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!!!!
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 ❕🐊 🐸🍀 😛
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.
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.
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.
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!!
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.
I bought my Recording King Dirty 30s that you review back in 2020. I bought it online from bax music in Europe. I live in the UK. What I did not realise was that it was understrung. I don't get to play it very much and it is always stored in a quality soft padded case which is stood upright against a wall. Recently I took it out to check it was ok and to my dismay, the tail had split from top e to bottom d string. I posted pictures on Facebook and it was my friend who is a well known musician and teacher Michael Messer who pointed out the error. Also the edge of the tail that sits over the cone cover had been sharpley bent upright for some reason. I bought a new tailpiece by Golden Bridge and fitted it on the weekend. Thank goodness all seems well but I am wondering if I should take it to a luthier friend for a set up. He usually deals with standard guitars. There are no dobro specialist luthiers in Cornwall. I learned a valuable lesson buying online, but we also have only a handful of guitar shops left in Cornwall. Must have shut their doors as a result of online commerce. I did contact bax music who were very puzzled and have asked me to provide further information. It must have come out of the factory set up as I received it. If you own one, do please check it is correctly strung.
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
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 .
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!
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.
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 ).
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.
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! 👏
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 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
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!
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!
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?
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 😎
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 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. TH-cam 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.
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.
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.
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!!
*****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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Two things I would like to know about Dean resonators and what you think and I also am getting a recording king resonator the dirty 30 and I can’t wait to get my hands on it
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.
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.
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
Good Video !! Guess I’m 3 years late in finding it. Does my 2007 Gison Hound Dog Deluxe Dobro count as a resonator? Got it for $500.00 in 2007 in FL….it’s been good. Your video makes me want to sell my 1995 Regal Resonator & 2003 Brownsville New York Resonator and buy a Gretsch Resonator. Thanks !!
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.
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!
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!)
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.
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.
just found your site--love it!--coincidentally considering buying my first resonator--so... timing is everything--thanks for the really great info--no further research necessary--going searching fully armed!!
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.
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
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.
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
I was thinking about the Epiphone Dobro Hound Dog metal body. Have you ever heard or played that? Also, Recording King makes a metal one that you did not review. Any comments? Thanks, I love your videos!
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
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
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!
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.
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.
@@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.
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.
I lucked into a used Gretsch Bobtail that seems to have a factory pickup in it. Its incredibly good for the money. . I have a bunch of high end guitars (stupid me) .. and I gig with this thing....ALL the time...
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.
Very helpful but I would have liked to have heard all played with slide. By the way what kind of slide was that guy using? Looks like a 22mm impact socket. I used a spark plug socket once but it only fit my pinky and too heavy.
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!!!!
Thank you for listing them here. Very helpful. I'll be looking into 2 of these to compare. 😃
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 ❕🐊 🐸🍀 😛
Thank you so much for the summary!
I own a Gretsch Bobtail. Great guitar for few bucks.
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.
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
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.
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.
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!!
I have two Recording King Resonators: The Professional and the Rattlesnake. Love them both
How are the strings oriented through the tailpiece of yours? Are the string ball ends outside or inside the chrome tailpiece?
I almost picked those!
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.
I bought my Recording King Dirty 30s that you review back in 2020. I bought it online from bax music in Europe. I live in the UK.
What I did not realise was that it was understrung. I don't get to play it very much and it is always stored in a quality soft padded case which is stood upright against a wall.
Recently I took it out to check it was ok and to my dismay, the tail had split from top e to bottom d string.
I posted pictures on Facebook and it was my friend who is a well known musician and teacher Michael Messer who pointed out the error.
Also the edge of the tail that sits over the cone cover had been sharpley bent upright for some reason.
I bought a new tailpiece by Golden Bridge and fitted it on the weekend. Thank goodness all seems well but I am wondering if I should take it to a luthier friend for a set up. He usually deals with standard guitars. There are no dobro specialist luthiers in Cornwall.
I learned a valuable lesson buying online, but we also have only a handful of guitar shops left in Cornwall. Must have shut their doors as a result of online commerce.
I did contact bax music who were very puzzled and have asked me to provide further information.
It must have come out of the factory set up as I received it.
If you own one, do please check it is correctly strung.
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
I love those Republic Highway 61 models. But I fell in love with that second Gretsch, the Bobtail Deluxe. Wow, what a sound.
I am wondering what was the tipping issu with going with the Gretchen, please
I was so glad for Michael Lemmo when I first saw this on Norm’s TH-cam channel. He deserves it! I love listening to him play!!
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
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.
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
Wow, LOVE that guitar-shaped patio. Maybe I'll cave and build that patio off the deck that my wife's been asking for.😃
A couple more and maybe u can add a fence 👍
Loved seeing MN legend Charlie Parr in the beginning!!
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!
Gretch bobtail is my fav. Love how it sounds! It is earthy!
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.
No adverts and straight into what I want to hear about...... I've just walked into heaven 😇👍 cheers for the info
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.
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.
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.
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.
I learned a ton watching this video. Thanks much for giving me lots to think about in my search for a resonator guitar. Peace!
