Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Jet vs Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50's - Side by Side Comparison

[@andyglamrock]

The Epi sounded muffled in comparison. You can get the Grestch to sound like an LP but not the other way around. The harmonic richness of the Jet is unparalleled

[@MaineBluesman]

Andy, I think you nailed it. You can make a Jet sound like a Les Paul, but it’s hard to get these stock Epiphone humbuckers to clean up and chime like the Gretsch.

[@christianzafiroglu6705]

Every time I play a Gretsch I’m just stunned by the clarity and richness. Epis are terrific guitars but have a rep for being the second string Gibsons. They’re lighter, the frets don’t quite give that rip, and the electronics come out muddy. But the Gretsch, ooh boy. Feels great, looks great, and just straight in to the amp they sound superb. Over the years, any guitar made outside the US was considered “second best.” Not Gretsch. I don’t know how they got it so right, but they did.

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Christian, thanks man... I have to agree that Gretsch make fabulous, distinctive, and very playable guitars!

[@s9plus20]

Yes, a lot of retailers in the US do price match. You sound fabulous! I found you via a search for reviews of the Gretsch. I really like your easy going, relaxed style of video so I will be a subscriber.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for that Frankie! Glad you found us and very much appreciate the support 😎👍🎸

[@scottnielson8788]

Just bought the Jet this week. Thanks for your reviews!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Scott great guitar! 👍🎸😎

[@kennywally]

Collin, you've enabled my guitar addiction to blossom! I see the incredible value in some of the budget guitars! My new Epi Les Paul Special in TV yellow is arriving today!!!

[@theguitaristas]

😁👍🎸 Happy new guitar day Ken!

[@edwardmarks4293]

I just got an Epi LP Special. Couldn't imagine a guitar this good for $400!

[@culturedan3061]

This is one of the best comparison I´ve ever seen between those beauties but to be honest I prefer the Gretsch electromatic than the Epiphone lately, because of its style and sound. Anyway, both are different and sound awsome !

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Dan! 😎🎸👍

[@mrjfeb539]

Got the Gretsch in Cadillac Green per your review love it have aGibson Les Paul gold top I like the Gretsch sound for rock a billy Gibson for blues once again what a great channel you have giving reviews on guitars that don’t break the bank thank you

[@guitaristaccountant]

I bought a G5230T a couple of weeks ago and love it - same model/colour as you have in the video. I also have a Gibson Les Paul Studio and love that too (I also have a Strat, a couple of Epiphone semis and a few other things - and I love them all!), Each has its own voice and feel and gives you something different. You can never have too many guitars! Thanks, as always, for some great videos

[@Mandobird1]

I've got guitars from both makers. Absolute screamers. Love them.

[@cedarsmokesurvival]

Thanks for the review. Excellent playing! I suppose I am a little biased since I just bought a 1950s Epiphone L. P., but while both guitars sound great, the L. P. has a fuller, thicker, and richer sound to my ear. The 1950s neck is surprisingly comfortable to play. And don’t be fooled by the stereo typical believe that the L. P. is only good with gain and growl. That a guitar can pull off some sweet clean tone sounds.

[@biglog6402]

Just thinking, it would be very informative if you did a comparison between a Epiphone Les Paul standard before the upgrades to the new Inspired by Gibson upgrades to see what difference the upgrades to more Gibson specs makes. It would be very interesting. To my knowledge no one has ever done this. By the way I like your style, I just subscribed. I’m a bit of a Les Paul nut hunting for that original 59 burst sound without spending half a million quid.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for sub! Sounds like a good film idea that... there’s no doubt these Les Paul ‘copies’ are getting closer than ever to the real deal (whatever that is!). I’ve got a Vintage V100MP to play with and review this week and definitely sense more variations of the more affordable Les Pauls will follow. I may also dig out my big G 2016 R8 for a comparison soon! Cheers and keep rocking! 😎🎸

[@joehahn8817]

You might want to try the Epiphone '59 Les Paul. It specs out pretty close to the real deal.

[@stevehanham9266]

I must say, I liked the sound of the Gretsch very much. Somewhat surprising seeing the kind of music that normally like to play. Great video...made the guitars weep in the playing....good stuff! Cheers. 😊😎🎸

[@multipipi1234]

I loved everything Gretsch because I'm biased as I bought it after this gentleman's review.

[@theguitaristas]

😁👍

[@gustafrenstrom8549]

the Grestsch sounds amazing clean.

