Pluck Your Heart Out: 5 Best Lap Steel Guitars for Tone and Versatility

Take a stroll down memory lane with the enchanting sound of the lap steel guitar, a classic instrument that has captivated music enthusiasts for generations. Prepare to be spellbound as we present a roundup of some of the best lap steel guitar options currently available, perfect for both beginners and seasoned players seeking that warm, vibrant tone that defines this timeless instrument.

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Gretsch Black Sparkle Lap Steel Guitar

The Gretsch Electromatic lap steel guitar offers a sleek and polished design, perfect for any stage or studio. With a solid mahogany slab body and chrome-plated hardware, this guitar provides rich and distinctive tones. Its lightweight construction ensures easy transport and comfortable playing experience. Overall, this lap steel guitar is a great addition for both beginners and seasoned musicians seeking a high-quality and versatile instrument.

Nonpedal Lap Steel Guitar: Learning Key Tunings

Experience the legendary Jerry Byrd’s C6 tuning for lap steel guitar, brought to you in a comprehensive guide written by Steel Guitar and Country Music Hall of Fame member DeWitt Scott. This text, covering 96 pages and featuring standard notation and tablature, unravels the intricacies of two and three-string chord combinations, single-string passages, and reverse slants. Suitable for students of all ages and skill levels, this resource offers audio access to perfect your “slant” bar positions with diligence and patience.

Eastwood MRG Lap Steel Sunburst 2021

Introducing the Eastwood MRG Lap Steel Sunburst 2021, a unique tribute to the legendary Morris Custom Mando Mania guitar and the brilliant guitarist Pete Cosey. This stunning lap steel guitar offers a playability reminiscent of a Les Paul, accompanied by a captivating sunburst finish. With its single Hofner-style staple pickup and adjustable fixed Strat-style bridge, the Eastwood MRG Lap Steel Sunburst 2021 is perfect for creating fiercely flanged and distorted tones that echo the iconic sound of Miles Davis.

Gold Tone LS-6/L Two-Tone Lap Steel Guitar

The LS-6/L Two Tone Tobacco is a stunning lap steel guitar that resembles the Oahu Tonemaster, a legendary lap steel from the ’50s. Users have praised its design and build, stating that it’s incredibly close to the original. With its set-up for open D tuning and the option for left-handed playing, the LS-6/L is versatile and perfect for various tunings. The maple neck, blackwood fretboard, and gold finish add to its impressive aesthetics.

Sunburst Lap Steel Guitar with 8 Strings and Carry Bag

Experience the joy of lap steel guitar music with this beautiful SX 8-string lap steel. Featuring a sunburst finish and American swamp ash body, the 3TS boasts a rich, resonant sound perfect for blues, rock, and more. With a 36-fret rosewood fretboard and removable lap steel stand, this guitar gives you the freedom to play with ease and style. Included in the package is a padded carry bag for easy transportation and storage, ensuring that your SX lap steel guitar stays safe and protected. Give in to the soulful vibes of the lap steel with this exceptional 8-string instrument.

Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior Steel Guitar

The Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior lap steel guitar is a versatile and high-quality instrument, perfect for musicians looking to explore lap steel playing. Built with top-notch materials such as solid mahogany and Indian rosewood, this guitar offers excellent sound quality, resonance, and sustain. With two humbucker pickups and custom electronics, it provides a wide range of tones for blues, country, and rock music. Asher Lap Steels are renowned for their ease of playability and exceptional tone, and the Junior model doesn’t disappoint. Designed in California by master luthier Bill Asher, the guitar offers a professional feel and is backed by Asher’s commitment to quality and performance. Whether you’re playing at home or live shows, the Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior lap steel guitar is sure to impress with its expressive musical voice and sturdy construction.

Supro Lap Steel Guitar: Innovative and High-Quality Plan

Transform your dreams of crafting your own Supro Lap Steel Guitar into a reality with this comprehensive, full scale DIY plan. From precise measurements to detailed drawings, this blueprint is designed to guide you through the intricate world of instrument making with ease. Don’t hesitate, embrace your inner craftsperson and bring your very own unique piece of musical history to life by getting your hands on one of these exceptional plans today.

Harley Benton Slider II Lap Steel Guitar with Stand

The Harley Benton Slider II Lap Steel offers a unique playing experience with its 530mm scale and 1 single coil pickup. This sleek, steel-finished guitar features a poplar body and composite fingerboard, designed for smooth gliding and precise sound control. Equipped with adjustable stand height from 55-95 cm and a stylish metallic black finish, it’s perfect for any player looking to make a statement on stage.

Batking 6-String Electric Lap Steel Guitar (Black)

Experience the rich, vibrant sound of the Batking Lap Steel Guitar. Crafted with a solid poplar wood body, it features a single-coil pickup for clear and clear sound. The stainless steel pickguard ensures excellent sustain and tone, while the ergonomically designed side corners provide a comfortable grip for easy performances. The stainless steel knobs offer smooth adjustment, and the guitar holds its tune well. Perfect for learners or beginners, this portable instrument is a must-have for those seeking a solidly made, versatile guitar for on-the-go gigs.

Airline Red Lap Steel Guitar

The Airline Lap Steel Guitar is an impressive instrument that effortlessly straddles the line between vintage and modern design. With a solid body, top-load bridge, and 6-string configuration, it’s the perfect companion for any budding guitarist seeking a unique and unforgettable sound. Although it shows a few minor cosmetic flaws, the guitar still looks fantastic and delivers top-tier performance. Included accessories like a gig bag, slide, and an extra set of C6 strings further enhance its value, and its compatibility with fretless frets adds a distinctive touch to your music. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Airline Lap Steel Guitar is an essential instrument that’s sure to amaze and inspire.

1939 Era Epiphone Electar Lap Steel Guitar with Vintage Aesthetics

Embrace the essence of the past with the Epiphone Electar Century 1939 Lap Steel. This vintage gem exudes an air of classic charm, featuring a lush Ebony finish and a sturdy Mahogany body and neck. The plexiglass fingerboard and timeless bridge design allow for the production of a pleasant, age-old melody, making it ideal for infusing your compositions with that timeless feel. The 500B “blade” humbucker offers a wide range of tones, equally suitable for both subtle and forceful soundscapes. Ideal for lap steel aficionados, this guitar includes a gig bag and boasts a genuine 1939 aesthetic that promises to captivate and impress listeners.

C.B. Gitty 2x4 Lap Steel Guitar Kit

Create your very own lap steel slide guitar with this easy-to-use 2x4 Lap Steel Kit from C. B. Gitty. With clear instructions printed on a frame-able 12x18 poster, anyone can build a guitar tailored to their style. Choose from Open E Blues or Nashville C6 tuning with the included strings, and customize your guitar by adding paint or zip tie fret markers. Make it a fun DIY project or even a unique gift for a fellow musician.

Harbor Green Duesenberg Lap Steel Guitar 2024

Dive into the world of harmonious sound with the Duesenberg Fairytale Lap Steel in its enchanting Catalina Harbor Green hue. A masterpiece of engineering, this lap-steel guitar combines the best elements of a lap- and pedal-steel, revolutionizing music-making with its innovations. Featuring the latest generation of Duesenberg’s Multibender and a pickup combination that’ll blow your mind, this instrument is truly a work of art.

Epiphone 1939 Electar Century Lap Steel Ebony Guitar

This vintage-inspired Epiphone lap steel guitar strikes the right chord, offering a rich, warm tone in G, D, and C6 tunings for a captivating musical experience. The glossy ebony finish is beautiful but shows off fingerprints and dust. Despite some minor adjustments needed, like tightening the loose pickup cover and possibly deepening the nut grooves, this gem is a delightful addition to any lap steel collection.

Full-Size 8-String Lap Steel Guitar with Wide String Spacing and Included Accessories

Experience the rich, warm tones of this 8-string lap steel guitar, crafted from American swamp ash and featuring 36 frets for versatile play. Designed with a single coil P90 pickup and diecast chrome tuners, it’s perfect for various genres like Blues, Rock, Hawaiian, and more. The wide string spacing ensures a comfortable and enjoyable playing experience. As a bonus, it comes with a free detachable stand and carry bag.

RLS-1 Metallic Black Lap Steel Guitar

Experience the classic sound of a lap steel guitar with the affordable Rogue RLS1 model. Featuring a solid hardwood body and neck, this guitar is perfect for slide-style country, Hawaiian, and blues tones. Equipped with a single-coil pickup, volume and tone controls, and a stainless steel pickguard, it’s a reliable choice for beginners and hobbyists alike. The included gig bag and adjustable legs make it easy to transport and set up, while the chrome hardware ensures a sturdy build. Whether you’re learning to play or just looking for a fun alternative to traditional guitars, the Rogue RLS1 Lap Steel Guitar is a great option.

Seafoam Green Lap Steel Guitar - Vintage Inspired Tribute Model (RH)

Unleash your inner rockstar with the Airline Guitars Lap Steel in a refreshing Seafoam Green hue. This vintage-inspired beauty features a solid body, gloss finish, and a top-load bridge for ultimate playability. Whether you’re a slide guitar novice or a seasoned pro, this 6-string, fretless beauty is perfect for adding some gritty blues to your sound. Plus, its unique Seafoam Green finish makes it a true statement piece for any guitar collection.