Very informative mate, well done 👏!
I’m loving the Regal RC-51 tri-cone metal body. Beautiful instrument and really nice build quality.
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
Matt has gotten expensive. Be nice if he offered wood and brass body. Love to play one.
I love my gretsch honey dipper. It sounds great, even in Portugal. Good luck.
Yes, the boxcar is my favorite and I will being saving to by on.
I was just looking at the Gretsch! Love this show. Thanks Tony.
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 .
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!
1) Republic Tricone Wood ! Great sound to my ears! 2) Recording King 3) Gretsch Bobtail Deluxe.
Thank you for the review!
thanks for the info. gonna give in, im finally financially in place can afford my hobby again and always wanted to get a resonator.
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😊
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.
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 ).
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.
I love Charlie Parr. I just went and watched him a few weeks ago and it’s making me want a resonator big time.
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! 👏
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.
Which did you go for?
@@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
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!
...and, what strings do you use for a reso?
That's really funny. Getting in to Charlie Parr this last week is the reason I'm shopping for a resonator
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!
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?
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 😎
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🤪
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).
@@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. TH-cam 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.
Now I'm more confident shopping for a resonator. Thanks for your recommendations and the show!
@Aaron Gray I got a Gold Tone Paul Beard round neck. It's a new challenge.
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.
i love your chanel , you got good voice and nice accent; the guitars are beautifull.
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.
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!!
*****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.
I've got a Honey Dipper. It is effing awesome. You can't go wrong.
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.
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.
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.
Thank you. Been looking at getting a resonator
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
Republic wooden body Tri-cone has some nice depth
I can vouch for the Republic Tricone. I have it in a squareneck. It's everything as you described. Love it.
There's one on eBay now for about 800 something
Two things I would like to know about Dean resonators and what you think and I also am getting a recording king resonator the dirty 30 and I can’t wait to get my hands on it
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.
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.
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
My faves were; the Republic Tritone (steel body), and the Gretch Bobtail Deluxe.
Some awesome tones.
Bought the Gretsch Bobtail Deluxe, the matte finished resonator vice the chrome-like finish, and it is WONDERFUL! Thank-you for your recommendations!
Tony when I think of Resonator I always think of square neck metal spider cone or tricone. Thanks great show as usual!!!!!
I'm looking to buy one, so this video was super helpful, thank you!
Loved your video,very informative,thank you!by the way I see your a hockey fan,my sisters stepson is Jeremy Swayman
Good Video !! Guess I’m 3 years late in finding it. Does my 2007 Gison Hound Dog Deluxe Dobro count as a resonator? Got it for $500.00 in 2007 in FL….it’s been good. Your video makes me want to sell my 1995 Regal Resonator & 2003 Brownsville New York Resonator and buy a Gretsch Resonator. Thanks !!
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.
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!
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!)
I am liking the Republic Highway 61 wooden body, the Gretch Bobtail Deluxe Spider cone, and the Republic Wooden tricone.
Probably theRepublic wooden Tricone best.
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.
THIS GUY HAS A GREAT ATTITUDE -- MANY THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!
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.
Love your show!!!
just found your site--love it!--coincidentally considering buying my first resonator--so... timing is everything--thanks for the really great info--no further research necessary--going searching fully armed!!
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.
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
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.
VERY helpful! Many thanks.
Would love to try a Republic Highway 61.. Looks to be to dealers at all in the UK! Shame, they look awesome...
Love to hear a whole album of jon rauhouse playing like he did on this it was a hauntingly beautiful melody
What do you think of the Regal resonators? They have impressive looking tricones in a budget. I’m really curious as to what your take on them.
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
That was my favorite, too. I may get one this year.
Thank you. Your advice is exactly what I needed. So helpful. Cheers.
Hi Tony. Just wondering what your thoughts are about Fender resonator guitars. Been thinking about getting a square neck, maybe the Getsch Boxcar.
Is there a video on finger pick lessons?
I was thinking about the Epiphone Dobro Hound Dog metal body. Have you ever heard or played that? Also, Recording King makes a metal one that you did not review. Any comments? Thanks, I love your videos!
I own the Republic 61 and Republic Tricone, both metal. Great Guitars!
I gig with these every week. (pre pandemic)
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
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
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!
That's the one that got me 🙂
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.
Check out Sweetwater. They are absolutely great!
Huh? They’re right here:
republicguitars.com/collections/highway-61-traveler
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.
@@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.
@@sweetnsourchick1761 I'm in the bluefield area. The black hole comment was referring to what the states government recognizes.
Hey just started watching love the content have you ever demoed the recording king Phil Ledbetter square neck absolutely amazing guitar
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.
Same here. I seem to think I need something more expensive but haven't been able to physically compare any.
I lucked into a used Gretsch Bobtail that seems to have a factory pickup in it. Its incredibly good for the money. . I have a bunch of high end guitars (stupid me) .. and I gig with this thing....ALL the time...
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.
Very helpful but I would have liked to have heard all played with slide. By the way what kind of slide was that guy using? Looks like a 22mm impact socket. I used a spark plug socket once but it only fit my pinky and too heavy.