[@ColinStuart]

The first electric guitar I ever held was a Gretsch 6120! When I still had to think about changing chords! Sitting down, it reached from my knee to my nose!

[@theguitaristas]

😂👍 Thanks Richard!

[@bronzesnake7004]

In Canada you don't get price matching unless someone is holding a sale, and they'll add price matching if you find the same guitar elsewhere cheaper, which isn't likely while the guitars are on sale, so it's a bit of a scheme. I moved out of Toronto into a small town North about 70 miles of Toronto, and there's a mid sized city South of me about 15 miles and they have a pretty large guitar shop there. Anytime I've gone in there to look for a specific guitar, I note the price, then go back home to the small family run guitar shop in town which I've been using for over 30 years, and if they have the guitar it will either be the same price or cheaper, but if it is the same price they will ALWAYS knock off a substantial percentage. If they don't have the guitar I'm after in stock, they'll order it and again, they will always beat whatever price the big stores are charging. The big stores do NOT drop prices unless they're holding a sale, but then again,the small shop I use will match or beat even sale prices. I would pay extra to support small mom and pop shops here in town unless the price was ridiculously more,which has never been the case. Finally, even with trade ins, the big stores always try to screw you, whereas this family run shop has always amazed me at the trade in value they've given me. Don't know if I've addressed your specific question, but this is my experience in a small lakeside town, and I love it here! Cheers brother! Jack ~'()'~ Canada

[@theguitaristas]

Yeah that’s pretty much how it works here too... but the large stores seem to respond if someone smaller is selling for less although that’s unlikely to happen as they need the margin to stay alive. I support my local indie music store by buying up any interesting old tube amps he gets in... hence my crazy cool collection you see in the studio here 😎👍🎸

[@nellayema2455]

52k views on this one. Congraulations! I still have hankering for an 50's Epi Goldtop. I may have to try to trade away some unner appreciated guitars for one. The white coat guys would probably cart me away in a straight jacket if I do. I have 6 Les Pauls already, so I must be nuts. I do have an Gretsch G5220 Electromatic Jet BT on the way that I got new for a steal. Wish me luck with that one. I really like this comparison video format. Your playing is stellar here. Cheers!

[@1redgate8]

Jet on it's way to me... Just love this channel!

[@snais3231]

Great review and very informative, the Gretsch for me just sounds so much sweeter

[@radurodvan4383]

Love your jams! So melodic!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for kind words! 🙏😎👍

[@radio.wolfman]

I really enjoy your videos. You’re a righteous dude and fun to watch. That’s basically all I wanted to say.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man that’s appreciated! 😆👍👍

[@radio.wolfman]

@@theguitaristas My pleash, I’ll be stayin’ tuned. Good morning & good night! 🌙

[@GRBAquatics]

Awesome Comparison.Thankyou. I have 2 Gretsch G5215 and G5232T, Both are amazing, and are completely different. The G5215 is a single Pickup, solid bodied single cut and is a Rock and Roll Machine. The G5232 is a Golden Chambered Double Cut with Bigsby, This guitar is just an absolute pleasure to play. I am in the Market for my first Les Paul Style and The Epiphones look and sound great. Cheers

[@tomrosa4248]

Thanks for a great review. I am a Les Paul guy but it is always good to hear your reviews and demo's of guitars that I would not normally know about.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Tom!

[@jmartini8875]

They're different for sure. I'm liking the Gretsch a little better I think. Played over one another sounds great.

[@victorformosa2825]

Two great sounding guitars in their own right it just amazes me what you can get for a moderate price, guitars like these weren't around in the 70s, thanks Colin.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Victor! 😎👍

[@andreapasillas5803]

I really like the lower output of the Gretsch pickups as I prefer bright sounding guitars. I have a Gretsch double cutaway electromatic Jet.

[@iTrove]

Great comparison and your work and playing has me feeling a need to start a staging area so when the wife asks I can say,… oh.. yeah..had that for a long time, just been in the garage. Really dig the feel you give when you share with us your playing. Love the comment on the JB Epi. “Cramming more notes into a space than they have a right to”. Couldn’t have said it any better.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man, kind words and support appreciated! - I do believe that at some point if they ask 'is that new' you can convincingly lie that you've had it for ages. Good luck! :)

[@jkf9167]

Sometimes you don't realize you need a Gretsch until you already have one. I got my 5422 just to have a hollowbody to play during quarantine. I love it so much. I'm gonna get a Jet soon. I haven't decided between a Bigsby or a hard tail.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Josh, tricky one but I think a jet needs a Bigsby even if you don’t use it…haven’t really had any tuning issues with this one. 😎👍

[@jkf9167]

@@theguitaristas probably true.

