This Guitar Is Made Of STEEL (and it sounds AMAZING)

[@RhettShull]

Check out The Tone Course Here! My video course dedicated to the fundamentals of great guitar tone! flatfiv.co/products/the-tone-course

[@ctwarmuth]

When you opted for the cut away on the reso were there any obvious pros and cons that you weighed out? obviously the upper fret access but was there a tonal sacrifice to consider with the smaller body and shape?

[@jennifer6833]

Dear Rhett, Why not be a resonator/dobro player mainly? This is your full potential! It sounds sick and you could study more about this instrument!

[@stimproid]

And the debate over "Tone Metal" rages on.

[@MuscleEire]

And it will infinitely 😂

[@humanbass]

A brass body would be fascinating to test.

[@Finnvbot]

Brass vs Bell Brass

[@sprontos]

@@humanbass test upper body strength fo sho

[@ionneifion2012]

xylophones are made of aluminium.

[@RC32Smiths01]

Dude, you should absolutely make a dominantly Slide Guitar album! That is one sick sounding axe!

[@MuscleEire]

Sounds amazing, really struggling with getting a good guitar sound on my recordings, would love him to play on a track

[@christophlege7590]

Where do I find the song he's playing?

[@TomMilleyMusic]

I have an old lap style Dobro. Used to be my Nana's, serial number 808. They started at 800, so it's probably the 8th one made. They did restart the 800 series in the 70's, but she had it before then. And there's no apparent signs of it being a fake. So yeah, I probably own the 8th Dobro made, besides any prototypes and what not. edit: yes I mean an actual Dobro, not just some resonator guitar

[@ryan8779]

Ninth.

[@TomMilleyMusic]

@@ryan8779 haha touche, though I can't remember if there was an actual 800 numbered guitar

[@captain1334]

@@TomMilleyMusic the Walt serial numbers probably would formatted something like this 80x and later ones would probably be 8xx

[@Shilling_guitar885]

Love that they used an imperfect streaked piece of ebony for the fret board I find it beautiful.

[@RhettShull]

Randall Guitar me too

[@vincentlewey657]

@@RhettShull The tone is amazing and the fretboard is truly beautiful!

[@jeffmora9832]

Ya I love the way the fretboard looks with that lighter pice shooting out at you ....it adds to the overall feeling of the guitar, industrial revolution meets Mad Max vibe!!! Love it and the sounds coming out of it only reaffirm that feeling ...kind of haunting and spooky but at the same time warm and calming .... It screams America like nothing else.

[@jed1166]

Taylor is doing that now too… very cool!

[@jacobpittman1996]

I learned to play on my grandfather’s early 1930s model National Duolian. I remember when I picked up my friend’s Ibanez electric, I nearly bent the strings off the neck.

[@danielbuhr4260]

Similar story here, I remember being told "you don't have to press so damn hard"

[@abaddonbolero9605]

My 1st was a Nat'l Triolian, also 30's that I picked up at a yard sale at age about 16 or so......Can you IMAGINE??? I PAID $10!!! It was a great example, but at that (DUMB) age I traded it for a big Fender amp PLUS some CASH, but soon after KICKED myself for being a jerk. I knew even Then how great they WERE, thanks to Johnny and 'Progressive Blues Experiment'.

[@lkbakken99]

Since I heard "Romeo and Juliet" by Dire Straits, the resonator sound has captured me

[@lukalekov1530]

same here mate same here!

[@barryholloway4715]

That’s a great song. Love some dire straits/ mark knopfler

[@MuscleEire]

What a song!!

[@davidLPST]

Agree !!!

[@ekuryluk]

Same

[@ahobimo732]

It's such a unique sound, somewhere between a traditional acoustic and an electric. There's something so haunting, even ethereal, about it. It's truly an inspiring instrument.

[@ctwarmuth]

Blues musicians especially Delta blues men used to use em in speak easys in the swamps and rual areas where there wasn't any electricity because it could keep up with the house piano.

[@simonharris7223]

Nice, only just watched a Theo Katzman live set where he was randomly enthusing about his brand new mule resonator. I think the universe is trying to tell me something! There's always one more guitar on the list!

