Gretsch Electromatic® Jet™ Baritone, Rosewood Fingerboard, Imperial Stain

Quick Product Summary

The Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone in Imperial Stain takes the unmistakable Jet formula into serious low-register territory, combining a substantial 29.75-inch scale length with powerful PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers and an unusually flexible electronics package.

Its chambered mahogany body is topped with carved solid maple, providing the depth and authority needed from a baritone while retaining attack and definition. A bolt-on maple neck, bound rosewood fingerboard and Performance “C” profile make the extended scale approachable, while sculpted body contours and a rounded heel improve comfort and upper-fret access.

Two PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers are paired with individual tone controls and independent push/pull coil splits, giving you everything from huge low-register humbucker sounds to cleaner, more focused single-coil textures.

For alternative, metal, ambient, cinematic and low-tuned rock players looking for something more distinctive than a conventional extended-range guitar, the Electromatic Jet Baritone is a seriously versatile option.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	Gretsch
Series	Electromatic Collection
Model	Jet Baritone
Finish	Imperial Stain
Body	Chambered Mahogany with Solid Maple Top
Fingerboard	Bound Rosewood
Scale Length	29.75" / 756 mm
Pickups	2 x PureVolt Twin Six Humbuckers
Electronics	Individual Coil Splits & Treble-Bleed Master Volume
Condition	New
Main Appeal	Extended-scale baritone power with versatile dual-humbucker electronics
Best For	Alternative, metal, ambient, post-rock, cinematic and studio work

What's Included?

• Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone, Imperial Stain

• Factory-fitted Nickel Plated Steel .013–.065 strings

• ✘ Case not included

• ✘ Gig bag not included

Fair Deal Quality Control Assessment

Every new electric guitar is checked before leaving Fair Deal Music.

For an extended-scale instrument such as the Electromatic Jet Baritone, our checks cover the important playing and functional areas including pickup operation, three-way switching, individual tone controls, push/pull coil splits, treble-bleed master volume, tuning operation, bridge hardware and general playability.

The extended scale and heavier string set make correct setup particularly important, helping the guitar deliver the tension, clarity and definition expected from a proper baritone instrument.

Service / Setup Work

The guitar is checked and set up before leaving the shop.

As with any wooden instrument, setup can shift slightly during transport because temperature and humidity changes can affect neck relief, string height and tuning stability. Minor adjustment after delivery can occasionally be beneficial depending on your preferred tuning, playing style and local environment.

Why Choose The Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone?

29.75-Inch Extended Baritone Scale

At 29.75 inches, the scale is substantially longer than a standard 24.75 or 25.5-inch electric guitar and even longer than many 27-inch baritone designs. That extra length helps maintain useful string tension and note definition when exploring lower tunings.

Chambered Mahogany Body With Solid Maple Top

Rather than using a completely solid slab body, Gretsch combines chambered mahogany with a carved solid maple top. The result provides substantial lows and midrange weight while retaining enough attack and upper-frequency definition to keep low notes articulate.

PureVolt Twin Six Humbuckers

The two PureVolt Twin Six pickups are designed specifically for power and clarity. Each uses twelve adjustable pole pieces, while the neck pickup uses an Alnico IV magnet and the bridge uses Alnico V to create different but complementary responses.

Individual Coil Splits

Each pickup has its own push/pull coil-split function on its corresponding tone control. This means you can split either pickup independently rather than being limited to a single global coil-split switch.

Master Volume With Treble Bleed

The master volume incorporates a treble-bleed circuit, helping retain clarity as you reduce the guitar's overall output. This is particularly valuable on a baritone, where preserving attack can stop lower notes becoming overly dark at reduced volume settings.

Comparison Against Popular Alternatives

Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone vs Electromatic CVT Baritone

The Electromatic CVT Baritone uses a shorter 27-inch scale and solid mahogany double-cut body, making it a little closer to the proportions and feel of a conventional electric guitar.

The Jet extends to 29.75 inches and adds chambered mahogany construction with a carved maple top. Choose the CVT if compact dimensions and slightly easier stretches are priorities; choose the Jet if you want greater scale length, firmer low-register response and the classic single-cut Jet format.

Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone vs Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster

The Squier uses a 27-inch scale with traditional Telecaster-style single-coil pickups and a three-saddle bridge. It is a great option for players wanting low-register Tele clarity and a straightforward vintage-inspired specification.

The Gretsch goes considerably further with its 29.75-inch scale, dual humbuckers, independent coil splits and chambered construction. Choose the Squier for classic single-coil baritone character; choose the Gretsch for greater output, tonal flexibility and a longer-scale playing experience.

Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone vs Fender Player II Baritone Telecaster

The Player II Baritone Telecaster uses a 27-inch scale and Fender Alnico V Tele single-coils, offering a more traditional Fender interpretation of the baritone electric guitar.

The Electromatic Jet is better suited to players who want a heavier dual-humbucker platform, longer scale and independent coil-split options. The Fender is the stronger choice when traditional Tele attack and feel are the priority.

