Gin Rickey by Gretsch: A Modern Rebirth of the 30’s Era
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The Gretsch G9520E Gin Rickey Acoustic/Electric guitar is a contemporary reinterpretation of the classic Rex parlour guitars that Gretsch produced in the 1930s through the ’50s. With its vintage charm and modern features, the Gin Rickey is a compelling choice for musicians seeking a unique and versatile instrument. In this detailed article, we’ll delve into the features, design, playability, and historical significance of the Gretsch Gin Rickey guitar, while also exploring its connection to the iconic Rex Playboy guitar.
The Gretsch G9520E Gin Rickey Acoustic/Electric Guitar
The Gretsch G9520E Gin Rickey is a low-cost offering that captures the spirit of the vintage Rex guitars. Priced at US$279.00, it is designed to serve as an entry-level instrument for budding guitarists or a compact travel companion for seasoned artists. This guitar is particularly suitable for blues and roots players, travellers, and vintage enthusiasts seeking a modern twist on a classic design.
Jin Rickey belongs to the Roots Collection of Gretsch which also has a popular Jim Dandy model. The Jim Dandy is technically the same guitar except it’s not electrified and has a different finish.
Design and Features
The Gin Rickey features a basswood body with X-bracing, a 12th fret, 24″-scale nato set neck, and a 12″ radius walnut fingerboard with vintage-style 18 frets. It is equipped with a Gretsch Deltoluxe soundhole pickup, a top-load walnut bridge with compensated synthetic bone saddle, and 1950s-style vintage open-gear die-cast tuning machines. The guitar comes in a hot Smokestack Black finish with aged white binding and nickel hardware, giving it a sleek and elegant appearance.
Playability and Sound
With its comfortable dimensions and modern playability, the Gin Rickey offers improved playability for contemporary guitarists. The guitar’s X-braced basswood top and basswood back and sides contribute to its hearty acoustic voice, making it suitable for various playing styles. When amplified, the Gretsch Deltoluxe pickup delivers bright clean articulation, making the Gin Rickey a versatile instrument for slide guitar lines and Hawaiian-style licks.
The Historical Significance of the Rex Playboy Guitar
The Rex Playboy guitar was a significant part of Gretsch’s early foray into the world of guitars, produced between 1932 and 1939. It was a small-bodied, flat-top guitar available in both tenor and plectrum sizes. The Rex Playboy offered a simple, no-frills design with a spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a rosewood fingerboard. Despite its basic features, it provided decent quality and playability at an affordable price point, making it popular among students, aspiring musicians, and budget-conscious players.
Connection Between the Gin Rickey and the Rex Playboy
For those intrigued by the vintage charm of the Rex Playboy but seeking a more modern playing experience, the Gin Rickey guitar offers a contemporary take on the classic design. While retaining the Rex’s spirit, the Gin Rickey incorporates several key updates, including electrification with a single Deltoluxe soundhole pickup, modern playability with a longer 24.8″ scale length and comfortable C-shaped neck profile, and aesthetic tweaks such as a sleek matte black finish, gold hardware, and pearloid dot inlays.
The Gin Rickey and the Rex Playboy represent two eras in Gretsch’s history. While the Rex offers a pure vintage experience, the Gin Rickey presents a modern interpretation that retains the charm and character of its predecessor. Whether as a collector’s piece or a versatile instrument for contemporary musicians, both guitars have something unique to offer.
In conclusion, the Gretsch G9520E Gin Rickey Acoustic/Electric guitar pays homage to the vintage Rex guitars while incorporating modern features to cater to the needs of today’s guitarists. Its blend of vintage vibe and contemporary playability makes it a compelling choice for musicians looking for a unique and versatile instrument that resonates with the legacy of Gretsch’s early guitar production.
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