Such a good test, I could absolutely hear differences in the side by side, I found that each of them had a spot where they would shine as the "best in category" but I prefer the Dynasonics overall
Thank you, finally, a pickup comparison that works! To me, most pickup shootouts on RUclips are useless because usually the takes are so long, that by the time the next pickup is on I've forgotten what the second one before that sounded like. I like the Dynasonics.
I remember I came across this video when I was searching for filter'tron videos for my Telecaster project and I was mesmerized by your little tune at the beginning. Time went by and I had this stuck in my head and I could not find you anymore. But here I am after 2 years, and this time I subscribed and followed you on IG also. Really nice work.
A Tennessee Rose w/ Hilotrons has been my main electric for about 15 years. I am feeling I’d like to try some Filtertrons, maybe a Duojet. Great comparison that reminds me why I got the T-Rose in the first place!
I started the video expecting to find one pickup superior to the others. I think they are all slightly different but have a similar overall tone--bright, articulate, clear, hi-fi. I could see how someone could prefer one to the other, but it would be merely a taste thing, and not a knock on the other ones. Great demo! Very informative. That said, I think I liked the Hilotrons best.
This was soooo rad! I ended up getting the 2-tone smoke green Gretsch because this video sold me on it! Remarkable playing and dare I say "incredible video editing!" Keep up the professional work! Very impressive all-around! Love from San Francisco!
This is a really great video. My fave are the Dynas, but this is really a great demo very simply and efficiently showcasing everything you need to know about each. They all sound great in their own way. Beautiful, beautiful tone and playing- sounds like it's in your hands mainly, as it should be.
@@BenNeal Another thought: it's almost as if the Dynas are "talking clearly" whenever I use them. It's like going from AM to FM, or, really, a voice in the room. Or like my conscience speaking and then the very words finally coming across my own lips, turning the thought into idea (and maybe subsequently, a work). That, but with music, and a guitar. Dynas personally help me play better and more complete, very much being the voice in my head- if any of that makes a bit of sense...
The dyna are the closest to my ears to a tele pickup. The hilos are more scooped and strat-y. The filtertrons have their own thing: hollow humbucker with a bright top end.
I know this is 2 years old, but I've been just listening to that opening track over and over again just jamming along on my own Gretsch Duo Jet. Such a freaking vibe dude! You're so talented 🤘🏻
Once again I am really enjoying your intro track! If this is your own material I must say you've got excellent compositional ideas and fabulous execution. Nicely done, friend!
I think I like the hilotrons the most. They have a lovely clarity to them without really skipping out on any frequencies. They sound a lot like Wide Range Humbuckers to my ears, or at least if Gretsch made a wide range
I agree. On the hunt for my first Gretsch ; I liked the Dynasonics better than Filtertrons (no surprise as I always like singlecoils better than 'buckers) so I was about to get a pre-59 VS Gretsch .. But I just discovered the existence of these Hi-lo-Trons and I can't understand why there aren't more guitars with them, they sound awesome, the G6119T-62 VS might be what I was looking for ! (and yes I get why you compare them to WRHBs, these pickups have that mix of both punch and clarity)
There is nothing like a Gretsch. My first electric guitar (1957 Streamliner w/one Pat. Pend. Filtertron and a Melita), and latest guitar (Harrison Duo -Jet w/two Dynasonics) were Gretschs. A nice bookend pair. I had a Tennessean for while with H-Lo Trons and it was so nice. They all have their charm, as you said.
the Filter'Tron seem to have more midrange and bottom end, which I guess makes sense. I've read the Hilo'Tron and the Dynasonic fall into the Strat/Tele range of pickup sounds. All that said, you're still you playing (nice job, btw), so a lot of the tone is coming from your technique and the construction of each guitar itself. I like your solution of just having 3 separate guitars and that makes the most sense for me as well. Thank you for the video
couldn’t have described it better. All three pickups have their toneality, i do like the dynasonic pickups since i have them in my 2005 G6120, and appreciate their history and articulate sound in an ensemble situation. 🎧 Thank you- Ben.
They ALL sound GOOD Benno! I was surprised with the Hilo'trons. A bit more scooped than the Dynasonics! And the Filter'trons just had tons of mid PUNCH! Nice 1 mate! Where about in Oz are you?
