National Style O (2001)

Description

While there are plenty of imitators, in the world of the single-cone resonator there's still only one Style O. National Resophonic's flagship guitar remains the be-all end-all for fingerstyle blues players looking for the warm, rich, and loud tone of the 1920s and 30s, and this one, dating from 2001, retains a remarkable degree of the classic sound of these extraordinary guitars despite being manufactured decades after highly collectible vintage options. As always, the Style O combines a nickel-plated brass body with a single hand-spun aluminum cone and a brass coverplate for a warmer, less nasal sound than its cousins, National's Duolian and Triolian. The cone in this one has recently been replaced with a non-original Hot Rod aluminum alloy cone, which further mellows and supports the guitar's tone without sacrificing a shred of volume. We also of course love the classic appointments, especially the palm tree engravings on the guitar's top and the classic sieve coverplate.

This instrument arrived in our store in very good condition, and features a very minor amount of cosmetic wear, well below the norm for a resonator now over 20 years of age. As noted above, the cone is non-original, as well as the bridge. The current tuners - engraved gold Waverly three-on-a-side with ebony buttons - are also non-original, but the original tuning machines are included with the guitar should a future owner choose to replace the Waverly options with the stock factory ones. The Style O has recently seen a full professional set up and fret dress, and plays very well in all positions. Included in the price is the original hard-shell case.

*Please note, per our return policy, all sales on used and consignment instruments are final.*