Hi...newbie alerts. Still getting my head round Gretsch geetahs. Thinking about getting a 6120. Could you tell me what the difference is between TVJs and Filtertrons. Is one preferable/better/more expensive/none of the above over the other or is this a subjective question of taste and sound?

There are followers of every possible variation of filters. Ceramic, alnico and all the flavours from TV Jones. Classics, classic plus and powertrons.

Each and every choice seems to suit the tastes of someone but the one thing that is certain is that TV Jones variants are more expensive.

What you need to do is play some of the different offerings yourself. Which of course is always nearly impossible for anyone not near a portal of the Gretsch/Time continuum.

The TV Jones web site has many audio clips for you to listen to and compare. IMO the differences are very subtle.

The TV Jones web site has many audio clips for you to listen to and compare. IMO the differences are very subtle.

I wonder if there would be a greater difference in real life...

or is this a subjective question of taste and sound?
Exactly this. In my experience there is absolutely no correlation between pickup price and how much I like the tone they produce. People often describe expensive pickups as "better" but they're not, they're just different. They are only better if you like the sound they produce.