[@MuscleEire]

One more?? Ten more 😝

[@victorpradella]

I love mine man, I share your feeling about it, sounds unique and it's a totally different inspiration when I play them. Love mule stuff as well, someday I'll probably grab one for me, sounds killer

[@rdmkeytohwy]

There is something about this lonely, haunting sound that gets me......deep, deep in my bones. Ever since i heard those old Delta blues tunes (pick your artist) these guitars have been fascinating to me. I would love to own one of these metal resonators and will definitely check this company out. Thanks so much for this video. I have so much respect for you, Dave, and Rick down in the Atlanta area. Great music history down there and i have learned a lot from all of you. Thank God for youtube, we would probably never have crossed paths. God bless! Checking out your "Beginners Guide To Slide Guitar" next!

[@J.Dove3D]

I received my Mule at the end of Feb. 2020. Plays like butter and great tones. Steel tricone, can't beat a Mule. Exceptional bang for the buck.

[@cadenbrewster2556]

Man that guitar is beautiful! I met Matt and his crew last summer while I was working in Saginaw, i got to see their warehouse. they're some really cool people, I love their work!🔥

[@simonsmith9363]

I love the sound of a resonator, I fell in love with the sound that Mark Knopfler got from his National and then started listening to all I could find from resonators. I am a real sucker for slide playing too! Really nice video, great guitar!!

[@kengould67]

Awesome lesson and detail Rhett! I just purchased a Gretsch 9201 Resonator and I LOVE the new sounds and techniques that can be learned. Appreciate your lessons and knowledge

[@kylemccloud9197]

Rhett. You’ve gotta do something with that intro... that is wayyyy too good not to record in a full song

[@jasongravely7217]

Guitarist 24 100% agree.

[@adrianzadi]

I can hear that on a new Netflix series, for sure

[@50Something]

@@adrianzadi totally!!!

[@johanng2076]

I thought it was the Breaking Bad intro

[@MrAyla]

Love the tri-cone in a style o look. I have National style o replicon (their name for a relic) with their own low profile humbucker installed. On my last record we recorded a bunch of songs with that guitar using the method you mentioned. Recorded acoustically in one room then into an AC15 and a deluxe through pedals in another room. Such a great tone. I had to double check Mule's site to see that your guitar is actually steel, not brass covered in nickel. That must be a bit easier on the back if you're standing up! Thanks for the great content!

[@RemiCardona]

Yet another *sick* intro, especially when the drums kick in! Reminds me of one of my favorite current bands: Larkin Poe. Looking forward to hearing more from you!

[@justinrayguitars6024]

The best video that I have seen explaining the history and the technical side of these guitars. As far as you wanting to master that type of playing you have it already.

[@MuleResonatorGuitars]

Aggggggreeeeed

[@mitchellrosenthal6305]

Incredible sound Rhett! I got hooked on this sound when I heard "From the Valley" by Joe Bonamassa, also "Old Friend" by Allman Brothers. In this vid, I though it was especially amazing when you hit the spooky chord at 9:38 (the 4th chord in the key, I think it has a minor third and add 9)! I love that whole section actually and would love to hear you expand on that. Think it'd sound great to chromatically decent and end on a chord rooted in the flat 9, could be really haunting. These vids always brighten my day, you're a big inspiration. Mitch

[@charlesinsandiego2537]

I love how the resonator hums as you are speaking.

[@mikegray-ehnert3238]

One of the most recent uses of one was in Dire Straits Brothers in Arms recording. There is one on the cover. I had heard an alternative story of their origin. They were produced in the depression era to put inexpensive musical instruments in the hands of the folk who couldn't afford a trad. guitar. Yours makes more sense and the time line matches better.

[@TheChadPad]

That thing has so much character, especially with that long stripe going down the fretboard. For some reason I feel like that thing is so you

[@jesseginnever8199]

starting around the 3 minute mark you can hear the reverb of his voice into the guitar in your right headphone. Its pretty cool.

[@MuleResonatorGuitars]

Built in reverb tank ha ha!

[@hansenmarc]

I’ve always loved the resonator sound. After listening to Justin Johnson’s amazing version of Hoochie Cochie Man, I finally decided it’s time for me to try my own hand at it.

[@rerawho]

Cool to see a Mule on your show. Matt Eich is a monster guitar builder. I bought my brass Mule years ago when he first started. It’s been fun watching him reach the stars.

