6 BEST Resonator Guitars under $799 ★ Acoustic Tuesday 155

[@lindabaer4086]

Tony P reviewed: 1-Republic Highway 61 (small body with cutaway, metal or wood); 2-Gretch Honeydipper, (metal body, biscuit cone); 3-Gretch Bobtail Deluxe-(spider cone with wood body); 4-Recording King Dirty 30s-Single O-(Wood body, biscuit cone); 5-Gretch Boxcar Squareneck-lap; 6-Republic Tritone (wood or metal body) Outstanding Presentation! Thank you, Tony, for all of this helpful information!!!!

[@Noorah101]

Thank you for listing them here. Very helpful. I'll be looking into 2 of these to compare. 😃

[@HiggaionSelah_EWFMG]

thanks ❕ i wish i could see a comparison with the Recording King RR-36-VS , RR-50-VS , the the RK Silver bell biscuit Tri-cone ; there are only a few videos on YT for these RK , but to me they sound awfully damn güdd ❕🐊 🐸🍀 😛

[@brada1997]

Thank you so much for the summary!

[@VidarLund-k5q]

I own a Gretsch Bobtail. Great guitar for few bucks.

[@davidhale536]

Tony. First off,great show. I always learn something new every week. This week's show caused an epiphany and I must say you are a true genius. After looking at several of your low budget comparisons on different instruments I see what you are getting at. Meaning you can have tone, playability and workmanship in your arsenal for less than the price of one high level guitar. Point is. You can still have a lot of fun and not break the bank. Kudos and hats off to you. True genius.

[@richietownsend6737]

Love the clips of the great Charlie Parr at the beginning and later. He lives here in Duluth, Minnesota and is one of hardest working musicians and truly good souls you’ll ever meet, and hearing him play is always pure joy.

[@BrennanCarney]

Wow, bullsh*t that I had to scroll down this far in the comments to find his name and it wasn't listed in the credits

[@BizarrePudding]

I'm over the moon that you profiled Mike Dowling, he is such a sublime player...Blues, ragtime, gypsy, you name it Mike Dowling plays it with precision and feel...Mike is the reason I bought my National M-2, a guitar I will be buried with...(I just couldn't afford the El Trovador so I got the closest thing I could...) Mike was indeed involved in getting National to reissue the El Trovador and did help with the design of the cutaway model...He was also the impetus behind the National Hotplate, the single easiest way to amplify a single cone resonator that I'm aware of...I have one on my M-2 and installed it myself, it's that easy to do... Mike Dowling, nothing short of a national/National treasure!!

[@penfold7800]

The Republic tricone wood bodied resonator is the one that impressed me. Really nice. I have a cheap Chinese wood body resonator that cost me £180 new. It's not any way as nice as any of these, but it isn't bad either. I did have to replace and lower the bridge. The neck is quite shallow too, which is what I wanted. The internal cone is like a speaker (biscuit tin) cone but it does also have a cast aluminium 'spider' frame over the top of it. I think it's okay as an entry-level, and it does what I bought it for: gives me amplified sounding tone and volume without the need of an amp.x

[@jimdunlop1957]

I never had a resonator but wanted one since my college days in the mid 70’s.. I finally bought myself one for my 63rd birthday. I found a Washburn R360 ( spalted maple) for under $500. The action wasn’t what I’d hoped for (way too high) but the tone is just what I wanted. I took it apart, carefully beveled the bottom edge of the biscuit to allow it to sit almost 1/8” deeper into the cone... problem solved! Enjoying it a lot now Thanks for your show

[@Baci302]

I love those Republic Highway 61 models. But I fell in love with that second Gretsch, the Bobtail Deluxe. Wow, what a sound.

[@garylapolla3896]

I am wondering what was the tipping issu with going with the Gretchen, please

[@NuttinbutdaBlues]

Ok, I pulled the trigger on a Royall mahogany tricone. They set it up just the way I like it. It included a really nice case and a leather strap for $599. They also went over the entire guitar, made sure the frets were all smooth and the intonation was spot on. I can’t say the same about the Republics I have. Best deal out there for the money.