How the he'll can you not liie any of them with that glorious piece at thd intro. I have found over the years to get the best from any guitar, you havde to 'learn' what the instrument has to offer. If you have been playing a tele all your guitar life, and you pick up a Les Paul, you will not be able to apply the same skill and techniques you have acquired. That also goes for two guitars of the same model. Mr Neal, you have demonstrated (with great mastery and eloquence), that you know exactly how to get the best from each instrument. Really a joy to listen to.
If I have to choose one... its hard but yeah, "Dynasonics" ( cause they remind me the most of that "origin Gretsch sound" that was on most of the recordings time-back ). They're all great sounding, Thanks for the review Ben, great skills.
Man, what a killer opening track! And an excellent comparison video. They all sound fantastic, but there is something special about the wide-open clarity of Dynasonics. Good choice on sticking with them. I am a relative newcomer to Gretsch guitars and I love learning about all the subtle differences between the pickup types and models.
First thing, my Tenny has HiLoTrons, so it was doing my head in trying to associate Filter’Trons with your Tennessee Rose! I have been wondering about swapping out my pickups with . . FilterTrons. Er, no . . . Dynasonics. Aaarghh! No matter what I switch to, I know I’m going to miss what I had! So, yes, more guitars. Or maybe just accept that other pick ups are great, but enjoy what I have (and work on my technique). Lovely playing, Thank You!
Great Shootout! I just bought a Gretsch with Filter'Trons it has not arrive yet, I also have two with Broad'Trons which I really like since I play a lot of heavy songs. Getting one with Dynasonics after watching this!! Killer playing really highlights the Gretsch sound. Cheers!
Great vid, and great playing. Great combo with the White Falcon and the Dynasonics. Just the right amount of break up. I Have a WF with TV Jones. I love it, but may have to look for a Duo Jet with Dynasonics. Are they single coil or like a mini humbucker? Anyway, thanks for a great vid. 👍🏼
You know I think you need all three...and I'm not kidding. The question of which sounds the best is going to be subjective. Arguably you might want each of those nuanced tones for specific assignments. For my style of playing and the things I like to play, the Filtertrons might be best, which is good cause that is what my Gretsch has. However I really like the other two options as well. Thanks for putting this together it was helpful.
Im picking up a 5622t today, and Im already shopping for options without even playing it yet lol. Its got the HiLo ones. Actually Ive been just checking out Gretsch players and their sounds, in anticipation of getting this guitar, and your sound on that opening track is heavenly! SUBBED!
I have 5 Gretsch guitars: 4 5422 models, 2 6 string and 2 12 strings and a Country Classic all with Filtertrons. My Epiphone Dot has a Filtertron in the bridge position.
Wow that intro is AMAZING. You made me love Gretsch guitars even more! I love hollow body guitars (all of them, the Gibson ES175 is other dream guitar) but these bodies are too big for me. I feel the same with dreadnought acoustics. I bought an Ibanez AG85 recently loaded with mini humbuckers and it feels very confy... and sounds amazing too! I always wanted some of the Gretsch sound though, and I am considering installing a dynasonic in the neck. The only issue I see is that the pickups are floating, the sound would be pretty different. Thanks for the video, hugs from Spain :D
For me I like the Dynasonics, really close second is the Hilotrons, then the Filtertrons. But I've been playing humbuckers lately and that may be biasing me toward the Hilotrons. They do indeed all sound great and sound "Gretsch." Nice quick side by side demo. Thanks for doing it quickly and without comment. But those Dynasonics have a great high-end chime. 😎
Chet Atkins did not like the Dynasonics at all....said Duane Eddy was the only guy who could get a good sound out of them. So he started working with Ray Butts to come up with a set of humbuckers that he would be happy with. Tone is so subjective. Personally I think Duane got a fabulous sound even on his earliest albums while Chet didn't do so until the mid 60's.
Not to be a troll or anything, but I think there is a huge difference. I've got an Anniversary with Filtertrons and a Duo Jet with D'Armonds. Yes, I know: totally different guitars as well, but still. I could never get the snap out of the Filtertrons that I get from the D'Armonds. D'Armonds have magnetic pole pieces (like our revered teles and strats) while the Filtertrons are built like a humbucker with a bar magnet under non-magnetic pole pieces. The difference is pretty clear in your demo. It really makes a difference in what you do with your right hand. If there is an argument that one really must have a tele AND a strat, then it's also clear that one must have at least THREE Gretschs, each with a different pup set... ;-) Great demo format.
Looking at exactly these pups and your video was perfect. Your intro very nice and Gretsch! Right again on Gretsch pups- they are all special and thus your video, spot on, still leaves me unable to choose- the HiloTron seems to have both of the other two... Probably try the HT. THANKS!