[@davidjohnson3784]

Great comparison. I really appreciate how you let the guitars speak for themselves, if you will. Greetings from Huntsville, AL, USA!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers David! 👍🎸

[@buckellard]

I love that you called it the "Gretch G...something or other..Jet". That was, for me, the best part.

[@troyspencer712]

I have an 2013 epiphone Les Paul tribute + 60s with the Gibson Classic 57s stock. For just a few more dollars those tributes from the mid 2010s to 2019 are a great bang for buck. These probuckers sounded good as well. Being as I have this guitar already, If I shop for a Gretsch and filtertons Id prob go for the semi hollow to further deferentiate the sounds fr the LP.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for comment, that sounds like a good plan… some of those semi-hollow electromatics look very tempting! 😎👍🎸

[@niceheartwhitesuit]

This is a really great comparison. I've actually been looking at both but only have the budget for one. I think I'll get more mileage out of the Gretsch and the bigsby is a big selling point, but that LP also sounds wonderful.

[@castnoshadow82lr48]

Gretsch is just one of them brands that slides under the radar not obviously to guitar addicts. I think the affordable gretsch are as good as any other guitar that you can buy for that price. The Chinese factories are putting out decent guitars now whether people want to admit it or not yea the components aren’t always the best but plug them into a good amp and they sing just fine. I was getting some Clapton vibes from while my guitar gently weeps on that closing solo don’t know whether that’s what you was going for but that’s what I heard

[@nellayema2455]

I really enjoy my Gretsch guitars, as well as my Les Pauls. I need another LP like I need a hole in the head, but that '50's Gold Top got in my head. I hope it passes, lol. Great playing! You had that amp singing.

[@therifftones2198]

Loved it great guitars and playing . Biscuits an tea. Merry Christmas !

[@FioreTileWorks]

Hey G - Love your channel! Your attention to detail is greatly appreciated. I've purchased 3 Epiphone 335s from an online store and every one of them was unplayable. The latest, the Inspired by Gibson was the 'least worst' - had a great sound, but do I really want to plunk down another $150 for a good setup right out of the box? No. Your excellent video on the Electromatic Jet helped me get over the hump, the enormous hump, of vainly pursuing a budget 335. I got the same black one with the Bigs. Could not be happier. The quality control out of the box is immediately apparent and no question better than that other brand. Never would have gone down this road if the Eps had similar quality, so I guess it worked out. My 8 year old is not such a fan, based solely on the fact that Gretsch is a horrible sounding word... so I guess it's never good enough for guitarists... Thanks for the vid.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers David, thanks for the support it’s appreciated! Glad you found that gretsch works for you they are excellent guitars for the money!

[@cassyvorster466]

Ive seen a few vids comparing these guitars. This is the best one by far. Nice improv there man , ur lead is awesome

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Cassy!

[@bumblefritz]

Price matching is a thing here in the USA as well if you ask. The Gretsch Jet is definitely a rock guitar, Chris Cornell was a big user of them.

[@briananderson2749]

Bit late to the show here Colin, but still going through all your older videos. These are both great looking and great sounding guitars. Hard to pick which one, but I'm leaning slightly toward the Gretsch. I had a 5220 a while ago and let it go. Dumbest thing I ever did, but that 5230 sounds even sweeter. Thanks for this comparison. 👍

[@alexanami9948]

I just bought the Gretsch. Cheers for the amazing demo.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Alex, enjoy that great guitar!

[@thomasd9237]

Gretsch, all day everyday. 👍☺️👍

[@куглаземаљска]

Very nice, it would be interesting to see you sir on reviewing some Ibanez guitars, especially their affordable GIO range...

