Best Resonator Guitars for 2024

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.