I live in Spain and there's not a single store selling pedal steel guitars. I wonder if you could help me on how to buy the guitar, amp and pedals. Thank you very much.
I am 72. I have had a little experience on 3 guitars when I was younger. I have the basics on how to approach playing. I hope to live a good few more years. I was thinking about buying a Mullen Discovery. I think it would be a better option than a basic student model. Do you think I am too old to start learning again?
@@austinsteele3679 Hi Austin - I think the discovery would be an excellent choice. Having some background definitely helps, but you are never too old! I have a student who is 69 who is just picking it up again after starting to play briefly when he was younger. I've been impressed with his progress.
@@licksandtricks6809 Thanks for your encouragement. At the moment I live in Slovakia, but in 3 weeks I am moving back home in England. I will live with my sister and her husband, they love country. What made my mouth water was the fact I can purchase a Mullen brand new within 50 miles from where I am living. They are stockists of GFI also. It's a rare thing in England to be able to buy quality steels off the shelf. Thanks for your videos.
I'm 63, been playing since my teens, played professionally ( meaning I got paid) but I mostly play for fun these days. I have only a few words of advice (1)Buy a E9 tuning with 3 pedals and 4 knee levers - anything more is mostly for show...you don't need it. (2) If there is any way you can afford it, DO IT ! It is hard, it is fun, it is a life time learning project. Steel players are a tight knit group of people. I've never met one who wouldn't do anything they could to help you learn. And with RUclips, there are lessons all over the place. (3) While I wouldn't go so far as to say it's a good investment, it's not that bad, you can usually find someone willing to buy it from you if you decide to hang it up or move on
@@soonerlegendspodcastThat's not the point. I'm not speaking of someone who has played and matured for years, I was speaking for a beginner. There may come a time when you want to add extra. I personally play a standard set up double ten with 5 levers and eight pedals.
I've been a lifelong guitarist, made it my attempted career and "career-adjacent" focus for a few decades. i've always been fascinated by lap steel and pedal steel (played plenty of slide), but the pedal steel is my new journey. i love this vid! excited to jump in and learn. i know a lot of amazing musicians and the best ones have always been curious and embrace the stretch. thanks for your protips!
Hey Ron, I’m a guitarist who’s interested in Pedal Steel. I only play a bit of slide but I’m pretty decent in guitar. How has your journey gone so far? Is it very difficult or does playing guitar help? Would be happy to hear your experience so far.
The steel guitar has come a long way; from a 6 string, pearl laminated, lap guitar with a plastic bar hanging in a pawn shop window to a dazzeling, beautifully designed awsome instrument we see today. Yes, it's complex and difficult to learn; but if you're determined enough to start from the begining and do it right you'll be glad you did; the reward is the tone, sound, you've been searching for and the enjoyment of playing for years to come. With today's tuning set up (E9th-C6th) knee levers and foot pedals; you can play anything on it. For beginers follow the adivce as suggested by this video; then when you feel like you have accomplished enough to move up; you'll find plenty of steel guitar manufacturers to choose from. So keep a pickin and a grinin!
Great introduction to the basics. Regarding the "other things you'll need" category, one crucial item not mentioned is a volume pedal, and it's a must-have for PSG (preferably an optical type).
What a great, helpful, and generous video. Thanks so much. I'm 64, and just jumped into learning lap steel, open "D" tuning. Beautiful Asher trans cherry.
I'm almost 40, I built a Frankenstein Ibanez RG last year and put a nut extension on it to raise the strings, tuned DADF#AD, it was so fun playing dirty blues stuff on it as a lap steel. I ended up having that guitar set up to play normally, but I'm building another one now, gotta see if i can figure out how to raise, then block off, an Ibanez Floyd Rose-style bridge... maybe I'll fill in the cavity for the bridge and find a fixed bridge to put on it... any suggestions would be appreciated.
Good advice! Ive been playing over 30 years and can’t argue with anything you’ve said. Too bad they’re so expensive as this prices out the youngsters. No mom is going to cough up 2K on a gamble the little Johnny will become proficient. No instant gratification allowed on this instrument!
So much great info here. Thanks for sharing this. It’s no small thing to acquire/play/maintain one! Looks like you have to be “all in”. I think I’ll be reasonable and test the waters with a lap steel.
Not a bad way to go. Worked great for me :) I played my lap steel for a year before diving in on a pedal steel. I should have mentioned in the video that lap steel is also a wonderful endeavor on its own and it’s different sound and style. I still go back and forth all the time.
Started out playing 6 string slide open G Next picked up an fender stringmaster 8 string double neck one C6 the other E7 Next ordered a Jackson slide king pedal 8 string set up for E7 no knees 4 pedals I like them all , play blues and fell in love with sacred steel. I don’t think you are wasting your time starting on a lap. It’s not a big expense to try out lap and jump into pedal when you’re ready . I’m trying to play country but it sounds a little bluesy ha ha !
Nice presentation sir ! I went with the Zum Steel upgrade from Stage One called the Encore... I'm a new beginner and it stays in tune well and very solid. I'm extremely happy. The owner, Doug, out of Branson was gracious and helpful. I highly recommend. And thanks again for your solid info sir! Kevin
The correct pronunciation is Zum like “gum.” I’ve been playing for over 40 years and I think the Carter starter would be a great beginning guitar. Also, you have to decide if you want a Jimmy day set up or an Emmons set up. The day set up is like a backwards emmons set up as far as the pedals go. The emmons set up is definitely the most common. A single 10 Mullen PRP or royal precision would also be an excellent lifetime guitar and you can find them for around $2500-$2800. The great thing about learning Steel Guitar I found when I was just starting is that it is such an addictive instrument that even when you get frustrated, you always come back to it. I would say the first year is probably the most difficult for learning, and it starts to get a little easier after that. Learning to correctly tune the instrument can also be challenging but I believe investing in something like a Peterson Strobostomp HD tuner pedal with a sweetener specifically for Steel Guitar makes tuning so much easier.
Good vid, useful too! I bought one of the MSA student Models back in the 80's! It lasted about a year & then every time I hit the E-Eb knee lever the whole guitar would detune! The body was made from plywood! LOL! You get what you pay for & pay for what ya get! Lesson learned! My next guitar was a used ZB Custom owned by the late Buddy Charleton! Bought it from Scotty's Music!
I was having a discussion with another guitar player who plays pedal steel and he used the word that for me describes it perfectly: It is INTIMIDATING. Now I have been thinking about it and it seems like it is like CADED with your legs basically...