[@TheKevinalejandroesp]

Great video man, I really enjoyed it, nice comparison, but I chose both

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Kevin that’s appreciated... both is the right choice! 👍😎🎸

[@jubei7259]

Lovely inspired by 'WMGGW' riffing there mate. George is probably the guy most closely associated with both Gretsch & Gibson so great choice. I've never owned a Gretsch but I've always wanted an old Duo Jet or Silver Jet or maybe even a White Falcon. I like the idea of the lower output Filtertrons, to give something different from the tones I get from any of my Gibsons & I want to try one of the Chris Cornell 335's to see how those pups sound in a guitar I'm used to playing too. Unfortunately, my better half has put her (not so) dainty little foot down, saying 10 guitars are too much already & that's the limit so I'll have to sell one of them before her highness will permit me to get another lol

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, I wish I could help you with a counter argument there but 10 guitars is about the point where you can no longer get away with it unfortunately! :) The good news is this affordable Gretsch will definitely give you the right vibe once you manage to break down the barrier to ownership! Good luck man! :)

[@tylerdurden5122]

Hey mate here’s a tip- get all your guitars in the same colour. She won’t know the difference when you get a new one 😃

[@andyglamrock]

And you're right about the generalized impression of the Gretsch brand not being associated with rock but lots of hard rock/goth bands are fond of their chime in high gain. The Cult comes to mind. Billy Duffy plays a barely modified signature Falcon and it fkn rips. They're borderline heavy metal sometimes.

[@theguitaristas]

yep definitely can be proper hardcore... did you see the other Grestch P90 Streamliner review I did? it's dirty as hell :)

[@andyglamrock]

@@theguitaristas No I just found your channel a couple of days ago and it rocks. I'll def check that out

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Andy, glad you found us! 😎🎸👍

[@BlackPenquinn]

The ACDC rhythm is pure Gretsch bridge

[@geoffwhitemusic]

Thanks for the comparison. Had no idea they were so different.

[@willgomez8158]

Awesome videos. Cool accent. I have that exact 50s gold top Epiphone LP . Should I swap the tuners in your opinion? I’m debating on that . Definitely upgrading the pickups.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Will, I’m going to change the pickups on this in a few weeks so watch out for that film! About the tuners... i totally wouldn’t worry nothing wrong with the Epiphone deluxes imho. Thanks for comment! 😎🎸👍

[@willgomez8158]

Looking forward to that video!! Thanks

[@johncecilia4517]

Great video How about a video on Filtertrons vs mini humbuckers?

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers John... we should! 😎🎸👍

[@RealisticZeus]

I’ve been tossing between these two but my local doesn’t have any in store to play on. That LP is beautiful sounds and looks. Not quite a fan of the gretsch chime in this one the LP seems a lot fatter LP it is 👍🏼

[@FioreTileWorks]

I was playing an Epiphone 339 in a band and the 'fat' sound got swollowed up. Switched to this same model Gretch. Cuts thru the mix. At the same volume you are twice as audible. Love it.

[@riphopfer5816]

I own this very model of Gretsch Electromatic Jet, only in airline silver. When it arrived, I took it out of its case and it was the most beautiful instrument I’ve ever owned, and I owned a $2200 Gibson Les Paul Platinum. That was a striking instrument, but in comparison, it was just fuckin monochromatic. The Jet, on the other hand, had a magnificently figured and finished mahogany neck and body; the top was an unique silver with black and chrome accents everywhere, a white binding, and white purfling on a fretboard made of gorgeous black walnut. It looked like a classic Cadillac. As for the sound, after I set her up to my preferences, I was thrilled with the articulation when picking through an arpeggiated barre chord (for instance). Plus, all one need do is cut back the tone knob just a wee bit to fatten up those highs to get some of the most delicious blues tones I’ve ever heard from any guitar. I DID have to file out the nut slots a fraction of a mil, and I added a contraption called ‘Brick’s BigsFix’ to prevent the wiggle stick wracking out mi tuning; I also replaced the spring for the Bigsby with one sold for $10 by Reverend guitars, which is slightly softer. After that, I lubed the nut, the bridge saddles, and the roller which contacts the strings on their way through the Bigsby. Now, with a light touch I only have to make minor tuning adjustments every 2 hours or so (more if I’m really playing hard and stretching the strings); with some deep vibrato action, it’ll still destabilise my tuning-but not so much I can’t get through the rest of the tune. Sry for the essay, but this is my review of this guitar-an instrument I bought on almost a whim, because I knew I liked Filter’Trons (based on what I’d heard of ‘em on KZbin, and because-due to complicated circumstances-I literally HAD to spend $1600. To me, that meant a new guitar (technically, I bought her used, but in mint condition, at an OUTRAGEOUSLY discounted price, which I took as a sign from the gods), and a new amp: a VOX I’d been eyeing up for a good four years. Several months later I bought one of the new Gretsch Streamliners with P90s and a stop tailpiece, as my sound-inspired by a combination of 60s psychedelic rock (by which I mean the Beatles, Keith Richards, Pink Floyd, and the Doors) and 70s/early 80s alternative (like Magazine, the first 3 Cure records, Wire, the Clash, Johnny Marr, all the way up to the Stone Roses. I immediately replaced all the knobs, because they looked cheap plastic shite, with abalone-jewell-ed chrome. Lastly I replaced the electronics, as, with the exception of the pickups, they were all cheap. Now she’s a real stunner.

