How to Get a Dobro Sound from Lap Steel?

Tom Olson · Post by **Tom Olson** » 7 Aug 2004 6:30 pm

Other than by using a matchbro (I think that's it), what, if any, other way is there to get a relatively good Dobro sound from a 6-string lap steel (i.e. by using some sort of FX or whatever else you can do)? Is it better to use a single coil pickup or humbucker? Thanks.

Jim Bob Sedgwick · Post by **Jim Bob Sedgwick** » 7 Aug 2004 7:17 pm

Tom, I used to use a Wah-Wah pedal for that sound with a standard guitar. Turn the effect on and push the pedal down til the sound is correct. remove your foot from the pedal and leave it alone. It makes a fair to middling imitation.

Rick Schmidt · Post by **Rick Schmidt** » 7 Aug 2004 9:16 pm

You can also kind've approximate it with various multi effects/pre amp units (eg. "pro-fex")

I use a setting that has a tweeked mid range notch and some of the metalic feedback of a flanger mixed in on my pro fex I.

John Daugherty · Post by **John Daugherty** » 8 Aug 2004 6:49 am

Try using a bar that dampens the sound. It is not a real good impersonation of a dobro but it doesn't cost much to try.
I have used a bar which I made from the end of a broom handle (poor people have poor ways).
There are dobro simulations available in some effects units. The profex "newman" cache has a very good one which I have used. .......JD