GradyHawk - Posted - 02/07/2021:  05:58:01

Looking for some advice on a first guitar purchase. I want to learn on a resonator. I am retired and have too much time on my hands. Used is prefered since it is normally less expensive. I am on a fixed income so all savings help.

Thanks all!
Grady

cc7 - Posted - 02/07/2021:  06:32:14

Best deal I found recently was a used Dobro from the 80’s. I posted on a guitar forum that I was looking for a used square neck, figuring somebody had one they weren’t using and may need an invitation to sell. It worked.
Of the “inexpensive” new square necks, there seems to be a preference for Gold Tone Beard models or the Regal Black Lightning RD-52.
I have no qualifications to comment on what is good or not, still new to this.

tomkatb - Posted - 02/07/2021:  06:39:43

I own a hot Roded rd-52. New nut, bridge, cone, spider.

These go for around $500 in good condition. Mods about $300.

LukeL - Posted - 02/07/2021:  07:50:41

I started with an RD-52 as well, and while it was ok, it wasn’t even close to what you gain get out of a Beard Deco Phonic. By the time you get the 52, have it setup well buy a professional, and buy the upgraded cone, spider, bridge inserts, etc, you aren’t too far off of the price of the Beard Deco Phonic 27 which is a really incredible guitar for the price. The 57 is even a step up from that.

P2gee - Posted - 02/07/2021:  09:08:53

I have a Goldtone PBS that I bought used about 2 years ago for $500. Wanted a resophonic since I was a kid and finally got around to getting one at age 62. While I have no other reso to compare it to, my Goldtone sounds fantastic and serves me well as a beginner instrument. Like Luke above, I can see a Deco Phonic in my future somewhere down the road

MikeS - Posted - 02/07/2021:  11:47:16

I was not able to discern if the OP wanted a round neck or square neck. Seems posters to the thread assumed square neck. If that's it, I would throw the Recording King Phil Leadbetter signature into the mix. I have one and I think it is a great guitar. I'm not skookum on round necks although I once owned a Republic which had great tone, but I didn't like the neck (but that's just me)