[@robertprice5039]

My Les Paul substitute is a PRS Bernie Marsden SE with Duncan Whole Lotta Humbuckers, but I have the G5230T, and with my band that does '50s and '60s style music the Gretsch gets used a lot with that band. I do have some Player's Edition Gretsches, but if the venue is a bit of a dive, I will use an Electromatic. I put a roller bridge, locking tuners, and the low output TV Jones Hi-Lo'tron style pickups in the guitar. I did put a 1 meg pot in the master volume position because the stock pot had a bad taper.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Robert, bet that sounds and plays amazing with those upgrades! 😎👍🎸

[@BladeDoomer86]

In a mix, that Gretsch certainly cuts right through..

[@davidkenneth3983]

Gretch singing lead tone clear sweet .

[@damagecontrol60]

I have the Gretsch Electromatic MIC which has a few differences from the duo jet… and I added my own Gretsch licensed by Bigsby tremolo so it would be like George Harrison’s. But mine is a gold top, his was black… and mine has the Filter Tron’s and he had the Single coil Dynasonics on his. The Gretsch custom shop makes amazing reproductions of George Harrison‘s original guitar but they cost a pretty penny :-) I have the Epiphone with coil splitting and red / gold flame top and it is gorgeous… The coil splitting adds an extra dimension and I like the stock pick ups... I put a Duesenberg tremolo on it and I’m super happy with the sound. So I would agree with you, they have different sounds, and I love owning them both :-) and I can on both of them for less than the price of one Gibson Les Paul.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man, sounds like you have two great guitars there... and as you say for a lot less than the price of one Gibson! :)

[@bronzesnake7004]

Hey brother, in the description you've listed separate reviews however you listed the Gretsch and a "Gibson" rather than the Epiphone. Both these guitars sounds great! I like a heavy guitar. I was doing a show and in between sets weight came up between the two guitar players. I'm a lead vocalist and I play rhythm occasionally on stage, and mostly I play my guitars at home or buddie's places while jamming. Anyway, Dave says to Barry, "I really prefer a heavy guitar with a fat headstock, like the vintage Fender Strats" I said "really? Because I like a heavy guitar also, but I could care less about the headstock, what gives"? Dave says "well, remember when that drunk skinny chick jumped you on stage at Larry's Hideaway"? I said "yes, that was fun wasn't it"? LOL! He says "well actually no, and the reason I like heavy guitars is I get the fat chicks, and when they bum rush me on stage I like the heavy guitar as it can really set the big ones on their heals, then as they slide past I swing around and smack their bums with the wide headstock! Fat chicks did that"! LOL! Dave does like the bigguns! LOL! Take care brother! Jack ~'()'~ Canada

[@theguitaristas]

Well spotted man! 👍 I have always still got Gibson on the brain 🤷‍♂️ in fact I nearly bought an ex demo Gibson Les Paul Standard 50s this week until I discovered it weighed 10.8 lbs ... that’s ok for the odd bit of rhythm but try slinging that around on stage while trying to look like (insert your guitar hero) and you’ll know what I mean brother! 🤣 maybe ok when I was younger but not these days thanks! PS, I think I prefer a larger headstock these days too! 😜✌️

[@bronzesnake7004]

@@theguitaristas Not sure what happened, but that comment somehow was cut short. It must have confused you somewhat at the end there! I went ahead and filled in the blanks, and hope it gives you a laugh, as it did me! 10.8 pounds!! KRIPES! I'm thinking that model was sponsored by the Chiropractors Association, Kalamazoo! ") Take care brother! Jack ~'()'~ Canada

[@sublyme2157]

Thanks for taking the time to do this comparison, it was very helpful. Question for you, how's the sustain on the Gretsch?