I'd take the Dynasonic at the bridge and the Hilotron at the neck. Of course the question would be, do they match for the middle position? Great video, helps a lot!
Firstly, thanks for posting this and congrats on such a nice opening piece! I've been playing since August of '63 and still do everyday. I miss my early '60s Tennessean. I loved those Hi Lo Trons! Being retired and on a budget, I coverted an Epiphone WildKat into my "6120"; FilterTrons, flat top knobs, Grover Imperials and hopefully soon, a Sintoms zero fret. I am aiming at an Electromatic Jet with Dynasonics, but just saw they've released a model with some new P90's. IF I can pull it off, I'll do another WildKat up as a "6119". Though I've owned a lot of guitars, I mostly played Strats or an Epiphone Riviera ('68)with mini's. Now that I'm retired, I like having a nice "paint box" and having the LP, Strats, Tele and 6120 covered, it's time for more Gretsch flavors. LOL
Great demo! I purchased my first Gretsch in 2010. I bought used without getting to play it first. It was a 6128TCG with Dynas. I wanted that Great Gretsch sound...and didn't find it, in that guitar. It was gorgeous, played wonderfully...but those Dynas, even after some adjustments, left me feeling..meh. I was able to score a trade for a 6136T with Filters...and there was that sound!!! I no longer have that Falcon, but have owned many other proline Gretsches. Currently I have a 6119T Rose with Filters, and that thing rings, and chimes. With all of that said, your Falcon sounds absolutely amazing with the Dynas...so, perhaps it is the big hollowbody that makes the Dynas come to life. 👌👍
DynaSonics have to be raised very close to the strings. Sometimes even with shims. I have one in my Gretsch 6120 Eddie Cochran model bridge. Dog Ear P90 in the neck.
Great comparison! Interestingly the top end sounds 100% similar to me from all three PUs and even my Blacktop Filters have the same thing going on. Luckily, otherwise I would have to change them. But this is typical for Gretsch guitars in general I belive. Amplified (!) even lower priced models deliver absolutely excellent compared to the more expensive guitars. Back to the PUs: The real differences are audible in the lower mid range where the Filtertron is the beefiest. If one needs more clarity here in certain situations, he may try to scoop some frequencies with an EQ before swaping PUs. These are US Dynasonics in your Falcon, so I would not recomend to change anything here. This guitar is killer as it is!
that song gave me Grace Under Pressure kinda vibes.. which I like!! Dynasonics are amazing, but I'm pretty sure that the hilotrones sound that good because they were designed for a semi hollow body like that gretsch has. either way, I love it
Dynasonic more retro, clean and clear sound or tone. Filtertrons more modern, PAF, darker tone. Hilotrons sits right in between the other two. I would put the Dynasonic in my Gretsch for a bolder statement , or just to just to be different. I'm aslo thinking trying Dearmond vintage 65 goldfoil.
Great video man. Love the back to back comparison, as well as used in an actual track. Super useful to be able to help choose between the Dynas and Filtertrons. I have Dynas in my Gretsch and love them, but have been thinking about putting a Filtertron in one of the pickup positions to help distinguish/separate the tonal character a little, especially for leads when I need to stand out. Do you/anyone have any suggestions for pairing Dynasonics? The Filtertrons sound hotter but also darker than the Dynas, so not sure which one would be better for lead, compared to rhythm. I guess it's all relative to playing style and preference.
Thanks for the comment! I’ve been tossing up a similar thing for my White Falcon. I’ve been recommend the TV Jones Classic Plus for the bridge. Apparently it matches well with a Dynasonic or T-Armond in the neck. Every time I go to order one for the bridge though, I pick up my Gretsch and remember how much I love the Dynasonic 🤣
I might be late to the party. I have a Gretsch penguin that came with Dynasonics. I swapped out the bridge for a TV Jones Classic Plus. They pair extremely well. The bridge has a bit more grunt/bight and plays a bit nicer with my drive stages (I generally run into a clean vox amp). I absolutely love the sound of the Dyna in the neck. I can't really articulate exactly what it is about the tone but it's got this almost woody sound with a little chime. Phenomenal clean sounds. I do need to be a little more careful with drive to avoid it getting too muddy, although I recently got a Tumnus Deluxe and the three band eq has helped keep it from getting muddy so an eq might solve that issue. Middle position I think is a little brighter than just the two dynas, very very chimey, particularly into a vox amp. I've found riding the tone knob either at the guitar or on a drive is a good option. This position pairs nicely with my tube screamer (VS-XO) voicing. Both pickups are matched volume-wise. One thing I will not is that while my originally dynasonic in the neck is still shiny gold, the newer TV Jones bridge has tarnished, although they did look similar when the tv Jones was installed.
