Where Are Gretsch Guitars Made? The Secret is Out!

There’s something about a Gretsch guitar that just feels right. Maybe it’s the sweet tone or the old-school style. These guitars have been a favorite of players for generations. But where are Gretsch guitars made?

This is a question that comes up frequently among enthusiasts. Many people don’t know that Gretsch guitars are not just made in the United States. The vast majority of production is done overseas because it cost less to produce there.

Gretsch guitars are known for their artistry and pride. Each one is crafted with care in the United States, Japan, Korea, China, and Indonesia.

Where are Gretsch Guitars Made?

To be competitive in this market, sometimes instruments need to be made in certain countries. Gretsch has chosen factories that produce quality products.

This way you get an affordable but enjoyable guitar. In this table, we have listed the countries of origin and the factories they are made in.

CountryFactory
JapanTerrada and FujiGen Factories
KoreaWorld Instrument Music Corporation
USAFender Factory
ChinaSamick, Cort or Muse
IndonesiaCor-Tek (Cort), Samick

Gretsch Custom Guitars 

The Custom Guitars of Gretsch have been made in the United States of America for many years. You will find that today they are made in the Fender factory in Corona, California. This is done by three experienced builders:

  • Chad Henrichsen
  • Stephen Stern
  • Gonzalo Madrigal

According to the company, Madrigal is their most skilled and experienced luthier. He was promoted to master builder in 2018.

Gretsch offers something truly different. The ability to make a guitar that connects with your personal style.

In this custom shop, you can find a guitar with just about any color or wood you could imagine. The finishes are also top-notch, with options like sparkle binding.

Where are Gretsch Electromatic Guitars Made?

The company that makes the majority of Gretsch Electromatic guitars is called World Instrument Music Corp. They are located in Korea. The Electromatic was Gretsch’s first electric guitar, introduced in 1939.

Today, there are many models of Gretsch Electromatic guitars, including 4 different types: 

  • Hollow body
  • Center block
  • Solid-body
  • Bass

The solid-body Electromatic guitars and models, like the Jet, are all made in China. But the majority, including semi-hollow and hollow bodies, are all made in Korea.

Guitar enthusiasts should consider the Electromatic Collection. Especially when looking for a guitar from Gretsch.

This is their mid-range tier of guitars. It gives players the ability to try a Gretsch without having to invest a lot of money.

The newest models of the Electromatic series feature new Pickups, hardware, and Bigsby. All while still staying true to the inlays and headstocks.

Where are Gretsch Streamliner Guitars Made?

At present, Gretsch is manufacturing Streamliner guitars in Indonesia. These guitars are ideal for those who are just starting or are at the intermediate level.

They offer great value for money and come packed with a range of features. The small size of Streamliners makes them perfect for young players to learn on, as they are easy to handle.

The Streamliner is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable Gretsch. It can be purchased for as little as $300. With the Streamliner guitar models, you can choose between 4 categories. Depending on your style and preference:

  • Center Block 
  • Center Block Jr.
  • Solid Body 
  • Hollow body

The Streamliner series comes with a Broad’tron pickup that gives you a wide range of tones to choose from. Whether you’re playing rock, pop, or jazz! This guitar will have the perfect sound for your next performance.

Find out where Epiphone guitars are made here!

Where are Gretsch Professional Guitars Made?

The company uses a factory called Terada. They make Gretsch Professional guitars in Japan. You can find these instruments in four different editions:

  • Vintage Select
  • Players Edition 
  • Artist Signature 
  • Limited Edition 

Gretsch’s Professional Series has long been associated with quality craftsmanship and superior sound. These guitars are built to last, with a classic design that produces rich, bold tones.

The Pro-series models are some of the most beautiful-sounding guitars on the market! Thanks to the passion and attention to detail that goes into their construction.

The Professional series guitars are popular among musicians. This is because of their excellent sound and top-notch finishes.

These models are the most expensive in their collection. They are considered some of the finest ever made. These guitars can cost anywhere from $2200 to $4000. It makes them a significant investment for any experienced musician.

But what makes it worth it for these artists? Quality. These guitars are 100% handmade with only the finest materials. Things like maple neck, ebony fingerboard for excellent resonance, and much more.

Are you an experienced player, looking for a first-rate guitar? Then you should consider this Gretsch Professional Series.

Where are Gretsch Acoustic Guitars made?

Gretsch G5024E Rancher Guitar

Gretsch is well known for their hollow body and semi-hollow guitars. But they also make some great acoustics.

The Rancher G5034TFT is one of those acoustics that is a dreadnought shape. It comes with a Fideli’tron pickup and a Bigsby vibrato tailpiece that makes it truly unique.

The sound of the G5034TFT is perfect for country, blues, and even acoustic rock! It’s a historic Gretsch tone right from the early 50s.

The other Rancher models of acoustics are also of high quality and very affordable. This is because Gretsch acoustic guitars are made in Indonesia. This allows them to make high-quality instruments with great features at affordable prices.

Find out where Taylor guitars are made here!

Does it Matter Where Gretsch Guitars are made?

Yes, it does. Gretsch guitars are made in several locations. Each with its own level of quality. The location where a Gretsch guitar is made can have a significant impact on the overall quality.

The Japanese-made Gretsch guitars are some of the best! Both in attention to detail and the quality of materials used. For example, Gretsch uses selected woods and other materials on their handmade guitars. This results in a world-class-sounding instrument.

In the USA, Gretsch has been manufacturing custom guitars with higher standards. Today, their builders create models with custom elements and designs.

All while staying true to the brand’s signature sound. Many people consider the US guitars to be nearly as good as their Japanese counterparts.

The company has factories based in China, Korea, and Indonesia. This is where they mass-produce an affordable range of guitars. The mid-range guitar’s cost to produce is significantly lower than the Pro-series. This makes them affordable for guitarists on a budget.

Conclusion

Gretsch guitars have a long and storied history! Their instruments have been played by some of the most iconic musicians in the past.

Gretsch guitars are made in a variety of locations around the world. Each with its own style and sound. But Gretsch Custom guitars are still handcrafted with love and care in the United States.

And many other guitars are made in Japan, Korea, China, and Indonesia. So you can find one that’s excellent for your style and budget. With a wide variety of models to choose from, there’s sure to be a Gretsch guitar that’s just right for you.

FAQs

Who manufactures Gretsch guitars?

Fender has control over the marketing, production, and distribution of Gretsch guitars. This means that they are responsible for manufacturing Gretsch guitars.

Where are Gretsch White Falcon guitars made?

The Gretsch White Falcon is a high-quality guitar! Designed and manufactured in Japan with proper attention to detail and craftsmanship.

Where is the Gretsch 5420T made?

The Gretsch 5420T is an Electromatic series guitar that is made in Korea.

Photo of author

Don East

My name is Don East, I'm the editor for Killer Rig. I've been playing guitar for over 20 years and have designed and manufactured products like guitar amps, effects pedals, and more. Over the years I have played in many bands and have a deep love for quality gear. I am an electrical engineer and have a passion for music gear, and now want to share what I know with the community!