The Gretsch Pages

Like the Atkins Axe, the Super Axe was released in 1977 and was supposed to offer a completely modern instrument for the rock guitarist.

The Super Axe also shared its basic body shape with the Atkins Axe, but it benefitted from much more involvement from Chet Atkins, and a bevy of built-in effects.

A football-shaped pickguard held controls for an onboard compressor, phaser and sustain electronics, all powered by a nine-volt battery. Unfortunately, the electronics have failed with age on many of the Supers Axes, and schematics are extremely difficult to find.

The solid mahogany body is wide but thin, and it tapers toward the edges, making it both lighter and more comfortable to play than it might appear.

Beyond that, the general construction and hardware of the Super Axe show how Gretsch was aiming for a different sound and market, particularly the DiMarzio humbuckers and BadAss wraparound stop bridge. The more traditional buyer could order an optional Adjustamatic bridge/B-5 "Horseshoe" Bigsby combination.

For those willing to take the plunge on this unusual and rewarding Gretsch, three variations were offered: the dark red 7680 Super Axe, dark gray 7681 Super Axe and sunburst 7682 Super Axe.

Note that the Super Axe should not be confused with the much more ornate and altogether different Super Chet.

See Also:

• 7685 Atkins Axe
• 7680 Super Axe
• 7682 Super Axe

Comments

1. doug64 wrote:

   I bought mine used in December of 2006. The one drawwback as mentioned elsewhere is the failure of the electronics. Most minrange amps will take care of that lack however.

   — Jul 22, 2007 2:31 p.m.

2. doug64 wrote:

   I bought mine used in December of 2006. The one drawback as mentioned elsewhere is the failure of the electronics. Most midrange amps will take care of that lack however.

   — Jul 22, 2007 2:32 p.m.

3. JohnBoot wrote:

   I had a lot of work done on this. The electronics are great. The BadAss has been removed, and replaced with a modern bridge --the original saddles were filed too short. The nut was cut funny with a large gap between the first and second string. The fingerboard was concave. Totally restored, and what a wonderful instrument. But who owned it before I purchased it used I wish I knew. Someone used this instrument, and must have loved it, but the work on it was less than professional. Now that has all been corrected. I would like to find a new case, but not sure what of get. Would like a Guardian. Any info. Model 7681 Serail 5-8326. Jake

   — Dec 20, 2007 11:04 p.m.