Guitar World Verdict
The Gretsch Falcon is a guitar icon, famed for its larger-than-life tone and drop-dead gorgeous looks, but its premium price tag puts it out of reach for many. This affordable take on the Falcon impressively captures the essence of the legendary model.
Pros
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Really does look and feel like the real deal
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Delivers that classic Gretsch sound
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The deluxe case, ebony fingerboard, and bone nut are a nice touch
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Treble bleed circuit ensures you retain the bright tone when turning down the volume
Cons
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Our review example has a poorly installed strap button
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Ships with 11-gauge strings that feel pretty heavy
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The bass frequencies can get thumpy
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What is it?
Gibson has the Les Paul, Fender has the Strat, and when you think of Gretsch guitars, it’s hard not to picture the iconic (usually) White Falcon as the quintessential guitar that defines this legendary brand. Billy Duffy from The Cult wields this beloved instrument to conjure up Lil’ Devils on stage every night, it helped John Frusciante dream of Californication and even got some serious screen time around Dave Grohl’s neck in the classic Foo Fighters video for Monkey Wrench.
Built in China, this model boasts a 2.5-inch deep maple body with a Semi-Arc bracing design, an ebony fingerboard, and a real bone nut. And let’s not forget the must-have Bigsby, this one sports the B60 V-Cutout variation, of course.
At the heart of this beauty is a set of Hi-Fidelity Filter’Tron pickups, promising to deliver that signature Gretsch chime that is synonymous with the Falcon name. Plus, it comes bundled with a Deluxe hardshell case and is available in the classic Snowcrest White or the sleek and goth-tastic Black.
Specs
- Launch price: $1,469/£1,299/€1,399
- Made: China
- Type: Six-string hollowbody electric guitar
- Body: Maple
- Neck: Maple, Classic C
- Fingerboard: Ebony
- Scale length: 25.5″/648 mm
- Nut/width: 1.6875″/42.86 mm
- Frets: 22, Medium Jumbo
- Hardware: Grover Super Rotomatic tuners, Adjusto-Matic bridge, Bigsby B60 V-Cutout tailpiece, jeweled G-Arrow control knobs
- Electrics: Gretsch Hi-Fidelity Filter’Tron
- Weight: 8lb 3oz
- Options: N/A
- Left-handed options: No
- Finishes: Snowcrest White or Black
- Cases: Deluxe Hardshell Case Included
- Contact: Gretsch Guitars
Build quality
Build quality rating: ★★★★☆
First things first, this new collection really impresses right off the bat with its stylish and premium-looking case. The black and grey textured exterior, paired with a plush blue interior, feels like it belongs to the higher-end version of the Falcon, not one priced as competitively as this.
Lifting the lid reveals a dazzling guitar inside, which wears its iconic snowy white finish and gilded gold hardware with pride. At first glance, there’s no denying this is a Falcon.
I took a good look at the entire guitar, and everything seems just right. From the bejeweled control knobs to the gold plexi pickguard with the famous Falcon logo, not to mention the shimmering multi-ply sparkle binding that runs along the body, neck, and headstock. Ok, it’s missing the ‘winglay’ on the headstock, but some things do have to give. Gretsch has clearly gone all-out to honor the legacy of this fine guitar – and it really shows.
To me, this guitar feels like a serious step up from the previous Electromatic models, like the G5420T, not that there’s anything wrong with that one.
Lifting the lid reveals a dazzling guitar inside, which wears its iconic snowy white finish and gilded gold hardware with pride.
Whether it’s the jet-black ebony board, the bone nut, the smooth-feeling Grover Super Rotomatic tuners, or the extra visual appointments, it’s easy to see where your money is going and why this model commands a higher price.
That said, one small detail does let down its otherwise stellar build. My review model arrived with a poorly installed strap button. The button on the butt-end of the guitar is loose and spins in place, easily removable with just a bit of force. Sure, it’s an easy fix, just a matchstick and some superglue will do the trick, but on a guitar of this caliber, it’s a bit disappointing nonetheless.
Playability
Playability rating: ★★★★½
As you’d expect from a Falcon, this model boasts a maple neck, and in the case of the Synchromatic, we’ve got what I’d call a nice soft C profile. It also features that classic 25.5” scale length and a flat 12” radius. Honestly, this guitar feels fantastic in hand. The neck isn’t too small or too big; it’s just right. The medium jumbo frets are installed beautifully along the fingerboard, making bends and wide-as-you-like vibrato an absolute breeze.
If I were planning to take on lead work with this model, I’d definitely be tempted to swap out the 11s for a standard set of 10s.