Oh, and one other note. The dyna is WAY noisier than the TV Jones. I've shielded the guitar/pickups and it helps, but if your in a venue where you have to deal with EMI there's not much to be done outside of volume knobs and noise gates
Are you doing your one music Ben ? I think stuff like this would be massive in the UK with a proper band set up ! huge delays and reverbs and fat snares ! haha
I was excited to hear your soundcheck, but all I could get out of it was that you have three great sounding guitars there. I think you should expand the test a bit...more variety in string attack..less focus on long ringing notes, and minimize the reverb..you know, short solo note runs, some chunk-chunk string muting stuff,...I feel it would reveal more about each guitar's attributes. I hope you take my suggestion, I am genuinely interested in a more complex analysis
Came for the pickup info. Stayed for the music. Bravo.
Thanks!
I listened twice just to hear that intro track. So good! Great demo
Thank you!
the dynasonics seemed to have the most articulate bass and string seperation which i’ve found to be very important in many genres
The intro track is stellar.
Thank you 🙏🏽
What a wonderful demo this is. INCREDIBLE track at the beginning. Subscribed!
Thank you so much! 🙏🏽
Such a good test, I could absolutely hear differences in the side by side, I found that each of them had a spot where they would shine as the "best in category" but I prefer the Dynasonics overall
Yeah all great and all different! I agree that the Dynasonics take the cake for me, most of the time!
I love all things Gretsch so they were all keepers. Keep up the great work.
Agreed! Thank you!
Thank you, finally, a pickup comparison that works! To me, most pickup shootouts on RUclips are useless because usually the takes are so long, that by the time the next pickup is on I've forgotten what the second one before that sounded like. I like the Dynasonics.
Thank you! 🙏🏽
You're right and too many demos are with drive pedals😔
That intro track didnt have to slap so hard but it did and I love it hahahaha PLEASE MAKE IT A FULL SONG!!!!
Hahaha thanks so much! Yeah I might!
@@BenNeal please do!
I remember I came across this video when I was searching for filter'tron videos for my Telecaster project and I was mesmerized by your little tune at the beginning. Time went by and I had this stuck in my head and I could not find you anymore. But here I am after 2 years, and this time I subscribed and followed you on IG also. Really nice work.
A Tennessee Rose w/ Hilotrons has been my main electric for about 15 years. I am feeling I’d like to try some Filtertrons, maybe a Duojet. Great comparison that reminds me why I got the T-Rose in the first place!
I started the video expecting to find one pickup superior to the others. I think they are all slightly different but have a similar overall tone--bright, articulate, clear, hi-fi. I could see how someone could prefer one to the other, but it would be merely a taste thing, and not a knock on the other ones. Great demo! Very informative. That said, I think I liked the Hilotrons best.
This was soooo rad! I ended up getting the 2-tone smoke green Gretsch because this video sold me on it! Remarkable playing and dare I say "incredible video editing!"
Keep up the professional work! Very impressive all-around!
Love from San Francisco!
Reasons why we all -need- want more than one Gretsch.
What a Fantastic and Comprehensive Gretsch pickup comparison! You helped me decide which pickups I want in my new project guitar!! Thank You!!
Thanks Mic, you’re welcome! What did you decide?
That opening track is delicious! Great playing man. All the pickups sounded great!
Thanks so much Daniel!
Very well done, straightforward comparison. One of the most helpful on YT. Thank you!
Thank you! 🙏🏽
Your playing is so tasteful Ben! Love it.
Thank you so much 🙏🏼
This is a really great video. My fave are the Dynas, but this is really a great demo very simply and efficiently showcasing everything you need to know about each. They all sound great in their own way. Beautiful, beautiful tone and playing- sounds like it's in your hands mainly, as it should be.
Thank you so much! I agree, the Dynas are my favourite!
@@BenNeal Another thought: it's almost as if the Dynas are "talking clearly" whenever I use them. It's like going from AM to FM, or, really, a voice in the room. Or like my conscience speaking and then the very words finally coming across my own lips, turning the thought into idea (and maybe subsequently, a work). That, but with music, and a guitar. Dynas personally help me play better and more complete, very much being the voice in my head- if any of that makes a bit of sense...
