Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $2,000

High-end/Boutique

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Step into a world of timeless sound and visual artistry with the National Reso-Phonic Style "O", a resonator guitar that stands as a testament to both musical and aesthetic craftsmanship. Crafted from brass, this guitar is more than just an instrument; it's a piece of history. The Style "O" showcases an iconic etched Hawaiian scene on its body, marrying visual elegance with rich acoustic resonance. Whether you're delving into the depths of blues or exploring the vibrant sounds of bluegrass, this guitar delivers a warm, full-bodied tone that cuts through with clarity and precision.

The National Reso-Phonic Style "O" is available in both square neck and round neck configurations, catering to a wide array of playing styles and preferences. Its single cone resonator design is perfect for players seeking a distinct, powerful voice that captures the soul of traditional American music. With its blend of vintage charm and modern reliability, the Style "O" is not just an instrument but an invitation to explore new musical horizons.

Key Features:

  • Brass body with etched Hawaiian scene
  • Available in square neck and round neck configurations
  • Single cone resonator design
  • Known for its warm, full-bodied tone
  • Ideal for blues, bluegrass, and other roots music genres
Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

National Reso-Phonic Style "O" Deluxe: Acoustic Centre

Video thumbnail for National Reso-Phonic Style "O" Deluxe: Acoustic Centre by Acoustic Centre

National Reso-Phonic Style "O" Deluxe: Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Video thumbnail for National Reso-Phonic Style O 14-Fret: Acoustic Centre by Acoustic Centre

National Reso-Phonic Style O 14-Fret: Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Video thumbnail for National Reso-Phonic Style 0 12-Fret: Acoustic Centre by Acoustic Centre

National Reso-Phonic Style 0 12-Fret: Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Video thumbnail for National Reso-Phonic Style O Weathered Steel: Acoustic Centre by Acoustic Centre

National Reso-Phonic Style O Weathered Steel: Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Acoustic Centre

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about National Reso-Phonic Style "O".

User experience

  • Vintage models may have less optimal neck and fretting compared to modern reissues, affecting playability.

    Source
  • Both vintage and modern National Style O guitars can be challenging to keep in tune compared to traditional wooden six-strings.

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  • Owners often find themselves collecting multiple resonators due to their unique sound profiles and diverse applications in various acoustic music styles.

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Comparisons

  • Vintage National Style O guitars are praised for their treble and resonating qualities, offering a unique sound distinct from modern reissues.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Resonators are particularly effective for slide techniques; they allow for sustained notes and unique slide tricks not possible on flat-top acoustics.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Brass-bodied, nickel-plated Style O guitars offer a distinctive sound, different from the clangy tones of steel-bodied resonators.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Frequent string breakage can occur when switching between G and D tunings; extra 3rd strings are recommended to manage this.

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Build quality

  • The aluminum cone provides significant volume and sustain, making these guitars 3-5 times louder than traditional acoustics.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Style "O" Review: If you're not sure that you really want a resonator guitar... | National | Acoustic Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The National Reso-Phonic Style "O" is a resonator guitar that commands attention with its incredibly loud and bright sound, reminiscent of a "banjo on steroids." It's a versatile instrument, accommodating various playing styles, though strumming can initially seem unusual. The craftsmanship is exquisite, with a brass body and intricate detailing, and it comes with a plush hard case. While the guitar is heavy and not without minor cosmetic flaws, such as scratches, it remains a durable and reliable choice for acoustic gigs. Overall, this guitar is a dream for those seeking a unique sound and exceptional build quality, though its price and weight might be a consideration for some.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Johnny Marr uses National Reso-Phonic Style "O"

Johnny Marr

Singer, Guitarist

Modest Mouse

...
Verified via Photo

Johnny Marr's use of the 1936-37 nickel-plated steel National Style O Resonator is substantiated by a photograph included in his book "Marr's Guitars," which clearly depicts the instrument.

See how Peter Green uses National Reso-Phonic Style "O"

Peter Green

Singer, Guitarist

Fleetwood Mac

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Peter Green shares part of his guitar collection which includes this National Reso-Phonic Style "O". He notes that while it may look like fingerprints on the guitar body, there is a design with a palm tree and "clouds and things."

See how Ville Valo uses National Reso-Phonic Style "O"

Ville Valo

Singer, Drummer

HIM

...
Verified via Forumfree

Seen using Resonators live in support of 'Rambo Rimbaud' and HIM.

See how Jeffrey Lee Pierce uses National Reso-Phonic Style "O"

Jeffrey Lee Pierce

Singer, Guitarist

The Gun Club

...
Verified via YouTube

In this Youtube video at 15:42, you can see JLP using this National Reso-Phonic Style "O".

See how Patrick Simmons uses National Reso-Phonic Style "O"

Patrick Simmons

Singer, Guitarist

The Doobie Brothers

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

"Simmons bought this ’34 National when the Doobies reunited in 1989."

See how Barry Big B Brenner uses National Reso-Phonic Style "O"

Barry Big B Brenner

...
Verified via Nationalguitars

Barry Big B Brenner is listed as a featured artist on National Guitars' website, highlighting his use of the National Reso-Phonic Style "O" resonator guitar.

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 Reso-Phonic Style "O", it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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1

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