Recording King RG-35-SN Lap Steel Guitar - Sunburst Finish

Savor the distinctive and robust sound of the Recording King RG-35-SN Lap Steel, a captivating and hard-wearing instrument perfect for capturing that quintessential lap steel tone. Crafted from a solid mahogany body and boasting a string-through-body design, this guitar has the power to deliver resonant, full sustain, complemented by the singular humbucking pickup that imparts a one-of-a-kind tone. With Recording King’s traditional-style tuners adorning its headstock, alongside a single volume and tone control for ease of shaping your sound from iconic country melodies to expressive blues riffs, the RG-35-SN is a finely constructed, top-quality lap steel guitar. Best of all, it’s within reach of your budget.

Gold Tone LS-6 Lap Steel Guitar with Mahogany Back and Rosewood Fingerboard

The Gold Tone LS-6 Lap Steel Guitar is a vintage replica, modeled after the renowned Oahu Tonemaster of the 1950s. With a sleek design and authentic hardware, it’s perfect for those seeking that classic lap steel sound. The LS-6 comes equipped with a bone nut, Kluson-style tuners, an ash tray cover, and a two-tone tobacco finish. Its solid body and set neck make it a comfortable choice for playing, while the open D tuning allows for a versatile sound.

Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel Guitar - Tobacco

The Gretsch Electromatic lap steel guitar is a sleek and stylish instrument that boasts a rich Hawaiian sound. With a tobacco finish and Mahogany body, this guitar is perfect for players looking to add a classic touch to their sound while maintaining affordability. It features a 22.5” scale length, 1.875” nut width, and 28 frets, and comes equipped with chrome hardware and a chrome-plated cast zinc bridge. The guitar’s single-coil pickup configuration and chrome knobs provide a smooth playing and tuning experience. Its Tobacco finish adds a touch of class, making it a great option for those looking to enhance their sound in style.

Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel Guitar - Authentic Tone and Comfortable Design

Unleash a world of luscious Hawaiian tones with the Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel Guitar. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned players, its mahogany body delivers a rich, warm sound that cuts through the mix with smooth, clear amplification. With its sleek design, comfortable playability, and eye-catching finish, this lap steel is a standout addition to any budding or prolific musician’s collection. Say aloha to a genuine lap steel experience at an unbeatable price!

SX Lap 2 Ash 3TS Electric Lap Steel Guitar - Quality Craftsmanship and Playability

Say hello to the SX LG22TS Lap Steel Guitar - a stunning, full-sized musical instrument that boasts a whopping 36 frets. Proudly crafted from American swamp ash, this guitar is sure to captivate both beginners and experienced players alike. With its sleek design and impressive set of features - including die-cast chrome tuners, V and T knobs - this guitar is truly a game-changer. Don’t believe us? Just check out the glowing reviews from satisfied customers, who love its top-notch craftsmanship and unbeatable value for money.

Affordable Lap Steel Guitar with Hardwood Body and Classic Tones

The Rogue RLS1 Lap Steel Guitar, with its metallic blue finish, offers you an affordable and exciting introduction to classic country, Hawaiian, and blues tones. Crafted from hardwood for superior durability, it features a single-coil pickup, volume and tone controls, chrome hardware, and a stainless steel pickguard. Available with a gig bag and easy-to-use legs, this guitar is perfect for those who want to dive into the world of lap steel playing.

Fretless 6 String Lap Steel Guitar with Okoume Body and Sunburst Finish

Experience the distinctive sound of a 6-string fretless lap steel guitar with this charming instrument from Gstyle. The Okoume body provides a warm resonance, while the sleek design features a sunburst or black finish, brass bridge and tailpiece. With a scale length of 23 1/8”, it’s perfect for beginners and boasts ease of use with its die-cast machine tuners, single coil pickup, and 1-volume, 1-tone controls. The affordable price makes it an irresistible choice for anyone seeking a unique and expressive addition to their musical journey.

Buyer’s Guide

If you’re looking to get into lap steel guitar, there are a few key features and considerations you’ll want to take into account. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from choosing a resonator to deciding on a string gauge, to help you make the best purchase for your needs and skill level.

String Gauge

The string gauge plays a crucial role in determining the tone, feel, and sustain of your lap steel guitar. Generally, you’ll find three main gauges: lighter 44s, medium 38s, and heavier 28s. Lighter strings offer a brighter and more responsive sound, while heavier strings deliver a deeper and richer tone. The choice ultimately depends on your preferred playing style and the genre of music you’re interested in.

