AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Gretsch Single Cut Guitars 2026
The top pick is Gretsch Electromatic Jet Club ($500). Gretsch STRML JET 1PU MD BLU gives you the most for the money at $366. Gretsch G6134TFM-NH Nigel Hendroff Signature Penguin leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 16 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 30, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Gretsch Electromatic Jet Club
Electromatic Jet Club RB · Gretsch
80 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels warm and solid thanks to its mahogany body and neck. The thick humbuckers push hard, making it great for rock and blues. It is a budget-friendly workhorse for players who want reliable tone without spending a lot.
Pros
- Mahogany body and neck offer rich resonance and warm low-end response
- PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers deliver a thick, powerful midrange punch
- LockDown bridge provides solid stability for heavy down-tuning
Cons
- No weight specification listed creates uncertainty for heavy players
- Single volume control limits dynamic range for complex solos
65AudioFu
Index↓ 9.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$554 · Aug 17$500 now$500€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Jet FT with Bigsby
Electromatic Jet BF · Gretsch
206 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels lighter than usual thanks to its chambered mahogany body. The Twin Six humbuckers deliver a thick tone that cuts through any mix. It suits players who want a solid, heavy feel without the bulk of a full solid body. The single volume knob keeps things simple, so you focus on tone rather than switching knobs.
Pros
- Light chambered mahogany body reduces overall weight significantly
- Two PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers provide thick, full output
- Push/pull tone controls add extra tonal shaping options easily
Cons
- Only one volume knob limits volume blending flexibility
- Mahogany neck can feel heavy compared to maple alternatives
65AudioFu
Index↓ 2.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$643 · Aug 17$630 now$630€566 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale632 mm (24.88")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels solid with its mahogany body and maple top, giving it a nice balance of warmth and clarity. The Indian laurel fretboard slides easily under your fingers, and the ceramic humbucker drives the amp hard without too much noise. It's a straightforward choice for players who want a reliable single-cut guitar without extra switches or knobs. Perfect for studio recording or gigging where you need consistent sound.
Pros
- Mahogany body paired with maple top for balanced tone
- Indian laurel fretboard offers smooth playability
- HotWire ceramic humbucker delivers strong output
Cons
- Single pickup limits tonal options for some players
- Only one master volume control available
55AudioFu
Index↓ 5.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$387 · Aug 17$366 now$366€329 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G6129TG-59VS Limited Edition Sparkle Jet
G6129TG-59VS Sparkle Jet RD · Gretsch
21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar sounds like a classic 50s jazz player but plays like a modern rock machine. The mahogany body and arched top give it a warm, singing tone while the TV Jones pickups cut through any mix. It suits players who love vintage vibes but need a solid tremolo for big bends. Perfect for jazz, blues, or rock with that sparkly red finish.
Pros
- Mahogany body paired with arched maple top for warm tone
- TV Jones Ray Butts pickups deliver strong midrange punch
- String-through tremolo allows smooth pitch bending without binding
Cons
- Single master volume control lacks dedicated volume knob
- Standard U neck profile may feel bulky to smaller hands
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,479 now$3,479€3,126 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This Jet Firebird is a real looker and a fantastic value. The Filter'Trons nail that classic Gretsch tone, perfect for rockabilly, blues, and garage rock. It's a great option for players wanting vintage vibe and character without the premium price tag of their higher-end models.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides warm resonance and sustain.
- Filter'Tron pickups deliver thick, articulate vintage tones.
- Thin 'U' neck profile offers comfortable playability for many hands.
Cons
- Mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavier instrument.
- Limited pickup versatility; leans heavily into rockabilly/blues tones.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$632 now$632€568 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G6134TFM-NH Nigel Hendroff Signature Penguin
G6134TFM-NH Nigel Hendroff AF · Gretsch
24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
Nigel Hendroff's signature Gretsch is a beautiful, well-built instrument dripping with vintage vibe. The Broad'Trons give it a unique, powerful character perfect for rock, blues, and roots music – think early Stones or Creedence. It’s a premium-priced option, but the quality and tone are undeniable for players seeking a distinctive Gretsch sound.
Pros
- Flamed maple top adds stunning visual appeal and tonal complexity.
- Mahogany body provides warm resonance and sustain.
- Broad'Tron pickups deliver a thick, articulate vintage tone.
Cons
- The mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavier build.
- The 'U' neck profile might not suit players preferring a thinner profile.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,671 now$3,671€3,298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
The Sparkle Jet FT GLD SPK is a seriously fun guitar – that gold sparkle finish alone is a head-turner! It nails that classic Gretsch vibe, with a warm, punchy tone that's ideal for rock, blues, and roots music. This is a great option for players seeking a vintage-inspired feel and eye-catching style without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant core tone perfect for rockabilly.
- Thin uin neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability for extended gigs.
- Filter’Tron pickups provide a thick, creamy overdrive characteristic of vintage Gretsches.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make it feel a little weighty, especially after long playing sessions.
- Sparkle finish, while striking, can be a fingerprint magnet requiring diligent cleaning.
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- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale632 mm (24.88")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels balanced thanks to its mahogany and maple chambered body. The Graph Tech nut and thick humbuckers give it a solid, cutting sound. It works well for players who want a classic single-cut feel without the extra bulk.
