looking for a dobro

Lap steels, resonators, multi-neck consoles and acoustic steel guitars

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Ron Shepard
Posts: 148
Joined: 14 Dec 1999 1:01 am
Location: Easthampton, MA, USA

looking for a dobro

Post by Ron Shepard »

I am looking to buy a dobro. This is new to me, been playing pedal steel 8 years now. If some folks would give me few quick pointers to get started, I would greatly appreciate it. I'm interested in buying a good quality
instrument from the start, so I won't be
upgrading in a few years. I will respect everyone's different input. thank-you.
Mike Auldridge
Posts: 54
Joined: 5 Apr 1999 12:01 am
Location: Silver Spring, MD, R.I.P.

Post by Mike Auldridge »

Ron,

In my opinion, the Guernsey resophonic can't be beat. They sell for about $1800... have the best tone on the market. Made in Indiana by Ivan Guernsey (812-293-4524).

Mike

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www.mikeauldridge.com
Ron
Posts: 175
Joined: 26 Feb 2000 1:01 am
Location: Hermiston, Oregon

Post by Ron »

Norman Hamlet and Jr Knight play 8 string dobros (ROBRO) that I make. Around $1200 depending on wood and neck inlay. I would sugest a 8 string that you are used to using and play to your hearts content!!!!

RON

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Doug Beaumier
Posts: 16058
Joined: 4 Aug 1998 11:00 pm
Location: Northampton, MA

Post by Doug Beaumier »

Hi Ron,

You might want take a ride over to FRETTED INSTRUMENTS in Amherst and see what they have in stock. It would be a good idea to try out a couple of dobros before you buy one. Their phone number is (413) 256-6217.

In dealing with music stores, be aware that many sales people refer to any resonator guitar as a "dobro". Be sure to specify that you're looking for a squareneck dobro. I was told once that a store had dobros in stock, so I drove there... only to find a couple of resonator guitars. Also, you need to clarify whether the seller has a Dobro brand or some other brand of squareneck.

I had a Dobro brand squareneck for 20 years and it sounded great. I'd recommend looking for a good used instrument at a reasonable price. There is no shortage of great new stuff if you have money and don't mind spending it.

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www.dougbsteel.com
<FONT SIZE=1 COLOR="#8e236b"><p align=CENTER>[This message was edited by Doug Beaumier on 03 October 2000 at 11:00 PM.]</p></FONT>
sliding bill
Posts: 90
Joined: 30 Jul 1999 12:01 am
Location: UK

Post by sliding bill »

Well I feel a little humble in giving my few pennies worth in the same vein as the venerable Mr A.
I bought a Guernsey 800.
(different model from Mr A)

It is the most beautiful sounding instrument even though I am just aspiring to play it well.

Ivan is a fine fellow and great to deal with too.

Good luck,

Bill
NW UK
David Pennybaker
Posts: 1210
Joined: 7 Aug 2000 12:01 am
Location: Conroe, TX USA

Post by David Pennybaker »

Ron,

Definitely check out the Melobro by Ted Smith. It's a great-sounding instrument, and reasonably priced, and custom-made here the US.

Plus, Ted's a great guy to do business with.
http://www.melobar.com

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The Unofficial Photographer of The Wilkinsons


Mike Tatro
Posts: 178
Joined: 29 Oct 1998 1:01 am
Location: Oregon, USA

Post by Mike Tatro »

Another vote for the MeloBro. Way less than $1,800 and tone for days.