Great work my dude, liked and subscribed. Greetings from Manchester UK where I'm on day 6 of 10 quarantine in my childhood bedroom and pedal steel vids are keeping me almost sane 😁
Hey Hamilton- I found this really helpful and you answered some questions I had. I've been playing guitar (Classical, Flamenco, Blues, Jazz etc...) for decades. Pedal Steel- Lap Steel has always deeply fascinated me. I was thinking of getting a Recording King so you answered my question there. Do you have any suggestions on a good 8 string Lap to start with? I'm not looking to play in any one Genre or style. Thanks again for your time, I found this one of the more direct and thoughtful videos out there.
Very good and informative video. Guitar players ask me all of the time if the pedal steel is difficult to play. I always reply, it's as if you're going from riding a bike to flying a helicopter!! It's the only instrument I can think of that uses both hands, both feet, and both knees to play it. I have always loved pedal steel. I finally got tired of playing pseudo steel licks on my Telecasters (with and without the Glasser B&G bender). But it's the most open and giving instrument community I have ever been a part of. Every steel player I would meet gigging, or hear of a band in town with a steel picker (we had 1 steel player in my home town of about 75K people), doesn't matter. Everyone I have ever met would literally allow me to bug them (obviously within reason) with questions, show me licks, setup and maintenance issues....whatever. All because they love the instrument. I think most steel pickers have a screw loose (in a very good way).....lol. I know I do. You almost have to, if you're gonna learn this instrument. Otherwise it would look like an insurmountable task.
just ordered my first ever pedal steel today, i bought a justice s10 3x4. i looked at mullen but i think he’s pretty sick and not working much right now, stage one is swamped with orders at the moment, and i also looked at simmons, but he doesn’t make a student model, although i’ve heard many good things about his intermediate/pro model. justice is definitely worth looking at, very high quality and customizable student model
I’m picking up a Carter Sd10 that was my grandpas. I know nothing about music or how to play. I loved watching him as a kid and now he’s gone. Grandma is selling all his stuff and I just had to have this guitar. He had another GFI ultra double neck. But I couldn’t afford that one. Glad to have the one I’m getting but have no idea where to start. Any pointers for a complete rookie would be awesome! Gramps played and maintained his equipment great. Was put away for 5 years in the case and now I own it. Where do I start? I want to learn
Howdy bud - there are tons of great instructional materials out there. I found Winnie Winstons book helpful when I was starting out. There are also a bunch of great instructional dvds and RUclips videos. I’d be happy to do some lessons if you’re interested :)
So many options..! In America there really is no excuse not to play Pedal Steel.. In Australia there are very few opportunities to get into the business......
Is it a necessity to play guitar before playing the lap steel? I play drum set and flute and I wonder if playing lapsteel is like playing a regular guitar, or is it similar, or even a complete different world. I really love the sound though. Anyway when i played music with friends and i get their guitar i used to hold it like a lapsteel without even knowing about this instrument at that point. So i thought it might be a fun instrument to play.
I can never afford a pedal steele due to health! Had to get a Rogue lap steele, and still play my Sho-Bud heart model accoustic I picked up cheap from a truck driver that didn't know how to play!
Great video. I shelled out for the Zum Encore which is a fantastic steel guitar. Just want to send out a note about my experience of when I started out - I was determined to either get a vintage ShoBud or Emmons. I got a single neck Emmons Push Pull and I found it challenging to tune and a bit daunting as a beginner I found the under carriage of the Zum much more intuitive to work on and can actually change my setup. I find the Zum stays in tune really well. My novice advice to anyone looking to start out get a guitar with modern undercarriage to start out and learn on. Once you have it down move onto the dream guitar.
@@licksandtricks6809 meant to mention great Emmons btw. I got the black one in a case one day I plan to get it serviced and back to picking on it. They do have that sound!
I Used To Play My Dad's Old Blackstone Sunburst Electric Guitar Like A Lapsteel. But I Always Wanted To Play A Pedal Steel. I Was Always Told That If Anyone Couldnt Aford A Pedal Steel Is To Try Building One You'r Self.
Hi man, I just got a GFI student model 3x4 from reverb that I got a good deal on and am super excited. Been looking for forever and inventory was so low, and student models were just way overpriced online. Anyways, this video was super helpful. Thank you! Also curious if you have any reccomendations for good inexpensive, beginner amps, volume pedal, wiring etc. Thanks for any recs!
I appreciate this information. After playing dobro for a couple years I decided to take the plunge and get on the list for a Stage One. Took some of the guesswork out of buying used and not really knowing if you're buying somebody else's problem. Different story for a knowledgeable buyer. Both excited and terrified at the prospect of figuring this machine out. I am curious about some of the different mechanical systems used in PSGs and how that affects copedents and other setup and tuning options. Thanks again.
Great info ! I just bought a MSI side kick used from a Facebook sale and looks and sounds good with new string but I can't figure out the pedals I need get someone to check it out ,I don't know if its worth shipping plus labor Paid $500 for
@@licksandtricks6809 hey man, do you think the lead slidey guitar sound all throughout this song is achievable with a regular guitar or should I get a lap steel/pedal steel? Ive been trying to achieve this sound for a while ruclips.net/video/XGmJMvnDZEg/видео.html
I think you could get that sound with a regular 6 string electric and a slide. You'll definitely want a volume pedal, some overdrive/distortion, and reverb. I think in this recording I'm hearing some saturation on the reverb itself as well, so if you're talking about studio work, try setting up a reverb send and then putting a saturation plugin as an insert on the reverb. All that aside, if this is the kind of sound you're attracted to, I would definitely recommend getting a steel guitar. You'll have endless fun. Start with a lap steel for an affordable option and see where it takes you!
