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Best Resonator Guitars for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best resonators for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: June 5th, 2024

🎸Resonator guitars come with a rich history and a distinct sound that sets them apart from regular acoustic guitars. Originally designed to boost volume before we had electric amplification, these guitars have carved out a unique spot in genres like blues, bluegrass, and Americana. Whether you're a pro sliding your way through gigs or a newbie looking for a different tone, we've picked out the best resonator guitars just for you.

We've got options across different needs and budgets, so you can find the one that fits your musical journey perfectly.

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Overall Best: Gold Tone PBR Paul Beard Signature

Gold Tone Paul Beard Signature Series PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar (Vintage Mahogany)

The Gold Tone PBR Paul Beard Signature stands out as our top choice for its versatile sound and superb craftsmanship. Constructed with a mahogany body and a U.S.-made Beard cone, it delivers a warm, rich tone perfect for a range of genres from blues to bluegrass. The round neck design supports both standard and slide playing, making it accessible for all skill levels. One of its standout features is its impressive sustain and clarity, attributed to its spider cone construction. Although it's a premium model, the investment is justified by its outstanding quality and sound performance.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$1,299.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Gold Tone PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the Gold Tone PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar require setup after purchase?

The Gold Tone PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar is a hit with folks who like its round neck profile. According to the manufacturer's description, this neck design aims to make playing as comfy as possible, which is nice whether you're just starting out or have been at it for years. As for whether it needs a setup after you get it, that's kind of up to you. A lot of folks find that the setup it comes with is just fine. Our research shows that most players like how the neck helps with playability, making chord changes smooth and allowing for long playing sessions without a hitch. It's worth noting that the neck isn't just about comfort. The mahogany neck and the rosewood fingerboard give it a rich tone, adding some warmth to your music whether you're into blues or folk. From what we've gathered, many players say it feels good in their hands right from the get-go, which means you might not need to tinker with it too much. Still, some players might want to adjust things like the action or the strings to better suit their style. So, while you probably won't need to do a lot of setting up when it arrives, a little tweak here or there might make it even better for your style. You can do this yourself if you're comfortable or have a pro handle it for a personalized touch. Either way, it's a solid instrument ready to play some great tunes right out of the box.

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What is the sound quality of the Gold Tone Paul Beard Signature Series PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar?

So, if you're curious about the sound quality of the Gold Tone Paul Beard Signature Series PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar, it's pretty well-regarded. This guitar has a reputation for producing a rich and expressive sound. It's known for its powerful and clear projection which is great for blues or bluegrass. A big part of its unique voice comes from its laminated mahogany body and the Paul Beard-designed spider cone, which really gives it that standout sound. From what we've gathered, many players appreciate its well-balanced tone and how responsive it is. The spider cone design helps it project loudly and vibrantly, making it great whether you're playing solo or with a group. The roundneck design also gets a thumbs-up for being comfortable, especially if you're into traditional guitar styles rather than lap playing. Its sound leans towards being warm and rich, emphasizing midrange frequencies. That can be really appealing if you're into fingerpicking or slide guitar techniques. According to the manufacturer, Gold Tone is known for offering solid craftsmanship with a focus on durability and detail, which in turn enhances both the sound and playability of their instruments. Some folks have mentioned that experimenting with different string types or slide techniques can add your personal touch to the sound. Plus, the guitar's natural sustain and projection are seen as standout features that make playing more satisfying. All in all, the Paul Beard Signature Series PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar is crafted to suit both beginners and experienced players, offering sound quality that's both traditional and versatile. Whether you're jamming at home or hitting the stage, it's got a robust sound that captures the nuances of your playing style nicely.

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How is the build quality of the Gold Tone PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar?

The Gold Tone PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar is part of the [Paul Beard Signature Series](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dpaul%2Bbeard%2Bsignature%2Bseries%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and from what we've found, its build quality is pretty solid. It's made with a vintage mahogany style that not only looks great but is also built to last. The manufacturer highlights its focus on high craftsmanship, which is something you can really see in both its construction and its sound. According to our research, a lot of players seem to love how well it projects sound. This is mostly due to the USA Beard cones and spiders used in the design, which really help give it that rich, warm tone that's perfect for styles like blues, bluegrass, and country. Even though it's mainly known for its acoustic sound, the guitar also works well with an amp because it has a built-in pickup system. This isn't mentioned much in pro reviews, but it's a neat feature if you're planning to perform live or record. The pickup keeps the guitar's strong, resonant tone intact when you crank up the volume, so it's versatile for different performance settings. As for how it feels to play, people who've tried it out say it's comfortable and responds well, which is a big deal whether you're just starting or have been playing for a while. The robust build suggests it's going to hold up well over time, which is important when you rely on your instrument regularly. In the end, if you're thinking about the Gold Tone PBR Roundneck Resonator Guitar for its build quality, it seems like a solid choice. It's a well-made instrument that's great for both acoustic and amplified situations, and it should serve a wide range of musical styles nicely.

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Runner-up: Epiphone Dobro Hound Dog M-14

Epiphone Dobro Hound Dog Round Neck Resonator, Vintage Brown

Placing as a close second, the Epiphone Dobro Hound Dog M-14 is renowned for its excellent sound quality and sturdy build. The nickel-plated brass body offers durability and a timeless aesthetic. This resonator features a single biscuit cone that produces a punchy, powerful tone ideal for blues and bluegrass. The smooth-playing mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard enhances the overall experience. Additionally, it comes with a Fishman resonator pickup, making it an excellent choice for live amplified performances.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$499.00 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Rogue Classic Spider Resonator

If you're on a tight budget, the Rogue Classic Spider Resonator offers impressive value for its price. At under $250, it features a spruce top with mahogany back and sides, resulting in a balanced tone with decent projection. The aluminum resonator cone and spider bridge contribute to a bright, twangy sound perfect for slide guitar enthusiasts. While there may be occasional quality inconsistencies, it's a fantastic entry-level resonator that provides great bang for your buck.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$299.99 at Guitar Center

Best Square Neck Resonator: Gretsch G9230 Bobtail

Gretsch G9230 Bobtail Square-Neck Acoustic-Electric Resonator Guitar - 2 Color Sunburst

For musicians interested in square-neck resonators and lap-style slide playing, the Gretsch G9230 Bobtail is a top contender. Its mahogany body and neck deliver a deep, resonant tone that's both rich and balanced. The spider cone enhances its volume and sustain, while the Fishman Nashville pickup system ensures excellent amplification for stage use. This makes it an ideal choice for performers looking for quality sound and reliable amplification.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$694.00 at Amazon

Best Tricone Resonator: Recording King RM-991 Tricone Resonator Guitar

Recording King RM-991 Tricone Resonator, Nickel-Plated

The Recording King RM-991 Tricone Resonator Guitar is the best choice for those seeking a tricone resonator. Its nickel-plated brass body and trio of hand-spun aluminum cones offer a complex, balanced tone with outstanding sustain. The square neck design is optimized for lap-style playing, making it perfect for bluegrass and Hawaiian slide styles. While it's a higher-priced option, its superior build quality and sonic capabilities make it well worth the investment.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$1,099.99 at Amazon

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