Gretsch Guitars

This is a used guitar. (Bought new in 2008) It has a couple modifications and plays GREAT. The neck radius has been custom modified to increase the playability. The original Jaguar and all American reissues come with a 7.5" radius neck. This is problematic because when you do 'blues bends' on the thin strings they 'choke out' on the mid/high point of the neck unless you compensate by raising the string saddles so the strings are higher above the neck. 

 I've modified this one to have a 10" radius which allows for lower action and increased string bending ability without having the string 'choke out' on the high point of the curve of the neck as you bend. It's a $200 modification since it entailed having the whole neck refretted. I excel at setting up my guitars and this one is no exception. It plays great and I maintain it well. The original Jaguar guitar had design flaws that are part of the reason that Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters are more commonly used but once you correct the flaws they're great guitars. The short scale 24" scale length is great for people who have smaller hands, allows for easy 'thumb over' fretting and is very comfortable to play. 

The other primary design flaw of the original Jaguar guitar is the bridge. The string saddles allow the sting to 'roll around' on the saddle, or worse yet, completely roll off and flip the saddle upside down which isn't something you want to have happen while playing live. There are a couple common solutions to that problem. I've tried them all. In order to correct the problem, what I wound up preferring was to 'shim' the neck, increasing the break angle over the bridge, along with raising the bridge to increase tension and 'slotting' the low E string saddle so the E string would not slide around at all. I also tried the "Buzz Stop Bar"at one point but didn't like how it changed the tonal character of the guitar. I also didn't like how it shortened the extra string length behind the bridge which I like to use for special effect noises etc. I'll include the buzz stop and an extra E saddle for those who want to change the set up. I've also shortened the bridge saddle screws so they don't buzz against the string when the string saddles are properly adjusted for the intonation of each string. 

YET another minor modification: I added a thin piece of foam under the 'Fender Mute' which raised it and makes it easier to turn on or off. This can easily be removed if you prefer. Cosmetically this guitar is pretty scratched up, has paint chips and dents. Some pay extra to have a guitar 'ROAD WORN' from the factory. I should WORK at that factory! Sounds fun! Anyway, the nitrocellulose finish on these guitars is unique. It's a very breathable finish and allows the wood to resonate more. It also absorbs dye from clothing, the guitar strap and so on. I noticed within a week of owning it that the guitar strap dye had soaked into the finish of the guitar. As it 'aged' there were more and more marks on the guitar, combined with a little reckless stage shenanigans this guitar is definitely "Road Worn" and looks great in my opinion.

 If you're the type who polishes their guitar and cringes at the sight of a scratch go buy another guitar and a lifetime supply of guitar polish and make sure to be really careful when you strum it so you don't scratch the pick guard etc. This guitar is NOT for you if that's the case! hahaha.... Anyway, I know some are more anal retentive about their guitars in that regard. Not me. I just want them to play great and this one does. 

This guitar has served me well but I'm looking to change up my tone and get an expensive Gretsch Duo Jet. I'd like to hold onto it but I'm going to let it go to raise some $ toward the new guitar. So many guitars....so little time. 

New they go for $1699.

With the modifications I've done this guitar kicks the ass off the ones coming from the factory. I'm not going to let it go for too cheap since I've put extra $ into it. I think it's worth it. Hardshell case is included with custom graphic design I did myself. 

Character. This guitar exudes it. 

I wish I didn't have to sell it to raise $ for the Duo Jet but thats the way it goes.