Descrizione
Real U2 fans will already know that singer Bono is fond of Gretsch guitars. In addition to the green Bono Irish Falcon guitar that was issued earlier, Gretsch have now introduced a reasonably priced RED model, which has been modelled after the Gretsch Electromatic Center-Block, but customised to suit Bono's preferences. It's quite rare that a signature model comes at such an attractive price - especially considering that part of the proceeds of this guitar will be donated to RED, an organisation dedicated to fighting AIDS worldwide.
Sound
The Gretsch Electromatic Center-Block delivers the authentic sound of a hollow-body guitar without any of the drawbacks, thanks to the solid spruce centre block located in its body. This construction prevents feedback - an issue common for regular hollow-back guitars - making the Electromatic Center-Block ideal for a more high-gain tone. No wonder Bono is such a fan of this type of guitar, which produces the original Gretsch sound without any annoying feedback! Additionally, the Gretsch Guitars Bono signature model is fitted with two authentic Filter Tron pickups.
Construction
Like the standard models, the G5623 Electromatic Center-Block (RED) Bono edition has a body made of high-grade 5-ply maple. Both top and back are arched and fitted with pretty bindings. The neck of the guitar is also made of maple and features a rosewood fretboard with 22 medium jumbo frets, a 12.5-inch radius and Neo-Classic Thumbnail position markers. The Bigsby tremolo of the standard model has been replaced by a fixed tailpiece, but the Adjusto-Matic is still in place. The tone controls of the guitar are simple, consisting of a master volume knob and a master tone knob, and a stylish white pickguard with a RED logo adorns the body.