bit better after I tightened the screws on the tuning heads. Still, some hipshot locking tuners are going to make this baby really nice. Cool to hear that you got a good one John.

[@mikemclean6242]

I have the same guitar, with a purple flame top. As the owner of three Gibsons - I would say this one is pretty solid. I did change ALL of the hardware. (Which added $500 to the cost), but as a base guitar to improve - this is solid.

[@ranman58635]

A guitar that one can do that to is pretty awesome if you ask me. I wanted something I could customize and it will still hold value. Epiphone is in China and they pump out guitar's that cost way more but the only difference is, price. With the pandemic, people here are buying up all the guitar's on the market and even the pawn shop's. These lower end guitar's now have a great chance to make a good name for themselves.

[@xxcelr8rs]

Bought the cherry 335. Just changed rusty strings, put graphite in the nut slots and AMAZING. I BOUGHT THE PURPLE ONE FOR 200, THAT WAS PERFECT TOO.

[@tonyleeglenn]

Nice. Graphite nut would be cool to add to mine. Thanks for watching!

[@TheRealCaptainFreedom]

“I don’t know if it’s mother-of-plastic, but I like it!”

[@jeffreye1931]

the sound is impressing, it has that proper 335 sound

[@RangerR61]

I bought one in Brown just before Christmas. The guitar out of the box was very playable. I let it set for a few days and replaced the strings with quality 10 gauge, I did have a problem with the Hi-E tuner and shimmed the knob. I'll replace the tuners the next time I replace the strings. I went to the Fender Web site and use their info on setting up a Gibson SE335 and good to go. What pickups would you go to for an upgrade? Thanks for the very frank review, enjoyed it very much.

[@monkymonk6]

I have the same color guitar as you have, and it is a great deal for the money. I ultimately replaced the nut with a Tusq XL, and that was it. Pickups are surprisingly good in this guitar, tuners hold tune very well. I would rate them to be just as good as an Epiphone Dot.

[@tonyleeglenn]

Thanks for the comment. Replacing that nut was probably a great upgrade. I agree, with proper setup it's hard to find anything at fault with this guitar - - at least with the one I received.

[@monkymonk6]

@@tonyleeglenn I will admit though, I was wanting to purchase a semi hollow guitar for my collection and I tried out an Epiphone Dot and an Ibanez AS 73, and they were ok, but thought I could do better. Went and found out about Grote online and read the good reviews and went and took a gamble. It paid off. Actually is one of my very favorite guitars.

[@mrb4886]

Mine had the bridge screwed into to the left to far in error. Had a tech put on an arch top bridge with wood base and it rocks.

[@bigblueplanet1968]

Bought this in September. Awesome neck, fit n finish, pickups. Replaced input jack and lowered the action. Its great. Tuners are ok, but i will replace em eventually

[@joedavis8481]

Oh yeah the neck ? Omg its freakin nice !!!

[@darwinsaye]

The feedback you get from these guitars is not body feedback, but microphonic feedback from the loosely wound, budget pickups. If you turn your amp up and yell into the pickup, you can hear your voice come out of the amp. My Musoo is almost identical to your Grote and it has pickups like that.

[@shawnbbbross9439]

Nice, thank you Tony Lee

[@ranman58635]

It may be 159 but by the time its set up, it will cost some dollars for sure. I just bought the blue burst 335 jazz one and it was 340 out the door on ebay and I'll still have to set it up. I bought it because there are no guitars with all that fluff at that price. Its simply beautiful to look at.

[@matthewrussell1299]

I just ordered this guitar 5 mins. ago. I think one of the best things is that if you play it and stick with it, great. If you dont stick with it... no regrets. Certainly not at that price.

[@stevekehrtastic9292]

I just got my Grote 4/5/21 and I love it! Right out of the box it looked beautiful, and all it needed was to tune-up the strings. (I think most companies like to ship their guitars with the strings loosened) This is my 14th guitar in my collection now, and I love this price range too. :)

[@mrtyreus0]

Love that sound. I have a real Tele and can get it mostly, but have always yearned to try a 335. Can't justify a Gibson, and I'm a lefty. Just ordered my Grote. Can't wait. Edit: yes I know they're completely different guitars, but tonally, in my opinion, they have some crazy commonalities.

[@tonyleeglenn]

They are awesome for the price. I think you’ll dig it for sure.