@@licksandtricks6809 Yeah Im in the market for a lap steel now I just don't really like the big chunky chord style of playing, im really a big fan of those pretty ambient swells and stuff so if a lap steel can achieve those i might just have to haha. I was trying to play this on my 6 string with a slide but I think my action might be too low, im either hearing other notes as I slide or they're not ringing out well because im on the E string. Ill look into a lap steel
@@licksandtricks6809 just wanted to update and finally got a lap steel today! just looking for the right tuning for the kind of drones and ambiences i want to make
Hi, I wanted to add my thoughts. In an open D tuning ( D A D F# A D ) palm benders will typically bend the F# to G and the A to B. So with no benders you have the I chord of D Major ( D F# A) and with both benders down you get the IV chord of G in the 2nd inversion ( D G B ) or you can play the top 3 strings for a G in first inversion ( G B D). This is exactly what the A and B pedals do on a pedal steel in E9 tuning so it's quite comparable. Here's a great example of that technique. ruclips.net/video/pn3mR0HRcbg/видео.html
go for thepedal steel you be alot happer if lap steel go for a Rogue 6 string not too bad 123music or pssibly sweetwater sound either sweetwater or 123 sell pedal steels
I got a 70’s sho bud maverick was in the case for years went to put new strings and a couple of the claws on the fingers that holds your broke off. Any place I could find parts. It’s in Beautiful shape and hate to junk it Thanks
I built a lap steel, I'm concerned that it's going to become limiting without some sort of levers, but I don't want a huge lap steel taking up my living room. I see that there's palm benders, they're kind of expensive, do you have any experience with them?
I don't have any experience with palm benders. They seem like an interesting novelty. My suggestion would be to approach lap steel like it's its own thing. There's definitely a sound/vibe/feeling that is different from pedal steel and that's what I would pursuit. There's also some techniques you can learn to emulate the sound of pedal steel and there's definitely a lot of crossover, but if the pedal steel sound is what you're really after you'll always be wanting. That's just my very humble 2 cents.
they always go up, pedal steel is like elitist or something they only want rich cowboys buying them and the fact that they are so expensive and hard to find makes good pedal steel players harder to find. lap steels arent really worth your time if that is what you bought. its just a guitar you can only play with a slide.
Doug told me he had to increase price of The Stage One 1000.00 to about 1100 or 1200 in 91 or about there i bought a new BMI for you ready 600.00 3x5not 4 knee levers but 5 5th one a vertical one straight up with the knee not side to side
The "Duesenberg" string bender Steel Guitar is one of THE finest "laptop" steels ever built. Also very costly; $2545.62 USD, plus tax. It is built in Germany; using old era expertise, that is highest quality. There are 4 models. I suggest the "Fairytale". For it is the most gorgeous. The guitars come with 2 or 3 benders. The standard tuning from the factory is (Lo to Hi) D A D F# A D. If you go with the 2 string bender guitar, the 2nd string will change from A to B; and the 3rd string will change from F# to G. If you go with the 3 bender guitar, the 1st string will change from E to C#. The following link will give you a snippet of how it looks and works. www.theguitarsanctuary.com/Duesenberg-Fairytale-Lap-Steel-in-Gold-Burst-p/8103.htm ruclips.net/video/KyiNuBXsNBg/видео.html Hope this helps.
It’s a good instrument for getting into pedal steel. Most players tend to outgrow them in about a year or so but they are easy to resell. I bought one in 2014 for $700 and sold it to a friend for $700 and he still plays it. These days they are going for around $1000 or more. If it’s playable and in good enough shape mechanically I’d recommend buying it.
For fellow Europeans, the buying tip is, buy any you can find in the area because it's damn near impossible 😂. Took me two years of active searching to eventually find a project guitar that's infinitely in repair
Trying to get into Steel Guitar , the cheap way, is the wrong way to accomplish any thing. If you buy cheap stuff, the tone will tell all & the inability to make it sound great, stacks up . If you buy your stuff right , you won't loose a lot of your investment, but tryouts aren't free.
That’s easy…if you are into music..write her a love song, play it, and sing it to her!! Even if you can’t write, play, or sing. Go ahead and sing any George Strait love song to her and she’ll not only let you buy it but might buy it herself and give it to you as a gift!!! Who knows..you might get more than a peddle steel if you play your cards just right.
I hate how expensive pedal steel is. I'm 19, have been playing guitar since I was around 12/13 and I have plenty of guitars now but the cheapest pedal steel I ever found was $1,999 and it wasn't even a high quality one. Very hard to get into pedal steel. Its almost elitist. Dont really want a lap steel because you cant bend and its awkward to use a volume pedal with one so if anybody knows of a pedal steel that doesnt cost more than $800...
I definitely see your point, but at the same time, my carter starter was a great entry for me and given how easy it was to resell for exactly what I paid for it, I think it can be a good route for some folks.
I agree 100%. I knew and was a friend of owners of the Carter company. And I told him without leaving anything out, "Your 'Carter Starter' is nothing but a piece of garbage". I stand on that. The problem with a junk PSG is; it is hard enough to learn how to play the world's most musical instrument as it is; without adding to the aggravations. Buy THE best PSG that you can find. IE: "Like-new" Sho-Buds, Emmons, Zumsteel, Mullens, Williams and Rains would do you well. I would not recommend buying any PSG that does not look like new. This video is 100% when it comes to number of pedals and knees. But, I recommend NO less than 4 pedals and 5 levers setup in the following way: Pedal A raises he B's to C#; Pedal B raises the G#'s to A; Pedal C raises strings 4 and 5 a whole tone. Pedal "(0)" lowers the B's to A. I recommend this pedal be to the left of pedal A. Left knee lever left raises the E's to F's; Left knee lever right lowers the E's to D#; Left knee lever vertical (UP) lowers the B's to A#; Right knee lever left raises 1 from F# to G#; raise 2 from D# to E and 6 lowers G# to F#. And lastly: Right knee lever right lowers 2 from D# to C# with a "half stop" and lowers 9 from D to C#. These changes are fast becoming "standard" all over the world. IE: If you order a new PSG; and do not tell them your setup; the above is what you will get in most cases. The top of the PSG is NOT the most important; the bottom is; for it has all the mechanism to make all these changes above. Insist on seeing the bottom. If it is dirty go away NO matter what the top looks like. Remember colors and silver does NOT make music. If you want the very best, buy an "ALL pull" Emmons that looks brand new. I would not recommend a "Push-Pull". I will be hanged at dawn for saying this, but I stand on it. Price is going to be 4 grand + or -. And may Jesus guide you to the best. Praise His Holy Name.
@@MrPatdeeee I noticed you said *was* (past tense) friends with the owners of the Carter Co. I reckon this was before they heard your candid critique of their instrument (lol). If I was looking for one I'd take a copy of the info you provided here with me.
Buy a pedal steel? Then talking about lap, is like having a title say buying a car then talking about a pushbike. Or a guitar and then ukulele, or gun and peashooter. Why.
It’s a lot easier to come up with $100 then it is to come up with $1100 (which is shockingly what Carter starters are going for these days- actually a friend of mine texted me recently to ask if $1900 was a good deal for a Carter starter⁉️). In my honest opinion and from my actual lived experience, considering a lap steel purchase as a way in the door is a highly relevant topic to consider as part of the process. It’s true, there is big sonic difference between lap and pedal steel guitars, but there are also some quite significant similarities. As with anything, it is helpful to consider a variety of entry points.
