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Here’s information about pedal steel guitars in today’s market. Finding an instrument is a fun part of adventuring into pedal steel, and knowing where to look can be a great starting point…

Brands, Makers, and Manufacturers

Mullen

Made in Colorado, these pedal steels are very popular among current players. They offer a few models that include the G2, Royal Precision, and the Discovery. If you’re looking for a professional pedal steel that has modern features, and is high in quality, then Mullen steel guitars are worth checking out.

Williams

I think these are some of the most beautifully made pedal steels nowadays. One of my favorite players, Greg Leisz, often utilizes his Williams on-stage and in the recording studio. Check out the 700 series, which has a sharp looking design and versatile tone.

GFI

These are often known for their light weight, flexibility, and tone. GFI pedal steels are a popular choice among players looking for a good value (and a guitar that is easy to transport). Most of their single neck pedal steel guitars weigh between 25 and 30 pounds.

MSA

MSA pedal steels have built a good reputation in the pedal steel market, and are known for being founded by Maurice Anderson. I enjoy Maurice’s intuitive insights into learning and playing the instrument. MSA offers cool lighting options for underneath their pedal steels, as well as for their fretboards.

The Carter Starter: Carter’s Beginner Model

If you’re looking for a beginner model, then check out the Carter Starter. This can be a great choice if you’re looking to spend around $1,000 for a pedal steel. These aren’t being manufactured anymore, however used ones come up for sale fairly regularly. All Carter pedal steels are out of production, but they’re known for being great value steel guitars.

Sierra

Sometimes under the radar, this brand is worth checking out. Sierra has been represented by Joe Wright in the past, who has played a custom-made Sierra that looks and sounds incredible. Their website features many videos that demonstrate steel guitar techniques, with Wright providing playing advice himself.

Stage One (or ZumSteel)

Older ZumSteels have become relatively high in value, and many used ones that come up for sale can cost over $6,000. These are no longer being made by builder Bruce Zumsteg, however you can buy new pedal steels that have been licensed by ZumSteel, which are called Stage Ones. The Stage Ones don’t have the high market value that Bruce’s ZumSteels are known for, however they’re a good choice if you’re looking for a reliable guitar.

Fessenden

A brand that has grown in reputation, Fessenden is another choice if you’re looking for a professional pedal steel guitar. Robert Randolph has been known to play Fessenden pedal steels, and they have a distinguishable fretboard design.

Excel

These steel guitars are made in Japan and are strikingly beautiful. It is evident how much attention to detail goes into building these, and they have a high degree of precision. They are also relatively light for having such a good sound.

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For a helpful practice resource check out this pedal steel guide…

The Chord Guide for E9 Pedal Steel (E-Book, Digital Download)

Learn the chords on the E9 neck in a way that makes playing simple and enjoyable…

• Almost Every Chord You’ll Ever Need for E9
• Intuitive and Easy to Use
• Make Use of Pedal and Lever Combinations
• Example Tabs of Chord Movements
• Easily Utilize the Nashville Number System
• Great For Any Key and Style of Music

Includes a bonus section of over a hundred pages of extra chord charts, key references, and more!

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Gear and Accessories

Buying A Pedal Steel

There are a lot of factors to consider when buying a new or used pedal steel, especially if you’re new to the instrument. You’ll want to consider the pedal steel’s cost, functionality, pedal and lever setup, condition, and more.

Here’s an in-depth article, which answers many of the specific questions that players have when buying a pedal steel…

Pedal Steel Buyer’s Guide: Cost and Features

Professional Restoration

Billy Knowles

A stand-up guy, who does incredible work out of Kenansville, NC. He restored my main axe, a beautiful ’96 Emmons LeGrande II from the Strayhorn Era. Professionals seek him out for trustful, solid, immaculate work. He cares deeply about pedal steel guitar and the workmanship behind them.

Pedal Steel Shops

Billy Cooper’s Steel Guitars

If you are ever in Virginia, check out Billy Cooper’s store. It is a steel guitar specialty store, and just walking in it will make you never want to leave. There are many steel guitars, on the store floor, ready to be played and enjoyed. One of the few stores in the world that feature an extensive selection of instruments that are playable and ready-to-go. Billy is a very nice, caring individual on top of this.

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