[@JohnBham]

I'm considering one of these, but my style of interest is surf rock and rockabilly. Is this (or can this be) a 'twangy' guitar right out of the box, or is that more a function of the bells and whistles added on the back end for the amp? (EDIT TO ADD: For the surf/rockabilly sound, would you reach for the P90 version of this or stick to the humbuckers?) Also, what are your thoughts on adding a Bigsby or an aftermarket equivalent (as I'm an LRG- Low Rent Guitarista)? Also a HUGE shout out for the info on the Fender amp- that looks to be PERFECT for my initiation into electricity-fied guitars.

[@tonyleeglenn]

I think you could use it for surf rock, but you won't get the sound of a telecaster or Strat. It's definelty great for rockabilly, blues, rock and jazz . . . and of course for country. I love the guitar, but I think if surf music was going to be the focal point I'd go to a tele or Strat.

[@JohnBham]

@@tonyleeglenn Thank you- I've been getting much the same from the fine folks on Reddit and whatnot. To be honest, though, as relatively inexpensive (and good) as some of these guitars are now it's not out of the question to one of each style. Can one be predisposed to having a guitar addiction? LOLOL Have a great week, and thanks for the great videos ~

[@lillocarcarino9407]

hi please can you tell me two things? what material is the body made of? are the humbuckers alnico or ceramic? thanks, you would do me a great favor Hi

[@jamesceraso4972]

I can't wait until my ssi check gets out because I have to get this Grote guitar! I'm not going to pay 1000s of dollars for a name brand guitar when I can get the same sound from the Grote guitar!

[@Peter-ic7vj]

Part no. For this,thanks!

[@chipmuellemann7901]

I recently bought one of these in Sunburst. Gig bag tax and all for $185 from Amazon. I wasn't expecting much. Before that I had bought a Monoprice Boardwalk 335 and that was sent back. Just too much wrong with it. This guitar showed up. Fit and finish I'd give it a 10 but prepare to possibly do some work to make it really playable. The tuners were just servicable. I replaced them with some Tone Ninja locking tuners and they were a direct replacement as the holes in the headstock are 10mm and the screws on the back of those tuners line up with the holes from the stock tuners. The nut was a plastic cheapy and set in way too high.. I replaced that with a Gibson sized Tusq nut and set that 18mm from the bottom of the first fret to the top of the strings.. The fretboard is beutiful. I had 6 frets that were way too high also. I had to fret level the fretboard and recrown. The bridge hardware was O.K. BUT the studs for the bridge were not set in all the way flush with the body so the action was too high. I took the bridge off along the stud adjustment screws then took a brass piece and hammered the studs themselves in flush with the guitar body then put everything back together and was able to adjust my bridge as low as I wanted. The electronics aren't bad on mine BUT make sure even under the control knobs that everything is tightened down because most of the nuts including for the jack and the 3-way switch weren't. Trust me, if that stuff falls in to this body you won't be a happy camper. All in all a few hours worth of work to make this guitar as playable as anything else. Sound wise I have a 1969 Gibson ES 335. I have had it since it was new so obviously it is no longer a daily player as it is now a collectors item but I missed playing a 335 type guitar. Blindfolded in my hands there is just a small weight difference. The Gibson is heavier. The Gibson is definitely a sweeter sounding guitar but suprizingly not by much. The pickups on the Grote are a bit harsher but something I can overcome with my amp. Overall for the little time and money I spent this guitar fits the bill nicely for a 335 guitar. Maybe yours will come perfect or maybe it will need a bit of work. For the price I found it worthwhile easily!

[@davidlalremruata]

Very informative, thank you.

[@carlosencarnacion9667]

Clean sounds in chords and arpeggios is all I care about, the voice of the guitar. Distortion and effects can hide the faults of the guitar sounds and my defects. Reviews can only show us visual and sound, the feel is always subjective opinion. I bought one of these in feb 22 and it cost me around $225 with shipping on Amazon. The bright sound I want seems to be a telecaster doman, this guitar is gorgeous, the telecaster is ugly. Maybe if I could adapt a coil split in order to get that S-S telecaster sound it would be perfect. Nice review, though!

[@RickMcCargar]

Out of all the inexpensive guitars you've tried, which do you think had the thickest necks? Thanks.

[@tonyleeglenn]

Seems like all the new ones have a fairly thin modern C profile. It does seem to me that the Oscar Schmidt OS50 has a bit chunkier neck than the others. I might be wrong, but that's my impression.

[@RickMcCargar]

@@tonyleeglenn Thanks. Can't find any of these guitars around here to try first.