[@frankmormon2503]

I was/an incredibly lucky, I found Matt Eich of Mule Resophonic guitars when he was a brand new maker... I own #72 steelie goodness in a single cone

[@LesPaulVOS]

Matt has gotten expensive. Be nice if he offered wood and brass body. Love to play one.

[@danbgt]

I have both a round neck and a square neck Gretsch Boxcar guitar. I picked both of them up used and have less than 600 bucks in them combined. They were in new condition. I am a hobby guitar player and just wanted to mess with resonators. These guitars are great fun and sound really good to my amateur ear. The round neck Gretsch Boxcar should be on this list.

[@davidfowler8088]

I was in guitar center, there was a Recording King reso, and the wood Gretch, I played them both, but when I strummed the Gretch, every other guitar in the room "woke up." I found a used one for 350 and I'm happy as a clam. Thanks for opening up the option. DF

[@kellyswoodyard]

I was given a Jackson resonator, wood body, after a good mate of mine, bought a new one, much more up market. I love this Jackson, the sound, the sustain, the neck, the weight, everything about it suits me. Like an old pair of sneakers, fits very comfortably.

[@matthewzaiasmozaic7727]

This was probably the most informative and pleasant video I have watched in a long time. You have a great speaking delivery and your information is very detailed. The playing demos are fantastic. Thanks for doing this video as I am embarking on my very first resonator guitar.

[@ellisagutierrez9574]

I was so glad for Michael Lemmo when I first saw this on Norm’s KZbin channel. He deserves it! I love listening to him play!!

[@steveeckert8396]

*****UPDATE****** Republic guitars "back at it again" I noticed a month ago that their webpage had been overhauled. A couple weeks later I was at South Austin music and they had three in stock. two nickel and one brass. I walked out of the store with one of the nickel biscuit cones. This thing is AMAZING!!!!! The room I was in had a $5K National in it and when I did a side by side comparison there wasn't a whole lot of difference. If you are in the market I would definately give them a look. $775 and it includes a really nice case. I'm leaving my previous comments up but disregard them now. I live in Austin and know one seems to know exactly where Republic is and that includes stores that buy from them. Also, they have been almost nonexistent since COVID. I really want to buy one of their Tricones but have no idea where to get them.

[@charlieschmidt642]

A great squareneck is Recording King RR60-vs at $699 new. I got mine used for $250. I put a fishman Nashville pickup in it and I play it out all the time.

[@yonatanbenavraham6598]

I bought an inexpensive Rouge spider cone Resonator round neck and had a luthier at Cripple Creek Music in Ashland Oregon set it up for me. He changed out the tailpiece for a steel with crome instead of the brass one it came with, set up a bone nut instead of plastic and tweaked the bridge and it sounds really great. It cost me $249.00 and I spent another $200.00 on set up, then another $100.00 on a great hardshell case. So I am into it for under $600.00 with a proffesional set up and it plays great in alternate tunings and with a bottle neck slide. The bone nut and the bridge work plus setting up the cone and spider made a huge difference in the sound.

[@riverbankmactavishmcghee4573]

I f you are referring to Rogue, I bought the biscuit version, (Troubadour copy) switched the nut for bone and the biscuit/saddle for the national version from stewmac - I'm extremely happy indeed. Good deal from the "Needs Repair" bargain bin.

[@joycethomas8868]

I bought a new Gold Tone PBS, Paul Beard Signature ( square neck, Bluegrass style ) about 9 years ago and have not felt I needed anything else yet. Cost was $829. I’ve been giging out with it for the last 5 years and it serves me well. I could use an internal pickup though. Cheers

[@travislee9662]

I would also highly recommend the Gretsch G9240 Alligator for a good quality affordable resonator. New only like $450 used on reverb for about $100 less. I’ve had mine for about a year; comfortable neck, stays in tune, and really projects. Looks really good too. You’ll see it across the room and have to pick it up...and you won’t have to use any cheesy lines or buy it a drink🤪

[@seanconnely]

G9240 or G9241? Recommendations? Do you lose a lot of tone/sustain with the electronics? (Cant see from photos if it has equalizer along with pickup).

