Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $450

Budget/Beginner

$799

$2000+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* 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

Mid century American made lap steel. A cool and fairly deluxe Oahu-branded steel guitar built by Kay, from the 1950's. The wood body is built of a solid center block with outlying wings with killer checkerboard binding on all edges. The metal bridge unit holds the pickup and controls, with a knob on each side and a fairly heavy stamped metal cover. Made in Chicago.

Specifications: . Overall length is 34 in. (86.4 cm.), 10 in. (25.4 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 25 in. (635 mm.). Width of nut is 2 in. (50 mm.). Outfitted with single Line Kluson tuners.

Product specs

Brand Oahu
Model 230K Tonemaster
Year 1940s
Categories Guitar Combo Amps
Direct Output No Direct Output
Electronics Tube
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 3 Inputs
Output Power (Watts) 15
Power Tube Type 6V6
Reverb None
Speaker Configuration 1x12"

FAQs

What type of music is the Oahu Tonemaster lap steel guitar best suited for?

The Oahu Tonemaster is ideal for traditional Hawaiian music, blues, and country genres, thanks to its vintage tone and 1940s tube electronics, which provide a warm, resonant sound characteristic of these styles.

Does the Oahu Tonemaster require any special maintenance due to its vintage tube electronics?

Yes, maintaining the Oahu Tonemaster involves periodically checking and potentially replacing the 6V6 power tubes and ensuring the amp's components are in good condition to preserve its classic sound quality.

How does the 1x12" speaker configuration affect the sound of the Oahu Tonemaster?

The 1x12" speaker configuration delivers a balanced sound with ample bass response and clarity, making it suitable for both solo performances and small ensemble settings.

Is the Oahu Tonemaster suitable for beginners?

While the Oahu Tonemaster offers a unique vintage sound, its lack of modern features like reverb might make it better suited for players with some experience who appreciate classic tones.

How many channels does the Oahu Tonemaster have, and what does this mean for its use?

The Oahu Tonemaster has two channels, allowing for different tonal settings, which can be useful for performers who need quick access to varied sounds during a set.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Oahu Tonemaster.

Value and pricing

  • A user acquired the Oahu Tonemaster for $150, suggesting it's undervalued and offers excellent tonal quality for the price.

    Source
  • While some Oahu Tonemasters are available for around $400, finding one within a few hundred dollars is increasingly challenging due to rising demand.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Oahu Tonemaster reportedly has a modded external speaker jack, which intrigues users for potential sound customization.

    Source
  • The Valco pickup in the Oahu Tonemaster is praised for its exceptional quality, often considered among the best ever made.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners describe the Tonemaster's tone as "creamy," indicating its suitability for warm, vintage-style music.

    Source
  • It's been suggested to look for used lap steels on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, as the market is niche and deals can be found with patience.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The instrument is prized by those in jam bands and cover bands for its tonal versatility, though its weight is noted as a challenge for long sessions.

    Source
  • Owners recommend tuning to C6 for cowboy-style music and DADF#AD for blues, showcasing its versatility across genres.

    Source
  • The Oahu Tonemaster can effectively be used to play songs like "Sleepwalk," demonstrating its capability for classic slide guitar tunes.

    Source
  • An old Oahu Diana or Tonemaster is noted as particularly suitable for Hawaiian music, but prices have risen to around $400, making them less budget-friendly.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The original strings on some Tonemasters remain intact, suggesting a durable construction that withstands long-term use without requiring frequent restringing.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some enthusiasts express interest in building additional lap steels for different tunings, highlighting the desire for flexible tuning options.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nels Cline uses Oahu Tonemaster

Nels Cline

Guitarist

Wilco

...
Verified via reverb.com

Listing on Wilco's Reverb Store: "This amazing instrument will come with a signed certificate of authenticity showing that yes, this belonged to Nels Cline"

Genre Usage

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

More Oahu Lap & Pedal Steel Guitars

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides