One Step Up from Carter Starter

Jon Gallant · Post by **Jon Gallant** » 20 Nov 2011 9:38 pm

Hey Guys - I'm thinking about getting a carter starter, but I was curious what is a good PSG that is one step up from the carter starter?

Should I pay a few hundred dollars more and get something better?

What does a carter starter not have that I should be looking for?

Thanks
Jon

Joe Hensley · Post by **Joe Hensley** » 20 Nov 2011 10:29 pm

Definitely pay a bit more for something better (IMHO). There are a bunch of threads on the site that will point you towards: Stage One and Legend (CarpSteel), or getting something used. Just search around and you'll find several reviews and recommendations.
Some things to consider: are you going to ever venture away from a standard E9th (Emmons) Copendent, do you want to 'tinker' with it, how sturdy do you want your steel to be, etc...

CrowBear Schmitt · Post by **CrowBear Schmitt** » 21 Nov 2011 3:02 am

i'd stay away from the Carter Starter
the Zumsteel Stage One is a much better Bang 4 $
http://www.stageonesteelguitars.com/

otherwise there are some excellent economy models here :
http://www.fredjusticemusic.com/id28.html

http://www.beckmusicalinstruments.com/BMI-Axius.html

http://www.mullenguitars.com/Econo.htm

http://www.steelguitarshopper.com/ETS-S10

http://www.gfimusicalproducts.com/Pages/Prices.htm

http://simmonspedalsteel.com/

Dennis Saydak · Post by **Dennis Saydak** » 21 Nov 2011 5:56 pm

I sure wouldn't hesitate to get a Stage 1 guitar if you are looking to buy new. I'm really impressed by Michael Doucette (forumite & Nash session musician) who used one to backup Rhonda Vincent and Gene Watson concert on the Woodsongs Old Time Radio hour.

David Beckner · Post by **David Beckner** » 22 Nov 2011 7:04 am

...........SIMMONS..........Doesnt get any better

chris ivey · Post by **chris ivey** » 22 Nov 2011 11:49 am

once again...if stage ones are limited to changes in specific pedal/lever positions that can't be changed, i wouldn't want one.

Chris Schlotzhauer · Post by **Chris Schlotzhauer** » 22 Nov 2011 12:53 pm

chris ivey wrote:once again...if stage ones are limited to changes in specific pedal/lever positions that can't be changed, i wouldn't want one.

What more do you need?

My Stage One is set up a little different (E's lower and 1st raise are different), but I can adjust pretty quick. I have played it the last 6-7 gigs, and it plays like a champ. Great tone too.
I can carry it in assembled in one hand, and my amp in another. Finish the gig, put it in the back seat of my truck assembled.
My Stage One is no replacement to my wonderful Rains, but most of the changes are there. Last week I was doing 1-45 min set. Quick setup/tear down.
To me it's just another tool with it's specific purpose.

Chris Schlotzhauer · Post by **Chris Schlotzhauer** » 22 Nov 2011 12:59 pm

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chris ivey · Post by **chris ivey** » 22 Nov 2011 1:14 pm

my 40 yrs of copedent development/placement is more personal, i guess. i have similar changes but in positions i prefer. it would be very difficult for me to play a generic setup.

Matthew Schwartz · Post by **Matthew Schwartz** » 24 Nov 2011 9:38 am

I love my Stage One too.

Michael Douchette · Post by **Michael Douchette** » 24 Nov 2011 12:33 pm

chris ivey wrote:my 40 yrs of copedent development/placement is more personal, i guess. i have similar changes but in positions i prefer. it would be very difficult for me to play a generic setup.

Understandable. The Stage One works for me because it was my setup, anyway.

Mike Perlowin · Post by **Mike Perlowin** » 25 Nov 2011 5:35 am

Another option is a used pro guitar. Check out the "for sale" section.