Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollow Body Single-Cut with Bigsby in Orange Stain, Open Box

Please Note: This item is Open Box stock. It is in "As New" condition. May have some small signs of being handled.

Quick Product Summary

The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollow Body Single-Cut with Bigsby in Orange Stain delivers the unmistakable look, feel and character many players picture when they think of a classic Gretsch electric guitar.

Its full hollow-body construction uses a laminated maple body with trestle-block bracing, helping combine lively acoustic resonance with greater focus, faster attack and improved feedback resistance. A pair of FT-5E Filter’Tron pickups provides the clear top end, punchy midrange and defined low end that suits everything from rockabilly and country to blues, indie, classic rock and atmospheric guitar work.

A genuine Bigsby B60 vibrato, 24.6-inch scale, Classic “C” maple neck and 12-inch-radius laurel fingerboard complete a guitar that combines vintage Gretsch inspiration with comfortable modern playability.

This example is offered as Open Box, making it an attractive option for players looking for the G5420T experience while considering an alternative to factory-sealed stock.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	Gretsch
Model	G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollow Body
Model Number	2506115512
Finish	Orange Stain
Condition	Open Box
Body	Laminated maple hollow body
Bracing	Trestle Block
Pickups	2 x FT-5E Filter’Tron
Vibrato	Bigsby B60
Scale Length	24.6"
Main Appeal	Classic Gretsch hollow-body sound and styling
Best For	Rockabilly, blues, country, rock, indie and roots music

Open Box Condition Report

Condition: Open Box

This guitar is being sold as Open Box rather than factory-sealed new stock.

No specific cosmetic marks, faults, repairs or modifications have been supplied for this listing.

Open Box instruments are checked by Fair Deal Music before leaving us so that their operation, controls and general playing condition can be assessed before dispatch.

What's Included?

• Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollow Body Single-Cut with Bigsby in Orange Stain

• Factory-fitted .011–.049 nickel-plated steel strings

• Bigsby B60 vibrato system

✘ No case or gig bag included as standard

Condition Notes

No individual cosmetic marks or condition issues have been supplied for this Open Box example.

No faults, repairs or modifications have been supplied for the listing.

Fair Deal Quality Control Assessment

Before leaving Fair Deal Music, the G5420T is checked for general playing condition and correct operation.

For a hollow-body electric guitar of this type, our assessment includes:

• Pickup output

• Pickup selector operation

• Individual pickup volume controls

• Master volume operation

• Master tone control

• Output connection

• Tuning operation

• Bigsby vibrato operation

• General playability

• Visual condition

The instrument is checked before dispatch, but guitar setup can move slightly during transport as temperature and humidity change.

Service / Setup Work

The guitar is checked and set up to a suitable playing condition before leaving Fair Deal Music.

As with any wooden guitar, neck relief, action and tuning stability can alter slightly as the instrument adjusts to changes in temperature and humidity during delivery.

Why Choose The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic?

Classic Full Hollow-Body Gretsch Character

Unlike a centre-block semi-hollow, the G5420T uses a true hollow-body design. This gives the guitar a lively and responsive feel, with plenty of acoustic interaction underneath the amplified sound.

Trestle-Block Bracing

The internal trestle-block bracing increases the connection between the guitar's top and back, helping give the G5420T a quicker attack, improved sustain and greater control at amplified volumes while retaining genuine hollow-body character.

FT-5E Filter’Tron Pickups

The twin FT-5E Filter’Trons give the G5420T the focused, articulate humbucking response associated with Gretsch guitars. Chords remain clear and separated, clean picking has plenty of snap, and moderate overdrive produces weight without immediately becoming muddy.

Bigsby B60 Vibrato

The fitted Bigsby B60 is ideal for gentle pitch movement, chord shimmer and expressive lead work. It is an important part of the G5420T's personality and particularly suits rockabilly, country, blues and atmospheric styles.

Practical Master Volume Control

The master volume features a treble-bleed circuit, helping preserve clarity when you reduce the guitar's overall output. This is particularly useful when controlling an overdriven amplifier directly from the guitar.

Gretsch G5420T vs Popular Alternatives

Gretsch G5420T vs G2420T Streamliner

The G2420T Streamliner is a more accessible route into the Gretsch hollow-body format. The G5420T moves into the Electromatic range with FT-5E Filter’Tron pickups, trestle-block bracing and a specification aimed at players looking for a significant step up in Gretsch character and refinement.

Gretsch G5420T vs G5422T Electromatic

The G5422T offers a double-cutaway body for easier upper-fret access. The G5420T is the better choice for players who prefer the traditional single-cut Gretsch silhouette and classic large hollow-body presentation.