[@Mattymu]

Just bought a steel one but really was leaning towards the brass. How do you like it?

[@rerawho]

@@Mattymu I love the brass sound. It’s a bit warmer than the steel in my opinion.

[@Mattymu]

The brass looks amazing too. I'm super happy with my mule. It's been a dream to own one for a long time.

[@xdgfxr]

The sheer look of adoration you keep giving that guitar is making me wish I had one of my own

[@scramblesthedeathdealer]

Me too, that thing sounds (and looks) killer man! I wanna give it a whirl.

[@dallasblues74]

My number 1 guitar is my ‘31 National Style O. She’s a brass single cone round neck guitar. I play it daily, gig with it, record with it, and write music with it. I play slide in various open tunings as well as jazz in standard tuning. It’s not an instrument that can do just anything. Rather, I have to conform to what it’ll let me do. I love that challenge. There’s just nothing like that sound! My next guitar will be a Mule tricone no doubt. I’ve talked with Matt a number of times. He’s a great dude who really understands these unique instruments. The modern National Resophonic company makes great instruments as well. However, it should be noted that it’s not exactly the same company as the original. They use the name and make those same models, often to a tee, but were started many years after the original company. It’s my understanding that they own the rights to the name and designs. They also make some really interesting and cool new designs. I hear the build quality is on par, if not slightly better, than many of the originals.

[@StevenA-fp3zj]

I have 2 acoustic and 2 electric guitars in my collection,. I am an occasional strummer so to say. I've always wanted to get a hold of a resonator start learning to play. Maybe when I retire from this crazy correctional world ( 22years) I will purchase a Mule as a gift for myself and really sit down and learn to play. That sound from that steel Mule just takes my mind away from all this negativity. I only live about 45 minutes from Saginaw. Maybe I can visit Mule or arrange a tour someday. That sound is so soothing. Thanks for the video Rhett.!!

[@severalsmoothstones8717]

Bro I just wanted to encourage you to do more resonator content. Theres alot of people interested in it and KZbin has next to no content for it. You're awesome. Have a great day.

[@matteich341]

Hey Grimnir! Check out the facebook group I start "Resonator Players Doing Interesting Things", lots of different players and resos there.

[@zachbrummel7866]

A resonator is my next purchase... I was already planning on it but this just reaffirmed my want for one...

[@shaneguide8259]

The piece you started at around the 9:27 point...you need to finish that and then do enough like that to release. Haunting and VERY beautiful. I know I would buy an album of that.

[@smokingtarheel3003]

Incredible guitar and playing too! I've always loved to hear Johnny Winter playing the National Tri-Cone. Sounds like your resonator guitar is your plan "A" for a while. Awesome playing and it really works for many styles. Count me as blown away by this video.

[@robertpierce6444]

Just got on the waiting list for a Mavis mule that is 10 months out. Received a James Trussart Resogator several weeks ago and I think I’m now hooked. Thanks for this excellent inspirational video.

[@glennpace9783]

I fell down the rabbit hole when I was first introduced to Ben Harper stuff back in the mid 90's. I could not find (nor afford at the time) a Weissenborn lap slide, so I got a National resonator instead. It was a great learning curve and I fell in love with the sound and style. I really need to get one again. Thanks and enjoy, Rhett!

[@bikeboysyd292]

Have always loved resonator blues playing since I was a kid. And I’m old now and still love a triple cone National

[@zachmcevilly2271]

I had already seen other videos on Mule resonators, but I believe I have listened from 9:20 onward 30 times now. I need to sit down with one of these Mule guitars one day, however since they're not traditionally carried at your local music store, I think I'll just need to pony up the cash, bite the bullet, and wait for a year. Great video as always Rhett, keep em coming.

[@simonmastromatteo5692]

Damn, I hope you see my comment man, this is probably one of my favorite video you did in a while. Great job, and I think you're already killing it more than a lot of us on this style of playing. Keep it up, you and That Pedal Show are making this quarantine much better. Cheers from Montreal !

[@larryreynolds631]

Far out Rhett. I had mine in my hand when you opend your case .these things are amazing !!! And when you plug them in ...it's TRANSENDENTAL!!!