[@travislee9662]

@@seanconnely sorry I can't really help on that one. I have the G9240 and not the G9241 which is the electric version. From what I see on the Gretsch website it says the G9241 has a Fishman Nashville pickup, but based on the photos it looks like it must be tucked away inside. Since most of the tone is coming from the body and resonating cone I don't see a pickup taking away from its natural tone or sustain. KZbin videos of the G9241 I've seen sound the same as my G9240 just they have the option of amplifying it. Depending on your needs both options would be good. I think the G9241 is basically $100 more for the pickup.

[@bilparker6830]

1) Republic Tricone Wood ! Great sound to my ears! 2) Recording King 3) Gretsch Bobtail Deluxe. Thank you for the review!

[@rabbisandra]

I have two Recording King Resonators: The Professional and the Rattlesnake. Love them both

[@arctichare8185]

How are the strings oriented through the tailpiece of yours? Are the string ball ends outside or inside the chrome tailpiece?

[@voluntaryismistheanswer]

I almost picked those!

[@uptopmikep7065]

I’m loving the Regal RC-51 tri-cone metal body. Beautiful instrument and really nice build quality.

[@michelle-psl4441]

Not really into resonators although this was interesting. But I just had to post this - You know you're a guitar geek when you decide you MUST have a mahogany guitar and spend hours...then days...reviewing choices, prices, features, options, and personal preferences. You create a detailed matrix and list everything. Plus a point value system to score everything. You fill in the details. You tally it all up. Numbers don't lie. One rises to the top. You have your top choice! You're ready to buy! .................And then you go ahead and get a cedar-topped guitar instead because you just plain love how it sounds. #youknowyoureaguitargeekwhen

[@vwbeetle72jellybeen]

Preach on, brotha! HA !!!

[@chrismeyer482]

Got a metal body Tricone Resonator from Icarus Guitars, UK. Same fabrication location in China like the Republic ones. Great and clear tone! Really love it!

[@sandienochs6132]

I love my gretsch honey dipper. It sounds great, even in Portugal. Good luck.

[@raymondreid4987]

The Gretsch resonator is the one I'll get thanks for helping me decide. I'm guessing that the answer to the question was 1929

[@SonicLandscape-eq7pl]

I love my regal spider cone resonator . I bought it used for $96 back around 2000. It came hotrodded with a Barcus Barry humbucker. This machine came with an adjustable tension spring that let's me sound more like a guitar when it's a 1/8 turn tighter , and more like a squonky metal body when it was 1/8 turn looser. Regal used to be carried by Musicians Friend , but I bought mine at the east coast music mall in Danbury ct.

[@mikec6947]

Wow, LOVE that guitar-shaped patio. Maybe I'll cave and build that patio off the deck that my wife's been asking for.😃

[@Rightk777]

A couple more and maybe u can add a fence 👍

[@songsfromcarly]

No adverts and straight into what I want to hear about...... I've just walked into heaven 😇👍 cheers for the info

[@DThompson55]

I just grabbed a Rogue square neck, spider bridge, new, for under $200. You get what you pay for. But for a first guitar, something to learn the basics and see if I like it, it's just fine.

[@janrandles8683]

I was just looking at the Gretsch! Love this show. Thanks Tony.

[@sweetnsourchick1761]

Thanks, Tony for doing the last 2 shows on the resonator guitar. You have just made the decision on what my next guitar purchase will be. Congrats on your upcoming 3 year anniversary and congratulations on the expectancy of a new member of the family. Cheers! 👏

[@stringthing593]

It’s worth pointing out that if you want a square neck wooden bodied resonator there are two different style chambers.The closed style giving the early dobro sound and the open style the modern sound.

[@musicismyreligion5213]

I'd have to go with the Recording King based on cost:tone ratio.

[@ryangunwitch-black]

Recording King makes great stuff. I’ve got so of their dirty thirties parlor guitars. So good.