Gretsch G5420T vs G5622T Electromatic Centre Block

The G5622T uses centre-block construction and is better suited to players expecting to use heavier gain and higher stage volumes regularly. The G5420T offers a more open and resonant response for players who specifically want the feel of a true hollow body.

Gretsch G5420T vs Gretsch Professional Collection Hollow Body

Professional Collection models move further into premium materials, hardware and construction. The G5420T remains a particularly strong option for players wanting a serious Gretsch hollow-body experience without stepping directly into flagship territory.

Who Is The Gretsch G5420T For?

The G5420T suits guitarists who specifically want the response and character of a large hollow-body electric rather than simply vintage-inspired styling.

It is particularly well suited to:

• Rockabilly players

• Country guitarists

• Blues musicians

• Roots and Americana players

• Indie and alternative guitarists

• Classic rock players

• Singer-songwriters

• Bigsby users

• Players moving up from a Streamliner

• Guitarists looking for their first serious Gretsch hollow body

Playing Styles & Applications

The G5420T naturally excels at rockabilly and early rock 'n' roll, where the combination of Filter’Tron pickups, hollow construction and Bigsby vibrato delivers articulate rhythm tones and expressive lead playing.

Country guitarists can take advantage of the defined bridge pickup for clear picking, while the neck pickup offers a warmer voice for smoother rhythm and melodic work.

For blues and classic rock, the FT-5E Filter’Trons respond well to edge-of-breakup and moderate-gain amplifiers, producing weight while retaining note definition.

The G5420T is equally interesting for indie and alternative music, particularly when combined with reverb, delay, tremolo and modulation effects.

Hollow Body vs Centre Block: Which Gretsch Is Right For You?

A full hollow-body guitar such as the G5420T allows more of the body to resonate freely. This creates a lively physical response and an open quality that many players specifically seek from a Gretsch.

A centre-block guitar generally provides greater resistance to feedback when using louder amplifiers and heavier distortion.

Choose the G5420T if hollow-body resonance, touch sensitivity and classic Gretsch feel are central to the sound you're looking for. Choose a centre-block model if higher-gain performance and maximum feedback control take priority.

Looking for advice on choosing between Gretsch Streamliner, Electromatic and hollow-body models? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.

Story & Context

The large single-cut hollow-body electric has been one of the defining shapes in Gretsch history since the 1950s, becoming closely associated with the company's blend of archtop construction and amplified electric-guitar performance.

The modern G5420T continues that tradition within the Electromatic Collection, but it is not simply a visual recreation of an older guitar. Features such as trestle-block bracing, FT-5E Filter’Tron pickups and a master volume treble-bleed circuit are intended to make the instrument practical for contemporary players.

The Orange Stain finish is particularly appropriate for the G5420T, reinforcing the visual connection with some of the classic single-cut Gretsch hollow-body guitars that helped establish the company's distinctive identity.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Model	G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollow Body Single-Cut with Bigsby
Model Number	2506115512
Series	Electromatic
Orientation	Right-Handed
Number of Strings	6
Finish	Orange Stain
Body Build	Hollow Body
Body Shape	Electromatic Hollow Body
Cutaway	Single Cutaway
Body Material	Laminated Maple
Body Top	Arched Laminated Maple
Body Back	Arched Laminated Maple
Body Finish	Gloss
Body Depth	2.75" / 70 mm
Bracing	Trestle Block
Body Binding	White with B/W/B Purfling
Neck Material	Maple
Neck Construction	Set Neck
Neck Finish	Gloss
Neck Profile	Classic “C”
Neck Binding	White
Scale Length	24.6" / 625 mm
Fingerboard	Laurel
Fingerboard Radius	12" / 305 mm
Number of Frets	22
Fret Size	Medium Jumbo
Nut	Graph Tech NuBone
Nut Width	1.6875" / 42.86 mm
Position Inlays	Pearloid Neo-Classic Thumbnail
Bridge Pickup	FT-5E Filter’Tron
Neck Pickup	FT-5E Filter’Tron
Pickup Configuration	Filter’Tron / Filter’Tron
Controls	Neck Volume, Bridge Volume, Master Volume, Master Tone
Master Volume	Treble-Bleed Circuit
Pickup Selector	3-Position Toggle
Bridge	Adjusto-Matic with Secured Laurel Base
Tailpiece	Bigsby B60
Tuning Machines	Vintage-Style Open-Back
Hardware Finish	Nickel
Pickguard	Silver Plexi with Gretsch and Electromatic Logos
Control Knobs	G-Arrow
Strap Buttons	Gretsch Knurled Strap Retainer Knobs
Factory Strings	Nickel-Plated Steel .011–.049

Specification Note

Individual guitar weight has not been supplied for this Open Box example.

If exact weight is important to you, contact our team and we can advise on the specific instrument.