@@licksandtricks6809 that’s a fair point and obviously true there are similarities, the title is slightly misleading, maybe, but I know a lot of people that played lap then tried to play pedal steel and could grasp it, because they’d learnt On something with a fixed tuning, and pedal having so many changes confused them, not having a decent knowledge of theory etc, in fact two I knew gave up pedal and went back to lap steel and at times sounded incredibly good with no pedals, I had a S12 Bennet, and now am using my Dads Emmons D10 and fender 1000, but to be honest I’m a keyboard player really, and dabble with guitar and pedal, I’d always say go as expensive as you can afford, and throw yourself in the deep end because if it’s not for you, you find out a lot sooner and save a lot of wasted time, and probably be able to sell what you purchased for near the same money, and if you’re one of the lucky few that can play well, and sound in tune well you saved a lot of money in the long run, either way it’s all good, personally I only ever really rated Buddy Emmons and those that can emulate him, as I’m not a country fan, so much volume pedal and whining is a little irritating after a while a few good ones sound ok, but very few, to me. But then who am I lol. Can’t play a tenth as good. Yet lol
i disagree with you on how many knee levers a beginner needs , it depends ENTIRLEY on what kind of music you want to play , IF you are only going to play "classic " country music, all you need is the 2 knees that lower and raise the Es a steel player can play just about anything from the 50s, 60s, 70s and most of the 80s with just these two knee levers , the 4th pedal you referred to ( known as the " Franklin " pedal is almost never used by most players and yea i know there are a few players that DO use it but for the most part its a waste of money i play nothing but classic country on a Mullen 3 & 5 ( 3 pedals with 5 knee levers ) and seldom do i ever need the right knee levers and truth be told , i forget the 5th ( vertical lever is even there !! so thats why i think someone just starting could play for a loooong time with a 3 and 2 set up THEN they are in a better position to decide if they want to invest in the extra levers and pedals , most players get suckered into buying these just because they look cool but that doesn't make you better player , all it ends up doing is slowing down a beginners progress with a lot more things to try to figure out, that for the 1st few years your not going to need anyway
Howdy bud - thanks so much for sharing your 2 cents here. Your opinion is totally valid, and like with most things, there's more than one way to approach starting out on pedal steel. I agree there's a lot you can do with just E levers, and you could spend a long time just exploring techniques with a 3 pedal, 2 lever, set up. On the other hand, my personal experience was starting out on a carter starter with 4 levers, and I took to using them all fairly quickly. The instructional material I was using at the time was written for 4 levers, and I'm certain that if I had started with 2 levers, curiosity would have caught up with me very quickly. I'll pin this comment at the top, so folks who are shopping for their first pedal steel can see that there are multiple ways of thinking about it.
I cannot imagine playing without my RR. So that makes a minimum three knee levers to start. But not being a cheap bastard, I could spring for the few bucks for the RL. That lever is the one that separates the men from the boys. YMMV and it's all good...
Let me know if you have any questions or comments about getting started on pedal steel or how to buy a pedal steel guitar.
I live in Spain and there's not a single store selling pedal steel guitars. I wonder if you could help me on how to buy the guitar, amp and pedals. Thank you very much.
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I am 72. I have had a little experience on 3 guitars when I was younger. I have the basics on how to approach playing. I hope to live a good few more years. I was thinking about buying a Mullen Discovery. I think it would be a better option than a basic student model. Do you think I am too old to start learning again?
@@austinsteele3679 Hi Austin - I think the discovery would be an excellent choice. Having some background definitely helps, but you are never too old! I have a student who is 69 who is just picking it up again after starting to play briefly when he was younger. I've been impressed with his progress.
@@licksandtricks6809 Thanks for your encouragement. At the moment I live in Slovakia, but in 3 weeks I am moving back home in England. I will live with my sister and her husband, they love country. What made my mouth water was the fact I can purchase a Mullen brand new within 50 miles from where I am living. They are stockists of GFI also. It's a rare thing in England to be able to buy quality steels off the shelf. Thanks for your videos.
I'm 63, been playing since my teens, played professionally ( meaning I got paid) but I mostly play for fun these days. I have only a few words of advice (1)Buy a E9 tuning with 3 pedals and 4 knee levers - anything more is mostly for show...you don't need it. (2) If there is any way you can afford it, DO IT ! It is hard, it is fun, it is a life time learning project. Steel players are a tight knit group of people. I've never met one who wouldn't do anything they could to help you learn. And with RUclips, there are lessons all over the place. (3) While I wouldn't go so far as to say it's a good investment, it's not that bad, you can usually find someone willing to buy it from you if you decide to hang it up or move on
Spent more on booze so ,good investment!!
Excellent words! I sure am happy I took the plunge!!
I guess Buddy Emmons extra pedals and knee levers were just for show. Lol 😂
@@soonerlegendspodcastThat's not the point. I'm not speaking of someone who has played and matured for years, I was speaking for a beginner. There may come a time when you want to add extra. I personally play a standard set up double ten with 5 levers and eight pedals.
Thank you.
I've been a lifelong guitarist, made it my attempted career and "career-adjacent" focus for a few decades. i've always been fascinated by lap steel and pedal steel (played plenty of slide), but the pedal steel is my new journey. i love this vid! excited to jump in and learn. i know a lot of amazing musicians and the best ones have always been curious and embrace the stretch. thanks for your protips!
Hey Ron, I’m a guitarist who’s interested in Pedal Steel. I only play a bit of slide but I’m pretty decent in guitar. How has your journey gone so far? Is it very difficult or does playing guitar help? Would be happy to hear your experience so far.
Thanks. I'm old, so the idea of learning pedal steel seems like one that could last into even older age. thank you
The steel guitar has come a long way; from a 6 string, pearl laminated, lap guitar with a plastic bar hanging in a pawn shop window to a dazzeling, beautifully designed awsome instrument we see today. Yes, it's complex and difficult to learn; but if you're determined enough to start from the begining and do it right you'll be glad you did; the reward is the tone, sound, you've been searching for and the enjoyment of playing for years to come. With today's tuning set up (E9th-C6th) knee levers and foot pedals; you can play anything on it. For beginers follow the adivce as suggested by this video; then when you feel like you have accomplished enough to move up; you'll find plenty of steel guitar manufacturers to choose from. So keep a pickin and a grinin!
