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Description
The National Duolian is a legendary choice for musicians who are serious about their sound. Revered for its distinctive resonator tone, this acoustic guitar is a staple for blues and slide guitarists seeking that authentic, vintage sound. Its steel body construction offers durability and a unique tonal quality that is both rich and projecting, making it perfect for both stage performances and studio recordings. The single cone resonator design ensures that every note you play is amplified with clarity and power, while the biscuit bridge contributes to its unmistakable voice.
Crafted with precision and attention to detail, the National Duolian is more than just an instrument; it's a piece of musical history. Its neck is built for comfort, allowing for smooth transitions and effortless playability. Whether you're strumming chords or delivering intricate fingerstyle passages, this guitar responds with a warmth and depth that captivates audiences.
Ideal for those who appreciate the nuances of traditional blues, the National Duolian is a testament to the enduring appeal of resonator guitars. Its timeless design and superior craftsmanship offer a playing experience that's as visually striking as it is acoustically satisfying.
Key Features:
- Single cone resonator for enhanced sound projection
- Steel body construction for durability and unique tonal quality
- Biscuit bridge for a distinctive resonator voice
- Designed for both blues and slide guitar enthusiasts
- Comfortable neck for smooth playability
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about National Duolian.
Setup and maintenance
User experience
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Using a sliding nut allows continued use for slide guitar playing despite neck issues.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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Eric Clapton recalls that he has owned this guitar for a long time - at least twenty years. He commented that he used this National for playing slide both at home and in recording sessions.
In this picture from Taylor's performance of Innocent at the VMA's in 2010, Taylor can be seen playing a National Duolian.
"Because I lost all of my guitars in Hurricane Sandy, I don't have as many vintage guitars. Right now, my dad's Martin is the oldest, being built in 1953. I used to have a 1929 National Duolian, that was the oldest I've ever owned. I also had a couple from the 40s."
The National Duolian is from 1931 and has the Lollar pickup, which was installed by the Bryant himself, according to the Premier Guitar's rig rundown.
Around the time of his albums "Taj Mahal" "The Natch'al Blues" and "Giant Step / De Ole Folks at Home" Taj played a National Duolian resonator guitar: "I was playing a National Duolian, and I played banjo on “Farther on Down the Road.” When I was in college, a guy showed me around on the instrument. Eventually, I borrowed a banjo, locked myself in my house trailer for a weekend with a bottle of Jack Daniels, and went at it [laughs]. When I opened the door and came up for air, I could play!" (https://www.guitarplayer.com/miscellaneous/blues-legend-taj-mahal-talks-on-his-first-40-years-in-the-business)
Son House is pictured with his National Duolian resonator guitar in a user-uploaded photo on Findagrave.
During this interview, Luther said he "also has a 1930s 12-fret, slothead National Duolian".
According to Immergluck's official website, he uses the 1931 National Duolian resonator guitar.
Album Usage
The National Duolian has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use National Duolian, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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