AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Resonator Guitars for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Gretsch G9240 Alligator Round-Neck Biscuit Cone Resonator 2-Color… ($634). Royall DLT12SC/DSB DELTA leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 46 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Gretsch G9240 Alligator Round-Neck Biscuit Cone Resonator 2-Color…
G9240 Alligator Biscuit · Gretsch
32 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets19 frets
- BodyMahogany body
The Gretsch G9240 Alligator Biscuit is a fantastic entry point into the world of resonator guitars. It's built solid, with a warm, woody tone that's perfect for bluegrass, folk, and roots music. If you're looking for a unique and inspiring instrument that offers a lot of character for the price, this is a real winner.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- Katalox fretboard offers a smooth playing experience and unique look
- Biscuit bridge enhances clarity and responsiveness of the resonator cone
Cons
- Medium V neck profile isn't for everyone; might feel bulky to some
- Limited tonal versatility compared to a full-bodied acoustic or electric
83AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$634 now$634€569 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G9201 Honey Dipper Round-Neck Acoustic Resonator Guitar
G9201 Honey Dipper · Gretsch
24 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets19 frets
The Honey Dipper is a fantastic resonator for bluegrass, folk, and roots music. Its bright, focused tone and comfortable neck make it a joy to play, and the brass body gives it a distinct character. It's an excellent choice for players wanting that classic resonator vibe without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Solid brass body delivers a uniquely bright, metallic tone.
- Katalox fretboard offers a smooth playing experience and great note definition.
- Round neck design facilitates comfortable chording and open tunings.
Cons
- Round neck limits versatility compared to square neck resonators for slide playing.
- Relatively heavy due to the brass body construction – can be tiring for extended playing.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$980 now$980€879 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G9220 Bobtail Round-Neck Acoustic Electric 2-Color Sunburst…
G9220 Bobtail Roundneck · Gretsch
27 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets19 frets
- BodyMahogany body
This Gretsch Bobtail is a seriously fun instrument, especially if you're digging that classic bluegrass vibe. The roundneck gives it a unique tone and the Fishman pickup is surprisingly good for stage. It’s a solid choice for players wanting a quality resonator without the premium price tag.
Pros
- The Fishman Nashville pickup delivers a surprisingly clean and articulate amplified tone.
- Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation with a pleasing woody character.
- Katalox fretboard offers a smooth playing experience with excellent note definition.
Cons
- The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to standard guitars.
- Katalox can be a harder wood to maintain; occasional oiling is recommended.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$857 now$857€769 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Recording King RM-998-D Style-0 Chicken Feet Resonator Nickel-Plated…
RM-998-D · Recording King
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale632 mm (24.88")
- Frets19 frets
This guitar has a classic round neck and a bright aluminium cone that cuts through a band. The nickel-plated brass body sounds solid and warm with mahogany. It is a great choice for bluegrass players who want a traditional tone without extra electronics.
Pros
- Solid nickel-plated bell brass body feels heavy and durable.
- Aluminium cone offers a bright, cutting bluegrass tone.
- Mahogany neck provides a warm, responsive playing feel.
Cons
- Rosewood fretboard can be slippery when wet.
- No pickup system is mentioned in the specs.
61AudioFu
Index↓ 1.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$619 · Aug 17$612 now$612€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G9230 Bobtail Square-Neck Resonator
G9230 Bobtail Squareneck · Gretsch
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale635 mm (25")
This Gretsch Bobtail Squareneck is a seriously focused bluegrass machine. The mahogany body gives it a warm core, while the Ampli-Sonic cone cuts through a band like a knife. It's a great option for players wanting a traditional resonator sound and feel without the bulk of a full-size model.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides a warm, woody tonal foundation.
- Ampli-Sonic cone delivers focused, ringing bluegrass projection.
- Katalox fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
Cons
- The shorter scale length limits versatility outside of bluegrass.
- Mahogany construction can be somewhat prone to feedback at higher volumes.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$891 now$891€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets19 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The Royall Delta is a seriously impressive resonator – those handmade cones really sing. It's built like a tank, feels great in the hands, and delivers that authentic, driving bluegrass tone. If you're a dedicated resonator player or looking to add a unique voice to your arsenal, this is a fantastic option.
Pros
- Handmade cones deliver exceptional, complex resonator tone.
- Mahogany body provides warmth and projection, surprisingly balanced.
- Lipstick pickup captures a gritty, vintage-voiced character.
Cons
- The 648mm scale might feel long for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- Tri-cone resonators can be sensitive to playing style, requiring adjustment.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$991 now$991€889 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets19 frets
- BodyMahogany body
The Royall Hobo delivers a serious resonator voice without the premium price tag. It’s built solid with a mahogany body and that handmade aluminum cone really cuts through. Ideal for bluegrass players, or anyone wanting that classic resonator bite, this guitar feels great and is surprisingly versatile within its niche.
Pros
- Handmade aluminum cone delivers a focused, powerful resonator tone.
- Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain characteristic of bluegrass instruments.
- Bone nut and 2-way truss rod offer precise setup and stability.
Cons
- Technical wood fingerboard might not offer the premium feel of rosewood or ebony.
- 46mm nut width could be a challenge for players with smaller hands.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$835 now$835€749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale640 mm (25.2")
- Frets19 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This Royall Tampa is a serious contender for bluegrass players wanting that authentic Tri-Cone sound. The bell bronze body and three cones really project, and the mahogany neck keeps it comfortable. It’s a well-built instrument that nails that vintage vibe, perfect for anyone looking for a workhorse resonator.
Pros
- Bell bronze body delivers a warm, resonant, and complex tone.
- Tri-Cone design offers exceptional volume and projection, ideal for bluegrass.
- Mahogany neck provides comfortable playability and sustain.
Cons
- The weight, typical of bronze resonators, can be fatiguing during extended playing.
- 46mm nut width might feel narrow for players accustomed to wider necks.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,058 now$1,058€949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale640 mm (25.2")
- Frets19 frets
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The Royall Bantam Blazer is a seriously fun little resonator. It’s got a bright, punchy tone perfect for bluegrass, old-time, and blues – that 9.5” cone really projects. Ideal for players wanting a compact, authentic resonator experience without the bulk of a full-size model.
Pros
- Flamed maple body offers striking aesthetics and focused tone.
- Mahogany neck provides comfortable feel and warmth.
- Biscuit bridge enhances resonator projection and sustain.
Cons
- The shorter scale length may feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- Aged hardware, while visually appealing, can be prone to oxidation.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$835 now$835€749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar has a thick brass body and bright aluminum cones that cut through a band. The rosewood fingerboard feels nice under your fingers. It works well for bluegrass but is heavy and lacks extra controls.
Pros
- Solid brass body feels heavy and durable in hand.
- European spun aluminum cones deliver bright, cutting resonance.
- Rosewood fingerboard offers smooth playability for long sessions.
Cons
- Heaviness may strain shoulders for players with smaller frames.
- Only volume and tone knobs limit on-the-fly adjustments.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 30Aug 30$1,002 now$1,002€899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 46 resonator guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Recording King RM-995E-BNRecording King49↓ 1.2%$990€888$990€888Check ↗
- 12
Recording King RR-41E-VS ResonatorRattlesnakeRecording King51Stable$590€529$590€529Check ↗
- 13
Ortega RRG50CE-SSBOrtega48Stable$869€779$869€779Check ↗
- 14
Royall PB12/ANI Pony BoyRoyall48Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 15
Royall CH12/BRS Chess 12Royall48Stable$947€849$947€849Check ↗
- 16
Recording King RM-960E-ASRecording King48Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 17
Recording King RM-996SE-PN SandblastedRecording King48Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 18
Ortega RRG60EOrtega45Stable$991€889$991€889Check ↗
- 19
Dobro Hound Dog M-14Dobro37Stable$869€779$869€779Check ↗
- 20
Recording King RPH-R2-E-BRB Dirty 30´s MinnieRecording King · 3 finishes61Stable$411€369$411€369Check ↗
- 21
Ortega RRG40CE-DBK-LOrtega45Stable$495€444$495€444Check ↗
- 22
Ortega RRG40CE-DBKOrtega45Stable$493€442$493€442Check ↗
- 23
Recording King RR-36S-VS SquareneckRecording King · 2 finishes51Stable$440€395$440€395Check ↗
- 24
Ortega RRG30E-WBOrtega45Stable$458€411$458€411Check ↗
- 25
Dobro Hound Dog Round NeckDobro37Stable$489€439$489€439Check ↗
- 26
Gretsch G9221 Bobtail Steel Round-Neck Acoustic Electric Natural 2016G9221 Bobtail Steel RN AE · Gretsch63Stable$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton Custom Line N-150CE BK w/BagHarley Benton · 3 finishes61Stable$255€229$255€229Check ↗
- 28
Royall KOA12SC Resonator GuitarRoyall · 3 finishes61Stable$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 29
National Reso-Phonic Style O 14 Fret LHNational Reso-Phonic · 2 finishes60Stable$5,015€4,498$5,015€4,498Check ↗
- 30
Harley Benton Delta Blues Resonator w/BagHarley Benton45Stable$345€309$345€309Check ↗
- 31
Beard Guitars Road-O-Phonic TSBeard Guitars · 2 finishes57Stable$5,016€4,499$5,016€4,499Check ↗
- 32
Harley Benton Delta Blues ResonatorHarley Benton45Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
- 33
Recording King RM-994E-AC CutawayRecording King · 2 finishes55↓ 2.0%$1,092€979$1,092€979Check ↗
- 34
National Reso-Phonic Raw Steel SingCone 14 Fr. LHNational Reso-Phonic51Stable$3,789€3,398$3,789€3,398Check ↗
- 35
National Reso-Phonic NRP Rubbed Steel 12 FretNational Reso-Phonic51Stable$4,459€3,999$4,459€3,999Check ↗
- 36
National Reso-Phonic Estralita DeluxeNational Reso-Phonic51Stable$4,792€4,298$4,792€4,298Check ↗
