Gretsch CVT revamped as a stripped-down rock powerhouse: a review
The modern reinvention of the Gretsch Corvette as a twin-humbucker rock machine has been a resounding success. Priced at $419/£499, this guitar offers remarkable value for money with rock-solid build quality and flawless finishing. It provides a fun palette of snarly rock tones, making it an affordable and unique option in the world of electric guitars.
Despite its historical connections to iconic musicians like Jimi Hendrix and Rory Gallagher, the Gretsch Corvette remains somewhat under the radar. In a market saturated with familiar shapes and designs, the Corvette stands out as a refreshing and distinct choice for guitarists looking for something different. The revival of the Corvette, now branded as the CVT, comes after nearly two decades since its first introduction and half a decade since its discontinuation.
The CVT showcases some significant changes from the original Corvette design, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality. With a slightly thicker body and reduced carve on the sides, the CVT exudes a stockier and more aggressive appearance. The shortened top horn adds to its rugged charm. One notable alteration is the shift from a set-neck to a bolt-on design, aimed at reducing the low-end fuzziness of the mahogany construction.
Featuring Gretsch’s Twin Six humbuckers and a straightforward intonatable wrapover tune-o-matic-style bridge, the CVT is optimized for hard-rocking performance. While some may lament the absence of Filter’Trons in favor of generic humbuckers, this choice aligns with the guitar’s target market. The humbuckers offer a simple three-way toggle with shared volume and tone controls, emphasizing ease of use and versatility.
In terms of build quality and playability, the CVT excels despite its affordable price point. Weighing nearly 8lbs, it strikes a balance between durability and comfort, with flawless construction and finishing. The ‘Performance C’ neck profile offers a comfortable playing experience, further enhancing the guitar’s overall appeal. Despite minor caveats like weight distribution and strap button placement, the CVT impresses with its attention to detail and overall craftsmanship.
Overall, the Gretsch CVT stands out as a compelling option for guitarists seeking a versatile, affordable, and standout instrument. With its unique design tweaks, quality components, and rock-ready performance, the CVT proves to be a worthy contender in the competitive electric guitar market.