Great job: clean, short samples, good consistent playing make it easy to compare.
Thank you!
The dyna are the closest to my ears to a tele pickup.
The hilos are more scooped and strat-y.
The filtertrons have their own thing: hollow humbucker with a bright top end.
Yeah great observations!
I have to agree, I've always loved the dyna sound but being a strat player the hilos did have a "familiar" tone to them in hindsight.
I know this is 2 years old, but I've been just listening to that opening track over and over again just jamming along on my own Gretsch Duo Jet. Such a freaking vibe dude! You're so talented 🤘🏻
Man, killer intro and awesome comparison. All of these pickups sound great! Also, props on the shirt - I lived in Santa Cruz for about a decade.
Thank you!
That intro alone made me subscribe in the first couple seconds, awesome comparison vid too. Thank you!
Thanks so much 🙏🏼
@@BenNeal Mate, you need to record a video of a couple tracks just so we can enjoy you playing a bunch of Gretsch's! Totally epic!
The Dynasonics are the spikiest.
The Hilotrons are woodiest.
The TVJ's are the most balanced, but a little gritty.
Once again I am really enjoying your intro track! If this is your own material I must say you've got excellent compositional ideas and fabulous execution. Nicely done, friend!
I think I like the hilotrons the most. They have a lovely clarity to them without really skipping out on any frequencies. They sound a lot like Wide Range Humbuckers to my ears, or at least if Gretsch made a wide range
I agree. On the hunt for my first Gretsch ; I liked the Dynasonics better than Filtertrons (no surprise as I always like singlecoils better than 'buckers) so I was about to get a pre-59 VS Gretsch .. But I just discovered the existence of these Hi-lo-Trons and I can't understand why there aren't more guitars with them, they sound awesome, the G6119T-62 VS might be what I was looking for ! (and yes I get why you compare them to WRHBs, these pickups have that mix of both punch and clarity)
Hilotrons sounded nicer than I expected, I’ll have to check those out more. I haven’t seen them on too many recent guitars.
They’re definitely not as common, but they’re great!
I have one in the neck of my Tele. It's perfect there.
Love the Dynasonics in that Falcon!
Me too 😍
The most helpful video for comparison I've ever seen.
Wow thank you!
There is nothing like a Gretsch. My first electric guitar (1957 Streamliner w/one Pat. Pend. Filtertron and a Melita), and latest guitar (Harrison Duo -Jet w/two Dynasonics) were Gretschs. A nice bookend pair. I had a Tennessean for while with H-Lo Trons and it was so nice. They all have their charm, as you said.
Agreed! Special things!
man, just wanted to check out the pick up comparison. was stunned by the quality of demo you made.
talented!! applauds!! awesome!
I prefer the clarity of the Dynasonics!
Damn! That intro!❤ Some TWOD vibes that I love
I think I like more Dynasonic, kinda feel the sound is closer to an acoustic guitar... Dunno who wants to have this sound on an electric guitar
Same 😊
Thanks for reaffirming my favorite choice Dynasonics
You’re welcome 🙏🏽
the Filter'Tron seem to have more midrange and bottom end, which I guess makes sense. I've read the Hilo'Tron and the Dynasonic fall into the Strat/Tele range of pickup sounds. All that said, you're still you playing (nice job, btw), so a lot of the tone is coming from your technique and the construction of each guitar itself. I like your solution of just having 3 separate guitars and that makes the most sense for me as well. Thank you for the video
Thanks for the comment! Yeah I think they’re all great for different things!
couldn’t have described it better. All three pickups have their toneality, i do like the dynasonic pickups since i have them in my 2005 G6120, and appreciate their history and articulate sound in an ensemble situation. 🎧 Thank you- Ben.
Great demo! Well thought out and executed!
Thank you! 🙏🏽
They ALL sound GOOD Benno! I was surprised with the Hilo'trons. A bit more scooped than the Dynasonics!
And the Filter'trons just had tons of mid PUNCH!
Nice 1 mate!
Where about in Oz are you?
Thanks mate!
I’m on the mid north coast of NSW!
@@BenNeal Nice!
I'm in Melb!
Rock on!
Like all three pickups but prefer the dynasonics. The intro is incredible ... subscribed ... looking forward to more of your playing.
Me too! Thanks so much!
How the he'll can you not liie any of them with that glorious piece at thd intro.
