If you’re curious about the differences between Hagstrom and Gretsch guitars and how they compare to each other, then read on!
Hagstrom
Hagstrom guitars are a classic electric guitar brand from Sweden. As with the majority of classic guitar brands, Hagstrom first began as an acoustic guitar brand. They gradually moved on to producing electric models in the 1950s.
Hagstrom electric guitars are a mixture of solid body guitars like the Super Swede and hollow bodies like the Hagstrom Viking. A lot of Hagstrom’s models that are available today are direct reissues of classic models, giving their designs lots of unique charm and character, while at the same time sporting enough familiarity to be hugely appealing to a large cross-section of guitarists.
Hagstrom guitars have enjoyed some high-profile endorsements over its time. Their guitars have been used by members of large rock bands like Foo Fighters and Ghost among others.
Best Hagstrom Series And Models
Hagstrom Viking
One of the most popular guitars manufactured by Hagstrom is the Hagstrom Viking. In fact, it’s one of the most versatile and interesting guitars on the market. It’s heavily inspired by the Gibson’s ES-335. The Viking features two Ahlstrom humbuckers, which produce a really powerful and punchy tone. Whether you’re into clean jazz melodies or more distorted rock, grunge or metal riffs, the Viking will definitely help you find your own tone.
Hagstrom Super Viking
Although it’s more expensive than the regular Hagstrom’s Viking model, the guitar is a piece of art. The Super Viking is like the regular Viking but on steroids. There’s something absolutely powerful about this guitar. Its sound is really versatile, so gives most users everything that they need.
Hagstrom Ultra Swede
The Ultra Swede is one of the cheapest models offered by Hagstrom. To be honest, Hagstrom’s Ultra Swede model is really similar to Epiphone Les Paul, but with a slightly distinct shape. The Ultra Swede features a mahogany body and a really comfortable D-shaped neck. It’s equipped with two open-coil humbucking pickups that offer a really unique tone, making the Ultra Swede particularly great for rock, grunge and metal riffs.
Hagstrom Fantomen
If you looked at the shape of the Fantomen, you may think that it’s a ripoff of Gibson’s Explorer or Firebird. Of course, it’s clear that this Fantomen was heavily influenced by the guitars created by Gibson, although it’s still an interesting and far more affordable option than any Gibson guitar. The Fantomen is made for heavy riffs! On top of that, it’s surprisingly lightweight.
Hagstrom Ultra Swede BGB
The Ultra Swede BGB is another interesting model created by Hagstrom. This model is slightly more expensive than the regular Ultra Swede mentioned earlier. However, it’s still definitely worth it. The Ultra Swede BGB looks and sounds absolutely spectacular and it’s really versatile. If you’re looking on the market for a mid-shelf guitar, the Ultra Swede will definitely be a good choice.
Gretsch
Gretsch guitars have played a huge part in the development of jazz, country and guitar-based music in general. The story of Gretsch started with Friedrich Gretsch. A German who immigrated to the USA, he set up business in Brooklyn, New York, back in 1895.
Many Influential guitarists like Chet Atkins, Billy Duffy, Eddie Cochran and Mary Osborne have all used Gretsch guitars. Because of their wide selection of models and the number of influential guitarists that use them, there’re models to suit all styles of music. Although most known for their pristine clean sound, there’re also options that’s great for rock and heavier styles of music.
Gretsch’s guitars are best known for their hollow-body electric guitars, including the famous White Falcon and the Country Gentleman. They’ve long been seen as a luxury, top-price brand. Though they continue to make high-end guitars, and in recent years they’ve also added more affordable ranges. Gretsch’s Streamliner and Electromatic lines are much more affordable. These have become incredibly popular and have been a great entry point into Gretsch.
Best Gretsch Series And Models
One of the first guitars that Gretsch released was the PRS Custom in 1985. This model set the standard for all of the premium guitars that came later.
These days, Gretsch has released plenty of series and models, including:
- Custom 24
- Custom 22
- CE24
- McCarty
- SE
- S2
- Signature
- Limited Edition
Some of the highest-quality guitars come from their Custom 24 series. These have been in production since Gretsch began. They’re often described as “Les Paul and Strat hybrids.” They feature a classic PRS double-cutaway shape, 25-inch scale length, and high-quality wood. Gretsch’s current Custom 24 models come with PRS’s 85 and 15 humbucker pickups and a 5-way switch.
At the other end of the spectrum is their SE, or “Student Edition,” which is one of their budget-friendly models. Despite the price, they defiantly make for good starter instruments.
Hagstrom Vs Gretsch
Both Hagstrom and Gretsch have unique qualities that might make one more attractive to another for a particular guitarist.
As far as the quality of each company’s guitars, it’s pretty much a tie. Some Gretsch models, however, are a bit more versatile. Either way, both Hagstrom and Gretsch make decent guitars, and you can’t go wrong with either brand.
Should You Get A Hagstrom Or A Gretsch?
Because of Gretsch’s popularity, it’s easier to get your hands on one of these instruments. Furthermore, you can likely find an inexpensive model that will get the job done.
If your primary focus is metal and you’re on a budget, then Gretsch may be the way to go. Even the cheapest Streamliner or Electromatic models can do the job. Going towards the £400 mark, Gretsch could be a good choice.