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers for comment!... maybe also check out the individual review we did on this and hear some more tones!

[@manahaas]

being a epi fan and never played a gretch it sounded very clear. especially with no gain. in the soloing i like the more bite in the epi sound

[@MaineBluesman]

A really terrific and comprehensive A-B comparison for these two Asian-build guitars. A really nice mid-grade starter guitar, both, for someone who might get serious and really appreciate it. Terrific playing yourself, too.👊😎🎵🎶

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for comment and support that’s really appreciated! 😎👍🎸

[@scottbogfoot]

In Canada price matching is essential. If they dont they may never get your money in the future. Most places here understand that a repeat, possibly even a loyal customer is worth more than a one time markup profit. Guitars, amps don't seem to be where they make their money. Unless they have exclusive brands, models. 😃

[@ShawnSullivan-d8x]

Yes there’s price matching in the states.

[@alanst.4417]

Nice shootout! I must say that I like the aesthetics of a Les Paul much more, but to my surprise sonically I prefer the Gretsch quite a lot here, more articulate and dynamic. Could be partly because of the amp though, wonder how it's with a Marshall? Rock on!

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for checking in man!... I would say more articulate and dynamic a great way to explain differences, it’s just a completely different sound. Although I don’t think I did the Les Paul justice in this particular comparison... maybe the JCM900 next time! 😎🎸👍

[@alanst.4417]

@@theguitaristas that would be very interesting! You had a killer tone on the 900 with the LPs!

[@kublaicarl4818]

The cut and definition on the Gretsch is far superior.

[@patricothedude]

for the money these entry and mid level Gretsch are really knocking out of the park!

[@theguitaristas]

Totally... check out this weeks streamliner review! 👍

[@BertfromBelgium]

i just purchased the gretsch G5830T, a friend claims i have to "train" the strings, by stretching them and retuning, is that true? you should also check out the fretboard curving slightly changing according to the angle of your fingers as you move across the frets

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Bert, great guitar!.... yes you should stretch the strings a few times to bed them in... check out my SG custom review and it will show you how if you’re not sure. Cheers!

[@BertfromBelgium]

@@theguitaristas that same friend DEMANDED to bring my guitar to the pub where he has his marshall amp set up, not the same sound as on a jamstation, i almost had to take my guitar out of his hands, he wouldnt let go , "WHAT A GUITAR" he said, for less then 600€. no she's not for sale

[@tim2468]

Great comparison and the perfect song to do it with!

[@theguitaristas]

😎👍

[@Dirge4july]

ill take the Gretsch

[@pgiuliano7]

Great player fantastic tone. For the live of god please show the settings in your signal chain. EVERY TIME!! Thanks

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Peter that’s appreciated! It’s something I am doing now on every film 😎👍

[@neilmartin7564]

ive got a Epiphone LP Custom and a Gretch G5235 Pro Jet,,I cant pick a favourite,,,its like trying to pick a favourite child. Both stock standard.They just get alternated every 4-6 weeks .

[@Mountainrock70]

Gretsch are full blown tone beasts! I have a G5420T.

[@dragan4658]

The Gretsch with Bigsby is $829 Canadian, gold without Bigsby is $699 Canadian. Epi 50's is $829. I prefer the sound of the Epi, it has that growl! I believe that the Gretsch fit and finish is better and better for clean sounds where the LP is for heavier rock sounds.

[@touchthesun2448]

I have 2 Epiphones...I love them both. I had a Gretsch...it was nice but not suited to my style so I traded it for a Truck!

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one! 😁👍🎸

[@bushcry1]

A truck?

[@touchthesun2448]

@@bushcry1 yeah....1980 Dodge d150...I'm building it back with a TESLA rear drive. EV's and cheap guitars ROCK!

[@scottcarter8155]

all my gretsch guitars have bigsby's and i put roller bridges on them, less string wear and they stay in tune.

[@swinky1997]

Hi I have the exact same Gretsch that you are playing except a different bridge? My guitar has the stock bridge with a piece of wood underneath did you change it?

[@theguitaristas]

No this is standard…. Maybe you have the more expensive Gretsch Jet version which has the bridge you mention?

[@swinky1997]

Ok Thanks a bunch love your channel thank you for responding so quickly@@theguitaristas

[@planzed463]

Cool video man, thanks for this 🖐🏼😎🤚🏼 I’m a fan of LP (have a Gibson studio 1991 & special tribute p90 2021) but that Jets cleans are lovely, both sound great just different

[@davidkenneth3983]

No have either wish thogh got lp stolen wish i had a gretch i like them i dont know why im indecisive about which to get a lot diff.

