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.
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'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.
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 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
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
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! 👏
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?
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.
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 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 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.
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 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.
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.
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
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.
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.
*****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 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
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!
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.
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
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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 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
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!)
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
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 .
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!
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 TH-cam 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
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!
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". 🐰🇺🇸🎸🎵🤝✌️
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.
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!!
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.
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
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!
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 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
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
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 😎
![[FULL EP.16] เซียนพาลุย "เผือก-ฟรอยด์" กรี๊ดลั่น จนปูหนี | เฮ็ดอย่างเซียนหรั่ง | One Playground](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FsqUvwS3b-Y/mqdefault.jpg)
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!
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.
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
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'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 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 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!!
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 👍
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 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
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
I learned a ton watching this video. Thanks much for giving me lots to think about in my search for a resonator guitar. Peace!
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 love my gretsch honey dipper. It sounds great, even in Portugal. Good luck.
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?
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!
I was just looking at the Gretsch! Love this show. Thanks Tony.
I’m loving the Regal RC-51 tri-cone metal body. Beautiful instrument and really nice build quality.
Gretch bobtail is my fav. Love how it sounds! It is earthy!
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.
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 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 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.
No adverts and straight into what I want to hear about...... I've just walked into heaven 😇👍 cheers for the info
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.
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 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.
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.
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
Thank you very much, Tony!! I'm from Spain and it's difficult here to know about resonators. Your videos are great! Love.
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.
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.
Loved seeing MN legend Charlie Parr in the beginning!!
*****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 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
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
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!
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'd have to go with the Recording King based on cost:tone ratio.
Recording King makes great stuff. I’ve got so of their dirty thirties parlor guitars. So good.
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
Preach on, brotha! HA !!!
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.
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.
I finally found you back, i love your videos. ❤️🤘🏻😁
Wow Susan! What a blessing ☺️ loved this episode!
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?
I love Charlie Parr. I just went and watched him a few weeks ago and it’s making me want a resonator big time.
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!
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.
Is there a video on finger pick lessons?
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.
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.
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
The Republic guitars stood out to me most. The Tri-Cone reminds me a lot of a National.
Thank you. Your advice is exactly what I needed. So helpful. Cheers.
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!)
1) Republic Tricone Wood ! Great sound to my ears! 2) Recording King 3) Gretsch Bobtail Deluxe.
Thank you for the review!
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
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 .
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!
Tony when I think of Resonator I always think of square neck metal spider cone or tricone. Thanks great show as usual!!!!!
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 TH-cam 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
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 🙂
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".
🐰🇺🇸🎸🎵🤝✌️
That's really funny. Getting in to Charlie Parr this last week is the reason I'm shopping for a resonator
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.
Such a really cool guitar gratitude video! Thanks for sharing.
Love to hear a whole album of jon rauhouse playing like he did on this it was a hauntingly beautiful melody
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
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!!
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.
Nov 2023. I was looking for a review of the Dean CE Acoustic-Electric Resonator. At this time, it's priced at $430.
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
I'm looking to buy one, so this video was super helpful, thank you!
As a lifelong Highway 61 address resident (Minnesota) I'd love to find a used Republic , but am not having any luck finding one.
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.
Bought the Gretsch Bobtail Deluxe, the matte finished resonator vice the chrome-like finish, and it is WONDERFUL! Thank-you for your recommendations!
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!
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 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
Very informative mate, well done 👏!
My faves were; the Republic Tritone (steel body), and the Gretch Bobtail Deluxe.
Some awesome tones.
The brass Republic Highway 61 is my dream resonator. I want one of those more than a National.
Unfortunately the regular price for me Is almost as unattainable as a national.
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.
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.
Loved your video,very informative,thank you!by the way I see your a hockey fan,my sisters stepson is Jeremy Swayman
thanks for the info. gonna give in, im finally financially in place can afford my hobby again and always wanted to get a resonator.
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
The Gretsch Boxcar Squareneck was immaculate
THIS GUY HAS A GREAT ATTITUDE -- MANY THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!
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😊
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
I had a vibe I didn't love looking at them, went with Austin
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.
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.
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
If you think about it, a resonator is really a metal banjo with six strings. And some extra body parts to make it look like a guitar shape.
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 😎
Love your show!!!