Who Is The Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone For?

The Electromatic Jet Baritone is particularly well suited to:

• Guitarists exploring significantly lower tunings

• Alternative and modern rock players

• Metal guitarists wanting low-register definition from six strings

• Ambient and post-rock players building large effects-driven textures

• Film, soundtrack and cinematic composers

• Studio musicians looking for a separate sonic layer between standard guitar and bass

• Players who prefer humbuckers but still want access to split-coil sounds

• Experienced guitarists looking for an instrument that encourages completely different riffs and arrangements

It is especially compelling as a second or specialist guitar for players whose standard six-string instruments already cover conventional tuning.

Playing Styles & Applications

The Electromatic Jet Baritone is naturally suited to alternative rock, metal, doom, post-rock, ambient, cinematic music, experimental guitar and studio production, but its versatility extends far beyond heavy sounds.

The PureVolt Twin Six bridge pickup provides attack and definition for low-register riffs, while the neck pickup produces broader, smoother tones for atmospheric melodies and clean chord work.

Splitting either pickup opens up brighter textures that work particularly well with chorus, tremolo, delay and reverb.

The long scale also makes the Jet Baritone useful for sparse low-register arrangements where clarity and note separation matter more than sheer gain.

Why Does A 29.75-Inch Scale Matter On A Baritone Guitar?

A longer scale increases string tension at a given pitch and string gauge. When a guitar is tuned lower, that additional length helps prevent the strings from feeling excessively loose while improving attack and pitch definition.

At 29.75 inches, the Electromatic Jet Baritone sits at the longer end of the baritone-guitar spectrum. Players coming directly from a standard electric guitar will notice the wider fret spacing, but the trade-off is a particularly authoritative low-register response.

This makes it a strong choice for musicians who want a dedicated baritone rather than simply using heavier strings and lower tuning on a conventional-scale guitar.

Looking for advice on choosing between a baritone guitar, Bass VI, seven-string or conventional electric guitar? Our experienced team of musicians at Fair Deal Music can help by phone, online or in-store.

Compatibility & Practical Buying Advice

The Electromatic Jet Baritone uses a standard 1/4-inch instrument output, so it works with conventional guitar amplifiers, pedalboards, recording interfaces and wireless systems.

Because a baritone produces substantially more low-frequency energy than a typical electric guitar, amplifier and speaker choice becomes increasingly important at high volume. A setup with good low-frequency control will generally keep riffs tighter and clearer.

Distortion, fuzz and overdrive can produce huge low-register sounds, while compression, delay, reverb, tremolo and modulation can turn the instrument into an excellent ambient or cinematic tool.

If you change significantly from the factory .013–.065 string gauge or move to a substantially different tuning, a setup adjustment may be required to optimise neck relief, action and intonation.

Story & Context

The Gretsch Jet lineage dates back to 1953, when the original Duo Jet appeared as the company's flagship solid-body electric guitar. Despite being marketed as a solid-body design, the early Jet used chambered mahogany construction – a feature that became an important part of the model's distinctive response.

The modern Electromatic Jet Baritone applies that chambered-body philosophy to a very different musical requirement. Its extended 29.75-inch scale takes the familiar single-cut Jet concept deep into baritone territory while retaining the combination of mahogany and maple that has long been associated with Jet construction.

This latest generation also represents a significant step forward in electronics. PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers, individual pickup tone controls, independent coil splits and a treble-bleed master volume give the instrument considerably more onboard tone shaping than a traditional Jet or earlier baritone design.

The result is less a vintage recreation and more a modern extension of the Jet idea, designed for players exploring sounds well below the range of a conventional electric guitar.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Brand	Gretsch
Series	Electromatic Collection
Family	Jet
Model	Electromatic Jet Baritone
Model Number	2517102579
Orientation	Right-Handed
Colour	Imperial Stain
Number of Strings	6
Body Build	Solid Body / Chambered Construction
Cutaway	Single Cutaway
Body Shape	Jet
Body Material	Chambered Mahogany with Maple Top
Body Top	Solid Maple
Body Finish	Gloss
Body Binding	Aged White with B/W Purfling
Neck Material	Maple
Neck Construction	Bolt-On
Neck Finish	Gloss
Neck Shape	Performance “C”
Neck Binding	Aged White
Scale Length	29.75" / 756 mm
Fingerboard Material	Bound Rosewood
Fingerboard Radius	12" / 305 mm
Position Inlays	Pearloid Neo-Classic Thumbnail
Number of Frets	22
Fret Size	Medium Jumbo
Nut Material	Graph Tech NuBone
Nut Width	1.6875" / 42.86 mm
Bridge Pickup	PureVolt Twin Six Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Magnet	Alnico V
Neck Pickup	PureVolt Twin Six Humbucker
Neck Pickup Magnet	Alnico IV
Pickup Configuration	HH
Controls	Master Volume with Treble Bleed, Neck Pickup Tone, Bridge Pickup Tone
Coil Splitting	Independent Push/Pull Coil Split on Each Tone Control
Pickup Switching	3-Position Toggle
Position 1	Bridge Pickup
Position 2	Bridge and Neck Pickups
Position 3	Neck Pickup
Bridge	Adjusto-Matic
Tailpiece	Stop Tail
Tuning Machines	Die-Cast Sealed
Hardware Finish	Nickel
Pickguard	Black Plexi
Control Knobs	Knurled Plain Top Metal
Switch Tip	Nickel
Strings	Nickel Plated Steel .013–.065

Power Requirements

The Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone uses passive electronics, so no battery or external power supply is required.