[@dfrasu]

I have a republic resonator it happens to be the bronze color. I’ve had it for about 10 years. I’ve change the Cone the bridge the tuning pegs the nut and so on. I can never get it to stay in tune. I have quite a few guitars so I think what the problem is is two light of strings. As far as quality of sound goes it is pretty amazing. Just a note, the body was great. The neck and the bracing look like somebody did it while they were on crack. Took a long time to straighten it out.

[@richietownsend6737]

I learned a ton watching this video. Thanks much for giving me lots to think about in my search for a resonator guitar. Peace!

[@picksalot1]

Excellent, informative video. Exactly what I was looking for. Your explanation of the differences in the three types of guitars was particularly helpful. I've always wanted a resonator guitar, and this gets me closer to purchasing one. Thanks!

[@juhanleemet]

these days of Covid-19 it is harder to get a guitar in one's hands before purchase; I was wondering about metals used for resonators, esp. nickel plated brass vs steel body? the Gretsch Honey Dipper (nickel plated brass?) has a nice sound; I would expect the steel body would be "sharper" (as in more cutting?)? what about adding pickups for recording or stage?

[@chrisnash8411]

Great Post ! I've had several Republic guitars ... My favorites were the Tigerskin Maple Minolian ( Great Travel Guitar ) and the Republic 9101 2013 Natural ( They don't make this model anymore / a Telecaster body with a pickup ). The highway 61 was great I opted for the Lace Humbucker pickup ( Factory Installed ). My favorite of all of my resonators was a 1934 National Trojan with a B and G Bender and a Dowling Hot plate ).

[@daveyjoweaver5183]

A FINE show as always Tony and Kind Thanks! I'm buying a resonator guitar and this show has helped. Of course there's nothing like playing a number of them first. Your reviews are much appreciated as well as all those fellow Geeks who contribute to the show. Love, Light., Peace and Music to You, your Family, Little Tony of course who will surely have a guitar shaped rattle and All The Wonderful Guitar Geeks! Let us Unite Strongly! The world needs Guitar Music more. Than ever! DaveyJO in Pa.

[@davidhale536]

My favorite has to be the metal Highway 61 but getting my hands on one has been a problem. The recording king dirty 30's really surprised me on price and tone. Keep in mind I've been resonator shopping for over 2 years. Selection in my area is very limited. Thanks for this budget friendly list. Great show. Keep your geek on.

[@sweetnsourchick1761]

Check out Sweetwater. They are absolutely great!

[@brbadge]

Huh? They’re right here: republicguitars.com/collections/highway-61-traveler

[@davidhale536]

I really appreciate the info. I have been to their site on many occasions. Here's the ticket. The nearest dealer to me is 6 to 8 hours away from my home. Guess that's what I get for living in upper southwest VA (aka the black hole of the nation). Selections are limited but the music and people are superb. No worries though. I'll get there someday.

[@sweetnsourchick1761]

@@davidhale536 No! That's not a black hole. Some of the most gorgeous real estate in the world! As a kid, I used to live in a suburb of D.C. and the family would vacation over in the Shenandoah. Besides, UPS ships everywhere.

[@davidhale536]

@@sweetnsourchick1761 I'm in the bluefield area. The black hole comment was referring to what the states government recognizes.

[@haroldyeager6124]

Everyone should try out a resonator guitar. It brings a lot to your playing. I picked up a Gretsch Historic Series a few years ago and I love it. It’s definitely a keeper. Plus it’s just a beautiful guitar.

[@Junior-jw1bb]

I have a Republic Hwy 61, I also had a National German Silver Tricone. I had to sell the National because it was so heavy and uncomfortable for me to play. Honestly, and I know you’re gonna think I’m crazy, but the Republic was louder. It’s very easy to transport and it’s considered a parlor guitar. Only complaint with it is being that it’s made in China the frets are rough. I asked the seller to file the edges which he did and it plays nicely now.

[@valeriegleason4858]

Gretch bobtail is my fav. Love how it sounds! It is earthy!

[@iscovidoveryet7828]

A buddy at work decided his Gretch G9240 just wasn't his thing. On my last day working with him, he made me an offer I couldn't refuse. He said he paid about $600 CDN New, but was willing to give it up for a buck50 (but only to me) because he felt it would find a good home, that, and that it was a dust collector. I'm not a biscuit player, but after some healing from Jerry Douglas and Tony Rice at a dark time in my life, I think I'm ready to take my musical journey to a brighter and happier place.

