Advantages or otherwise of a console steel over a lap steel?

[Rob MacKillop]

My lap steel arrives tomorrow. Very much looking forward to getting acquainted with it, an 8-string.

I'm wondering what the advantages are of having the guitar on a console rather than on your lap. Which is your preference, and why?

[Brad Bechtel]

The main advantage is that you don't have it on your lap. You can stand if you wish (and if the legs are long enough), or you can adjust the location of the fretboard to be easier for you to play.

[Mike Neer]

Using a volume pedal is much easier if the steel is on legs.

[Bill Leff]

I find that many times I get neck pain when playing guitar on my lap. With a steel on legs, I set it up higher and am not bending my neck as far downward and that solves the neck pain issue.

[CrowBear Schmitt]

Consoles also have 2 or 3 necks w: different tunings as well

[Rob MacKillop]

Well, that all makes sense, and the possibility of more than one neck is the clincher. But, for me, one small step at the time. My first lap steel arrived today, with a review to follow in a day or three, when I find a few spare moments.

[Tom Wolverton]

also, with a console guitar, you can play it and keep a plate of cookies in your lap at the same time. : )

[Rob MacKillop]

Now, THAT's the clincher!

[John Rosett]

Most consoles have a place to set your beverage.

[D Schubert]

If you double on guitar or other strap-held instruments....

[Steve Green]

Or, if like me, your belly is a shade too big to play one across your lap comfortably!!!