Compatibility & Recommended Pairings

The G5420T works especially well with equipment that allows its clarity and hollow-body response to come through.

Popular pairings include:

• Clean or edge-of-breakup guitar amplifiers

• Low-gain overdrive

• Tape-style delay

• Reverb pedals

• Tremolo effects

• Compression for clean picking

• Pedal or clip-on tuner

• Quality guitar cable

Compatible Gretsch protection options include the G2162 Hollow Body Gig Bag and G6241FT Hardshell Case.

Power Requirements

The FT-5E Filter’Tron pickups are passive, so the G5420T requires no battery or external power supply.

Connect the guitar to a suitable amplifier, pedalboard, modeller or audio interface using a standard ¼-inch instrument cable.

Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollow Body in Orange Stain remains one of the strongest choices for a guitarist looking for the full Gretsch hollow-body experience without moving straight into the Professional Collection.

The trestle-block body feels lively and responsive, the FT-5E Filter’Trons give the guitar the articulation and punch players expect from a Gretsch, and the Bigsby B60 adds genuine expressive value rather than simply completing the vintage appearance.

As an Open Box example, it is particularly appealing to players looking for strong value on one of the key models in the Electromatic range.

Best suited for: Rockabilly, country, blues, indie, classic rock and players wanting a traditional full-size Gretsch hollow body.

Customers usually upgrade from: Gretsch Streamliner models, entry-level hollow-body guitars or conventional solid-body electrics.

Most commonly paired with: Clean or lightly driven amplification, reverb, delay and low-gain overdrive.

Our tip: Use the master volume to control an amplifier set near breakup. The treble-bleed circuit helps preserve definition as you roll the guitar back.

Showroom feedback: The G5420T is a strong middle ground in the Gretsch range, offering a noticeably more refined hollow-body experience while retaining the immediate character that makes these guitars so enjoyable to play.

Want a closer look at this exact Open Box guitar? Ask our team about a video demonstration and we'll be happy to help where possible.

Why Buy Open Box From Fair Deal Music?

An Open Box instrument can be an excellent way to access a desirable guitar while considering an alternative to factory-sealed stock.

At Fair Deal Music, Open Box guitars are checked before leaving us so that you can buy with greater confidence.

You also have access to our experienced team if you need advice about condition, setup, compatible accessories or whether the guitar is right for your playing style.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

Based in Birmingham, our experienced team includes musicians who understand the equipment we sell and can offer practical advice whether you're choosing your first Gretsch, moving up from a Streamliner or adding another hollow-body guitar to your collection.

Buying from Fair Deal Music gives you:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians

• Carefully checked new, Open Box and pre-owned musical equipment

• A large Birmingham showroom

• Friendly support before and after your purchase

• Secure online ordering

• UK delivery options

• Decades of experience supplying musicians

• Help choosing suitable cases, amplifiers, pedals and accessories

• New and pre-owned buying expertise

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.

We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.

Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.

It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the G5420T fully hollow?

Yes. The G5420T is a hollow-body electric guitar rather than a centre-block semi-hollow. Internal trestle-block bracing helps increase rigidity and feedback control while retaining the responsive character of the hollow design.

How does the G5420T handle overdrive?

It works particularly well from clean tones through to moderate overdrive. As with any full hollow-body guitar, very high gain and extreme stage volume can increase the likelihood of feedback.

What do FT-5E Filter’Tron pickups sound like?

They offer a clear and articulate humbucking sound with strong note separation, defined lows and plenty of attack. They are particularly effective for clean rhythm work and lower-gain overdrive where clarity matters.

What does the master volume treble-bleed circuit do?

It helps retain high-frequency clarity as the master volume is reduced. This allows you to clean up an overdriven amplifier from the guitar without the sound becoming excessively dark.

Is the 24.6-inch scale comfortable?

The relatively short 24.6-inch scale contributes to a comfortable string feel and suits chord work, bends and expressive vibrato particularly well.

Can the G5420T be used with normal guitar pedals?

Yes. The passive electronics work with conventional guitar pedals, multi-effects processors, modellers and amplifiers.

Is the Bigsby designed for large pitch changes?

No. The Bigsby B60 is intended mainly for smooth, subtle vibrato rather than extreme dive bombs. It works particularly well for chord shimmer and expressive melodic phrasing.

What styles suit the G5420T?

Rockabilly, country, blues, roots, classic rock, indie, alternative and pop all suit the G5420T particularly well. Its clear pickups also make it useful for recording and effects-heavy guitar parts.

Should I use the factory .011–.049 string gauge?

The factory .011–.049 gauge is a good starting point for the guitar and Bigsby system. Other gauges can be used, but larger changes may require adjustments to the setup and intonation.