Gretsch G6134TFM-NH Nigel Hendroff AF

Gretsch G6134TFM-NH Nigel Hendroff AF review

The Gretsch G6134TFM-NH Nigel Hendroff AF is a Japanese-made, single-cut signature guitar associated with Nigel Hendroff of Hillsong United. Its amber finish, flamed maple top, and gold Gretsch and Penguin logos give it a distinctive look, while the mahogany body and neck, ebony fingerboard, and two Broad'Tron BT-65 humbuckers define its core specification.

Owner feedback is notably positive about the guitar's construction, sound, feel, and setup. One player who had spent decades with Fender and Taylor instruments said the Gretsch's build and tone impressed them, and praised its string action. Another owner described the guitar as well built, good sounding, and comfortable to play, but reported persistent tuning changes when using the Bigsby-style vibrato. That contrast matters: the available comments point to a compelling instrument, with tuning stability the clearest concern to consider before buying.

Construction and playing feel

The body and neck are mahogany, topped with flamed maple. The ebony fingerboard has mother-of-pearl block inlays and a 305 mm (12-inch) radius. Its standard U-shaped neck has a semi-gloss finish, with 22 medium-jumbo frets and a bone nut measuring 42.86 mm (1.6875 inches) wide. The scale length is 625 mm.

These details describe a traditional, substantial single-cut layout rather than a lightweight or stripped-down design. One owner specifically noted that the guitar is not light, but still found little to criticize about its construction and setup. That is useful context for players who value the instrument's solid feel but prefer a lighter guitar for long rehearsals or stage sets. The comments support a positive impression of the action and general playability, though string height and comfort can vary from one player to another.

The amber flame finish is paired with a tortoiseshell pickguard, nickel-plated hardware, and Grover Imperial locking tuning machines. An Adjusto-Matic bridge handles string support, while the supplied G6238XL Gretsch solid-body hardshell case provides a fitted storage and transport option. A gig bag is not included.

Pickups, controls, and vibrato

The guitar uses two Broad'Tron BT-65 humbucking pickups, selected through a three-way toggle switch. Master volume and master tone controls keep the control layout straightforward. The supplied strings are nickel-plated steel in a.010-.046 gauge set. The published specifications do not detail pickup output or switching options beyond the three-way selector, so buyers should assess the sound in person if they need a particular tonal response.

The Bigsby-style vibrato is the main point of disagreement in the owner feedback. One player reported that even mild vibrato use caused the guitar to go out of tune. They had tried common stability adjustments and installed a roller bridge, but said the problem remained. The same owner still considered the instrument well made and good sounding, while saying their next Gretsch would have a fixed bridge.

This is one report, not proof that every example will behave the same way. Still, it is a practical warning for players who expect frequent vibrato use or need dependable tuning through a set. The locking tuners are part of the specification, but they do not guarantee that a vibrato-equipped guitar will stay in tune under use. If possible, test the tuning response with the strings properly stretched and the vibrato arm in use before committing.

Verdict

The Gretsch G6134TFM-NH Nigel Hendroff AF has a well-defined appeal: a flamed maple and mahogany single-cut design, ebony fingerboard, dual Broad'Tron humbuckers, and distinctive Gretsch detailing. Owner comments back up the quality of the build, the sound, and the playing feel. Its weight and the reported tuning issues with vibrato are the main reservations.

The listed price is 3,111, with no currency specified in the supplied product information. The guitar has been available since July 2022 and includes its hardshell case. For players drawn to its construction and signature styling, it merits a close look. Those who rely on stable tuning while using vibrato should make that part of their evaluation rather than assuming the hardware will meet their needs.

Key specifications

• Body and top: Mahogany body with a flamed maple top
• Neck and fingerboard: Mahogany neck, ebony fingerboard, standard U profile
• Frets and scale: 22 medium-jumbo frets, 625 mm scale
• Pickups: Two Broad'Tron BT-65 humbuckers
• Bridge and vibrato: Adjusto-Matic bridge and Bigsby-style vibrato
• Made in: Japan
• Included: G6238XL Gretsch solid-body hardshell case