Now, on to the strings. This model comes with 11-gauge strings straight out of the box, which isn’t all that uncommon for Gretsch. That means there’s a decent amount of tension on the neck. So if you’re not used to heavier strings, you might find it a bit much – especially when it comes to those full-step bends. That said, the action was low on my review model, measuring just 1.2mm evenly over the high and low strings, making it pretty enjoyable to play for hours at a time.
Personally, I love 11s for rhythm playing; they pack a beefier tone and stay in tune better when you really dig in. But if I were planning to take on lead work with this model, I’d definitely be tempted to swap out the 11s for a standard set of 10s. With that full 25.5″ scale, 11s can feel pretty tight and a tad restrictive.
Now, Gretsch and Bigsby go hand in hand like peanut butter and jelly or alcohol and bad decisions, but if you’ve ever wrestled with this vibrato system, you know they can be a bit temperamental when it comes to tuning. Thankfully, the Synchromatic held its tuning pretty well for the most part. It took a couple of practice sessions to really settle in, but once I stretched the strings out and it settled down, I could finally stop stomping on the tuner after every single song.
Sounds
Sounds rating: ★★★★½
People often bang on about “that great Gretsch sound,” not least because it’s part of the brand’s identity, but what does that actually mean? For me, a Gretsch guitar carrying the Falcon name should strike that perfect balance between bright and present, with a bass response to die for. Yeah, I know, those are some big shoes for this affordable Falcon to fill.
In this Synchromatic model, you’ll find a pair of Gretsch’s Hi-Fidelity Filter’Tron pickups. Complete with Alnico 5 magnets and measuring at 3.94k in the neck and 4.59k at the bridge, they really do their best to replicate that coveted chime and articulation of a vintage set of Filter’Trons.
Plugging it into my trusty Vox AC30, the high-end shimmer from these pickups is nothing short of delightful, and the midrange has just the right amount of bark when it meets a Klon-style drive pedal. Now, I should warn you, the low end can get a tad thumpy and tubby if you’re not careful. But hey, that’s part of the joy of playing such a large-bodied box of air, right?
Plugging it into my trusty Vox AC30, the high-end shimmer from these pickups is nothing short of delightful
Like many Gretsch guitars, this Falcon comes loaded with a four-knob control layout: a master volume, master tone, individual volumes for both the bridge and neck pickups, plus a three-position toggle switch. And here’s the ace up its sleeve: the master volume features a treble bleed circuit, which helps keep those high frequencies intact as you dial down the volume.
It’s a total lifesaver if you’re like me and prefer to clean up your signal with the volume instead of switching between a dirty and clean channel on your amp. This is not a feature you’ll find on the cheaper Electromatic models, so it’s a nice inclusion here.
Verdict
Players have been demanding an affordable version of Gretsch’s poster child for decades, and I’m happy to say the wait was worth it. In my opinion, the Gretsch Synchromatic Falcon is a remarkable instrument that pays homage to its iconic lineage while reminding us that in 2025, guitars don’t need to cost a small fortune to be great.
For me, the Gretsch Synchromatic Falcon sits in the same category as Epiphone’s Inspired By Gibson Custom line. Both are elevated import models that aren’t trying to be exact replicas of the instruments that inspired them, but instead are focused on capturing the essence of classic guitars, with well-rounded specs and timeless good looks.
Now, despite its many accolades, the Synchromatic Falcon isn’t without its quirks. Issues like the loose strap button can dampen the experience somewhat, but hopefully that can be put down to bad luck, and many players won’t get on with the increased tension thanks to its heavy 11-gauge strings. Again, easily solved.
That said, the Synchromatic Falcon more than holds its ground as a superb choice for players who desire that classic Gretsch sound combined with a gorgeous aesthetic on a budget.
Okay, so some players may bemoan its Chinese origin, but if it looks like a Falcon, plays like a Falcon, and squawks like a Falcon, it must be a Falcon.
Swipe to scroll horizontally
|
Test |
Results |
Score |
|---|---|---|
|
Build quality |
Stunning to look at with a tidy premium-feeling build. It’s just a pity that one of the strap buttons was installed incorrectly. |
★★★★ |
|
Playability |
Very nice soft C-shaped neck, but the 11-gauge strings could be troublesome for some players. |
★★★★½ |
|
Sounds |
This model nails that chime and bright attack of classic Gretsch guitars, but the bass can overwhelm if you’re not careful. |
★★★★½ |
|
Overall |
This is a stunning and well-spec’d guitar that feels like more than the sum of its parts. It may be an affordable take on the iconic Falcon, but it in no way feels cheap. |
★★★★½ |
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Hands-on videos
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Gretsch Synchromatic Falcon Review: Looks Like a Falcon, plays Like a Falcon, Squawks Like a Falcon
The Gretsch Synchromatic Falcon is a guitar that has sparked some controversy, mainly due to its Chinese origin. However, as the saying goes, “if it looks like a Falcon, plays like a Falcon, and squawks like a Falcon, it must be a Falcon.” In this review, we’ll explore how this contemporary incarnation holds up against its legendary American predecessors.