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National Reso-Phonic Style ONational Reso-Phonic51Stable$5,238€4,698$5,238€4,698Check ↗
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National Reso-Phonic Style O Replicon 14fretNational Reso-Phonic51Stable$5,461€4,898$5,461€4,898Check ↗
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National Reso-Phonic Style O DeluxeNational Reso-Phonic51Stable$5,573€4,998$5,573€4,998Check ↗
- 40
Beard Guitars Trailhead E-Model CE TobaccoBeard Guitars · 2 finishes51Stable$5,573€4,998$5,573€4,998Check ↗
- 41
Royall WE14NI West EndRoyall48Stable$1,225€1,099$1,225€1,099Check ↗
- 42
National Reso-Phonic Raw Steel Single Cone 12 FretNational Reso-Phonic48Stable$3,789€3,398$3,789€3,398Check ↗
- 43
National Reso-Phonic NRP Rubbed Steel 14 FretNational Reso-Phonic48Stable$4,459€3,999$4,459€3,999Check ↗
- 44
Beard Guitars E-Model SN ASBBeard Guitars48Stable$5,573€4,998$5,573€4,998Check ↗
- 45
National Reso-Phonic Raw Steel Single Cone 14 FretNational Reso-Phonic46↑ 3.0%$3,790€3,399$3,790€3,399Check ↗
- 46
Gold Tone PBSGold Tone35Stable$1,560€1,399$1,560€1,399Check ↗
Resonator Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 63 models we track, not a sample.
Median $991 — half of all resonator guitars here cost less.
median of 53 models · 43 mm (1.69")–48 mm (1.89")
median of 61 models · 628 mm (24.72")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 43 models · 19–20
most common · 5 models
How to choose the best resonator guitars
Playability
Neck profile and action are crucial. An intermediate player is developing technique - a thick, unwieldy neck or high action will hinder progress and make those fast bluegrass runs a struggle. We're looking for comfortable, manageable necks that allow for clean articulation.
Cone Material & Response
The cone is the heart of a resonator. Brass cones offer that classic, metallic bite - perfect for cutting through a mix. Spider cone resonators (like those found on some vintage models) have a warmer, more complex tone but can be harder to control. Knowing the tonal difference is vital.
Bracing & Tone Control
The bracing pattern significantly impacts sustain and tone. Heavier bracing generally results in a more focused, punchy sound, while lighter bracing allows for more resonance and warmth. Some resonators even have tone controls (often a simple thumb roller) - a surprising but welcome feature for shaping your tone.
Construction Quality & Hardware
Let's be honest, cheaper resonators often cut corners on hardware. Chrome plating flakes, tuners slip, and the whole thing feels flimsy. Solid construction and decent hardware aren't just about aesthetics; they impact tuning stability and overall reliability on stage.
Volume & Headroom
Resonators can get loud, but some have more 'headroom' than others - meaning they can handle increased volume and dynamics without collapsing into muddy breakup. This is especially important if you're playing with a band or recording in a controlled environment.
Buying guide
So, you're past the beginner acoustic phase and itching for that signature resonator twang? It's a fantastic direction - resonators add a whole new dimension to your playing, but stepping up can be tricky. This isn't a 'buy the cheapest one' situation; intermediate players need something playable, resonant, and capable of handling a gig or a decent recording. Let's find you a resonator that won't leave you frustrated and sounding thin.
Don't chase the cheapest option; it will likely have a rough action, a dull cone, and questionable hardware. Focus on finding a resonator with a comfortable neck profile and a cone that suits your desired tone. A slightly higher price point often means better bracing, more reliable hardware, and a more responsive cone - all things that will make your playing experience significantly better.
And seriously, check the tuners - a poorly tuned resonator is a frustrating resonator.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 63 resonator guitars from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a biscuit bridge and a spider bridge?
Biscuit bridges are more common on modern resonators and offer a brighter, more focused tone. Spider bridges (found on older models) are softer and warmer, but can be harder to control and might lack some clarity.
Do I need an amplifier for a resonator?
Not necessarily! Resonators are naturally loud. However, an amp can help you cut through a band or add effects. A clean amp with a little headroom is ideal; avoid heavily distorted amps, as they'll muddy the tone.
What gauge strings should I use?
Lighter gauge strings (12-54 or 13-56) are generally recommended for resonators. Heavier strings can put too much stress on the cone and neck, potentially affecting the tone and playability.
My resonator buzzes a lot. Is that normal?
Some buzzing is inherent to the resonator's construction, especially around the cone. However, excessive buzzing could indicate a problem with the bracing or neck alignment. Have it checked by a qualified luthier.
Can I use a resonator for genres other than bluegrass?
Absolutely! Resonators work great for blues, country, folk, and even rock. Experiment with different tunings and effects to find your own unique voice.