Pros
- Mahogany and maple chambered body cuts through mix easily
- Graph Tech NuBone nut adds sustain and bright attack
- Sphera Twin Six humbuckers deliver thick, punchy tone
Cons
- Variable fingerboard radius makes playability inconsistent
- No-load tone control lacks dedicated bass boost
45AudioFu
Index↓ 5.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$811 · Aug 17$767 now$767€689 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale632 mm (24.88")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels light thanks to its chambered body and heavy ebony fingerboard. The Sphera Twin Six pickups drive the amp hard with a punchy tone. It suits players who want a solid feel but need the instrument to stay manageable during long gigs.
Pros
- Chambered mahogany body keeps weight down while staying solid
- Graph Tech NuBone nut feels smooth for fast playing
- Sphera Twin Six humbuckers offer strong, clear output
Cons
- No weight spec listed means you don't know how heavy it is
- Black plexi pickguard offers no protection against scratches or chips
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$776 now$776€697 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Gretsch Jet Club VWT is a fantastic entry point into the Gretsch sound. The vintage white finish and Neo-Classic thumbnail inlays give it serious style, and the Twin Six pickups offer a surprisingly aggressive voice. It’s a budget-friendly option perfect for players wanting that classic Gretsch vibe for rock, blues, or garage rock.
Pros
- Nato body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- Slim 'inCin' neck profile offers comfortable, fast playing for various hand sizes.
- Twin Six humbuckers deliver a thick, powerful tone suitable for rock and blues.
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction limits the sustain compared to set-neck designs.
- Nato body, while warm, lacks the premium character of mahogany or ash.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$421 now$421€378 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 16 single cut guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Gretsch Electromatic Jet Club 1 CBGretsch44↓ 6.5%$466€419$466€419Check ↗
- 12
Gretsch EMTC Premier Jet CLRVYNTGretsch43↓ 1.0%$752€676$752€676Check ↗
- 13
Gretsch G6134T-58 Penguin LTD BLPRLGretsch43Stable$4,451€3,999$4,451€3,999Check ↗
- 14
Gretsch 6134CST 55 Penguin GS RelicGretsch · 2 finishes42Stable$8,568€7,698$8,568€7,698Check ↗
- 15
Gretsch 6130CS 55 DuoJet Western RelicGretsch39Stable$9,347€8,398$9,347€8,398Check ↗
- 16
Gretsch G6128-55 Duo Jet NOS MBGMGretsch37Stable$9,793€8,799$9,793€8,799Check ↗
Single Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 488 models we track, not a sample.
Median $632 — half of all single cut guitars here cost less.
median of 369 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43.1 mm (1.7")
median of 433 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")
most common · 395 models
most common · 322 models
How to choose the best single cut guitars
Heritage & Aesthetics
Gretsch's history is baked into every curve and binding. That's not just about looks - it's about a lineage of craftsmanship and a distinct visual identity that screams vintage cool.
Hollow Body Resonance
This is the core of the Gretsch sound. You get a low-end thump and a bloom that a solid body just can't replicate. It's fantastic for rockabilly, blues, country, and anything that needs that extra bit of warmth and sustain, but it can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
Filter'Tron Pickups
These aren't your typical P90s or single coils. They're voiced for a warmer, more rounded tone with a distinctive midrange honk. They've got a unique articulation - not as brittle as some high-output pickups, but still capable of delivering grit when you need it. They're a huge part of the Gretsch 'voice'.
Neck Profiles
Gretsch necks have evolved over the years. Some are chunky vintage affairs, others more modern and comfortable. This is a huge factor in playability; try before you buy if you can. A poorly matched neck profile can ruin an otherwise fantastic guitar.
Build Quality & Hardware
Gretsch's build quality has fluctuated over the years. Older models are generally considered more robust, while newer ones can sometimes have fretwork or hardware issues. The Bigsby tremolo is iconic, but can feel a little flimsy on some models - be prepared to potentially upgrade it if you're a heavy trem user.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk Gretsch single cuts. They're not for everyone - that hollow body resonance, the twang, the vibe... it's a commitment. But if you're chasing that vintage hollow-body tone, something with character that cuts through a mix without being harsh, a Gretsch single cut might be exactly what you've been searching for. Forget the sterile precision of a Fender; these are about feel and sonic complexity.
Don't chase the prettiest top - focus on the neck. Gretsch's can be finicky with feedback; experiment with different strap pads and amp placement. Older models command a premium for a reason, but newer ones offer better value if you're willing to potentially tweak the setup.
The Jet models (like the Pro Jet and Streamliner) are great entry points, but be aware that corners are cut - expect thinner finishes and potentially lower-grade hardware.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 31 single cut guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 488 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are Gretsch guitars loud?
They're naturally louder than most solid-body guitars thanks to the hollow construction. This is great for recording and smaller gigs, but you'll need to be mindful of feedback at higher volumes. A noise gate can be your friend.
Are Gretsch guitars hard to play?
It depends on the neck profile and action. Some vintage Gretsch necks are quite thick, which might not suit everyone. Modern models often have more comfortable profiles, but a proper setup is crucial for optimal playability.
Can I use a Gretsch for rock or metal?
Absolutely, but it won't sound like a Les Paul. You'll get a unique, more vintage-flavored tone. The Filter'Trons have enough grit for rock, but for heavier genres, consider replacing the pickups.
What's the difference between a Gretsch Jet and a Tennesse Rose?
Tennessee Rose models feature rosewood fretboards and generally have a higher-end build. Jet models are more common and often more affordable, offering a great entry point to the Gretsch sound.
Are Gretsch guitars prone to feedback?
Yes, due to the hollow body construction. Careful amp placement, strap pads, and potentially a noise gate can help mitigate feedback issues. It's part of the charm, though - a little controlled feedback can add character.