[@robbram140]

I can vouch for the Republic Tricone. I have it in a squareneck. It's everything as you described. Love it.

[@voluntaryismistheanswer]

There's one on eBay now for about 800 something

[@dontcallmyname7779]

I was considering buying resonator guitar and came across your videos on this topic. Waiting for my first resonator guitar to be shipped next week. You've earned yourself a new subscriber. Great content.

[@andthoseotherguys]

Which did you go for?

[@dontcallmyname7779]

@@andthoseotherguys This bad boy. The best sounding instrument I ever had. www.gear4music.pl/pl/Gitara-i-instrumenty-basowe/Round-Neck-Resonator-Guitar-Sunburst-Wood-Body-by-Gear4music/2JIJ?origin=product-ads&gclid=Cj0KCQjwsqmEBhDiARIsANV8H3bTQWOPTLjO6c1jmC9LaQI-nlGE9sEaX_8gnUiqaHc4hoUfl2YSx2kaAkDiEALw_wcB

[@jamesmorrison2063]

Now I'm more confident shopping for a resonator. Thanks for your recommendations and the show!

[@jamesmorrison2063]

@Aaron Gray I got a Gold Tone Paul Beard round neck. It's a new challenge.

[@TheBladepolisher]

Hey Tony, Rob here . . . . again. I almost fell out of my chair when you brought up Mike Dowling. I met Mike in Madison Wisconsin back in 2001 when he was doing a gig at the Madison City Arts Center (I think that was the name of the venue). Such a gentle soul and a real sweet person. He was playing with a fantastic jazz guitarist who's last name ALSO slips my mind at this minute but his first name was Cliff and he lived in Madison. With all that to say, Mike was a friend of Cliff's (fellow guitar geek) and they put on an excellent show. The one song of Mike's that still remains my favorite slide song of all time is Swamp Dog Blues. If you haven't heard it yet, give it a shot. I feel it really goes to the heart of slide guitar geekdom ! ! Thanks TP.

[@JackTheRabbitMusic]

I have been a fan of Mike Dowling for many, many years. My favorite song he plays is "Rosalie". I actually bought the sheet music after watching him on the documentary called "resonate". 🐰🇺🇸🎸🎵🤝✌️

[@Baldfacepaints]

I finally retired and want to learn to play. I'm looking for a round neck that sounds like the one Johnny Flynn plays, his is a 1938 National? You'd have to search him to listen

[@JordanRyan-z9t]

Loved seeing MN legend Charlie Parr in the beginning!!

[@terrylstarks]

Tony when I think of Resonator I always think of square neck metal spider cone or tricone. Thanks great show as usual!!!!!

[@CKANE1952]

This is a terrific presentation. Of course the Inflation “Reduction” Act caused all of the prices to go up, but there are used resonators available within the range of those in this video. If not already referenced, someone could expand on the string selection best for resonator guitars. Thanks!!

[@mikaellarsson7932]

Check out Michael Messer. Guitars built in a small workshop in China, set up in the UK, excellent imo and within the price range in the vid. Ofc he is in England which means customs taxes etc for many of you, but it might be an alternative.

[@johnwashburn3793]

AMA I am resisting this wonder...could you PLEASE UPDATE THIS perhaps under $1k? I truly appreciate you. You are a true joy as a person and provide a great service to mankind!

[@johnwashburn3793]

...and, what strings do you use for a reso?

[@jmscnny]

I've got a Honey Dipper. It is effing awesome. You can't go wrong.

[@webbsteroni]

Eddie Belfour and Brett Hull are two of the greatest in Dallas Stars history!

[@serpentinesecrets6771]

That dirty 30 looks like it is my favorite. The blue one looks good. I know I want a round neck on a wood or body my first one will most likely be wood

[@Noorah101]

That was my favorite, too. I may get one this year.

