Gear article
Gretsch FilterTron Style Pickup Bezel
The Gretsch FilterTron Style Pickup Bezel is a decorative and functional guitar component designed specifically for silver-finished instrument hardware layouts. Produced by Gretsch, this mounting ring is engineered to provide a classic vintage aesthetic while ensuring secure pickup installation.
See live pricesOverview
The Gretsch Pickup Bezel FilterTron Style is a specialist hardware component designed for electric guitars equipped with FilterTron-style pickups. As a official Gretsch spare part, it is intended to provide a seamless fit and finish for musicians performing repairs, restorations, or custom modifications on their instruments. The bezel serves as the primary mounting frame, bridging the gap between the guitar body and the pickup unit itself.
Design and Finish
Constructed to reflect the heritage of the Gretsch brand, this bezel features a distinctive silver finish. This aesthetic choice is intended to replicate the 'vintage look and feel' often associated with mid-20th-century hollow-body and solid-body electric guitars. The silver coating is selected to complement other chrome or nickel hardware, contributing to a cohesive 'classic rock' visual presentation.
Installation and Functionality
The primary function of the bezel is to secure the pickup in place while allowing for height adjustments. By utilizing a specific FilterTron-style footprint, it ensures that the pickup is correctly aligned with the strings. The design is intended to be robust enough for professional use, having undergone testing and refinement by industry professionals to ensure long-term reliability on the stage and in the studio.
Compatibility and Target Audience
This part is primarily suited for guitarists who own Gretsch instruments or custom guitars built to FilterTron specifications. It is a critical component for those seeking to maintain the original look of a vintage instrument or for builders who require high-quality, manufacturer-guaranteed spares. It provides an elegant solution for players who prioritise both the tonal integrity and the visual class of their instrument.
Comparison to Alternatives
Compared to generic aftermarket pickup rings, the Gretsch-branded bezel offers the assurance of official quality and exact dimensional specifications for FilterTron units. While products like the Gotoh 203B-4 Bass Bridge or Fender American Standard Tremolo Bridge serve different functional roles, the Gretsch bezel occupies a similar niche of 'essential hardware' that defines the character of a specific instrument type. Unlike standard plastic humbucker rings, this silver bezel is specifically shaped for the unique, narrower profile of Gretsch pickups.
Related gear
£20.35 ($26)EVANS
Evans MS3 Clear Marching Snare Side Drum Head 14"
£24.99 ($32)Tama
Tama CB900PS Accu-Strike Iron Cobra Beater
£29.00 ($37)Gotoh
Gotoh 203B-4 Bass Bridge Chrome
£54.00 ($69)Fender
Fender 10-Hole Contemporary Jazz Bass Pickguard 3-Ply Black
£11.49 ($15)Fender
Fender Stratocaster Knobs 1 Volume 2 Tone Aged White
£2.49 ($3)Gear4Music
5A Wood Tip Maple Drumsticks by Gear4music
£158.00 ($201)Fender
Fender American Standard Stratocaster Tremolo Bridge Assembly Chrome
£7.99 ($10)Fender
Fender Jazzmaster Pickup Covers Aged White
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary purpose of the Gretsch Pickup Bezel?
- The primary purpose is to act as a mounting frame for FilterTron-style pickups. It secures the pickup to the guitar body while providing a finished, professional appearance.
- What finish does this specific bezel have?
- This bezel features a silver finish. This choice is designed to give the instrument a vintage look that complements classic rock aesthetics.
- Is this a genuine Gretsch product?
- Yes, it is a genuine Gretsch part. It comes with the assurance of quality associated with the brand and has been tested by industry professionals.
- What style of pickup is this bezel compatible with?
- It is specifically designed for FilterTron-style pickups. It may not fit standard full-sized humbuckers or single-coil pickups without modification.
- What is the typical price for this part?
- The typical price range for this Gretsch spare part is approximately £10. This makes it an affordable option for guitar maintenance and upgrades.
- Does the bezel affect the tone of the guitar?
- While the bezel itself is a non-electronic part, it holds the pickup in the correct position relative to the strings. Proper positioning is essential for achieving the classic rock tone Gretsch is known for.
- Who is this product best suited for?
- It is suited for guitar players looking to add a touch of elegance to their instrument. It is also ideal for those restoring vintage Gretsch guitars or building custom instruments with FilterTron pickups.
- How does this compare to a Fender Jazzmaster pickup cover?
- The Gretsch bezel is a mounting frame for FilterTron pickups, whereas a Fender Jazzmaster cover is a plastic shell that fits over a single-coil pickup. They are not interchangeable and serve different guitar models.
- Can this bezel be used on a bass guitar?
- This bezel is designed for guitar pickups. While some Gretsch basses use FilterTron-style pickups, compatibility would depend on the specific dimensions of the bass pickup being used.
- Does it include mounting screws?
- Specific hardware inclusions can vary, but typically these bezels are sold as the frame itself. Users should verify if their existing screws are compatible or if additional Gretsch-spec screws are needed.
- Is the silver finish durable for live performance?
- Yes, the product has been perfected by professionals in the industry. It is designed to withstand the rigours of regular playing while maintaining its stylish appearance.
- Why should I choose a Gretsch branded bezel over a generic one?
- Choosing a Gretsch branded part ensures the dimensions are accurate for their specific pickup designs. It also ensures the silver finish matches other Gretsch hardware perfectly.
