VINTAGE VIBE
Campbell American Guitars Transitone
The Transitone’s vintage vibe was more than skin deep. Besides the
guitar’s retro-cool shape, it broke away from the vintage pack with
an uncannily broken-in feel from day one. Fitted with Jason Lollar
“Jazzmaster” pups, the guitar handled Tele twang, blues and funk
remarkably. Reviewer Michael Ross said [August ’08, online], “The
Campbell American Transitone is one of the few currently made guitars
that offer the vintage experience at well below vintage prices.”
Gretsch G6118T “Double Annie”
Gretsch celebrated their 125th anniversary this year, and celebrated
with the release of several guitars that are reminiscent of the roots of
rock n’ roll. The Double Annie is one of those guitars, conjuring images
of Gretsches from the fifties and sixties. The company managed to
take a step forward while paying close tribute to vintage instruments
by incorporating new bracing and TV Jones pickups. But even the TV
Jones Power Trons added to the vintage feel and sound, evoking the
old Filter Trons. In the end, this guitar was as Gretsch as it gets. Said
reviewer Chris Burgess [September ’08, online], “If you’re looking to
Gretsch-ify your sound, and you want a perfect match-up for your vintage amp, the Double Annie would be a great way to go.
