Resonator guitars are renowned for their distinctive twangy and metallic tone, produced by a metal cone or resonator plate instead of a traditional soundboard. While owning a dedicated resonator guitar can be an exciting option, you can achieve a similar sound on your regular acoustic guitar with a few simple techniques and accessories. In this article, we will explore how to make an acoustic guitar sound like a resonator, unlocking new tonal possibilities and adding a unique flair to your playing.
- Use a Resonator Cone or Plate
The core element of a resonator guitar’s sound is the metal cone or plate that sits inside the body. To replicate this effect on your acoustic guitar, you can purchase an aftermarket resonator cone or plate specifically designed to fit your guitar’s soundhole. Some models are even adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the tonal characteristics. Installing the resonator cone or plate can be done by a qualified guitar technician to ensure a proper fit and optimal sound.
- Install Resonator Strings
Another key component in achieving the resonator guitar sound is the type of strings used. Resonator guitars commonly use heavier gauge strings to create the desired twang and volume. Opt for medium to heavy gauge strings on your acoustic guitar, as they will enhance the resonator effect and provide more tension to the instrument, resulting in a brighter and more metallic sound.
- Adjust the Action
Setting the action of your guitar refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. Lowering the action slightly can help create a more pronounced resonator effect, as it allows the strings to vibrate more freely and interact with the resonator cone or plate. However, be cautious not to lower the action too much, as it may lead to unwanted string buzzing or diminished volume.
- Try an Open Tuning
Experimenting with open tunings is another way to achieve a resonator-like sound on your acoustic guitar. Open tunings involve tuning the strings to form a chord, which can create a richer and more resonant sound due to the altered tension and harmonics. Popular open tunings for achieving a resonator effect include open G (D G D G B D) and open D (D A D F# A D). Adjusting to open tunings might take some practice, but it can lead to exciting new tonal possibilities.
- Use a Slide or Steel
To fully embrace the resonator guitar sound, consider using a slide or steel. Resonator guitars are often played using a slide, which is a small tube or metal cylinder worn on the finger. By sliding the slide along the strings instead of fretting them, you can create smooth glissandos and emphasize the metallic twang. Experiment with different slide materials (e.g., glass, metal, ceramic) to find the tone that best suits your style.
- Play with Intention
Playing technique plays a crucial role in replicating the resonator guitar sound on your acoustic. Experiment with your picking or strumming hand to find the sweet spot that maximizes the twang and sustain. Pluck the strings closer to the bridge or use a combination of fingerpicking and flatpicking to accentuate the metallic overtones.
While owning a dedicated resonator guitar is undoubtedly a thrilling prospect, transforming your acoustic guitar into a resonator-like instrument opens up a world of sonic possibilities. By adding a resonator cone or plate, using heavier gauge strings, adjusting the action, trying open tunings, incorporating a slide, and playing with intention, you can achieve a twangy and metallic sound akin to the classic resonator guitar tone. Embrace these techniques and accessories to infuse your acoustic guitar playing with the distinctive and iconic resonance of a resonator guitar.
