The Steel Guitar Forum

After a 20+ year hiatus from PSG, I'm diving back in and replacing my lovely old Sierra 2 raise/lower with a new guitar. I've done a TON of research on line but nothing speaks like the experience of users.

In the final running are the Jackson Blackjack Custom, Williams, and GFI. I'm partial to the wood models and the recordings on the Jackson site get me going. Plus the changer design, The Edge system, I find innovative. I'm very mechanically capable and would like to know how the Jackson stands up to copedent changes, tuning stability, etc.

Thanks very much for any comments on Jackson; I've read much favorable about GFI but am not fond of the looks (yeah I know . . . not a good reason). Williams has not emailed back but seems a solid choice too. The keyless system intrigues me (not available on Jacksons) but that's another topic! Thanks!

You wont be sorry with the Williams.

I tried out a Blackjack once. It's a fine guitar. But then, so are the other 2.

You really can't go wrong with any new pedal steel guitar today. Of course, human nature being what it is, everybody here is going to tell you to get what they play. (I'm partial to MSA myself,) but the bottom line is that EVERYBODY makes outstanding steels these days.

I suggest that you attend the convention, and try out all the different brands and see which one you like the most. You may decide you want something other than the 3 you mentioned.

If you don't like the looks of the steel, you'll regret buying it. Playing steel is far from a logical endeavor in the first place. There's a bit of art involved. You will enjoy the total experience of playing more if you are comfortable with the appearance of your instrument.

You have plenty of other good choices. Don't buy a steel you consider ugly, or too bland, or too garish, or too ...!