The Steel Guitar Forum

Looking to buy first steel guitar. Any suggestions.

Looking back, I sometimes wish I had started playing steel on a 6-string lap steel tuned to C6th. A fundamental basic starting point. BUT I also realize I would have "graduated" to an 8-string. I still get a huge kick out of playing a 6-string one, though.

Which 8-string? Oh, you'll probably get all kinds of recommendations. I would, however, suggest one with legs because eventually youll be gigging with it and it's just easier and more versatile to have one with legs.

As for me, a Fender is always, always a good choice. Lots of history with them. They hold their value, too, which means you would be hard pressed to lose $$ should you ever part with it.

James LaCroix wrote:Looking to buy first steel guitar. Any suggestions.

I can build you what you want. hudsonsteelguitars.com

PM sent.

James, check your mail

If not a Fender with trapezoid pickup, I might be looking at Ram Guitar's 'Speakeasy'. Ron offers a variety of good pickups, and colors. The workmanship is so good, they may be future classics. Here's a model set up with legs I got some time ago, a "Neo Solo". Purty eh? ...I started on a National Grand Console. They are nice, and not too expensive. I bet you want 8 strings. -LukE S. www.RAMguitars.com

Thanks to everyone for the info. Very useful, After talking to a few people i might start out on a six string.

James LaCroix wrote:Thanks to everyone for the info. Very useful, After talking to a few people i might start out on a six string.

You can do quite a bit with 6 strings. Most of my favorite lap steel players play 6-strings.