AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Resonator Guitars Under $5,000 2026
The top pick is Gretsch G9240 Alligator Round-Neck Biscuit Cone Resonator 2-Color… ($634). Harley Benton Custom Line N-150CE Black gives you the most for the money at $244. Gretsch G9221 Bobtail Steel Round-Neck Acoustic Electric Natural 2016 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 39 models across 8 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 ↗ -
Gretsch G9221 Bobtail Steel Round-Neck Acoustic Electric Natural 2016
G9221 Bobtail Steel RN AE · Gretsch
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets19 frets
This Bobtail is a seriously capable resonator, nailing that vintage Gretsch vibe. The Ampli-Sonic cone and Fishman pickup combo gives you a powerful, focused amplified sound perfect for bluegrass, old-time, and roots music. It’s a premium-priced instrument, but the quality and tone make it a worthwhile investment for dedicated resonator players.
Pros
- Amplified tone is remarkably clear thanks to the Fishman Nashville pickup
- Katalox fretboard offers a smooth playing experience and beautiful aesthetics
- The medium-V neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles
Cons
- Steel body makes it noticeably heavier than a traditional acoustic guitar
- The shorter scale length might feel cramped for players used to longer scales
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,114 now$1,114€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets20 frets
- Neck profileU-shape neck
- BodySapele body
This Harley Benton N-150CE is a seriously impressive resonator for the money. The JM-02 cone gives it that classic, bright bluegrass tone, while the mini-humbucker adds a surprising amount of versatility for blues and beyond. It's a fantastic entry point into the resonator world, or a great grab-and-go instrument for seasoned players.
Pros
- Sapele body offers a surprisingly warm and resonant tone.
- Rising P3004 mini-humbucker delivers a focused, articulate amplified sound.
- Purple Heart/Maple bridge provides good sustain and stability.
Cons
- ABS binding and inlays feel a bit cheap compared to higher-end resonators.
- Satin black finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$244 now$244€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale645 mm (25.39")
- Frets20 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This guitar sounds like a classic 30s model but plays right out of the box. The spruce top and whitewood body give it a great balance for bluegrass. It's a solid choice for players who want a strong signal without extra knobs.
Pros
- Solid spruce top provides a bright attack for bluegrass cutting through mixes.
- Whitewood back and sides offer a warm, resonant body for acoustic resonance.
- Mini humbucker pickup delivers a strong, clear signal for amplified playing.
Cons
- Matte black finish may show scratches easily during transport.
- Lacks volume control knobs for adjusting output levels on stage.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 30Aug 30$333 now$333€299 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")
- Frets12 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This Royall KOA12SC is a seriously impressive resonator. The all-koa build and Tricone design combine for a truly authentic and powerful bluegrass voice. It's a premium-priced instrument, but the quality and tone make it a fantastic choice for dedicated resonator players.
Pros
- Hawaiian koa top delivers a rich, warm, and resonant tone characteristic of premium resonators.
- Tricone design with three cones provides a powerful, complex, and shimmering projection.
- Wilkinson vintage-style tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability, crucial for bluegrass and beyond.
Cons
- Koa construction makes it noticeably heavier than standard resonator models.
- The 46mm nut width might feel slightly wider for players accustomed to narrower necks.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,114 now$1,114€999 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 ↗
All 39 resonator guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Royall HB12/SB HoboRoyall · 2 finishes57Stable$835€749$835€749Check ↗
- 12
Royall TMP12/NI TampaRoyall · 2 finishes57Stable$1,058€949$1,058€949Check ↗
- 13
Recording King RM-994E-AC CutawayRecording King · 2 finishes55↓ 2.0%$1,092€979$1,092€979Check ↗
- 14
Royall BB14C/FL Bantam BlazerRoyall54Stable$835€749$835€749Check ↗
- 15
Recording King RM-999E-RNRecording King · 2 finishes54Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 16
Recording King RR-36S-VS SquareneckRecording King · 2 finishes51Stable$440€395$440€395Check ↗
- 17
Recording King RR-41E-VS ResonatorRattlesnakeRecording King51Stable$590€529$590€529Check ↗
- 18
National Reso-Phonic Raw Steel SingCone 14 Fr. LHNational Reso-Phonic51Stable$3,789€3,398$3,789€3,398Check ↗
- 19
National Reso-Phonic NRP Rubbed Steel 12 FretNational Reso-Phonic51Stable$4,459€3,999$4,459€3,999Check ↗
- 20
National Reso-Phonic Estralita DeluxeNational Reso-Phonic51Stable$4,792€4,298$4,792€4,298Check ↗
- 21
Recording King RM-995E-BNRecording King49↓ 1.2%$990€888$990€888Check ↗
- 22
Ortega RRG50CE-SSBOrtega48Stable$869€779$869€779Check ↗
- 23
Royall PB12/ANI Pony BoyRoyall48Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 24
Royall CH12/BRS Chess 12Royall48Stable$947€849$947€849Check ↗
- 25