Great introduction to the basics. Regarding the "other things you'll need" category, one crucial item not mentioned is a volume pedal, and it's a must-have for PSG (preferably an optical type).
What a great, helpful, and generous video. Thanks so much. I'm 64, and just jumped into learning lap steel, open "D" tuning. Beautiful Asher trans cherry.
Congrats on embarking on your steel guitar journey! Have a blast :)
@@licksandtricks6809 Thanks!
I'm almost 40, I built a Frankenstein Ibanez RG last year and put a nut extension on it to raise the strings, tuned DADF#AD, it was so fun playing dirty blues stuff on it as a lap steel.
I ended up having that guitar set up to play normally, but I'm building another one now, gotta see if i can figure out how to raise, then block off, an Ibanez Floyd Rose-style bridge... maybe I'll fill in the cavity for the bridge and find a fixed bridge to put on it... any suggestions would be appreciated.
New lap steel. $120. I love it. Used Carter Starter. Mediocre condition. Wish I'd had Licks and Tricks advice when I bought it.
I realize that this video is 3 years old but it was super helpful. Thanks so much.
I've been wanting one for years. Thank you!
Go for it :)
Good advice! Ive been playing over 30 years and can’t argue with anything you’ve said. Too bad they’re so expensive as this prices out the youngsters. No mom is going to cough up 2K on a gamble the little Johnny will become proficient. No instant gratification allowed on this instrument!
So much great info here. Thanks for sharing this. It’s no small thing to acquire/play/maintain one! Looks like you have to be “all in”. I think I’ll be reasonable and test the waters with a lap steel.
Not a bad way to go. Worked great for me :) I played my lap steel for a year before diving in on a pedal steel. I should have mentioned in the video that lap steel is also a wonderful endeavor on its own and it’s different sound and style. I still go back and forth all the time.
Started out playing 6 string slide open G
Next picked up an fender stringmaster 8 string double neck one C6 the other E7
Next ordered a Jackson slide king pedal 8 string set up for E7 no knees 4 pedals
I like them all , play blues and fell in love with sacred steel. I don’t think you are wasting your time starting on a lap. It’s not a big expense to try out lap and jump into pedal when you’re ready . I’m trying to play country but it sounds a little bluesy ha ha !
Nice presentation sir ! I went with the Zum Steel upgrade from Stage One called the Encore... I'm a new beginner and it stays in tune well and very solid. I'm extremely happy. The owner, Doug, out of Branson was gracious and helpful. I highly recommend. And thanks again for your solid info sir!
Kevin
So glad to hear it! Happy steelin bub :)
Geez I need a double nexk. I can't get rid of the c6 neck. It's my favorite but everyone wants the e9 stuff.
The correct pronunciation is Zum like “gum.” I’ve been playing for over 40 years and I think the Carter starter would be a great beginning guitar. Also, you have to decide if you want a Jimmy day set up or an Emmons set up. The day set up is like a backwards emmons set up as far as the pedals go. The emmons set up is definitely the most common. A single 10 Mullen PRP or royal precision would also be an excellent lifetime guitar and you can find them for around $2500-$2800. The great thing about learning Steel Guitar I found when I was just starting is that it is such an addictive instrument that even when you get frustrated, you always come back to it. I would say the first year is probably the most difficult for learning, and it starts to get a little easier after that. Learning to correctly tune the instrument can also be challenging but I believe investing in something like a Peterson Strobostomp HD tuner pedal with a sweetener specifically for Steel Guitar makes tuning so much easier.
Good vid, useful too! I bought one of the MSA student Models back in the 80's! It lasted about a year & then every time I hit the E-Eb knee lever the whole guitar would detune! The body was made from plywood! LOL! You get what you pay for & pay for what ya get! Lesson learned! My next guitar was a used ZB Custom owned by the late Buddy Charleton! Bought it from Scotty's Music!
That’s an awesome piece of music history!
Don't forget Marlen. I love mine!
I think I skipped over them since it seems like finding one that's in good shape is less and less common.
I was having a discussion with another guitar player who plays pedal steel and he used the word that for me describes it perfectly: It is INTIMIDATING. Now I have been thinking about it and it seems like it is like CADED with your legs basically...
That’s a great way of thinking about it
Great work my dude, liked and subscribed. Greetings from Manchester UK where I'm on day 6 of 10 quarantine in my childhood bedroom and pedal steel vids are keeping me almost sane 😁
Many thanks! I hope you're doing well!!
Hey Hamilton- I found this really helpful and you answered some questions I had.
I've been playing guitar (Classical, Flamenco, Blues, Jazz etc...) for decades.
Pedal Steel- Lap Steel has always deeply fascinated me. I was thinking of getting a Recording King
so you answered my question there. Do you have any suggestions on a good 8 string Lap to start with?
I'm not looking to play in any one Genre or style.
Thanks again for your time, I found this one of the more direct and thoughtful videos out there.
Very good and informative video. Guitar players ask me all of the time if the pedal steel is difficult to play. I always reply, it's as if you're going from riding a bike to flying a helicopter!! It's the only instrument I can think of that uses both hands, both feet, and both knees to play it. I have always loved pedal steel. I finally got tired of playing pseudo steel licks on my Telecasters (with and without the Glasser B&G bender). But it's the most open and giving instrument community I have ever been a part of. Every steel player I would meet gigging, or hear of a band in town with a steel picker (we had 1 steel player in my home town of about 75K people), doesn't matter. Everyone I have ever met would literally allow me to bug them (obviously within reason) with questions, show me licks, setup and maintenance issues....whatever. All because they love the instrument. I think most steel pickers have a screw loose (in a very good way).....lol. I know I do. You almost have to, if you're gonna learn this instrument. Otherwise it would look like an insurmountable task.
Hey Kenny- I agree- it’s an awesome community :)
just ordered my first ever pedal steel today, i bought a justice s10 3x4. i looked at mullen but i think he’s pretty sick and not working much right now, stage one is swamped with orders at the moment, and i also looked at simmons, but he doesn’t make a student model, although i’ve heard many good things about his intermediate/pro model. justice is definitely worth looking at, very high quality and customizable student model
I’m picking up a Carter Sd10 that was my grandpas. I know nothing about music or how to play. I loved watching him as a kid and now he’s gone. Grandma is selling all his stuff and I just had to have this guitar. He had another GFI ultra double neck. But I couldn’t afford that one. Glad to have the one I’m getting but have no idea where to start. Any pointers for a complete rookie would be awesome! Gramps played and maintained his equipment great. Was put away for 5 years in the case and now I own it. Where do I start? I want to learn
Howdy bud - there are tons of great instructional materials out there. I found Winnie Winstons book helpful when I was starting out. There are also a bunch of great instructional dvds and RUclips videos. I’d be happy to do some lessons if you’re interested :)
I love the pedal steel guitar. It’s what makes certain songs. I’m looking for a steel player to add in my songs. I wrote my own and record them.