[@bloodgirl4]

My dad has a steel dobro that's about 60 years old now & its my favorite thing to listen to him play

[@dr.p3637]

I got mine Rhett after you made a Reso video featuring Tyler Bryant. I LOVE IT. Thanks Rhett! All the best to you!

[@eathanstraker2691]

One of my favourite songs, to listen and play uses a resonator guitar, Mark nopfler Dire straits Romeo and juliet. Beautiful song

[@cbrot2001]

I went through every comment and not a single person has mentioned the fact that you used the lick in that intro song. Well done good sir

[@chronicmango]

Picked up a lap steel recently and have been really enjoying it. Will get a square neck reso someday. Maylene and the Sons of Disaster have one of the most hauntingly gorgeous instrumental songs (The End is Here, The End is Beautiful) that feature reso steel playing heavily and it’ll be the first thing I sit down to learn.

[@Southernguitar74]

After 35 years of playing I just picked up a Recording King Swamp Dog parlor resonator and I’m enjoying it more than I ever imagined. Yours is amazing. Mine is simpler but it works well for me and is so much fun. I can’t get enough of the resonator sound. Great vid.

[@jimbeaux4988]

One of the most incredible sounds I've heard you make! And you've made a lot of good ones!

[@droliver]

Rhett, you so need to check out the album "Dirt Floor" by Chris Whitley. Such an amazingly distinct style of solo resonator playing. He was just singularly brilliant on that instrument. It was just a completely new direction for that instrument within a Delta Blues style genre.

[@The58stupot]

Chris was a genius RIP

[@sytsew]

Came here to recommend exactly the same! Modern classic, that record

[@espalier]

One of the best albums ever recorded.

[@krisyoungsteadt9139]

Sounds great, Rhett. I play a handmade squareneck biscuit resonator lap steel. I'll have to check Mule Resonators out. Have a good day!

[@robertcooley2351]

Rhett, the sounds you were able to create are haunting. Can't wait to hear more of what you will be able to produce from this guitar. More, more!!!

[@BlueNotaMaestro]

Got mine today delivered by DHL, wow what a work of art. To think that almost a year ago I saw your video and upon hearing first few tones I fell in love and decided not only that I want it but that I absolutely have to have it. Thank you Rhett for making this video.

[@DeltaDonnaLynn]

It was new guitar day for me about a week ago. I now have a Gretsch Bobtail 9221, and I am very happily living in open D for the next little while. So far, my slide collection is up to one each in brass, glass, ceramic, and ebony. I'm a happy girl!

[@bluesrockngearwjoeyg8853]

I own a Gretsch Honeydipper and I love it.

[@Triggerboy62]

I have an original National Triolian from the early 30's. I live in Finland but bought it in Austin Texas back in the 90's on a trip. It had a pup mounted in the cone cover and it was full of sand. Sand from the Mississippi Delta the salesman said as he shook the guitar around. An expert said it was a custom order and that its rare. Not found in any literature. It has a new fret board and the neck has been reset. Awesome sound and mojo. If guitars could speak this one had some stories to tell....

[@stevemiller1203]

Hey Rick, found you from watching Rick Beato's channel. I got 10 years on Rick but I connect with him on a lot of the music we grew up on, but I found I also really like your personality and your take on music coming from a much younger guy, keep doing these great videos and I love resonator guitars, that Mule you have is a beauty!

[@gregaltenhofel7326]

I gotta tell you. Before your video ended I checked out their site. Had the $250 been the total price and not a deposit, here at nearly 2AM I’d have already placed an order. It’s still on my list of guitars to buy. Pretty cool. I did buy a slide after that video.

[@vampolascott36]

I love my National tri-cone. I started using thumb and fingerpicks, and I put my slide on my pinky so I can use my first 3 fingers to make chord shapes. Fingerpicking rolls with a resonator sound magical, but it takes lots of practice to get the hang of it. I also started using finger picks with my Fender Electric 12 for Roger McGuinn style rolls.