[@stephenbouchelle7706]

I bought a boxcar square neck Gretsch dobro. I recommend it highly. I never played dobro before buying this. I have been inspired to spend a lot of time on it. I have a solid steel resonator Recording King that sounds great. It is heavy as hell. I am going to keep it, but had I known how heavy it is and how relatively inconvenient to take to jams, I would have gone for a wood body instead.

[@DougKing4416]

Same here. I seem to think I need something more expensive but haven't been able to physically compare any.

[@lynneleary3054]

Dear Tony, I can't believe it has been 3 years. I thought about how much I enjoy watching Acoustic Tuesday and upon reflection I realized a greater appreciation of the acoustic guitar and its' inate power to evoke expression and fulfillment in our lives as fellow guitar geeks and Acoustic Tuesday show been "instrumental" in the maturation of " geekiness"(sp?) by expanding my guitar knowledge historically, musically and influencially etc..Thank you Tony for sharing your passion and knowledge of the acoustic guitar and for the encouragement to live our best acoustic lives in unity as guitar geeks unite! Now my question is what is Noah up to? I really enjoyed the banter between you durung the show and not that the show has in anyway diminished but I miss the schtick(sp?) that you both shared and was curious about his wellbeing and new endevour. HappyAnniversary-sincerely BrianLeary

[@voluntaryismistheanswer]

Thank you for helping me figure out what I wanted, my order was just placed with Republic. It's like a dream, I am glad to have it to pass on to the musicians in my family (I got the bronze!)

[@lewolf2884]

Bought the Gretsch Bobtail Deluxe, the matte finished resonator vice the chrome-like finish, and it is WONDERFUL! Thank-you for your recommendations!

[@uptopmikep7065]

I recently tried two of the Gretsch guitars and they are great. Now I'm really interested in checking out the Republic metal tri-cone. Thanks again Tone!

[@voluntaryismistheanswer]

That's the one that got me 🙂

[@robertcarpenterii2904]

This was really helpful. One thing that I’m always curious about on resonator guitars is the upper fret access. I use open tunings and play round neck because I like to fret behind the slide and I like to play with the slide and fret notes, but many resonators have the neck joint at the 12th fret. With most resonators you can slide up to the 12th without issue, but the 15th fret can be really difficult to hit and play in tune.

[@JustVinnyBlues]

Biscuit Cone Resonators come in two variations basically: A Duolian, which has 14 frets to the body; and a Triolian, which has 12 frets to the body. Republic makes both of this, as well as 12 and 14 fret cutaways. The 12 fret has a different tone because the bridge is in a sweet spot. Republic also has vintage specs, including a 1 13/16 inch nut width. Nut width is also an important factor to think about in selecting one of these. I think the wider neck is better for slide and open tunings myself. You will find some of these have more modern necks.

[@timothymallon]

The Republic guitars stood out to me most. The Tri-Cone reminds me a lot of a National.

[@sesa1076]

The brass Republic Highway 61 is my dream resonator. I want one of those more than a National.

[@sesa1076]

Unfortunately the regular price for me Is almost as unattainable as a national.

[@howardquinn5911]

Tx very much! I’m going up to Elderly in Lansing this summer. Plan to sit in a room with as many of these as I can. I’ll walk out with one!

[@tleek]

I love Charlie Parr. I just went and watched him a few weeks ago and it’s making me want a resonator big time.

[@lindasmith6668]

Yes, the boxcar is my favorite and I will being saving to by on.

[@charliebrown3830]

I own the Republic 61 and Republic Tricone, both metal. Great Guitars! I gig with these every week. (pre pandemic)

[@patrickunderwood5662]

Glad you like the Honey Dipper, because that’s the one I chose despite knowing nothing about resonators. I played it in my TAC beginner video. Badly of course! But wow, I’d love one of those Republics. Or maybe two of them. Or three.

[@nickjimenez4262]

I recently bought a guitar for my grandson from thomann music by harley benton. I saw that they sell harley benton resonator for under 300. Dont know how good or bad it is but 800 dollars is high for me. 500 is alot. 3 is about what ive got. I know you get what you pay for however i have purchased cheaper priced guitars that are good players. I do appreciate your vid, its provided me with knowledge that i didnt have before. Thanks

[@jacksharmonoquinn572]

I've been thinking of leaning toward this type of guitar, I have a slightly handicapped left hand, figured it would be easier to learn this, than another guitar, budget, yet I'll look for more budget. . Thanks for the ideas and insight.