I’d be happy to help :) doing steel overdubs is my bread and butter! Shoot me a message!
GFI is a good brand and not as expensive as other brands.
Don't forget that Jackson has its Maverick line. Which are very well built and affordable.
So many options..! In America there really is no excuse not to play Pedal Steel.. In
Australia there are very few opportunities to get into the business......
Thank you for the information. It will make a good start for my purchase.
Is it a necessity to play guitar before playing the lap steel? I play drum set and flute and I wonder if playing lapsteel is like playing a regular guitar, or is it similar, or even a complete different world. I really love the sound though. Anyway when i played music with friends and i get their guitar i used to hold it like a lapsteel without even knowing about this instrument at that point. So i thought it might be a fun instrument to play.
I can never afford a pedal steele due to health! Had to get a Rogue lap steele, and still play my Sho-Bud heart model accoustic I picked up cheap from a truck driver that didn't know how to play!
Great video. I shelled out for the Zum Encore which is a fantastic steel guitar. Just want to send out a note about my experience of when I started out - I was determined to either get a vintage ShoBud or Emmons. I got a single neck Emmons Push Pull and I found it challenging to tune and a bit daunting as a beginner I found the under carriage of the Zum much more intuitive to work on and can actually change my setup. I find the Zum stays in tune really well. My novice advice to anyone looking to start out get a guitar with modern undercarriage to start out and learn on. Once you have it down move onto the dream guitar.
This is great advice. Thanks for sharing :)
@@licksandtricks6809 meant to mention great Emmons btw. I got the black one in a case one day I plan to get it serviced and back to picking on it. They do have that sound!
@@sonicmilk Sure do! I've had mine for 6 years and I still absolutely love it.
Are you in the Marcus king band ?!? Or were you during that exercept from Red Rocks …? (2:42 mark)
This is so helpful. Thank you!
This is so helpful, thanks.
Nice video. Straightforward talk
Thanks Gaylen. Hopefully its helpful to folks.
I Used To Play My Dad's Old
Blackstone Sunburst Electric Guitar
Like A Lapsteel. But I Always Wanted
To Play A Pedal Steel. I Was Always
Told That If Anyone Couldnt Aford
A Pedal Steel Is To Try Building
One You'r Self.
I have left hand issues, thinking this may be my way to go
waiting for the licks and tricks and nice video on the steel I have a remington D -10
Gonna have some licks and tricks soon. Planning a few videos for beginners and more advanced players too :)
Excellent overview. Very helpful. Thank you!
You’re welcome bub!
You’re welcome bub!
Good video! Thanks for that, there definitely need to be some more pedal steel content on youtube. I'm excited to see where this channel goes. Subbed.
Thanks so much Jason 😀
Senang alat musik ini,bisa beli dimana mohon infonya..
I have an old Fender student model; 3 pedals, 1 knee lever. Where is the best place to trade that in for a 3/4 model?
Hi man,
I just got a GFI student model 3x4 from reverb that I got a good deal on and am super excited. Been looking for forever and inventory was so low, and student models were just way overpriced online.
Anyways, this video was super helpful. Thank you!
Also curious if you have any reccomendations for good inexpensive, beginner amps, volume pedal, wiring etc.
Thanks for any recs!
Great advice.
Thanks Frank!
My dad had a Double neg show Bud with 8 flor peddles and 4 new levers
Very cool :)
Thanks! I’m looking to get something going in Nashville. Any current leads on a good used student/pro model?
I appreciate this information. After playing dobro for a couple years I decided to take the plunge and get on the list for a Stage One. Took some of the guesswork out of buying used and not really knowing if you're buying somebody else's problem. Different story for a knowledgeable buyer. Both excited and terrified at the prospect of figuring this machine out. I am curious about some of the different mechanical systems used in PSGs and how that affects copedents and other setup and tuning options. Thanks again.
I have a lot of lessons planned, but that would be a cool video to make ar some point. Thanks for the idea!
you did the right Doug is a nice guy i got one from him Stage One BLK he told Blk very popular color had it 2 and a half years is a good guitar
Great info ! I just bought a MSI side kick used from a Facebook sale and looks and sounds good with new string but I can't figure out the pedals I need get someone to check it out ,I don't know if its worth shipping plus labor Paid $500 for
Where do you live? There might be someone nearby that could help you out.
that intro is beautiful man
Thanks bud 🤙🏻
@@licksandtricks6809 hey man, do you think the lead slidey guitar sound all throughout this song is achievable with a regular guitar or should I get a lap steel/pedal steel? Ive been trying to achieve this sound for a while ruclips.net/video/XGmJMvnDZEg/видео.html
I think you could get that sound with a regular 6 string electric and a slide. You'll definitely want a volume pedal, some overdrive/distortion, and reverb. I think in this recording I'm hearing some saturation on the reverb itself as well, so if you're talking about studio work, try setting up a reverb send and then putting a saturation plugin as an insert on the reverb.
All that aside, if this is the kind of sound you're attracted to, I would definitely recommend getting a steel guitar. You'll have endless fun. Start with a lap steel for an affordable option and see where it takes you!
@@licksandtricks6809 Yeah Im in the market for a lap steel now I just don't really like the big chunky chord style of playing, im really a big fan of those pretty ambient swells and stuff so if a lap steel can achieve those i might just have to haha. I was trying to play this on my 6 string with a slide but I think my action might be too low, im either hearing other notes as I slide or they're not ringing out well because im on the E string. Ill look into a lap steel
@@licksandtricks6809 just wanted to update and finally got a lap steel today! just looking for the right tuning for the kind of drones and ambiences i want to make
I have a 1990, bmi 10 3ped 4levers I mean really nice same as new what,s it worth
If the sound your looking for is the real sound it,s not lap steel trust me
I Live In North Saint Paul Min
& Theres Hardly Any Places That Deal
In PedalSteel Guitar.
ZUHM not ZOOM
He’s absolutely right about the Carter starter guitars - if you can find one - 3 + 4
Great info thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Hey Hamilton, I was wondering how limited is a lap steel with benders in comparison to a 'standard' pedal steel (3 pedals, 4 knee levels)?
