The Gretsch Pages

<p>Like most Gretsch amps, the 6161 styling changed several times: first there was the original Electromatic style, with wraparound grill, a porthole for the tweeter, and a cream plastic handle. This type, as shown above and in the rear view to the right, was in production from approximately 1955 to 1958. </p> <p>The second Electromatic style became one of Gretsch's most recognized and best loved amps. With twin elliptical speakers and an angled wraparound grill, nothing else looked or sounded quite like it. This style had an enlarged wraparound grill, slightly different Tolex covering and a black handle and was in production from about 1958 to 1962. </p> <p>The 6169 Electromatic was offered in the '50s, alongside the nearly identical 6161. What set the 6169 apart was style: cream tolex covering with western themed leather trim, a steer's head silkscreened on the speaker grill, and, to cap it all off, a &quot;belt buckle&quot; emblem Gretsch also used on some guitars, as shown here in this excellent example courtesy of Hal Zwicke. </p> <p>The third, simpler box style cabinet debuted around 1962. While the cool look of the earlier amps was gone, the guts remained pretty similar. Wattage rose from 14 to 17, the odd elliptical speakers were traded for two standard 10&quot; Jensens, and the control panel gained an input. </p> <p>The big change came later, when the classic Dual-Twin was phased out around 1967 or 1968 to make way for the Dual Twin Tremolo... </p>

Comments

1. Wally Feb 28, 2008 10:13 a.m.

   Very cool amp, great tones. I need a schematic. Don't we all? My Electromatic is a 1955, and has only the 2-11X6 without the tweeter. My tremolo function is non-operative hence the need for a schematic. OR...if anyone has this model that carries 2 6SQ7, 1 6SC7, 2-6V6's and the 5Y3, I would like to correspond with them concerning the wiring on the 6SQ7 tremolo tube.

   • !
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   — Feb 28, 2008 10:13 a.m.