I don't think the 381 does what you want it to, Bill. It is a very versatile guitar, but I just don't see it replacing any Gretsch, much less one with Filtertrons. The bass that the 381 produces is much mellower. It doesn't have that "spank" that Gretches are famous for. It's deeper, smoother and richer. I guess you could also say that it's "darker". In my mind the tone of the 381 is more akin to a traditional jazz sound with only the neck pick-up engaged. When the bridge pick-up is added, the tone brightens significantly, but it's a more rounded version of the famous Rickenbacker sound.
Want a mellower Ric? The 381 is definitely what you want. Want that old-style hollow-body sound? Go for the Gretsch or maybe even a Guild Rockabilly X-160 (which is equipped with DeArmond 2000's).
381v69 experiences?
Moderators: rickenbrother, ajish4
I'll just add this. I recorded my 381 on an old four-track TASCAM about a week ago. Upon playback, my 381 (both pick-ups on but favouring the neck pick-up) sounded like nothing else I've ever heard. There are so many variables in the recording process, but the 381 produced the sweetest, most balanced clean I've ever caught on tape. Someone who didn't know would probably be more inclined to equate the tone with a skillfully EQ'd Telecaster as opposed to a Gretsch.
-
bill_yantz
- Member
- Posts: 275
- Joined: Sat Jun 05, 2004 5:00 am
Paul the Gretsch I am getting is a 6120 with Dynasonics. The Dearmond 2000s are really nice and John was right on with the X-160. A great guitar but I just couldn't pull myself away from the big orange Gretsch with the Bigsby and wide fretmarkers to boot. Last night I played a new Duo '57 with Dynas and it is nice. A beautiful sweet, lively sound and the PUs were very well balanced.
I am not going to try and compare the 381 with anything, even though I have not played one, it would be unfair. It sounds like it's a heavenly Rickenbacker, top-of-the-line, and that's all that matters.
John, I would love to hear your recording, your description is compelling. Frankly, I get the impression that you could pick the 381 and leave everything else at home, if you had to pick one. If it’s convenient and digital format, email it to me. Thanks.
Thanks for all the nice feedback, I really appreciate it and by all means don't stop here. Can you imagine how incredible a 381 would be in Blueburst (it might rival Paul's masterpiece). It’s got to be stunning to say the least.
I am not going to try and compare the 381 with anything, even though I have not played one, it would be unfair. It sounds like it's a heavenly Rickenbacker, top-of-the-line, and that's all that matters.
John, I would love to hear your recording, your description is compelling. Frankly, I get the impression that you could pick the 381 and leave everything else at home, if you had to pick one. If it’s convenient and digital format, email it to me. Thanks.
Thanks for all the nice feedback, I really appreciate it and by all means don't stop here. Can you imagine how incredible a 381 would be in Blueburst (it might rival Paul's masterpiece). It’s got to be stunning to say the least.
A British Invasion Tribute
http://www.myspace.com/billyyantz
http://www.myspace.com/billyyantz
Bill, I'm really low-tech in the recording department. It's on tape, and that's the only format I know how to use. I'd be happy to send you a copy if you're really curious (and willing to tolerate some pretty shaky musicianship). Send me your mailing address off-forum and I'll see what I can do.
As for picking the 381 and leaving everything else at home, you're probably right. I'm really biased because it was my first Rickenbacker (what a way to start), but I just think they're the best thing since sliced bread. Ric jangle and so much more.
As for picking the 381 and leaving everything else at home, you're probably right. I'm really biased because it was my first Rickenbacker (what a way to start), but I just think they're the best thing since sliced bread. Ric jangle and so much more.