Hi, I wanted to add my thoughts. In an open D tuning ( D A D F# A D ) palm benders will typically bend the F# to G and the A to B. So with no benders you have the I chord of D Major ( D F# A) and with both benders down you get the IV chord of G in the 2nd inversion ( D G B ) or you can play the top 3 strings for a G in first inversion ( G B D). This is exactly what the A and B pedals do on a pedal steel in E9 tuning so it's quite comparable. Here's a great example of that technique. ruclips.net/video/pn3mR0HRcbg/видео.html
go for thepedal steel you be alot happer if lap steel go for a Rogue 6 string not too bad 123music or pssibly sweetwater sound either sweetwater or 123 sell pedal steels
I got a 70’s sho bud maverick was in the case for years went to put new strings and a couple of the claws on the fingers that holds your broke off. Any place I could find parts. It’s in Beautiful shape and hate to junk it Thanks
I’m not sure about those parts specifically but there are a few online stores that sell parts
Are there any left-handed pedal steels available?
Great video for beginners! My first steel was and still is a Carter U-12 8/5. I still can't play it 100%!
I've always wanted to sit down at a U 12. Sounds fun!
@@licksandtricks6809 it's a wicked steel!
Great video-- subscribed. What is that song playing in the background starting around 4:20?
Howdy Martin - it’s an unreleased original that I took the vocals out of :)
@@licksandtricks6809 oh that's brilliant-- I'll definitely stay tuned!
Thanks!
Great Video!!!! This is all great info!!!
Thank ye ❤️
What about the old fender 400 from the 60s
I’ve got a 30’s national lap steel that I need to learn how to play.
thank you
You're welcome :)
Great video.
Thanks :)
Cheapest way seems it would be to build a simple steel lap guitar and then later if it takes buy a pedal guitar
Great video!
Thank you :)
I built a lap steel, I'm concerned that it's going to become limiting without some sort of levers, but I don't want a huge lap steel taking up my living room. I see that there's palm benders, they're kind of expensive, do you have any experience with them?
I don't have any experience with palm benders. They seem like an interesting novelty. My suggestion would be to approach lap steel like it's its own thing. There's definitely a sound/vibe/feeling that is different from pedal steel and that's what I would pursuit. There's also some techniques you can learn to emulate the sound of pedal steel and there's definitely a lot of crossover, but if the pedal steel sound is what you're really after you'll always be wanting. That's just my very humble 2 cents.
Slants and behind-bar-bends are your friend for faking PSG.
Having just bought my first, I think prices have come up quite a bit since this video was made.
they always go up, pedal steel is like elitist or something they only want rich cowboys buying them and the fact that they are so expensive and hard to find makes good pedal steel players harder to find. lap steels arent really worth your time if that is what you bought. its just a guitar you can only play with a slide.
Doug told me he had to increase price of The Stage One 1000.00 to about 1100 or 1200 in 91 or about there i bought a new BMI for you ready 600.00 3x5not 4 knee levers but 5 5th one a vertical one straight up with the knee not side to side
Is bmi single 10 3floor pedal 4 knee leavers any good ?
What about the dussenberg lap steel with the string benders?
I don't have any experience with these. Sounds intriguing :)
The "Duesenberg" string bender Steel Guitar is one of THE finest "laptop" steels ever built. Also very costly; $2545.62 USD, plus tax. It is built in Germany; using old era expertise, that is highest quality. There are 4 models. I suggest the "Fairytale". For it is the most gorgeous.
The guitars come with 2 or 3 benders. The standard tuning from the factory is (Lo to Hi) D A D F# A D. If you go with the 2 string bender guitar, the 2nd string will change from A to B; and the 3rd string will change from F# to G. If you go with the 3 bender guitar, the 1st string will change from E to C#.
The following link will give you a snippet of how it looks and works.
www.theguitarsanctuary.com/Duesenberg-Fairytale-Lap-Steel-in-Gold-Burst-p/8103.htm
ruclips.net/video/KyiNuBXsNBg/видео.html
Hope this helps.
It’s a shame not even Guitar Center sells Pedal Steels.
Is the carter starter junk or good? One for sale locally for $700
It’s a good instrument for getting into pedal steel. Most players tend to outgrow them in about a year or so but they are easy to resell. I bought one in 2014 for $700 and sold it to a friend for $700 and he still plays it. These days they are going for around $1000 or more. If it’s playable and in good enough shape mechanically I’d recommend buying it.
They do feel kinda cheap once you get used to playing a more professional instrument but for getting started they’re great.
@@licksandtricks6809 I’ll be putting it in my recording studio, do you think it would be worth it for that?
Shoot me an email ham@roughlynowhere.com
I’d like to get a cheap lap steel and try it out. I’d be interested in some demos/lessons about what you can do with a basic lap steel. Thanks.
thanks - I'll try and put some together :)
I bought a Rondo SX3 about 5 years ago and it's a great lap steel for the money. Stays in tune and sounds great!
@@licksandtricks6809 do it .
For fellow Europeans, the buying tip is, buy any you can find in the area because it's damn near impossible 😂. Took me two years of active searching to eventually find a project guitar that's infinitely in repair
I made it myself.
DS
Ham man!!! I didn’t know you did RUclips! Fuckin A
🤙🏻🤙🏻🤙🏻oh yeah bub :)
Trying to get into Steel Guitar , the cheap way, is the wrong way to accomplish any thing. If you buy cheap stuff, the tone will tell all & the inability to make it sound great, stacks up . If you buy your stuff right , you won't loose a lot of your investment, but tryouts aren't free.
I have a Super Sierra Prototype. its an S10, with an attachable Pad. it has 4 pedals & 5 knee Levers, with pull out P
I
.
But how do I convince my wife that this purchase is as important as I say it is?
Can't help ya there bud. I was flying solo when I got started.
That’s easy…if you are into music..write her a love song, play it, and sing it to her!! Even if you can’t write, play, or sing. Go ahead and sing any George Strait love song to her and she’ll not only let you buy it but might buy it herself and give it to you as a gift!!! Who knows..you might get more than a peddle steel if you play your cards just right.
You sound like the right person to invest in AMC & GME
I hate how expensive pedal steel is. I'm 19, have been playing guitar since I was around 12/13 and I have plenty of guitars now but the cheapest pedal steel I ever found was $1,999 and it wasn't even a high quality one. Very hard to get into pedal steel. Its almost elitist. Dont really want a lap steel because you cant bend and its awkward to use a volume pedal with one so if anybody knows of a pedal steel that doesnt cost more than $800...
