Joe Pass Epi or Gretsch 5120?
Posted: Fri Jan 24, 2014 11:13 am
I'm looking for an archtop that doesn't cost a lot, can be set up to finger well, and would be easy to replace. My playing is mostly for pleasure at home though sometimes I play in church settings and once in a while other venues. When playing out, I’m a little uncomfortable taking my main guitar (Vintage Riviera) because it would be almost impossible to replace and very costly to do so. It was about $400 when purchased back in the 60’s but since then has become somewhat rare and worth $1000’s. Things do happen to guitars when taken on trips, left on stage during breaks, etc. So I’m looking for something more feasible for regular use. What I’m thinking about is a Joe Pass Epiphone or Gretsch 5120, either of which would be around $500, I think. Years ago I had a Tennessean (traded in on the Riviera) and that guitar played quite well. But top line Gretsch guitars are too much money for what I have in mind.
Anyway, I’m planning to do some shopping and wondering if any of you have the Joe Pass Epiphone and if so what you think of it. I would guess several here have the Gretsch 5120 or similar model. Are you happy with it? Does it set up well and play nicely for you? Would you buy another if something should happen to the one you have?
Thanks for any input?
Anyway, I’m planning to do some shopping and wondering if any of you have the Joe Pass Epiphone and if so what you think of it. I would guess several here have the Gretsch 5120 or similar model. Are you happy with it? Does it set up well and play nicely for you? Would you buy another if something should happen to the one you have?
Thanks for any input?