I have found over the years to get the best from any guitar, you havde to 'learn' what the instrument has to offer.
If you have been playing a tele all your guitar life, and you pick up a Les Paul, you will not be able to apply the same skill and techniques you have acquired. That also goes for two guitars of the same model.
Mr Neal, you have demonstrated (with great mastery and eloquence), that you know exactly how to get the best from each instrument. Really a joy to listen to.
Huh these Intro melodies are just so perfect! Also that has some kind of vibe I've heard on "The Midnight" records. 80❤
Lovely intro track
Thank you!
They all sound different and all sound great. I’d be happy with any of these!
Yep agreed!
If I have to choose one... its hard but yeah, "Dynasonics" ( cause they remind me the most of that "origin Gretsch sound" that was on most of the recordings time-back ). They're all great sounding, Thanks for the review Ben, great skills.
Man, what a killer opening track! And an excellent comparison video. They all sound fantastic, but there is something special about the wide-open clarity of Dynasonics. Good choice on sticking with them. I am a relative newcomer to Gretsch guitars and I love learning about all the subtle differences between the pickup types and models.
First thing, my Tenny has HiLoTrons, so it was doing my head in trying to associate Filter’Trons with your Tennessee Rose! I have been wondering about swapping out my pickups with . . FilterTrons. Er, no . . . Dynasonics. Aaarghh! No matter what I switch to, I know I’m going to miss what I had! So, yes, more guitars. Or maybe just accept that other pick ups are great, but enjoy what I have (and work on my technique). Lovely playing, Thank You!
Thanks so much! Yeah I’ve thought about swapping my dynasonics out for filtertrons for some time, but I think I would miss what I have too much!
I love my Dynasonics. They sound kinda "raw" to me. Your playing is brilliant, thanks.
I agree! Thanks!
Accidentally turned on chapter repeat and had to watch the sweet intro twice.
Dang.
Cracking vid, thanks Ben. just made up my mind to get some dynasonics
Thanks! Hopefully you like them as much as I do!
Nice comparison video. On a side note, I like the T-shirt. It's from my hometown.
Great Shootout! I just bought a Gretsch with Filter'Trons it has not arrive yet, I also have two with Broad'Trons which I really like since I play a lot of heavy songs. Getting one with Dynasonics after watching this!! Killer playing really highlights the Gretsch sound. Cheers!
not me looping the intro track... i usually skip those things. great taste, great demo 👏
Gorgeous tones !
Thank you!
I'd take a hi-lo neck and a Filtertron bridge. But the middle position on that falcon is sublime!
Excellent demo and we agreed with your assessment.
Thanks!
Great vid, and great playing. Great combo with the White Falcon and the Dynasonics. Just the right amount of break up. I Have a WF with TV Jones. I love it, but may have to look for a Duo Jet with Dynasonics. Are they single coil or like a mini humbucker? Anyway, thanks for a great vid. 👍🏼
That falcon would be epic! The dynasonics are single coils 🙏🏼
cracking demo mate, cheers!
Thanks for watching!
Man i just love this video, it's amazing I'm finishing loving the three pickups.
Thanks so much! They're all great!
You know I think you need all three...and I'm not kidding. The question of which sounds the best is going to be subjective. Arguably you might want each of those nuanced tones for specific assignments. For my style of playing and the things I like to play, the Filtertrons might be best, which is good cause that is what my Gretsch has. However I really like the other two options as well.
Thanks for putting this together it was helpful.
Thanks for a good comparison without a bunch of fuzz etc.
I had never heard Hilotrons before. I really liked those. They all sound great.
Im picking up a 5622t today, and Im already shopping for options without even playing it yet lol.
Its got the HiLo ones. Actually Ive been just checking out Gretsch players and their sounds, in anticipation of getting this guitar, and your sound on that opening track is heavenly!
SUBBED!
an absolutely beautiful song in the intro.
I have 5 Gretsch guitars: 4 5422 models, 2 6 string and 2 12 strings and a Country Classic all with Filtertrons. My Epiphone Dot has a Filtertron in the bridge position.
This intro was amazing!
I’ve never had a Gretsch and I am debating a 6128 with filtertrons vs dynasonic pickups.
By the way, the intro track is amazing!!
That was a very nice intro song!
