AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Resonator Guitars Under $800 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. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 12 models across 5 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- BodyMahogany body
The RR-36S-VS is a serious contender for bluegrass and old-time players seeking an authentic resonator tone. The squareneck design and mahogany body combine for a warm, resonant voice, and the build quality feels solid for the price point. It’s a fantastic entry into the resonator world without a huge investment.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warm, woody tones ideal for bluegrass and old-time.
- Sand cast spider bridge enhances resonance and vintage character.
- Padauk fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience, surprisingly responsive.
Cons
- Squarneck limits versatility; primarily suited for open G tuning.
- Mahogany construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$440 now$440€395 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets19 frets
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar uses a solid mahogany body and spruce top for a warm bluegrass sound. The hand-spun cone and single Fishman pickup give it a classic, direct tone. It is a straightforward instrument that suits players who want a reliable, traditional resonator without extra electronics.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body provides a warm, rich acoustic foundation for bluegrass.
Cons
- Heavy instrument may be difficult for smaller players to carry around.
- Standard pickup lacks advanced blending or EQ controls for tone shaping.
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- Nut width48.5 mm (1.91")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- BodySapele body
This Harley Benton Delta Blues Resonator is a fantastic entry point into the resonator world. The square neck setup makes it immediately playable for bluegrass and slide guitar styles, and the Sapele body delivers a surprisingly full and warm tone. It's a really solid instrument for players wanting authentic resonator character at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Sapele body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the resonator's voice.
- Square neck facilitates easy open-tuned playing for bluegrass and slide.
- Bone nut improves tuning stability and sustain compared to plastic alternatives.
Cons
- Square neck limits versatility; not ideal for standard tuning playing.
- Sapele can be a bit plain aesthetically; lacks figured grain options.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$333 now$333€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48.5 mm (1.91")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- BodySapele body
This Harley Benton Delta Blues Resonator is a fantastic entry point into the world of resonator guitars. The square neck makes it instantly playable for slide, and the Sapele body delivers a surprisingly rich and warm tone. It’s perfect for blues enthusiasts, folk players, or anyone wanting that authentic resonator vibe without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Sapele body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the resonator tone.
- Square neck setup ideal for open-tuned slide playing, authentic Delta blues style.
- Bone nut enhances sustain and tuning stability compared to plastic alternatives.
Cons
- Square neck limits standard fretted playing versatility; requires retuning for conventional use.
- Sapele can be prone to movement with humidity changes; requires diligent care.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$345 now$345€309 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets19 frets
The Ortega RRG30E-WB is a solid resonator, built for bluegrass players who want a vintage vibe without the premium price tag. The mahogany body gives it a pleasing warmth, and that Lipstick pickup surprises with its clarity. It’s a great option for someone looking for a dedicated resonator with a comfortable neck and a distinct, old-school character.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides a warm, woody tone ideal for bluegrass and folk.
- Lipstick single coil pickup delivers a surprisingly articulate and punchy amplified sound.
- Slotted headstock and 43mm nut width cater specifically to bluegrass playing styles.
Cons
- Distressed finish might not appeal to players seeking a pristine aesthetic.
- Mahogany construction can be slightly heavier than instruments with different woods.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$458 now$458€411 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets20 frets
This Ortega RRG40CE-DBK is a solid, well-built resonator that nails that classic Americana vibe. The mahogany body gives it a really warm, focused tone, and the Lipstick pickup adds a cool, slightly gritty edge. It's a fantastic option for bluegrass players or anyone wanting a unique resonator voice without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Mahogany construction delivers warm, woody tones ideal for bluegrass.
- Lipstick pickup provides a surprisingly articulate and bluesy voice.
- Slotted headstock and 2-way truss rod offer reliable tuning stability.
Cons
- Mahogany body can be somewhat dense, contributing to a heavier instrument.
- Passive Lipstick pickup lacks the high-output versatility of active systems.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$493 now$493€442 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 12 resonator guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
Resonator Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 18 models we track, not a sample.
Median $440 — half of all resonator guitars here cost less.
median of 16 models · 43 mm (1.69")–48.5 mm (1.91")
median of 17 models · 628 mm (24.72")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 13 models · 19–20
most common · 5 models
How to choose the best resonator guitars
Construction (Spoke vs. Biscuit)
Spoke-top resonators are generally more affordable, but can lack the focused projection of a biscuit-bridge model. Biscuit-bridge resonators, like those from Dobro, give you a more defined, woody tone and better sustain, crucial for lead work and complex arrangements.
Tonewoods (Body & Neck)
Expect mahogany or sapele for the body in this price range - solid wood is rare. The neck is often mahogany too, sometimes with a maple top. Don't expect fancy figured woods; focus on how the wood sounds, not how it looks.
Hardware & Tuners
Cheap tuners are a frustration waiting to happen. Look for geared tuners (rather than friction pegs) - they'll hold tuning better, especially when you're bending strings. Chrome plating is common, but avoid anything that feels flimsy.
Action & Playability
Resonators often have higher action than acoustic guitars to prevent buzzing. Check the action at the nut and the 12th fret; a playable action is paramount. A comfortable neck profile (usually a 'C' or 'D' shape) makes a big difference, especially during long gigs.
Pickup Voicing (if equipped)
Many resonators come with a built-in pickup for amplification. The voicing can vary wildly - some are bright and brittle, others muddy and lacking definition. Listen for a pickup that captures the resonator's natural character without adding unwanted coloration.
Buying guide
So, you're looking for a resonator guitar without breaking the bank? Smart move. They're fantastic instruments - that dry, percussive thump is a game-changer for bluegrass, blues, and even adding a unique flavor to rock.
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Expect some compromises in finish quality and potentially a slightly higher action that may require adjustment. Don't be swayed by flashy aesthetics; focus on the core tone and build quality.
A decent hardshell case is a worthwhile investment to protect your resonator from bumps and humidity changes - those metal cones are fragile!
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 18 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 Dobro and a National resonator?
Both are iconic brands, but Dobro typically refers to biscuit-bridge resonators, known for their projection and sustain. National resonators are more often spoke-top, offering a more vintage, 'National' tone - often a bit more muted and percussive.
Can I use steel strings on a resonator guitar?
Generally, yes, but check the manufacturer's recommendations. Most resonators are built to handle steel strings, but lighter gauge strings are always a safer bet to avoid excessive stress on the bridge and cone.
Is a resonator guitar hard to learn?
Resonators have a unique feel and require a slightly different technique than a standard acoustic. The higher action and metallic tone take some getting used to, but they're not significantly harder than learning any other instrument.
I need a resonator for gigging. What should I look for?
Durability is key. Look for solid hardware, a stable neck, and a good finish that can withstand the rigors of travel. A built-in pickup is a huge plus for plugging into an amp or PA system.
What's the deal with cone material?
Most resonators use bronze cones. They offer a good balance of tone and affordability. Higher-end resonators might use Mylar or other materials, but you won't find those under $800.