[@Richcovephoto]

Sounds great to me but I no nothing about music.. lol what camera did you shoot this on? Sony 6600? Looks great..

[@tonyleeglenn]

Yes - that's the 6600 with a Sigma lens

[@tattuaje]

The Mets had a player named Jerry Grote and it was pronounced Grow-Tee. I don't know if this would be the same. Anyway very good playing and excellent review.

[@williamsherman1089]

Tony thanks for another good review, I've been thinking about this guitar for a while and wondering about the neck width from the treble to bass strings or nut width because I have small hands, can you give me your thoughts on this?

[@tonyleeglenn]

William - I imagine it's still something like 1.75" at the nut, but I'll check when I get home. It honestly feels like any other Ephphone or Gibson-type neck on a semi-hollow.

[@williamsherman1089]

@@tonyleeglenn Thanks bud, I appreciate the reply and info.

[@tonyleeglenn]

String spacing E to E at the nut is 36.5 mm. E to E at bridge is 52mm. Total nut width is 43mm. I used mm instead of inches just for increased accuracy.

[@williamsherman1089]

@@tonyleeglenn Hey Tony how ya doin', Got one in the mail today, tuned it up and almost couldn't put it down. Man what a fun and easy guitar to play. My only real critique of the guitar is the pointed bouts instead of the mouse ears, I think those give it a classic Rock and Roll look. Might upgrade tuners and pickups eventually but it's definitely a keeper. Thanks for your videos and reviews.

[@brianp.7234]

Hey Tony, did you notice any neck inlays slightly crooked. Also was your saddle mount drilled straight down or at the contour of the guitar? I bought one recently and those are things ive noticed. Thanks

[@tonyleeglenn]

I don't recall mine having either of those problems. I can't really check now because I gave this guitar to my first cousin who is a good guitarist. It was recompense for him helping me shoot my nieces wedding. He loves it and I think he's making videos with it now.

[@Al-mu4ff]

Do you recommend replacing picks and controls if so what do you recommend? Also great video.

[@Grayskull77]

Sounds like a decent hallow body guitar for the $. I just scored this guitar new, but left handed for $140!

[@jefmanroxx2414]

Where did you get it for $140?

[@Grayskull77]

@@jefmanroxx2414, won it on ebay

[@ianmism]

Have you ever come across AXL guitars . Made in USA by Johnson Guitars . There is some link with EMG pickups , I'm not sure how , maybe there partners in the company . I Bought one recentlySecondhand for $70.It's brilliant . It looks like a HSS Strat but with EMG pickups .

[@joebodynobody764]

I have an AXL LP he copy. It's an import model I got for like $150. Changed the pots and Jack, tuners, and swapped the bridge for an intonatable wrap around style. Love it. All the parts I swapped with budget parts as well.

[@sunsetloungejc]

FWIW...So here's the review I gave my new Grote 335: Good guitar, not just "for the money". It did need a little tlc, but I expected that. Pickups are basic, plain-jane humbuckers...not horrible, but not boutique. I was pleasantly surprised to find the pole screws are easily adjustable (not stripped or spinning). INTERESTINGLY enough, when I went to set the poles to match the radius, I discovered the radius to be 15" (not 12" like I expected). Under-string radius gauges...a worthy $15 investment! That explains what I had read about prior to buying: the neck felt "wide" even though it it was a standard width (I don't have my notes handy and don't recall the width, but it was nothing out of the ordinary). I lowered the action slightly (ok, I went too far and had to bring it back up lol). The fret work was nice right out of the box: not high/low spots, no rough edges. Maybe from being in a box for a while, but they did need a quick polish...but that is any guitar. Easy-peasy. As I mentioned before, the tuners are what you would expect...but they'll be fine for now...they do hold it in tune. The ONLY criticism I have about this guitar: when I was polishing the frets, the nut apparently did not have enough glue, and came off in my hand. Quick super glue repair, and we're back in business! BOTTOM LINE: I am VERY pleased with this guitar! It looks beautiful, and plays well right out of the box. A few "standard setup tweaks" and it's right as rain! The disclaimer: this model IS a mass-produced product; while the one I have is great and had no issues, be aware that your mileage may vary, so I recommend only purchasing from a reseller with a good return policy. (Now...GO GETCHA ONE!)

[@tonyleeglenn]

Fantastic review you shared here Neil. Really appreciate your contribution to the comments!

