Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,500
High-end/Boutique
$499
$1300+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Gold Tone PBS-D Resonator Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Discover the rich, resonant tones of the Gold Tone PBS-D Resonator Guitar, a masterpiece crafted for the discerning musician. Designed in collaboration with resonator virtuoso Paul Beard, this guitar blends traditional craftsmanship with modern playability. The PBS-D's genuine Beard USA open-soundwell cone/spider assembly is at the heart of its sound, delivering the signature resonant projection that easily fills any acoustic setting, from cozy living rooms to bustling outdoor festivals.
The body, neck, and sides are meticulously carved from curly maple, a wood renowned for its strength and stunning visual appeal. This choice of tonewood not only enhances the guitar's structural integrity but also contributes to its bright, clear tone, perfect for blues and bluegrass. The neck is a squareneck design, providing comfort and stability whether you're playing intricate slide guitar or rich, resonant chords. The ebony fingerboard, adorned with vintage-style hearts and flowers inlays, offers a silky smooth playing experience.
Whether you're a seasoned slide guitarist or exploring new sonic territories, the PBS-D offers a balanced blend of elegance, durability, and exceptional sound quality. A true workhorse, this resonator guitar comes with sealed guitar-style tuning machines, ensuring that your play remains in perfect pitch, and a hardshell case for added protection.
Key Features:
- Curly maple top, back, and sides
- Maple neck with a two-way adjustable truss rod
- Ebony fingerboard with vintage-style hearts and flowers inlays
- Genuine Beard USA cone and spider
- Maple bridge with ebony insert
- 25-inch scale length with 1.875-inch ZeroGlide nut
- Chrome-plated hardware
- Includes a hardshell case for protection and ease of transport
Product specs
| Resonator Type | Spider |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Body Shape | PBS-D |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Style | No Cutaway |
| Finish | High Gloss |
| Top Material | Curly Maple |
| Back & Sides Material | Curly Maple |
| Neck Wood | Maple |
| Neck Shape | Square |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Dots |
| Binding | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 19 |
| Scale Length | 25" |
| Tuning Machines | Sealed |
| Bridge Material | Maple |
| Nut/Saddle Material | ZeroGlide |
| Nut Width | 1.875" |
| Strings | Goldtone Resonator, .016-.056 |
| Case Included | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
-
What is the primary use of the Gold Tone PBS-D Resonator Guitar?
-
The Gold Tone PBS-D Resonator Guitar is primarily used for bluegrass and country music, offering a distinctive resonator sound that is ideal for slide playing due to its square neck design.
-
What type of resonator does the Gold Tone PBS-D use?
-
The Gold Tone PBS-D uses a spider resonator, which provides a clear and articulate sound, making it well-suited for both solo performances and ensemble settings.
-
Is the Gold Tone PBS-D suitable for beginners?
-
While the Gold Tone PBS-D offers professional-grade features, its playability and included hardshell case make it accessible for dedicated beginners who are serious about learning resonator guitar techniques.
-
What materials are used in the construction of the Gold Tone PBS-D?
-
The Gold Tone PBS-D features a curly maple top, back, and sides, with a maple neck and bridge, which contribute to its rich tonal qualities and robust build.
-
Does the Gold Tone PBS-D come with a case?
-
Yes, the Gold Tone PBS-D Resonator Guitar includes a hardshell case, providing excellent protection for transport and storage.
Videos
Gold Tone
Gold Tone PBS-D Square Neck Deluxe Guitar
Reviews
PROS
-
Offers a wonderfully rich sound that impresses musicians of all levels
-
Feels like a high-quality instrument, enhancing the playing experience
-
Excellent value for the price, appealing to budget-conscious buyers
CONS
-
Does not come with a case, causing inconvenience for transport and protection
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gold Tone PBS-D Resonator Guitar.
Build quality
-
The PBS-D's maple laminate construction offers a punchier tone, ideal for more aggressive playing styles.
Source
Comparisons
-
An owner ranked the PBS-M third out of 14 dobros in a bluegrass camp comparison, highlighting its competitive sound against pricier models.
Source -
The PBS-D's maple laminate is often favored over softer mahogany laminates for those seeking a more modern, punchy sound.
Source -
Owners generally find the Gold Tone PBS-D to have better projection and livelier sound than the Gretsch G9230 Bobtail, which some describe as sounding "dead."
Source -
The RK Phil Leadbetter model has narrower string spacing than most modern dobros, which could require adjustment when upgrading.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
The PBS-M's pronounced bottom end suits swamp blues, while the PBS-D's punchy high end is well-suited for bluegrass.
Source
User experience
-
Transitioning from a Gretsch Boxcar to a PBS-M reveals significant tonal improvement, noted by multiple users.
Source -
After experiencing various high-end and custom dobros, an owner confirmed they would repurchase the Gold Tone PBS without hesitation, citing its reliability and sound quality.
Source -
Owners find that Gold Tone guitars with a Beard setup outperform some more expensive models in terms of sound quality.
Source
Features and functionality
-
The Gold Tone PBS-D includes a Beard BC-1 cone and #14 spider, enhancing its tonal projection and resonance.
Source
Value and pricing
Setup and maintenance
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Gold Tone Resonators
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Resonators
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
kkolarGear IQ 120856
-