Are you ready to slide into the world of lap steel guitars? These captivating instruments are more than just guitars played on your lap – they’re the key to unlocking iconic sounds in country, Hawaiian, and blues music. Unlike traditional guitars, lap steel guitars create a smooth, gliding sound that can make your music truly sing.

In this article, we’re diving into the top 5 lap steel guitars of 2024, chosen for their exceptional build quality, sound, and rave user reviews. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about adding a new instrument to your repertoire, our picks will guide you to the best lap steel guitars on the market. Get ready to explore and find your perfect match!

What Makes Lap Steel Guitars Different?

Unlike regular guitars, lap steel guitars are played flat on the lap or on a stand, using a metal or glass bar (slide) to press the strings. This technique produces a continuous, smooth sound as opposed to the discrete notes produced by pressing strings against frets on a traditional guitar. Here are some key differences:

1. Playing Position: Lap steel guitars are played horizontally, providing a different ergonomic experience compared to the vertical position of a regular guitar.
2. Slide Technique: While regular guitars can use a slide on one finger, lap steel guitars use a bar held in the hand, allowing for greater control and fluid motion across the strings.
3. String Height: The strings on a lap steel guitar are higher off the fretboard, preventing the slide from hitting the frets and allowing for a cleaner, smoother sound.
4. Tuning Variations: Lap steel guitars often use open tunings, which enable full chords to be played with a single slide motion, enhancing their distinctive sound.

Why Do Some Guitarists Prefer Lap Steel Guitars?

Many guitarists are drawn to lap steel guitars for their unique tonal qualities and expressive capabilities. The ability to slide seamlessly between notes allows for more emotive playing, often described as “singing” or “weeping.” Additionally, the technique used in lap steel playing can create sounds that are difficult to replicate with a regular guitar and slide. The rich, sustained tones produced by a lap steel guitar are particularly well-suited for genres like country, Hawaiian, and blues, where expressive, melodic lines are essential.

History of Lap Steel Guitars

Lap steel guitars trace their roots back to Hawaii in the late 19th century. Hawaiian musicians began experimenting with steel bars to slide along the strings, creating a smooth, resonant sound that became integral to their music. The instrument gained popularity in the mainland United States in the 1920s and 1930s, finding its place in country and blues music. Notable players like Sol Hoʻopiʻi, Jerry Byrd, and David Gilmour have brought the lap steel guitar to the forefront of various music genres. Songs like “Sleep Walk” by Santo & Johnny and Pink Floyd’s “Breathe” feature the mesmerizing sound of the lap steel guitar, showcasing its versatility and emotional depth.

Notable Lap Steel Guitarists and Song Examples

Many renowned musicians have incorporated the lap steel guitar into their music, adding a unique flavor to their sound.

• David Gilmour of Pink Floyd: Known for his atmospheric and expressive use of the lap steel guitar, Gilmour has used it in iconic songs like “Breathe” and “High Hopes.”
• Jerry Byrd: A master of the lap steel guitar, Byrd’s influence spans across country and Hawaiian music. His playing on “Steelin’ the Blues” is a testament to his skill and artistry.
• Ben Harper: A modern musician who frequently uses lap steel guitar in his music, Harper’s song “Burn One Down” showcases the instrument’s versatility in contemporary music.
• Santo & Johnny: Their instrumental hit “Sleep Walk” remains one of the most recognizable lap steel guitar pieces, epitomizing the dreamy, ethereal sound the instrument can produce.
• Steve Howe of Yes: Howe’s use of lap steel guitar in songs like “And You and I” adds a unique texture to the progressive rock band’s sound.

Top 5 Lap Steel Guitars for 2024

At Get My Guitar, we’ve curated a list of the top 5 lap steel guitars for 2024 based on a comprehensive evaluation of price, build quality, and sound. We also considered user feedback and insights from the lap steel guitar community. Our picks are designed to help you find the perfect instrument that meets your needs and preferences, ensuring you get the best value and performance in your musical journey. So jump right in and discover the standout lap steel guitars that have won the hearts of players everywhere!

1. Epiphone Electar 1939 Century Electric Lap Steel Guitar (with Gig Bag)

• Description: Inspired by the original 1939 Electar, this lap steel guitar features a plexiglass fingerboard, a mahogany teardrop body, and a 500B “Blade” humbucker.
• Price: $349.00
• Why It’s Great: The vintage design paired with modern electronics makes it a standout for both collectors and players. The humbucker provides a powerful, clear tone that’s perfect for various music styles.

2. Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel Guitar

• Description: Combining mid-century modern design with quality craftsmanship, the G5700 is a stylish option for any player.
• Price: $349.99
• Why It’s Great: Known for its sleek look and reliable performance, this lap steel guitar is a favorite among beginners and seasoned musicians alike. Its sound is rich and expressive, making it a versatile addition to any collection.

3. Vorson LT-230-8 Active Lap Steel Guitar, 8-String (with Gig Bag)

• Description: This 8-string lap steel guitar features a quilted top and active electronics, designed for stage performance.
• Price: $479.97
• Why It’s Great: The additional strings allow for more complex chord voicings and extended range, while the active electronics ensure a powerful, dynamic sound that stands out in any live setting.

4. Vorson FLSL-220 Pro Lap Steel Guitar with F-Holes

• Description: Featuring a semi-hollow quilted-maple body with F-holes, this lap steel guitar delivers a unique tone.
• Price: $349.99
• Why It’s Great: The semi-hollow body and F-holes add a resonant, acoustic quality to the sound, providing a rich, full tone that’s perfect for both solo and ensemble playing.

5. Vorson FLSL-200TS Electric Lap Steel Guitar

• Description: The Vorson FLSL-200TS features two FP-90 pickups, a 3-way toggle switch for fast live switching, and VSY-01 active electronics. It has a deeply flamed wood top in Tobacco Sunburst and a dense mahogany neck.
• Price: $349.99
• Why It’s Great: The dual pickups and active electronics deliver exceptionally clear tones, making it versatile for both clean and overdriven sounds. Its high-quality construction ensures durability and superior tone.

FAQs About Lap Steel Guitars

1. What is a lap steel guitar?

A lap steel guitar is a type of guitar played horizontally on the player’s lap, using a steel bar to slide along the strings, creating a unique, gliding sound.

2. How is a lap steel guitar different from a regular guitar?

Unlike regular guitars, lap steel guitars are played with a steel bar instead of fingers pressing down on the frets, producing a continuous, smooth sound.

3. What genres of music commonly use lap steel guitars?

Lap steel guitars are commonly used in country, Hawaiian, blues, and rock music.

4. Can beginners learn to play lap steel guitar?

Yes, beginners can learn to play lap steel guitar. Many models, including those listed here, are designed to be accessible for new players.

5. What equipment do I need to start playing lap steel guitar?

Besides the lap steel guitar itself, you’ll need a steel bar (slide), an amplifier for electric models, and possibly a gig bag or case for protection.

Final Thoughts

Lap steel guitars offer a captivating and unique sound that has enriched various music genres for decades. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, adding a lap steel guitar to your collection can open new musical possibilities. Our top 5 picks for 2024 showcase the best in design, sound quality, and value.

Explore the distinctive world of lap steel guitars and discover the magic they can bring to your music. If you have any questions or want to share your experiences with lap steel guitars, drop a comment below. We’d love to hear from you. Make sure to check out even more exciting posts & the latest guitar news on our Get My Guitar Blog! Happy playing!