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10 Best Resonator Guitars 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Recording King 6 String Resonator Guitar, Right, Distressed Vintage Green (RM-997-VG)

The Recording King RM-997-VG 6 String Resonator Guitar is designed to capture the classic sound many players seek in resonator guitars. Its all-bell brass body and handspun resonator cone contribute to a rich, resonant tone that is perfect for blues, bluegrass, or folk music enthusiasts. The distressed vintage green finish adds a unique aesthetic that appeals to many players looking for both sound and style.

One of the standout features is its scale length of 25 inches, which provides a comfortable playing experience, especially for those new to resonator guitars. The Grover open gear tuners ensure precise tuning, enhancing playability. The use of phosphor bronze strings adds to the warm tone, making it suitable for both strumming and fingerpicking.

This model lacks a pickup system, which might limit its use in live settings where amplification is necessary. Players looking for versatility in performance might find this limiting. Additionally, the weight of 11.2 pounds could be cumbersome for some, especially during extended playing sessions. For those who appreciate handcrafted quality, the Recording King RM-997-VG stands out with its European craftsmanship and attention to detail.

#2

Recording King 6 String Resonator Guitar, Right, Nickel (RM-993)

Rating
9.8
Type of Resonator
Body Material
Neck Type

Most important from
3 reviews

Type of Resonator
This resonator guitar has a bright, full, and warm sound that truly captures the classic tone expected from a metal body instrument.
Body Material
The guitar’s heavy, shiny metal body contributes significantly to its rich, resonant voice and solid feel.
Neck Type
Its weight is noticeable but balanced by the comfort of the mahogany neck and smooth playability.
Action Height
The setup allows for beautiful playability, making it a pleasure to play both chords and lead parts.

The Recording King RM-993 is a 6-string resonator guitar designed for right-handed players, featuring a nickel-plated bell brass body and back that give it a bright, metallic tone typical of resonator guitars. It uses a hand-spun 9.5-inch cone, which is the heart of the resonator system, producing the distinctive loud and twangy sound ideal for blues, bluegrass, and slide guitar styles.

The mahogany neck with a 24.25-inch scale length and a 1.75-inch nut width provides a comfortable playing feel, suitable for both chord strumming and fingerstyle. The rosewood fretboard and maple/ebony biscuit bridge contribute to stable tone and playability. The guitar does not include a built-in pickup system, so amplification requires an external mic or pickup. Weighing just under 10 pounds, it balances the metal body’s heft with player comfort.

This guitar is well suited for players seeking the authentic resonator sound with solid build quality, though those needing easy plug-and-play amplification might need to add accessories.

Rating
9.8
Type of Resonator
Body Material
Neck Type

Most important from
3 reviews

Type of Resonator
This resonator guitar has a bright, full, and warm sound that truly captures the classic tone expected from a metal body instrument.
Body Material
The guitar’s heavy, shiny metal body contributes significantly to its rich, resonant voice and solid feel.
Neck Type
Its weight is noticeable but balanced by the comfort of the mahogany neck and smooth playability.
Action Height
The setup allows for beautiful playability, making it a pleasure to play both chords and lead parts.
#3

Regal Duolian Resonator Polychrome Guitar RC-1

The Regal Duolian Resonator Polychrome Guitar RC-1 is a notable choice for those interested in resonator guitars. It features a Duolian-style body with a spun resonator cone and a biscuit bridge, which provides a clear and bright resonator sound. Its slim neck design and rosewood fingerboard make it comfortable to play, which might be particularly appealing to beginners or those with smaller hands.

The rock maple saddle and bone nut contribute to its sound quality and durability. This guitar also boasts a beautiful gun-metal gray polychrome finish and vintage pearloid peghead overlay, giving it a stylish and classic look. The steel body ensures a robust build, though it does add to the weight, which might be a drawback for some users who prefer lighter instruments.

Additionally, the nickel-plated hardware and die-cast tuning machines are reliable for maintaining tuning stability. However, it lacks an electronic pickup system, so it may not be the best option for those looking to amplify their sound easily. The 25-inch scale length and adjustable truss rod further enhance its playability. If you are looking for a resonator guitar with a classic design and solid construction, the RC-1 is a strong contender.

Buying Guide for the Best Resonator Guitars

Choosing the right resonator guitar can be a rewarding experience, especially if you understand the key specifications that define these unique instruments. Resonator guitars are known for their distinctive sound, which is produced by one or more metal cones (resonators) instead of the traditional wooden soundboard. They are popular in blues, bluegrass, and country music. To find the best resonator guitar for you, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your playing style and musical preferences.
Type of ResonatorResonator guitars come in three main types: biscuit, spider, and tricone. The type of resonator affects the sound and playability of the guitar. Biscuit resonators have a single cone and produce a bright, punchy sound, making them ideal for blues and slide guitar. Spider resonators have a single cone with a spider-like bridge, offering a warmer, mellower tone suitable for bluegrass and country. Tricone resonators have three smaller cones and provide a balanced, complex sound, making them versatile for various genres. Choose the type based on the sound you prefer and the style of music you play.
Body MaterialThe body material of a resonator guitar can significantly influence its tone and weight. Common materials include wood, metal, and a combination of both. Wooden bodies tend to produce a warmer, more traditional acoustic sound, while metal bodies offer a louder, brighter tone with more sustain. Some guitars feature a combination of wood and metal, providing a balance between warmth and brightness. Consider the type of sound you want and the weight you are comfortable with when choosing the body material.
Neck TypeResonator guitars can have either round necks or square necks. Round necks are similar to standard acoustic guitars and are played in the conventional manner, making them suitable for fingerstyle and strumming. Square necks are designed to be played on the lap with a slide, often used in bluegrass and Hawaiian music. Your playing style and preferred technique will determine which neck type is best for you.
Scale LengthThe scale length of a resonator guitar refers to the distance between the nut and the bridge. It affects the tension of the strings and the overall playability. Shorter scale lengths (around 24.75 inches) offer less string tension, making them easier to play and bend notes, which is great for blues and slide guitar. Longer scale lengths (around 25.5 inches) provide more tension, resulting in a brighter tone and better intonation, suitable for bluegrass and fingerpicking. Choose a scale length that matches your playing style and comfort level.
Action HeightAction height refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. It affects the ease of play and the sound quality. Lower action makes it easier to press down the strings, which is ideal for fingerstyle and fast playing. Higher action is preferred for slide guitar, as it prevents the slide from hitting the frets and allows for a cleaner sound. Consider your playing style and whether you use a slide when deciding on the action height.
Pickup SystemSome resonator guitars come with built-in pickups, allowing you to amplify the sound for live performances or recording. There are different types of pickups, including piezo, magnetic, and microphone-based systems. Piezo pickups capture the vibration of the resonator cone, providing a natural acoustic sound. Magnetic pickups offer a more electric guitar-like tone, while microphone-based systems capture the true acoustic sound of the guitar. If you plan to perform or record, consider a guitar with a pickup system that suits your needs.

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