I was looking for Gretsch 6120 for some time and considered at first SSLVO. However after doing a lot of research in the internet I decided to go for RHH model since it has the tonepost and the top should be more "free" in a traditional way with more emphasis on mids (as opposed to the trestle bracing in SSLVO). The looks of the pre 59 neck was also appealing :)
I wanted a versatile guitar I could use playing many different styles though I primarily bought it to play rockabilly. I have to say that it really is very versatile and can successfully replace my strat (plus add the twang) on many gigs although filtertrons are somewhat fatter sounding obviously. I has really comfortable neck, though I'm used to having fatter necks - this one is medium in my oppinion. I don't have any serious tuning issues with moderate use of bigsby. Of course a really extensive use of bigsby makes it go out of tune but I guess it's the issue with all of them.
I was little concerned about feedback (am playing usually with open back 18w tube combo amp), but so far haven't had problems with that. Of course it depends a little on your positioning regarding the amp.
After two weeks of playing at home plus three gigs it already has started to open up nicely though it was very promising right out of the box.
The setup on this guitar was really well done and the guitar was almost in tune when I received it. The workmanship is also top notch. I own a few custom shop Fenders and Gibsons, the workmanship and setup quality right out of box hasn't been so good with none of them. This is not my first 6120, about ten years ago I owned one with dynasonic picups from the end of the nineties (also made in Japan) but I have to say this one is superior in almost every aspect - sound, sustain, workmanship, feedback resistance...
All in all it is a really very good quality and versatile instrument. Thank You Gretch, thank You Thomann!
