Resonator guitars are known for their bright, sharp sound, which is produced by a metal cone that amplifies the vibrations of the strings. While it is not possible to completely replicate the sound of a resonator guitar with an acoustic guitar, there are a few things you can do to get closer.
1. Use a piezo pickup.
A piezo pickup is a small sensor that is attached to the guitar’s bridge. When the strings vibrate, the piezo pickup converts the vibrations into an electrical signal, which is then amplified by a guitar amp. Piezo pickups are known for their bright, clear sound, which can help to give your acoustic guitar a more resonator-like tone.
2. Use a resonator cone.
There are a number of companies that sell resonator cones that can be attached to an acoustic guitar. These cones amplify the vibrations of the strings in a similar way to a traditional resonator guitar. However, it is important to note that resonator cones can affect the tone of your guitar, so it is important to experiment to find one that you like.
3. Use a resonator amp.
Resonator amps are designed to amplify the sound of resonator guitars. They typically have a bright, trebly sound that is perfect for resonator guitars. If you are serious about getting a resonator-like tone from your acoustic guitar, then a resonator amp is a worthwhile investment.
4. Use open tunings.
Open tunings are tunings where the strings are tuned to intervals that are larger than the standard intervals. This can give your guitar a more bluesy, slide-friendly sound. Open tunings are often used with resonator guitars, so using them with your acoustic guitar can help to get you closer to the desired sound.
5. Play with a slide.
A slide is a metal bar that is used to play the guitar. When you slide the bar across the strings, it creates a smooth, fluid sound that is often associated with resonator guitars. If you are not familiar with playing with a slide, there are a number of resources available online and in music stores that can teach you the basics.
By following these tips, you can get your acoustic guitar to sound more like a resonator guitar. However, it is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best way to find the sound that you are looking for is to experiment and find what works best for you.