Recording King RM-996SE-PN SandblastedRecording King48Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 26
Recording King RM-960E-ASRecording King48Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 27
Royall WE14NI West EndRoyall48Stable$1,225€1,099$1,225€1,099Check ↗
- 28
National Reso-Phonic Raw Steel Single Cone 12 FretNational Reso-Phonic48Stable$3,789€3,398$3,789€3,398Check ↗
- 29
National Reso-Phonic NRP Rubbed Steel 14 FretNational Reso-Phonic48Stable$4,459€3,999$4,459€3,999Check ↗
- 30
National Reso-Phonic Raw Steel Single Cone 14 FretNational Reso-Phonic46↑ 3.0%$3,790€3,399$3,790€3,399Check ↗
- 31
Harley Benton Delta Blues ResonatorHarley Benton45Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
- 32
Harley Benton Delta Blues Resonator w/BagHarley Benton45Stable$345€309$345€309Check ↗
- 33
Ortega RRG30E-WBOrtega45Stable$458€411$458€411Check ↗
- 34
Ortega RRG40CE-DBKOrtega45Stable$493€442$493€442Check ↗
- 35
Ortega RRG40CE-DBK-LOrtega45Stable$495€444$495€444Check ↗
- 36
Ortega RRG60EOrtega45Stable$991€889$991€889Check ↗
- 37
Dobro Hound Dog Round NeckDobro37Stable$489€439$489€439Check ↗
- 38
Dobro Hound Dog M-14Dobro37Stable$869€779$869€779Check ↗
- 39
Gold Tone PBSGold Tone35Stable$1,560€1,399$1,560€1,399Check ↗
Resonator Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 53 models we track, not a sample.
Median $935 — half of all resonator guitars here cost less.
median of 45 models · 43 mm (1.69")–46.2 mm (1.82")
median of 51 models · 628 mm (24.72")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 34 models · 19–20
most common · 5 models
How to choose the best resonator guitars
Tone/Resonance
This is the big one. We're listening for that characteristic 'boom' and sustain, the clarity of the fundamental, and how well it cuts through a mix. A good resonator shouldn't just be loud; it needs to have character - that fat midrange honk that defines the instrument.
Construction/Bracing
How the resonator cone is mounted, the wood choices, and the bracing pattern all dramatically affect the tone and responsiveness. Cheaper resonators often use thinner wood or less refined bracing, which can lead to a flabbier, less focused sound. Pay attention to the details - a well-braced top will vibrate more freely.
Playability/Action
A resonator's action can be tricky; too high and it's unplayable, too low and it frets out. We're evaluating the neck profile, fretwork, and overall ease of playing, especially considering the often-unique ergonomics of resonator designs.
Hardware/Finish
While not the most critical factor, decent hardware (tuner stability, bridge integrity) and a well-applied finish contribute to the overall value and longevity of the instrument. Cheap plating can corrode, and a thin finish can crack easily.
Cone Material/Type
Biscuit cones, spider bridge cones, and single-cone designs all offer different tonal characteristics. Biscuit cones tend to be more raw and dynamic, while spider bridge cones can be smoother and more controlled. Understanding these differences helps you dial in the sound you want.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're chasing that resonator vibe - that woody, growly, percussive tone that cuts through a bluegrass band or adds some grit to your blues. You're smart to set a budget; resonators can get seriously pricey. We're focusing on guitars under $5000, which opens up a surprisingly wide range of quality instruments without breaking the bank completely - let's find you something that sounds good and feels right for the gig.
At this price range, you're avoiding the truly high-end custom builds, but you can still find fantastic resonators. Expect some compromises - a budget instrument might have less figured wood or simpler hardware. Don't chase the prettiest guitar; prioritize the tone and playability.
A good setup from a qualified tech is essential, especially on a 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 53 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 and a spider bridge resonator?
Biscuit resonators have a removable metal 'biscuit' that sits under the cone, allowing for easy cone changes and a more raw, percussive tone. Spider bridge resonators have a fixed metal 'spider' that's integrated into the body, often offering a smoother, more controlled sound - though it limits cone swapping.
Are resonators hard to play?
They can be! The action often needs to be lower than on a standard acoustic, and the body shape can be awkward at first. A good setup and some practice will make a big difference. Neck profile is key here - a comfortable neck is non-negotiable.
Can I use a resonator for something other than bluegrass?
Absolutely. Resonators are fantastic for blues, folk, country, and even rock. Experiment with different tunings and playing styles to find your own voice. A pickup can open up even more possibilities for recording and gigging.
What about pickups? Are they essential?
Not essential, but highly recommended if you plan on amplifying the resonator. The voicing of the pickup significantly impacts the tone - some are bright and trebly, while others aim for a more vintage, warmer sound. Try before you buy, if possible.
Is it worth buying used?
Definitely! You can often find incredible deals on used resonators, especially if you're willing to do a little research and inspect the instrument carefully. Just be sure to check for cracks in the wood and the condition of the bridge and tailpiece.