[@danielalexander8402]

I came across these a few months back, well before I saw this video but after you posted it, and my initial impressions follow the line of thought in this video. I almost immediately bought a pure acoustic model and plan to purchase an acoustic electric similar to yours once I learn more of the Delta Blues and Swamp Blues style. I'm personally no where near proficient at finger style on guitar, but the tones you can pull from a resonator keep bringing me back day after day to practice and experiment like no other instrument ever has. You could almost say the tones resonate with me. There is a lot of unexplored ground with these instruments, and I hope over the next few years to begin experimenting where new meets old and how these instruments can open new territories in genres they haven't traditionally been used in.

[@Blue_3rd]

Nice video! I’ve had a resonator for about 18 months and love it. Sadly I can’t easily try any Mule or National guitars where I live (Europe) but we can get hold of Gretsch, Republic, Fender and a few others. Good luck with your resonator studies! ✌️

[@timharrington4470]

I loved what you were playing. Resonators have such a distinct tone that makes them amazing and I think the first time I noticed it was with the Dire Straits Romeo and Juliet. I purchased a dobro about 12 years ago with a wood body. I've been very happy with it and have used it to create an alternate sound in conjunction with acoustic guitars when I make my own recordings. Great topic for a video and have fun with your new resonator guitar

[@troyoswald5683]

Thanks so much Rhett. I love this channel. You are a very good teacher. I love your approach.

[@kiethyrich]

I was introduced to these guitars in the 80s. mark knofler (dire straights). lovely sounding guitars.

[@blakeh1949]

Yes I own a resonator as well, a Dobro H33 single cone biscuit, brass body, chrome finish with Hawaiian motif, play mostly classic blues and some contemporary stuff.

[@jaysigma]

Got two... love them playing when I feel the need to draw back from all the hustle... Sitting somewhere at the countryside... having a beer with me... and playing this crackerbox... The most relaxing moments...

[@todds6048]

That's the most beautiful guitar neck that I've EVER seen. WOW! I loved the fret board, but when you flipped it over... amazing! I live an hour from Saginaw, and I love looking at instruments. Now I have to go check them out in person. I actually HAD a reso and sold it :-( It was a great instrument, but like you said... "it takes a lifetime of study" to understand it. I adds a really cool element to your songs, but if you've not played slide before... it's kinda, sorta limited. Mine was a Gretch Boxcar that I got from Elderly Instruments here in Michigan (great store). It's a really well build, great sounding little reso, that is very reasonably priced @ sub $400. If you're looking into getting a reso... I can highly recommend it as a starter. Thanks Rhett!

[@kyleeames8229]

That sound is simply mesmerizing.

[@dougrobinson8602]

Every time I see a steel guitar, I immediately think of the 1937 National on the album cover of Dire Starits' Brothers in Arms. Great video. love the tone of that steely!

[@JACK_TheAllSeeingEye]

I dream of the day that I can afford ANY unboxing, let alone my dream Mule cutaway✨👍 I cannot help but be a little envious, but I am glad that you now own the finest resonator on the planet!

[@zidanechanmusic]

Great video. I have actually played a resonator guitar before but I am actually more interested in the history than the instrument itself but I have always forget to find out the history by myself but today I have learnt new things thanks to this great video.

[@lewisgeyer1440]

Like Mule Resophonic Guitars, I too was born in Saginaw, MI. My limited talent would not do one justice. Great demo, thank you.

[@matteich341]

Your qualification is only measured by appreciation and fun my man, you are more than welcome

[@jipes]

I own several Resonators guitars Recording King and National Tricone Baritone but I now only kept my old National Duolian. You should definitely check Chris Whitley if you want to go further on your discovery of what can be played on a resonator guitar

[@KalJoao]

I'm SO glad you got this! Truly amazing guitars. I'm on the list for a Posencaster that should be ready this summer. Your tri sounds killer!

[@andrewthomas7573]

My grandfather had a National square neck dobro he used to play all the time! He was a steel guitar player who had gotten into resonators later on. Unfortunately it went to my cousin, because of sentimental value. Love the video!

[@RobinsonRDavid]

LOVE resonator!!! That you’re devoting your year to developing your delta blues resonator chops is brilliant! I’m in for that ride!!! When I get to be more than a beginner, I’m going for a resonator. It’s a dream of mine.

[@JoeMama410]

I spent some time with a friend's square-neck resonator. It's a lot of fun and nothing else sounds even close. It really shines in this video. Great work as always, Rhett.

