10 Best Resonator Guitars 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

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.