[@davidkenneth3983]

I liks gretch i think better but their good for different things .

[@macfawlty]

If I had no idea what guitars you were demo’ing, sound alone, I’d pick the Gretsch every time. That said, the 50’s LPs are a great guitar. I was just surprised how bad the LP sounded clean, but then, I don’t think anyone is playing an LP clean.

[@harolddavis4138]

Love both guitars.

[@patricothedude]

just one more comment, that gently weeps segment was FUCKING SICK.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks Patrick that’s really appreciated! 😎👍

[@juttakressl9915]

Cool dude

[@Remsterdam]

Love your comparisons! I’m not a fan of the Epi probuckers, the Gretsch ones sound so much nicer. With some Seymour Duncans or Gibsons the Epi is an excellent LP. Gretsch is boss on the cleantones and on semi hollows. While my guitar gently weeps! 😉🎸

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Remco, yes I tried my best to make it weep! ;)

[@mr.purplepanther856]

Thank you so much for this video.

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks for comment and support it’s appreciated!

[@Simon-jj2pu]

Great review

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers! 👍😎🎸

[@stevechurch4728]

it's a bit like choosing between a leopard and a jaguar, two dangerous cats just for different jungles.. ha ha.. the epiphone is more brash, sparky sound whereas the gretsch is tighter,controlled both great, would love both...forced to choose i could live with a flip of a coin(then save up the money to buy the other later.. why not?) just so many good guitars though... nice playing by the way, thanks for showing the choice.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Steve... good analogy and I think the only answer is you do need both in your life! :)

[@biglog6402]

I’ve just received an Epiphone 59 tribute, not had chance try it yet. I got rid of my Epi Standard with pro buckers as the clean sound was dreadful, very bass heavy and unbalanced and slightly muddy. I’ve played my 59 acoustically and it sounds much more balanced across the strings. The Gretch is a lovely guitar but I prefer the Les Paul for classic British Rock.

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Big Log!... is that the fancy custom shop collaboration one with the Gibson pups in? be interesting to hear what difference that makes 🤔🎸👍

[@biglog6402]

@@theguitaristas it certainly is. It came from Sweetwater in the USA, it is flawless, the guitar is set up perfect for me. No gritty frets or sharp ends. Bevelled really nice. As well made as any Gibson I’ve had if not better. A definite keeper. Just fitting a lightweight aluminium stop bar to it. Not had chance test it plugged in. A bit late in the day. I’m expecting great things. I let you know. By the way I had the Epi Les Paul standard wIth pro buckers before the upgrade to CTS pots and stuff. Plastic nut 🤮. I suppose the new Inspired by Gibson sound a lot better. Even so, the pickups on my Gibson SG blew the Probuckers out of the water for tone.

[@theguitaristas]

Nice one… but now you’re talking about SG’s they are my thing and are always going to sound more alive than any Les Paul imho 😁🤘🎸

[@bushcry1]

Well... How did it sound plugged?

[@garretazonsa]

I love everything Goldtop so I am biased towards the Epiphone. And honestly, i thought it sounded better, too.

[@theguitaristas]

Definitely different... but also I don’t think that this particular film explored the strengths of the Goldtop as well as I would have liked, I should also have done some bluesy stuff really. Next time! Cheers mate always good to hear from you! 👍😎🎸

[@buzzburb1]

Another late evening indulgent guitar obsession watch, brilliant anallergy, I can now explain to my wife why both these guitars are hanging in my studio by confusing her with technical data and specs , rather than artistc bullshit about tone and looks, cheers , again !!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers man, your welcome... yes these are totally different! 😂👍

[@stuartmacdonald5361]

Yesterday I bought a Gretsch G5230t Electromatic Jet ft with Bigsby. It looked good, I didn't have Gretsch in my collection, nor did I have a Bigsby. Plus I got it at a really good price. I must admit I am not a big fan made in China guitars (they tend to be pretty poor, although they are getting better). I didn't have high expectations on the Bigsby either. they are known for going out of tune. But, HOLY SHIT this guitar played like a dream and sounds amazing. The Bigsby is silent, not a sound is made when doing divebombs, hell yeah DIVEBOMBS, and IT STAYS IN TUNE.. I know you don't believe me, I wouldn't either if I was you. But it's the truth. Not only is this Gretsch better than my Gibson LP Standard, it's also better than my PRS Core CU24 and my Custom Shop R8 LPS. I suspect I just lucked out with this guitar. I really can't see all Gretsch's to be as good as this beast. I am thinking of taking a trip to a guitar store and try a few Gretsch's to see what a normal Gretsch is like. I am so happy with this guitar, this is my best buy ever.