Background and Chinese Manufacture: Does Origin Matter?
For many vintage guitar purists, the mention of “Made in China” on any instrument raises questions about quality and authenticity-especially for a storied model like the Gretsch Falcon. This guitar harks back to the golden age of Gretsch,revered for its Synchromatic series and the elusive Falcon,originally produced in the 1950s.
While some players may bemoan the Chinese production, it is indeed critically important to evaluate this guitar on its merits:
- Build Quality: Despite its overseas origin, the Synchromatic Falcon features excellent craftsmanship with modern factory precision.
- Materials: High-quality woods and hardware ensure a solid foundation for the classic Falcon sound.
- Attention to Detail: From binding to inlays, Gretsch has maintained the aesthetic traditions of the Falcon line.
Design and Aesthetics: Capturing the Classic Falcon Look
the Synchromatic falcon is visually striking-a true nod to the iconic look that fans expect. Here’s what stands out:
- Graceful single-cutaway hollow body design
- Elegant mother-of-pearl inlays and triple-bound body
- Two Gretsch Black Top Filter’Tron pickups delivering vintage tone
- Distinctive gold hardware adding luxury appeal
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body | Maple laminate hollow with maple centre block |
| Neck | Mahogany, set neck |
| Fingerboard | Ebony with Neo-Classic thumbnail inlays |
| Pickups | 2 x Black Top Filter’Tron humbuckers |
Sound and Playability: The Falcon Experience
The critical question every player asks-does it sound and play like a Falcon? The Synchromatic Falcon delivers:
Vintage Tone with Modern Reliability
- Signature Squawk: The Black Top Filter’Tron pickups faithfully reproduce the Falcon’s bright, articulate growl.
- Versatility: From jazz and rockabilly to blues and classic rock, this guitar adapts effortlessly.
- sustain and Resonance: The laminated maple body combined with the center block provides ample sustain without excessive feedback.
Playability
- Neck profile: Comfortable C-shaped mahogany neck, pleasant for players transitioning from various styles.
- Action and Setup: Out of the box, the action is well balanced-perfect for fingerpicking and rhythmic strumming.
- Weight: Moderate weight that won’t tire you during long sessions.
Benefits and Practical Tips
Benefits of choosing the Synchromatic Falcon
- Authentic Falcon Aesthetic: Respects vintage heritage at a more approachable price point.
- Classic Gretsch Sound: Ideal for players seeking the hallmark twang and growl of the Falcon without hunting down a rare vintage model.
- Reliability: Modern build quality ensures fewer maintenance headaches than 1950s originals.
Practical tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Falcon
- Proper Setup: A professional setup is recommended to maximize neck relief and action precision.
- Pickup Height: Experiment with adjusting the Black Top Filter’Tron pickup heights for tone dialing from warm jazz to punchy rockabilly.
- amplifier choice: Match with a vintage-style amp with a bit of natural overdrive for that signature “squawks like a Falcon” sound.
First-Hand Experience: What Players Are Saying
Players who have tested the Synchromatic Falcon report being pleasantly surprised by how close it stays to its vintage namesake. Key impressions include:
- Immediate Falcon Feel: Many praise the guitar’s natural resonance and familiar tone profile.
- Excellent Value: Compared to vintage models commanding exorbitant prices, this guitar is considered a more accessible entry into the Falcon experience.
- minimal Compromises: While some purists remain skeptical of the Chinese origin, the broader consensus appreciates the balance of cost, quality, and performance.
Gretsch Synchromatic Falcon vs. Vintage Falcon: A Swift Comparison
| Aspect | vintage Falcon (1950s) | Synchromatic Falcon (Chinese-made) |
|---|---|---|
| Build Origin | USA | China |
| Materials | Solid maple, premium woods | Laminated maple, mahogany neck |
| Pickups | Original Filter’Tron humbuckers | Modern Black Top Filter’Tron pickups |
| Price Range | Extremely high (collector-level) | Mid-range, affordable |
| playability | Classic vintage feel | Modern setup, comfortable neck |
| Sound | Classic Falcon “squawk” | Faithful to vintage tone, very close |
Final Word: Worth every Note
Despite some initial reservations due to its Chinese origin, the Gretsch Synchromatic Falcon stands tall as a true Falcon at heart. It captures the spirit,sound,and feel of the classic Falcon while offering a more accessible price and modern build standards. For guitarists seeking the legendary Gretsch tone with practical reliability, this Synchromatic Falcon shoudl be on the shortlist.