[@hambone2740]

You tune one to an open tuning like open G or open D and play that way where chords aren't as complex or don't need to be, and/or play with a slide. You would be able to do some amazing things man. Give it a try if you haven't yet.

[@brwhyon]

I've a Republic biscuit steel body with antique nickel finish, booming sound and a beast to play. Charlie would love it, next time I see him I'll have him give it a go. 12 Mile Studio.

[@harry9392]

I like Michael great guitarist and a great replacement for Mark Agnesi Whom I think was brilliant whith his guitar knowledge but Michael is really getting there with his knowledge, you deserve that guitar Michael

[@thecaptainmarko]

You dont have to know the words to sing the blues. Dutchie here from Amsterdam saw Mike play in a little bar in Edam (where the cheese comes from) and it was just awesome. He makes it sound so easy but damn thats some hours of practice with a massive amount of talent mixed.

[@cnoel190]

Best $450 purchase to date, my Republic Highway 61 UFO cover 12-to-the-body. My 'Reso' to live, if you will! Now, what about that 'slide' episode TP? Glass, brass or bone for tone. Love to know your take.

[@lewisford1541]

No Michael Messer guitars? The steel body Blues, brass body Lightning or wood body Blues '28 (question's answer alert) are all great ~ I thought it was quite well known or considered that they're the best resonator option under £1500 or the US dollars equivalent. Of the guitars on your list that I have had chance to try I really enjoyed the wood bodied spider cone, lots of fun and sweet tone, but I wholeheartedly recommend trying and reviewing a Michael Messer guitar. No affiliation, they're just really good, tonally and in build quality with correct set up. Lots of love for Mike Dowling ~ he is an incredible musician and writer, and that El Trovador is very much on my dream guitar wish list 🤣 Best regards

[@NuttinbutdaBlues]

I had the good fortune to play one of Mike’s El Trovadors after a House concert he did get a few years ago. Easiest playing guitar I’ve ever played. The way he’s got it set up is amazing. He plays 12s and it’s super low, but no buzz. I’ve got a bunch of Nationals, a couple Republics, a Gretsch Alligator and a Paul Beard Gold Tone, but that El Trovador… Have you checked out Royall Resonators? Looks like they might be built in the same Chinese factory as the Republics, with a similar price point, but they’ve got some different models that look really intriguing.

[@Kabayoth]

Two oddball resonator guitars not mentioned at this price point: Dean makes one with a lipstick pickup (though I must admit the last three I've come across had something wrong with the pickup, pots and jack), and the Danelctro resonator 59. The Danelctro crosses a line from a resonator with a pickup to an electric guitar with a resonator. The Danelctro is one I've never come across in person, however the Danelctro Convertable it's based on is one I've played. It's a great slide player, and Danelctro does make a surprisingly good guitar. The Dean is odd because Dean isn't known for acoustic guitars. And they certainly aren't known for resonators. But according to Miles Kennedy of Alter Bridge, these are reliable instruments.

[@jeffreycase285]

Love to hear a whole album of jon rauhouse playing like he did on this it was a hauntingly beautiful melody

[@trashpandaexpress6136]

thanks for the info. gonna give in, im finally financially in place can afford my hobby again and always wanted to get a resonator.

[@jefersontorres]

I got really impressed by RK Dirty 30s sound. Also Republic Tricone Wood Body or specialy metal body. 3 things to keep in mind: Body material - wood or metal? Neck type - square or round? Ressonator cone: bisquit, spider or ... ? Just for the sound I got really impressed by RK Dirty 30s sound. Also Republic Tricone Wood Body or specialy metal body.

[@kenz5469]

You can take any roundneck and play it lapstyle if you get the nut converter to raise and level the strings. They retail for about $15 and easily installed in minutes

[@2write2sing2dance]

Wow Susan! What a blessing ☺️ loved this episode!