[@waltberger7885]

Im debating a Firefly Spalted Maple sunburst for $186 + 22 shipping or a Grote Satin Sunburst for $169 + Free shipping. What to choose....

[@pedrochao]

Question Tony Lee, (or anyone who could help for that matter) would a Tremolo work ok on this guitar, or would that be a bad idea?

[@tonyleeglenn]

It would have to be a Bigsby type trem. I don't see any reason why one couldn't be added. Someone else here in the comments might know differently. You could ask the facebook group: Just search for Grote guitars.

[@shawn2571]

I have a guild Starfire iv that was made in 1965, someone destroyed the neck joint on it and tried to put the wrong neck on it, however it still has the original pickups in it, do you think those humbuckers would fit in this guitar?

[@tonyleeglenn]

Sorry - I have no idea. Maybe some other viewer can comment.

[@TrackingWidgets]

Nice review! Can't find this model in Canada, perhaps it's under a different brand name here. Cheers!

[@mastrojollyroger1322]

Ciao man. Are the pickups 2 or 4 wires? I would like to take it and split the coils with a splitcoil. Then: is the neck profile a C (as it should be) or a D (modern)?

[@michealjoseph9943]

Hi Tony, hey will the Grote guitar fit in an Ibanez AS size case?

[@roycekoshy7296]

Hi Tony - thank you for the video. Any way you could provide me a measurement of the nut width? A few sources seem to say 1 5/8" but I'm trying to get an exact measurement if possible. Also if possible, the E6-E1 string spacing right at the bridge. This would really help me. Thanks!

[@tonyleeglenn]

I'll try my best to remember to measure this for you tonight Royce. More to come soon!

[@tonyleeglenn]

E to E at the nut is 36.5 mm. E to E at bridge is 52mm. Total nut width is 43mm. I used mm instead of inches just for increased accuracy.

[@roycekoshy7296]

@@tonyleeglenn Thank you so much Tony! Much appreciated and very helpful!!

[@MrPhr0sty]

Tones were great, but I think the audio is clipping on the video a bit. Bet is sounded awesome there though.

[@charliemcgrain]

Highly recommended. I put about 200 more bucks into locking tuners, pickups, a nut and a nice tail piece and a bridge. Need a minor set up after that. Plays better and sounds just as good as my real 335. Blow away by this guitar. The 335 can go back in its box and I play drive this like I stole it!!!!!!!!! Can say enough great things about this guitar. 129 bucks delivered!!!!!!!

[@line6amp574]

It's really nice

[@sdbolts2373]

Got one and its beautiful but seems to be not enough volume control or tone control. Any suggestions on how to troubleshoot the problem ?

[@Al-mu4ff]

Howdy from WV, what basic improvements would you do to this axe?

[@tonyleeglenn]

Hey my friend. I just posted a video on my channel to answer your question and several others from other people. Go check it out when you get a chance.

[@mikejamieson4252]

Same as Firefly? Better than the delta king??

[@rickwiggins2653]

After an. Neck injury a few yrs ago the ole hands don’t grip like they used to. Is it easy to fret and is the neck size average,thin ,chunky etc

[@tonyleeglenn]

Yes, the neck plays great. I'd say it's a fairly shallow C-type neck - not chunky at all.

[@petelucchini1168]

Just dropped $180.00 on a lefty vintage sunburst from Amazon.. Fingers crossed!!

[@Jrod1rulz]

How’d it go? It’s in my cart right now and I’m fighting myself to pull the trigger

[@riconadjar6221]

Back neck profile, and fingerboard radius? Thanks

[@tonyleeglenn]

Sort of a modern C and 12"

[@richwallace6854]

Anyone else notice that the thing needs fretwork? Not a bad tone though. I'll have to try and find one. Maybe a used one.

[@JMcC64]

Love me some Hatchet @ 4:00

[@CameraHam]

Would you recommend it as a first guitar?

[@tonyleeglenn]

It wouldn't be a bad choice at all Cam. The only caution is that I did have to adjust mine a bit to make it play optimally. You might need to have a skilled guitar buddy check it out to make sure all is set up properly. After a bit of work, mine played and sounded just great. I even like the Grote with P90 pickups better, but it's about $30 more expensive.

[@CRASS2047]

Are you from Knoxville? Your accent sounds exactly like the East Tn. accent.

[@tonyleeglenn]

About 90 miles from there. Raised in highlands of Mitchell County NC. We are closer to Johnson City, TN.