[@theguitaristas]

Hey Stuart, glad you got one too!... I do believe you trust me this is the part where you discover that Gretsch and many other guitars of this price point and origin are really good these days. They are rarely poor now and punch well above their weight. Enjoy it brother we live in a golden age of affordable guitar manufacturing!

[@BobEstremera]

The Gretsch is meaner and nastier with the gain up. I think you dig that.

[@theguitaristas]

Yes it's a great sound Bob! 😎👍

[@tomrosa4248]

How does this Electromatic compare to the Streamliner?

[@theguitaristas]

Mmmm... I suppose similar to how 335 feels against Les Paul?... still familiar but a different flavour? Both play great!

[@danielpayne2037]

Million thumbs up so good!

[@theguitaristas]

Cheers Daniel! 😎👍🎸

[@vincesmith2081]

Gretsch was good enough for Malcolm Young. I own 2 - The Streamliner and an Electromatic. The band likes my Gretsch and the other guy’s Les Paul. Together a very classic rock Angus/ Malcolm sound.

[@theguitaristas]

😎👍 nice one… and I bet you can be heard in the mix better than the Les Paul!

[@CyberRabid.]

The Epi says "Les Paul" on the headstock 👍

[@topjohnnnyboymontminy3336]

Some gretsch guitars have broad tron pickups which are a bit hotter then a filter tron but not as much as a les Paul so it’s like the best of both

[@theguitaristas]

Thanks man... yes I like them as they are a bit of a different flavour! 😎👍

[@topjohnnnyboymontminy3336]

@@theguitaristas I was looking at a jet with three broad trons because I like both sound I want something in the middle

[@70bluesville]

If the two were poker players, the Gretsch has a better bluff and final hand. I felt the Gretsch in my soul. I just heard the Epiphone being played.

[@PaulEvans-j7h]

The Gretch had me at hello

[@Bona-Who]

The Gretsch sounds much better through the fender than the VOX from the original review, to my ear anyway. Would you say the Bonamassa Lazarus is close to the 59 Epiphone ? If it is I only need to by the Gretsch, if not…….

[@theguitaristas]

Always a lottery with the amps and sometimes I admit I don't do the guitars proper justice. As for 59 vs Lazarus, yes very close as they are basically same guitar, but I still need to prove that in a film... Oh hang on did you want me to say the opposite so you 'need' to get both? ;)

[@Bona-Who]

@@theguitaristas “lottery on the amps” - true and the reason to have multiple. Just like cars , amps and guitars all have the same root purpose but each takes a different path to get there. I have both of those amps (mine is a AC10) but I seem to gravitate to the Fenders for my ear. I’ll wait for the side by side to have professional justification for the purchase! And I love your playing, thumb coming around the neck gets me every time. Went to the recently opened Gretsch museum in Savannah 2 weeks ago, super cool and Fred the 3rd was there telling stories. You make it state side and we’ll head “east bound and down” I think you’d dig it.

[@boogiewoogie9770]

Pssst...I think even these budget Gretsch's sound closer to original 58,59 Les Pauls than modern Les Pauls do.

[@voiceofexperience]

Better made too, I'll bet!

[@SkywalkerPMs]

I got a 5230-140 incoming

[@somebodyelseuk]

Horses for courses, really. I've played both, and I've played the original models they're based on. It's really about choosing the right tool for the job, not trying to make do with the wrong one. I wouldn't try and play Stray Cat Strut on a Les Paul, and I wouldn't attempt Parisienne Walkway on a Gretsch.

[@Patriot1777]

Gretch all the way 😊

[@therifftones2198]

By the way adding a F Hole may just be messed up and nobody like a messed up F Hole...

[@slapdog1833]

I have a Grestch like this that’s five years old made in China and the electronics or not good it has a short in the pick up switch. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. I will not buy anymore electromatics.

[@650thunderbird]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@theguitaristas]

Many thanks 🙏😎✌️