The Difference Between Steels?

Different guitars are referred to as 'steels', and this can be confusing - what are the differences?

The first steel guitars came electric with or without legs. Later, the one placed in the lap was then called a 'lap steel'

, and the one with legs as just 'steel guitar'. One reason for the incorporating of legs, or stands was to simply stand while playing, or to accommodate the weight of multiple necks (all non pedal since the 40's).

When Pedals were invented (roughly in the late 50's) the connecting rods to the pedals limited the variable height and became easier to play sitting down. Thus the designation ... Pedal Steel Guitar.

While they, and the metal bodied Dobros too, can be called 'Steel Guitars' there is a qualifying difference.

• Next >