Best Double Lap Steel Guitars for Slide Players
Answering the needs of players seeking versatile, double-neck lap steel guitars, this guide highlights options suited to different styles and experience levels. Best for collectors and performers who need two tunings or scales in one instrument, these picks balance tone, playability, and portability. The top five selections below emphasize solid construction, reliable pickups, and included accessories like gig bags or slides to help you choose confidently.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| TARIO Double Neck Lap Steel Guitar | TARIO | Solid poplar body, dual necks, included gig bag |
| Batking Lap Steel Guitar | Batking | Balanced setup with 28 frets, reliable tone |
| Amuic Lap Steel Guitar | Amuic | Solid wood build, hollow headstock design |
| SX Lap 2 Ash | SX | Full size, ash body, stand and bag included |
| Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel | Gretsch | Classic single-coil tone with vintage styling |
TARIO Double Neck Lap Steel Guitar 6 String
Best for players who want two distinct tunings and a sturdy, travel-friendly option. The double necks provide 28 frets per neck on a solid poplar body with a 20.75 inch scale. A single-coil pickup delivers clear, punchy tones suitable for blues, country, and jazz-inspired slide work. Included items: gig bag and a metal slide bar for immediate playing. Its die-cast chrome tuners and exposed volume and tone controls allow quick on-stage adjustments. Best for intermediate players expanding to a dual-neck setup.
Best for: players seeking dual-neck versatility without sacrificing portability. Why selected: dual necks, solid construction, and ready-to-play accessories improve stage readiness.
Caution: heavier than single-neck models and may require a longer setup time to balance on a stand or in a gig bag.
Batking Lap Steel Guitar Sunburst
Best for budget-conscious players wanting a reliable sunburst finish with a solid poplar body. This 28-fret lap steel features a 20.75 inch scale and a 29 inch overall length, with a single-coil pickup and stainless steel guard. The included gig bag adds value for practice and travel. It suits beginners transitioning to electric lap steel and players seeking a bright, straightforward tone for blues and hawaiian styles.
Best for: beginners or players prioritizing value and portability. Why selected: straightforward features, included bag, and easy playability.
Caution: single-coil tone may sound thinner for some jazz applications; consider additional pickups or pedals to broaden tones if needed.
Amuic Lap Steel Guitar Sunburst
Best for players who want a solid wood build with a modern headstock design. The Amuic lap steel uses solid poplar for the body, a hollow-design headstock, and a 51mm nut width. It has 28 frets on the neck and a 20.86 inch scale length, delivering versatile tone for blues, country, and rock. Included are a gig bag and a slide bar to facilitate immediate practice. This option suits players who prioritize wood construction and a slightly wider neck.
Best for: players wanting a premium wood feel and comfortable neck width. Why selected: solid wood construction and practical headstock design.
Caution: nut width is on the wider side; players with a shorter reach may need time to adjust.
SX Lap 2 Ash Electric Lap Steel
Best for players seeking full-size, durable construction with an included stand and carry bag. The SX Lap 2 Ash features a swamp ash body, maple fretboard, and 36 frets. It’s designed for versatility across blues, rock, hawaiian, and country styles. A detachable lap steel stand and bag add convenience for practice sessions and gigs. This option is ideal for players who want a robust, travel-friendly package.
Best for: performers needing a ready-to-go package with stand and bag. Why selected: comprehensive accessories and solid tonal foundation.
Caution: longer 36-fret neck may feel crowded for beginners; ensure comfortable reach before long practice sessions.
Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel
Best for players seeking a vintage-inspired tone with a classic look. The Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel offers chrome single-coil pickup, volume and tone controls, chrome hardware, and an art deco-style control plate. Its aesthetic and sonic character align with bluesy, rock, and early country flavors, making it a strong choice for players after a timeless lap steel voice. Includes a familiar layout for those upgrading from single-coil lap steels.
Best for: players chasing a vintage vibe with dependable single-coil tone. Why selected: iconic Gretsch design and proven electronics.
Caution: some players may prefer humbucking options for higher-output styles or jazzier tones.
SX LAP 8 NAT 8 String Lap Steel
Best for players wanting eight strings and a wide tonal palette. This full-size 8-string lap steel uses American swamp ash for a bright, clear voice and features 36 frets with a single-coil pickup. Strings are spaced widely for comfortable playability, ideal for blues, rock, hawaiian, country, bluegrass, and western swing. Included are a detachable stand and bag, enhancing stage readiness and transport.
Best for: players exploring extended-range lap steel genres. Why selected: eight strings offer broader chord and melody options.
Caution: wider string spacing may require adaptation for players used to narrower systems.
Buying Guide
What should I consider when choosing a double-neck lap steel guitar?
Neck configuration, scale length, and overall weight affect playability and tone. Decide whether you need two tunings or a single tuning per neck, and choose a neck alignment and fret count that matches your style.
Which wood and construction matter?
Solid woods like poplar or swamp ash influence resonance and sustain. A sturdy body and reliable tuners help with tuning stability during performances. Consider whether a hollow or solid headstock design suits your aesthetic and maintenance preferences.
What about pickups and electronics?
Single-coil pickups are common in lap steels and provide bright, glassy highs. If you play jazz or heavier blues, you may want options with humbuckers or multiple tone controls. Look for accessible volume and tone knobs for quick on-stage adjustments.
Accessories and portability: what’s essential?
Carrying bags, gig bags, slides, and stands add practical value. A lightweight, compact model benefits travel, while a heavier build may feel more substantial on stage but harder to transport.
How to decide between models with similar specs?
Compare neck count, fret count, scale length, and overall weight. Create a quick pros/cons list focused on how each feature supports your preferred genres and playing style.
Maintenance tips for double-neck lap steels
Keep the fretboard clean, check string intonation periodically, and store the instrument in a humidified environment to prevent warping. Regularly inspect tuners and electronics for any loose components.
FAQ
What is the main advantage of a double-neck lap steel?
The two necks allow different tunings or scale lengths, increasing versatility for live performances or varied styles.
Are these guitars suitable for beginners?
Some models are beginner-friendly with straightforward setups, but double-neck designs can be more challenging for new players due to size and weight.
Do these guitars come with accessories?
Many listings include gig bags, slides, and stands, but verify each product’s included items in the listing.
What genres are best for lap steel guitars?
Blues, hawaiian, country, western swing, and jazz-flavored tones are common, with some models leaning brighter or warmer depending on pickups and wood.
How to choose between vintage and modern styling?
Vintage-styled guitars often emphasize classic tone and aesthetics, while modern models may prioritize updated hardware and weight balance for stage use.