Pricing and availability

Average Price: $290

Budget/Beginner

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Fender Top Hat Resonator is not just an acoustic guitar—it's your gateway to a world of unique sonic possibilities. Designed for musicians seeking to expand their auditory palette, this resonator combines traditional craftsmanship with modern playability. Its hand-spun aluminum "Continental" cone ensures you get that authentic resonator sound, perfect for blues, country, or any genre that thrives on rich, textured tones.

The body, crafted with a laminated maple top and mahogany back and sides, offers both durability and a resonant voice that fills any room. The familiar "C"-shaped mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard ensure that whether you're strumming or fingerpicking, the Top Hat feels as comfortable as your favorite acoustic guitar.

With its Telecaster headstock and vintage-style appointments, the Top Hat Resonator doesn't just sound the part—it looks it too. Its nickel hardware complements the instrument's aesthetic, making it as much a visual delight as an auditory one.

Key Features:

  • Roundneck resonator design with laminated maple top and mahogany back and sides
  • Telecaster headstock for classic Fender appeal
  • Fast "C"-shaped mahogany neck with rosewood fretboard
  • Hand-spun aluminum "Continental" cone for authentic resonator sound
  • Maple biscuit bridge for enhanced tonal projection
  • Vintage-style appointments with nickel hardware for a timeless look

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Top Hat Resonator
Finish Satin Black
Year 2010s
Made In China
Categories Resonator Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Auditorium
Color Family Black
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Fender Top Hat
Number of Frets 17
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Maple

FAQs

What makes the Fender Top Hat Resonator different from a standard acoustic guitar?

The Fender Top Hat Resonator features a resonator cone, which amplifies sound differently than a standard acoustic guitar, offering a distinct metallic and twangy tone ideal for blues and slide guitar playing.

Is the Fender Top Hat Resonator suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the Fender Top Hat Resonator is suitable for fingerstyle playing, especially for genres like blues and folk, but it may require some adjustment to the action for optimal playability.

What type of strings are recommended for the Fender Top Hat Resonator?

Steel strings are recommended for the Fender Top Hat Resonator to achieve the best tonal response and projection, particularly for slide playing.

Does the Fender Top Hat Resonator require any special maintenance compared to regular guitars?

The Fender Top Hat Resonator requires similar maintenance to regular guitars, but it's important to periodically check and clean the resonator cone to ensure optimal sound projection.

Can the Fender Top Hat Resonator be used for live performances without amplification?

While the Fender Top Hat Resonator projects well acoustically due to its resonator cone, it does not have a built-in preamp, so additional amplification may be needed for larger venues.

Reviews

Critic Reviews

Fender Brown Derby and Top Hat - Peghead Nation

pegheadnation.com

Fender's Top Hat Resonator is a delightful blend of styles, offering an accessible entry into resonator guitar sounds without breaking the bank. Its combination of laminated maple and mahogany lends it a warm tone, while the relatively low action and light-gauge strings make it a breeze to play. The guitar excels both in traditional blues and other genres, providing plenty of volume and that gritty single-cone vibe. However, purists may find its mixed heritage a bit controversial. While it may not satisfy those seeking authenticity, for many players, its unique design and affordability make it an appealing choice for exploring resonator tones.

positive

Fender Releases Brown Derby and Top Hat Resonators | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Fender's Top Hat Resonator dazzles with its striking aesthetics and rich, resonant tones that promise to delight players seeking a vintage vibe. The mahogany body and maple top deliver a warm, full sound, enhanced by its unique Eastern European cone. However, the review notes that while the instrument excels in style and playability, some may find its price point a bit steep for a resonator guitar. Overall, it stands out as a compelling option for those looking to invest in a beautifully crafted instrument, though budget-conscious musicians might want to explore alternatives.

positive

Fender launches Brown Derby and Top Hat round-neck resonators | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Fender's Top Hat Resonator adds a retro flair to any musician's collection, showcasing quality craftsmanship with its laminated mahogany and impressive aluminum cone. The comfortable neck and solid tonal character make it a great entry-level resonator. However, some may find the finish less appealing, and the overall sound might lack the depth expected from higher-end models. At around $349, it delivers good value, but serious players may want to explore more premium options for enhanced tone and aesthetics.

positive

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Harry Styles uses Fender Top Hat Resonator

Harry Styles

Guitarist, Singer

One Direction

...
Verified via Photo

According to this tweet (https://twitter.com/hsfasharchive/status/1327303483935088641) and the photograph attached "Harry played 'Cherry' on a @fender Top Hat resonator guitar in the behind the scenes video for@voguemagazine". .

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

1 alternative for Fender Top Hat Resonator, curated by the Equipboard community.

Fender Brown Derby Resonator

 

similar sound

Both models share laminated mahogany and maple body and top construction and "special Eastern European 'Continental' cones of hand-spun aluminum" (aluminium for UK readers). Other common features include C-shaped necks, maple biscuit bridges, 16-inch fingerboard radiuses and 20-fret rosewood fingerboards, bone nuts and Telecaster-style headstocks. The Top Hat comes in a black satin urethane finish and the Brown Derby is, somewhat appropriately, finished in brown satin urethane.

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    mrzog69
    mrzog69

    Gear IQ 2907