Wow that intro is AMAZING. You made me love Gretsch guitars even more! I love hollow body guitars (all of them, the Gibson ES175 is other dream guitar) but these bodies are too big for me. I feel the same with dreadnought acoustics. I bought an Ibanez AG85 recently loaded with mini humbuckers and it feels very confy... and sounds amazing too! I always wanted some of the Gretsch sound though, and I am considering installing a dynasonic in the neck. The only issue I see is that the pickups are floating, the sound would be pretty different. Thanks for the video, hugs from Spain :D
For me I like the Dynasonics, really close second is the Hilotrons, then the Filtertrons. But I've been playing humbuckers lately and that may be biasing me toward the Hilotrons. They do indeed all sound great and sound "Gretsch." Nice quick side by side demo. Thanks for doing it quickly and without comment. But those Dynasonics have a great high-end chime. 😎
Great video Ben!
Thanks Alberto!
Wow intro song was sick! Great job
Unreal tune at the start mate. Came here in search of pickups to replace the BTBTs in my NTM G5622. Bit muddy for my liking.
Chet Atkins did not like the Dynasonics at all....said Duane Eddy was the only guy who could get a good sound out of them. So he started working with Ray Butts to come up with a set of humbuckers that he would be happy with.
Tone is so subjective. Personally I think Duane got a fabulous sound even on his earliest albums while Chet didn't do so until the mid 60's.
Hi Ben, that intro is wicked ! Would you mind sharing the effects you are using ? Cheers
Just what I was looking for. Clear, concise and a great opening demo. The Dynasonic's edge it for me.
Thanks heaps! Yeah they’re my pick too!
Not to be a troll or anything, but I think there is a huge difference. I've got an Anniversary with Filtertrons and a Duo Jet with D'Armonds. Yes, I know: totally different guitars as well, but still. I could never get the snap out of the Filtertrons that I get from the D'Armonds. D'Armonds have magnetic pole pieces (like our revered teles and strats) while the Filtertrons are built like a humbucker with a bar magnet under non-magnetic pole pieces. The difference is pretty clear in your demo. It really makes a difference in what you do with your right hand.
If there is an argument that one really must have a tele AND a strat, then it's also clear that one must have at least THREE Gretschs, each with a different pup set... ;-)
Great demo format.
Looking at exactly these pups and your video was perfect. Your intro very nice and Gretsch! Right again on Gretsch pups- they are all special and thus your video, spot on, still leaves me unable to choose- the HiloTron seems to have both of the other two... Probably try the HT. THANKS!
Very cool and well done video. One càn easily discern the difference. Thanks.
I'd take the Dynasonic at the bridge and the Hilotron at the neck. Of course the question would be, do they match for the middle position?
Great video, helps a lot!
That would be killer. I’m sure they’d match!
Firstly, thanks for posting this and congrats on such a nice opening piece! I've been playing since August of '63 and still do everyday. I miss my early '60s Tennessean. I loved those Hi Lo Trons! Being retired and on a budget, I coverted an Epiphone WildKat into my "6120"; FilterTrons, flat top knobs, Grover Imperials and hopefully soon, a Sintoms zero fret. I am aiming at an Electromatic Jet with Dynasonics, but just saw they've released a model with some new P90's. IF I can pull it off, I'll do another WildKat up as a "6119". Though I've owned a lot of guitars, I mostly played Strats or an Epiphone Riviera ('68)with mini's. Now that I'm retired, I like having a nice "paint box" and having the LP, Strats, Tele and 6120 covered, it's time for more Gretsch flavors. LOL
The Dynasonics sound so rich and thick for being single coils.
Love your playing! All 3 sound fantastic. My opinion.... Filtertronics Dynasonics is toss up to me
The Two Tone Green is f***ing beautiful!
Agreed! 😍
Dynasonic for the neck position, Hilotron for the middle position and the Filtertron for the bridge position.😊
Great demo! I purchased my first Gretsch in 2010. I bought used without getting to play it first. It was a 6128TCG with Dynas. I wanted that Great Gretsch sound...and didn't find it, in that guitar. It was gorgeous, played wonderfully...but those Dynas, even after some adjustments, left me feeling..meh. I was able to score a trade for a 6136T with Filters...and there was that sound!!! I no longer have that Falcon, but have owned many other proline Gretsches. Currently I have a 6119T Rose with Filters, and that thing rings, and chimes. With all of that said, your Falcon sounds absolutely amazing with the Dynas...so, perhaps it is the big hollowbody that makes the Dynas come to life. 👌👍
DynaSonics have to be raised very close to the strings. Sometimes even with shims. I have one in my Gretsch 6120 Eddie Cochran model bridge. Dog Ear P90 in the neck.