SX Lap steel is better than the recording king. From what I’ve seen the recording king isn’t very good
A lap steel is a steel guitar, but it is not a pedal steel. There nothing like the cry of a pedal steel.
I ain't here for lap steel.
When you buy crap - you wind up with a collection of crap. Save your money and invest in a decent PSG.
I definitely see your point, but at the same time, my carter starter was a great entry for me and given how easy it was to resell for exactly what I paid for it, I think it can be a good route for some folks.
I agree 100%. I knew and was a friend of owners of the Carter company. And I told him without leaving anything out, "Your 'Carter Starter' is nothing but a piece of garbage".
I stand on that. The problem with a junk PSG is; it is hard enough to learn how to play the world's most musical instrument as it is; without adding to the aggravations.
Buy THE best PSG that you can find. IE: "Like-new" Sho-Buds, Emmons, Zumsteel, Mullens, Williams and Rains would do you well. I would not recommend buying any PSG that does not look like new. This video is 100% when it comes to number of pedals and knees. But, I recommend NO less than 4 pedals and 5 levers setup in the following way:
Pedal A raises he B's to C#; Pedal B raises the G#'s to A; Pedal C raises strings 4 and 5 a whole tone. Pedal "(0)" lowers the B's to A. I recommend this pedal be to the left of pedal A.
Left knee lever left raises the E's to F's; Left knee lever right lowers the E's to D#; Left knee lever vertical (UP) lowers the B's to A#; Right knee lever left raises 1 from F# to G#; raise 2 from D# to E and 6 lowers G# to F#. And lastly: Right knee lever right lowers 2 from D# to C# with a "half stop" and lowers 9 from D to C#.
These changes are fast becoming "standard" all over the world. IE: If you order a new PSG; and do not tell them your setup; the above is what you will get in most cases.
The top of the PSG is NOT the most important; the bottom is; for it has all the mechanism to make all these changes above. Insist on seeing the bottom. If it is dirty go away NO matter what the top looks like.
Remember colors and silver does NOT make music. If you want the very best, buy an "ALL pull" Emmons that looks brand new. I would not recommend a "Push-Pull". I will be hanged at dawn for saying this, but I stand on it. Price is going to be 4 grand + or -. And may Jesus guide you to the best. Praise His Holy Name.
@@MrPatdeeee I noticed you said *was* (past tense) friends with the owners of the Carter Co. I reckon this was before they heard your candid critique of their instrument (lol). If I was looking for one I'd take a copy of the info you provided here with me.
If you want to learn country pedal steel don't waste your time on a lap steel. It is nothing like a pedal steel.
Buy a pedal steel? Then talking about lap, is like having a title say buying a car then talking about a pushbike. Or a guitar and then ukulele, or gun and peashooter. Why.
It’s a lot easier to come up with $100 then it is to come up with $1100 (which is shockingly what Carter starters are going for these days- actually a friend of mine texted me recently to ask if $1900 was a good deal for a Carter starter⁉️). In my honest opinion and from my actual lived experience, considering a lap steel purchase as a way in the door is a highly relevant topic to consider as part of the process. It’s true, there is big sonic difference between lap and pedal steel guitars, but there are also some quite significant similarities. As with anything, it is helpful to consider a variety of entry points.
@@licksandtricks6809 that’s a fair point and obviously true there are similarities, the title is slightly misleading, maybe, but I know a lot of people that played lap then tried to play pedal steel and could grasp it, because they’d learnt On something with a fixed tuning, and pedal having so many changes confused them, not having a decent knowledge of theory etc, in fact two I knew gave up pedal and went back to lap steel and at times sounded incredibly good with no pedals, I had a S12 Bennet, and now am using my Dads Emmons D10 and fender 1000, but to be honest I’m a keyboard player really, and dabble with guitar and pedal, I’d always say go as expensive as you can afford, and throw yourself in the deep end because if it’s not for you, you find out a lot sooner and save a lot of wasted time, and probably be able to sell what you purchased for near the same money, and if you’re one of the lucky few that can play well, and sound in tune well you saved a lot of money in the long run, either way it’s all good, personally I only ever really rated Buddy Emmons and those that can emulate him, as I’m not a country fan, so much volume pedal and whining is a little irritating after a while a few good ones sound ok, but very few, to me. But then who am I lol. Can’t play a tenth as good. Yet lol
@@licksandtricks6809 and anyway you spending the time to create this video and put together the info is good for everyone. Good 👍 job
i disagree with you on how many knee levers a beginner needs , it depends ENTIRLEY on what kind of music you want to play , IF you are only going to play "classic " country music, all you need is the 2 knees that lower and raise the Es a steel player can play just about anything from the 50s, 60s, 70s and most of the 80s with just these two knee levers , the 4th pedal you referred to ( known as the " Franklin " pedal is almost never used by most players and yea i know there are a few players that DO use it but for the most part its a waste of money
i play nothing but classic country on a Mullen 3 & 5 ( 3 pedals with 5 knee levers ) and seldom do i ever need the right knee levers and truth be told , i forget the 5th ( vertical lever is even there !! so thats why i think someone just starting could play for a loooong time with a 3 and 2 set up THEN they are in a better position to decide if they want to invest in the extra levers and pedals , most players get suckered into buying these just because they look cool but that doesn't make you better player , all it ends up doing is slowing down a beginners progress with a lot more things to try to figure out, that for the 1st few years your not going to need anyway
Howdy bud - thanks so much for sharing your 2 cents here. Your opinion is totally valid, and like with most things, there's more than one way to approach starting out on pedal steel.
I agree there's a lot you can do with just E levers, and you could spend a long time just exploring techniques with a 3 pedal, 2 lever, set up. On the other hand, my personal experience was starting out on a carter starter with 4 levers, and I took to using them all fairly quickly. The instructional material I was using at the time was written for 4 levers, and I'm certain that if I had started with 2 levers, curiosity would have caught up with me very quickly.
I'll pin this comment at the top, so folks who are shopping for their first pedal steel can see that there are multiple ways of thinking about it.
I cannot imagine playing without my RR. So that makes a minimum three knee levers to start. But not being a cheap bastard, I could spring for the few bucks for the RL. That lever is the one that separates the men from the boys. YMMV and it's all good...
Drop the background steel sounds. It’s distracting and not needed.
Thank you for the feedback, Johann
I like it so keep it