[@andreasbeier2431]

I listened to the first track you played for like 5 times bow and it still blows my Mind, can you post that somewhere in full length? Hell, I‘ll buy it

[@johnmccaffery2542]

First Class walk through Rhett. Many thanks and look forward to you getting back on the road . Regards John.

[@MCRoadk1ll]

I recently bought one. I just love the tone and the slide sound. Still have to master that.

[@touchthesun2448]

I just got a Regal...single cone, THAT MULE sounds so good! You are killing me, I guess it's time to start saving for my MULE!

[@rhyyrrfrieg4656]

I've watched sooo.. many of your videos, and let me tell you that's got to be some of the best Guitar playing I've ever heard you do!!!Rhett shull

[@-JohnGalt-]

I feel compelled to comment. That intro was just so awesome. Great playing and sound throughout this video Rhett-just amazing. For the first time, I want a resonator guitar. Thanks for the great videos brother! Be well!

[@robgerety]

Nice video. I have a used National Tricone knock off on the way and I am soooooo excited. Can't wait.

[@ronaldgraygray1460]

Wonderful sound with and without amp!

[@VeronicaV70]

I so want one. Am now considering this particular model - Thx for the video upload.

[@javannapoli2018]

9:38 replay button because holy shit I could listen to that part all day.

[@stevenshook3348]

I have 1931 National O. Has a wonderful rich and full sound.

[@jowensoderlund]

Great vid!!! I have a National Revolver Resolectric and love it! I have it tuned to open D major and discovered a whole set of chord shapes in addition to using a slide. While it opens up a whole new world of sound ideas, it is also easy to get stuck in a rut. That said, I wouldn't gig without it now that I have it. Many thanks Rhett.

[@Dokkensound]

You are really putting out some great videos Rhett. I've been thinking about adding a resonator and looking at what's out there right now seems like some excellent choices.

[@madnessbydesign1415]

I fell in love with resonators listening to Chris Whitley. Getting deeper into that Delta Blues sound only makes me want one more... :)

[@davidkieltyka9]

George Beauchamp was also a founder of the Ro-Pat-In company along with Adolph Rickenbacker. The company later morphed into the Electro String Instrument Co. and then finally was renamed Rickenbacker. Beauchamp co-developed Rickenbacker’s beefy sounding horseshoe pickup, used on their high-end lap steel and some early “Spanish” style guitars.

[@gingebrien2408]

Hoho I’ve been hoping and slowly saving for one these Mule guitars. Amazing. Congrats. Mules are a must own.

[@halfcalkt8367]

Just ordered a wood bodied regal with the spider style set up yesterday. That one you are playing has a beautiful, unique voice even among resonators.

[@timothymallon]

I've owned an older Dobro in wood (round neck) when Gibson had taken them over, as well as my current steel resonator, a Gretsch g9221 Bobtail. I love it. I also loved my Dobro, but it had some issues. One of my best friends owns a Donmo Rustbucket resonator from Australia. If you haven't checked THAT one out, you gotta.

[@ilaril]

Ever since I first time heard a resonator guitar years ago, I've wanted to one day to own one and learn to play it. Still waiting that day, but glad to see you found yours!

[@maria.garavaglia]

"Are you thinking about getting one? I'd love to know" Well I am now... I just about melted hearing the little bit in the beginning.

[@garywhitt98]

What a great group of sounds.! Mule Guitars are you listening? Pay this boy. He made your definitive ad video.

[@Jtrisna]

Even I don’t know how to play guitar, I love the sound and I love the style. Love to have one. I love your style how to play it. Thank you.Cheers!

[@johnbutera5805]

Yes, I loooove the resonator sound!! As for those who think it only works for blues and country, listen to one played by the great Mark Knopfler!!

[@gibby230079]

MUST. GET... RESONATOR. GUITAAAAAAAAAR!!!!!! GAAH! that guitar is insane awesome! thanks for sharing !!!

[@sinocte]

Being a bluegrass fan from WAY back, I love the resonator sound so much. Jerry Douglas playing with Union Station is a particular favorite. He plays the square neck lap style.

[@EltonGoslettGuitar]

I have a Fender FR-50ce. It's wood bodied, spider cone resonator. Great guitar. I use it for blue, rock and it's great in for playing swing jazz (my main gig) too.