Brilliant, thanks!
awesome work! thank you very much… but… now it’s not easier to choose because they all sound fantastic…
Haha agreed! Thank you!
Great comparison! Interestingly the top end sounds 100% similar to me from all three PUs and even my Blacktop Filters have the same thing going on. Luckily, otherwise I would have to change them. But this is typical for Gretsch guitars in general I belive. Amplified (!) even lower priced models deliver absolutely excellent compared to the more expensive guitars. Back to the PUs: The real differences are audible in the lower mid range where the Filtertron is the beefiest. If one needs more clarity here in certain situations, he may try to scoop some frequencies with an EQ before swaping PUs. These are US Dynasonics in your Falcon, so I would not recomend to change anything here. This guitar is killer as it is!
Thanks for your awesome video. Now I know that it's the FT that is really not my cuppa, but all the other gretsch pickups sound nice =)
It was good to hear these guitars normal ie, less like rockabilly style. They all sounded good.😎👍🎸
that song gave me Grace Under Pressure kinda vibes.. which I like!!
Dynasonics are amazing, but I'm pretty sure that the hilotrones sound that good because they were designed for a semi hollow body like that gretsch has. either way, I love it
Dynasonic more retro, clean and clear sound or tone. Filtertrons more modern, PAF, darker tone. Hilotrons sits right in between the other two. I would put the Dynasonic in my Gretsch for a bolder statement , or just to just to be different. I'm aslo thinking trying Dearmond vintage 65 goldfoil.
Yeah totally agree! All have their own thing for sure! I’ve never had the chance to try goldfoils!
Great video man. Love the back to back comparison, as well as used in an actual track. Super useful to be able to help choose between the Dynas and Filtertrons. I have Dynas in my Gretsch and love them, but have been thinking about putting a Filtertron in one of the pickup positions to help distinguish/separate the tonal character a little, especially for leads when I need to stand out.
Do you/anyone have any suggestions for pairing Dynasonics? The Filtertrons sound hotter but also darker than the Dynas, so not sure which one would be better for lead, compared to rhythm. I guess it's all relative to playing style and preference.
Thanks for the comment! I’ve been tossing up a similar thing for my White Falcon. I’ve been recommend the TV Jones Classic Plus for the bridge. Apparently it matches well with a Dynasonic or T-Armond in the neck.
Every time I go to order one for the bridge though, I pick up my Gretsch and remember how much I love the Dynasonic 🤣
I might be late to the party. I have a Gretsch penguin that came with Dynasonics. I swapped out the bridge for a TV Jones Classic Plus. They pair extremely well. The bridge has a bit more grunt/bight and plays a bit nicer with my drive stages (I generally run into a clean vox amp).
I absolutely love the sound of the Dyna in the neck. I can't really articulate exactly what it is about the tone but it's got this almost woody sound with a little chime. Phenomenal clean sounds. I do need to be a little more careful with drive to avoid it getting too muddy, although I recently got a Tumnus Deluxe and the three band eq has helped keep it from getting muddy so an eq might solve that issue.
Middle position I think is a little brighter than just the two dynas, very very chimey, particularly into a vox amp. I've found riding the tone knob either at the guitar or on a drive is a good option. This position pairs nicely with my tube screamer (VS-XO) voicing.
Both pickups are matched volume-wise.
One thing I will not is that while my originally dynasonic in the neck is still shiny gold, the newer TV Jones bridge has tarnished, although they did look similar when the tv Jones was installed.
Oh, and one other note. The dyna is WAY noisier than the TV Jones. I've shielded the guitar/pickups and it helps, but if your in a venue where you have to deal with EMI there's not much to be done outside of volume knobs and noise gates
Seriously that intro tack is so good! Is that something you have recorded anywhere? I want to listen on a platform
Filtertrons are stone roses sounding really nice but all sound great
🤘🏽
Great video! Thanks for this 🙏🏼
Are you doing your one music Ben ? I think stuff like this would be massive in the UK with a proper band set up ! huge delays and reverbs and fat snares ! haha
That would be epic!
I was excited to hear your soundcheck, but all I could get out of it was that you have three great sounding guitars there. I think you should expand the test a bit...more variety in string attack..less focus on long ringing notes, and minimize the reverb..you know, short solo note runs, some chunk-chunk string muting stuff,...I feel it would reveal more about each guitar's attributes. I hope you take my suggestion, I am genuinely interested in a more complex analysis