Simply connect the guitar to your amplifier, pedalboard or audio interface with a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.

Fair Deal Music Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone in Imperial Stain is a seriously capable dedicated baritone that goes further than simply stretching a normal electric guitar by a couple of inches.

The 29.75-inch scale gives the low register real authority, while the chambered mahogany and maple construction keeps things lively and defined. The PureVolt Twin Six pickups are a major part of the attraction, especially when combined with independent coil splits and the treble-bleed master volume.

Best suited for: Players wanting a dedicated extended-scale baritone for low-tuned rock, metal, alternative, ambient and studio work.

Customers usually upgrade from: Standard six-string guitars running heavier strings and lower tunings, or shorter-scale entry-level baritones.

Most commonly paired with: High-quality distortion or overdrive, fuzz, compression, delay, reverb and amplification with good low-frequency definition.

Our tip: Don't automatically add large amounts of bass at the amplifier. The guitar already generates considerable low-end information, so preserving mids and attack often produces a bigger, clearer sound in a full band mix.

Showroom feedback: The 29.75-inch scale makes this feel like a genuine dedicated baritone rather than an ordinary guitar adapted for lower tuning. The coil-split controls are particularly useful because they let you reduce density without changing guitars or reaching for EQ.

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.

From our Birmingham showroom, our knowledgeable musician-led team helps players choose guitars and equipment that genuinely suit the way they play. Whether you're exploring baritone guitar for the first time, building a lower-tuned rig or adding a specialist studio instrument to your collection, we're here to provide straightforward advice before and after your purchase.

When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians

• Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment

• Competitive prices on leading music brands

• Secure UK-wide ordering and delivery

• Friendly support before and after your purchase

• A large Birmingham music showroom

• Decades of experience with both new and pre-owned musical equipment

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

How different does a 29.75-inch scale feel from a normal electric guitar?

The fret spacing is noticeably wider than on a 24.75 or 25.5-inch guitar, particularly towards the lower frets. Most guitarists adapt quickly, but the instrument feels deliberately more substantial because the extended scale is fundamental to its low-register performance.

Is the Electromatic Jet Baritone suitable for metal?

Yes. Its long scale, dual humbuckers and strong note definition make it particularly well suited to heavy low-register rhythm work. The bridge PureVolt Twin Six pickup uses an Alnico V magnet for additional attack and articulation.

Can I use the Jet Baritone for clean and ambient sounds?

Absolutely. The neck pickup, independent coil splits and treble-bleed master volume give you plenty of scope for cleaner sounds, while the extended register works extremely well with delay, reverb, chorus and other atmospheric effects.

What do the individual coil splits do?

Each tone control has its own push/pull switch, allowing you to split the corresponding humbucker independently. You can therefore use two full humbuckers, split either pickup individually or combine both split sounds.

Does the guitar have active pickups?

No. The PureVolt Twin Six pickups are passive, so there is no battery to replace.

Is a baritone guitar the same as a Bass VI?

No. Although both explore registers below a conventional guitar, they have different scale lengths, string setups and intended playing roles. The Jet Baritone remains fundamentally a baritone electric guitar, while a Bass VI moves further towards the traditional bass register and playing concept.

Can I use normal guitar pedals?

Yes. Standard guitar pedals work perfectly well. Some overdrive, fuzz and modulation effects respond differently because of the increased low-frequency content, which can be creatively useful.

Will changing the string gauge affect the setup?

Potentially. A significant increase or decrease from the factory .013–.065 set changes overall tension and can affect neck relief, action and intonation. A setup is recommended when making substantial changes.

What advantage does the treble-bleed circuit provide?

It helps preserve high-frequency clarity as you turn the master volume down. This is particularly useful on a baritone because low-register sounds can otherwise become darker as output is reduced.

Should I choose the Jet Baritone or the shorter Electromatic CVT Baritone?

Choose the Jet if you want the firmer response and extended reach of a 29.75-inch scale, chambered Jet construction and the more extensive three-control electronics. Choose the 27-inch CVT if you want a more compact double-cut baritone that feels closer to a conventional electric guitar.

The Gretsch Electromatic Jet Baritone in Imperial Stain is an inspiring choice for guitarists who want to make the lower register a central part of their sound rather than simply experimenting with a lower tuning. Its extended scale, chambered Jet construction and unusually flexible PureVolt electronics give it the clarity and versatility to handle everything from huge distorted riffs to sparse cinematic textures.