Different Types of Resonator Guitars

Resonator guitars are a unique type of instrument that produce a distinct sound that’s perfect for blues, country, and folk music. Before the days of electric amplification, some guitars were designed to amplify the sound of the guitar organically, enter the ‘Resonator Guitar’. Now if a Resonator style Guitar has met your fancy, there are a few different, each with its own unique sound and characteristics. In this post, we’ll explore the differences between each type and why you might choose one over the others.

1. Single Cone Resonator Guitars – Single cone resonator guitars are the most traditional type of resonator guitar. They have a single cone inside the body of the guitar, which is made of spun aluminum or brass. This cone resonates with the strings, amplifying their sound and producing a unique, metallic tone. Single cone resonator guitars are often used in blues music and are known for their loud, powerful sound. They’re also great for fingerpicking and slide guitar playing. If you’re looking for a classic resonator guitar sound, a single cone resonator guitar is the way to go.

2. Tri-Cone Resonator Guitars – Tri-cone resonator guitars, as the name suggests, have three cones inside the body of the guitar. These cones are arranged in a triangle shape and are often made of brass. Tri-cone resonator guitars have a more complex sound than single cone guitars, with a warmer, more rounded tone. They’re often used in Hawaiian and bluegrass music and are great for fingerpicking and slide guitar playing. If you’re looking for a more intricate and nuanced resonator guitar sound, a tri-cone resonator guitar is a great choice.

3. Biscuit Bridge Resonator Guitars – Biscuit bridge resonator guitars have a round, flat biscuit-like piece of wood that sits under the strings and acts as a bridge. This biscuit is in turn connected to a single cone or spider bridge that amplifies the sound of the strings. Biscuit bridge resonator guitars produce a bright, punchy sound that’s great for blues and slide guitar playing. They’re also known for their sustain and clarity, making them a good choice for solo playing. If you’re looking for a resonator guitar with a bright, articulate sound, a biscuit bridge resonator guitar is the way to go.

4. Spider Bridge Resonator Guitars – Spider bridge resonator guitars are similar to biscuit bridge guitars, but instead of a flat biscuit bridge, they have a spider-shaped bridge that supports the strings. This spider bridge is connected to a single cone, which amplifies the sound of the strings. Spider bridge resonator guitars have a loud, brash sound that’s perfect for blues and rock music. They’re also great for slide guitar playing, with a sustain and resonance that make them a popular choice among guitarists. If you’re looking for a resonator guitar with a loud, in-your-face sound, a spider bridge resonator guitar is the way to go.

In conclusion, the type of resonator guitar you choose will depend on the sound you’re looking for and the style of music you play. Single cone resonator guitars are great for classic blues and fingerpicking, while tri-cone resonator guitars offer a more complex, nuanced sound. Biscuit bridge resonator guitars produce a bright, punchy sound that’s great for solo playing, while spider bridge resonator guitars have a loud, brash sound that’s perfect for blues and rock. By understanding the differences between each type of resonator guitar, you can choose the one that’s