[@Euli63]

Thanks for gettin´ through the jungle of fine resonator guitars that didn´t bust my bank. The Republic Tri-cones seem to be what I´m looking for ...but momentary hard to find here in Germany. Anyway: Thanks for this great episode, I´ve enjoyed it very much!

[@vwbeetle72jellybeen]

I was in Asheville, NC a few years back and some sidewalk artists (among a dozen) were playing a little bit of bluegrass and Americana. The guitarist was playing a steel resonator and it was an amazing introduction to the barky, ragged edged tones that have caused me to fall in love with steel resonator guitars! Now if anyone has suggestions on how to convince the wife that it’s a great investment........please reply! LOL

[@charlieschmidt642]

By the way, I’m a Blues fan. I love it when we play the Hawks!

[@bullbapp]

Great show and many good advices. Have you ever heard of Harley Benton resonators...? It's asian made and even cheaper than the guitars you displayed. But I am very satisfied with mine, a nice price below 400 dollars and no faults or problems so far. It's a metal body singlecone with a singlecoil pick up, if you want to amplifie... which also allow you to modifie the sound a bit more if you like. I bought it as a entry instrument, but now I probably won't buy another one, more expensive resonator. This one works too well. I can really recommend it.

[@carlbowden4712]

I bought a Recording king Dirty thirty 07, not the Reso and the frets were cheese grater sharp coming out of the box. I spent 3 hours filing them, never again for a recording king

[@voluntaryismistheanswer]

I had a vibe I didn't love looking at them, went with Austin

[@eddypeterson6710]

WOW ... Such a beautiful. video , learned a lot in a very short time . My heart sank hearing and seeing The Gretsch Metal body...and I know my wallet won't mind . Im out the door runnin to get mine .Thanks Tony !!! you are The Man .

[@whyis45stillalive]

My faves were; the Republic Tritone (steel body), and the Gretch Bobtail Deluxe. Some awesome tones.

[@TrainWreck000]

Mark Riley… is a guitar Luther and red rock Arizona and he builds these resonator guitars. When you consider the price of custom guitars they’re pretty affordable but imagine a resonator about the size of a Gibson Les Paul it’s acoustic and electric for about $2000. You’ll see Mark play all kinds of resonators and other guitars on KZbin I think he was playing at Northwest guitars up in Washington he now lives in red rock Arizona. But again for about $2000 an acoustic and electric resonator about the size of Les Paul beautiful instruments I absolutely love mine

[@AndyCal1]

Great review, I'm a Long time guitar -layer picking up on the lap steel (peavey powerslide just acquired). Im getting it but as I play mostly acoustically I have been considering getting a resonator and found this video.. so thanks for that. since I just spent some money, I'm going budget and considering a Gretsch G9210 Boxcar Square-Neck Resonator - Mahogany

[@howardquinn5911]

Thanks very much! I will travel to Lansing in about a month and hope to try as many of these as possible. I want to walk away with one😊

[@MrSmiley1964]

I was looking at the Gretsch Honey dripper when I found your Video. She's still in the running, but those Republic Guitars Hwy 61 are very tempting. It all depends on which one I can get my hands on, and right now it looks like the Gretsch.

[@glenndavis7805]

has a great sound.gritty

[@Steve-dv4hy]

That's really funny. Getting in to Charlie Parr this last week is the reason I'm shopping for a resonator

[@AmstrdRealty]

THIS GUY HAS A GREAT ATTITUDE -- MANY THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!

[@ckieffer67]

Great show, my first time ever watching and really enjoyed the information, i recently purchased a Resonator/dobro from Rogue, and got it for under $300, I'm a newbie at the slide and didn't want to spend a ton of $$ for something that may find a dusty corner or a pawn shop. hopefully I get good enough to spend that extra $$ on one of these that you posted, Thanks

[@TrinityBeachHoliday]

Thank you for a great breakdown of resonator guitars. Nice try for a balanced review but I really think you need to have the same player, playing the same phrase and amp to obtain an accurate acoustic reference. That said it’s been helpful on my quest to acquire the perfect resonator guitar 😎