steel guitar

[lisawcole]

Hello - I was hoping to get a lap steel, or something of the like for my husband for his birthday. I know nothing about music, or instruments for that matter. Could someone point me in a direction?

[Mortartube]

Although I play normal guitar I know little about lap steels. I would suggest that you go to a music shop and ask their advice and also ask about the models available. That is probably the best step to take initially.

[saxy_jag]

Three different instruments come to mind here:

1. A steel-strung, acoustic/electric guitar. Looks like (and is) a traditional guitar. Acoustic version used for rock and folk, etc., as opposed to the classical style, nylon strung.

2. A pedal steel guitar (I think as described by Mortartube). It sits across the lap or on its own stand and is used predominantly in Country & Western and Hawaiian music (that sort of 'yeeoowww' sound you hear in those songs).

3. What is, to all intents and purposes, an ordinary guitar, except that its body is made of metal. There's a picture of one on the front of a Dire Straits album, apparently.

As you can see, what we've both said represents an already bewildering choice. I suggest, if it doesn't have to be a surprise, you ask your husband if he can be a little more specific, and then the two of you find a decent guitar shop (maybe others can make a few suggestions here) and pay a midweek visit. Explain your situation and get them to advise you.

Might also be worth approaching guitarists in local bands at pubs and the like and asking what they recommend. Some can be a little snotty, but most are OK.

[Mortartube]

I agree with saxy-jag. If you are going for the type on the Dire Straits cover. It is called a steel resonator guitar. A good one is not cheap. Good makes are Fender and Dobro (Part of Gibson guitars).

Here is a litt;e information about lap steels on Wikipedia. The nut mentioned is the bit at the opposite end to the bridge. It has small grooves in it that the strings run through.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lap_steel_guitar