Gretsch Professional Collection Tennessean: 16-Inch Hollow Body Versatility
At $2,499, the Gretsch Professional Tennessean is the 16-inch answer to the Nashville. One inch smaller offers subtle tonal and feedback advantages—slightly tighter acoustic character, better feedback control in higher-gain contexts. Arc-Tone bracing and PRO-FT Filter’Trons remain unchanged, making this the smart choice for players who gig in louder contexts.
16-Inch Hollow Body Compromise
16 inches is a sweet compromise. The body still resonates with impressive acoustic presence—significantly more than semi-hollows. However, the slightly smaller chamber resists feedback better than 17-18 inch designs. Tonal difference is subtle; practical difference is significant for gigging musicians.
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Body | Full hollow body, 16″ width |
| Bracing | Arc-Tone system |
| Pickups | PRO-FT Filter’Tron single-coils |
| Hardware | Sealed tuners, Bigsby B6GP optional |
| Neck | Mahogany, Gretsch profile |
| Fretboard | Ebony, 12″ radius, 22 frets |
| Price | $2,499 |
Arc-Tone Bracing: Same Secret Sauce
The 16-inch Tennessean uses identical Arc-Tone bracing as the 17-inch Nashville. The bracing philosophy remains—curved supports that enhance resonance while maintaining structural integrity. At 16 inches, the acoustic character is slightly more controlled, which translates to practical gigging benefits.
PRO-FT Filter’Tron Pickups
Same excellent PRO-FT pickups as the Nashville. Filter’Tron single-coils deliver that legendary Gretsch sparkle. Articulate, bright, and musical—these pickups define modern Gretsch tone.
Gig-Friendly Feedback Control
The 16-inch body is significantly more feedback-resistant than 17-18 inch designs. This matters in live contexts with moderate gain or loud band dynamics. If you gig regularly, the 1-inch difference from Nashville translates to real practical benefits.
Who Is It For?
Professional gigging musicians, session players, jazz musicians who need feedback control, and rockabilly specialists who play in loud contexts. If you gig more than you record, this 16-inch size is smarter than the larger Nashville.
Comparison: Tennessean vs. Nashville
Tennessean 16-inch ($2,499) offers better feedback control and slightly tighter tone; Nashville 17-inch ($2,699) delivers more acoustic presence. The $200 difference reflects body size and tonal character—choose based on your gigging needs.
Pricing
$2,499 MSRP is professional-tier investment. Street prices range $2,249–$2,399, with occasional sales dipping to $2,250.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 16-inch size balances resonance with feedback control
- Arc-Tone bracing delivers hollow body character
- PRO-FT Filter’Trons classic Gretsch tone
- Gig-friendly in loud contexts
- $200 cheaper than 17-inch Nashville
Cons:
The Gretsch Professional Collection Falcon offers a different approach within the same Gretsch family.
- Slightly less acoustic presence than 17-inch
- Filter’Trons hum more than humbuckers
- Still full hollow body (feedback concerns vs. semi-hollow)
FAQ
How much does 1 inch body difference matter?
Tonally, subtle. Practically, significant—feedback resistance is noticeably better at 16 inches. Gigging musicians appreciate this.
The Gretsch Professional Collection Nashville offers a different approach within the same Gretsch family.
Is this suitable for rock and roll?
Yes, with discipline. Rockabilly and vintage rock work great. High-gain hard rock requires careful amp management. Medium-gain rock-and-roll is the sweet spot.
Shoppers cross-shopping this model should also consider the Epiphone 1962 ES-335 Reissue.
Should I get Tennessean or Nashville?
Tennessean if you gig in loud contexts; Nashville if you prioritize acoustic presence and studio work. Both are professional-grade—choose based on your primary use.
Shoppers cross-shopping this model should also consider the Guild T-Bird ST.
Bottom Line
The Gretsch Professional Tennessean at $2,499 is the gig-friendly hollow body. 16 inches delivers hollow body character while resisting feedback better than larger designs. Arc-Tone bracing and PRO-FT Filter’Trons are professional-grade. If you gig regularly in loud contexts, this is the smarter Gretsch hollow body.