Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $450
Budget/Beginner
$799
$2000+
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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
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What type of music is the Oahu Tonemaster lap steel guitar best suited for?
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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.
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Does the Oahu Tonemaster require any special maintenance due to its vintage tube electronics?
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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.
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How does the 1x12" speaker configuration affect the sound of the Oahu Tonemaster?
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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.
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Is the Oahu Tonemaster suitable for beginners?
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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.
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How many channels does the Oahu Tonemaster have, and what does this mean for its use?
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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
Features and functionality
User experience
Use cases and applications
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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.
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Owners recommend tuning to C6 for cowboy-style music and DADF#AD for blues, showcasing its versatility across genres.
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The Oahu Tonemaster can effectively be used to play songs like "Sleepwalk," demonstrating its capability for classic slide guitar tunes.
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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.
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Setup and maintenance
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The original strings on some Tonemasters remain intact, suggesting a durable construction that withstands long-term use without requiring frequent restringing.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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