Resonator

The resonator is a key component of the lap steel guitar, impacting both its sound and playability. Different resonators can provide distinct sonic properties, and you’ll want to consider factors such as size, shape, and material when making a decision. Smaller resonators tend to produce brighter tones, while larger ones yield a fuller, mellow sound. Materials like brass or aluminum can add to the resonator’s presence, while wooden options tend to offer a warmer, more natural tone. Take your time to try out various resonator options and see which one suits your playing style best.

Playability

A comfortable and well-designed lap steel guitar can enhance your playing experience. Key factors include a smooth, easy-to-grip neck and a solid bridge design that ensures accurate intonation. Additionally, consider the overall balance and weight of the instrument to ensure it feels comfortable when played in various positions, particularly when strumming or playing chords.

Maintenance and Care

To keep your lap steel guitar in top condition, it’s essential to maintain it properly. Regular cleaning and care, including polishing the body and changing strings regularly, will help to preserve the instrument’s tone and playability. Additionally, be mindful of storage to prevent potential damage. Keeping your lap steel guitar in a secure case or stand when not in use can protect it from accidental knocks, which could otherwise impact its performance.

FAQ

What is a lap steel guitar?

A lap steel guitar is a type of steel guitar that is designed to be played on your lap. It is also known as a “lap slide guitar” or “Hawaiian guitar”. Unlike the typical electric guitar, which requires you to hold it in your hands, lap steel guitars are played with a steel bar or slide, which is placed on the strings to produce a unique, sliding and vibrating sound.

The slide is typically made from stainless steel, glass, or brass. It has a smooth, round shape that allows it to glide effortlessly across the strings. One of the unique characteristics of lap steel guitars is that they can create a sound that is quite different from a traditional guitar, with a smoother, more mellow tone.

Who can play lap steel guitar?

Anyone can learn to play the lap steel guitar with practice and dedication. The instrument is versatile and can be played by individuals of all ages and skill levels. While it may take some time to become proficient, the technique of playing lap steel guitar is relatively straightforward. As long as you have the right lap steel guitar, a slide, and a willingness to learn, you can start playing right away.

There are many resources available to help you learn how to play the lap steel guitar, including online tutorials, instructional videos, and lessons from experienced players. You can also find beginner lap steel guitars that are designed for players who are just starting out, making it even easier for you to get started.

What are the benefits of playing lap steel guitar?

Playing lap steel guitar offers several benefits. First and foremost, it can be a great way to express yourself creatively. The unique sound of the lap steel guitar can be used to create a wide variety of musical styles, from blues and rock to jazz and country. It is a versatile instrument that can help you develop your own unique sound and style.

Additionally, playing the lap steel guitar can be a great way to improve your overall musical skills. The technique of playing lap steel guitar can help you develop your finger dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and timing, all of which are essential skills for any musician. It can also help you develop a better understanding of music theory, as you learn to work with chords and scales in new and interesting ways.

What makes a good lap steel guitar?

A good lap steel guitar is one that is well-built, easy to play, and produces a high-quality sound. Some of the key features to look for in a lap steel guitar include a comfortable body shape, a smooth, easy-to-play fretboard, and well-designed electronics that produce a clear, balanced sound. It should also be lightweight and easy to carry, making it convenient for players who want to take their lap steel guitar with them on the go.

Additionally, a good lap steel guitar should come with a high-quality slide that is comfortable to use and easy to control. The slide should be made from a durable material, such as stainless steel or glass, and have a smooth, round shape that allows it to glide effortlessly across the strings. It should also be designed to fit comfortably in your hand, making it easy to play for extended periods of time.

What are some popular lap steel guitar brands?

There are several popular brands of lap steel guitar that are known for their quality and durability. Some of the most well-known brands include Fender, Gretsch, and Gibson. These companies have been producing high-quality instruments for many years, and their lap steel guitars are highly regarded by musicians and guitar enthusiasts alike.

Other popular brands of lap steel guitar include PRS, Epiphone, and Ernie Ball. These companies offer a wide variety of lap steel guitars in different styles and price ranges, making it easy for players of all skill levels and budgets to find the perfect instrument for their needs. It is always a good idea to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase, as this can help you find the best lap steel guitar for your needs and preferences.

What are some commonly recommended lap steel guitars for beginners?

There are several lap steel guitars that are recommended for beginners due to their affordability, quality, and ease of use. One of the most popular options is the Fender Telecaster Lap Steel, which is a great choice for players who are just starting out. It is a well-built instrument that is easy to play and produces a high-quality sound.

Another popular option for beginners is the Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Lap Steel. This instrument is known for its comfortable body shape and smooth, easy-to-play fretboard. It also comes with a high-quality slide, making it a great choice for players who are just starting out on their lap steel guitar journey.

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