This 1936 National Duolian is a fantastic example of one of the most distinctive resonator guitars ever produced. Built during the height of National's pre war production, it delivers the raw, direct voice that made these instruments a favourite amongst blues, folk, and slide players throughout the 1930s and beyond.
Constructed from steel and finished in National's characteristic Duco coating, the Duolian produces a powerful and focused sound that is immediately recognisable. Notes leap from the instrument with a sharp attack and strong midrange presence, while the single cone resonator provides the metallic growl and sustain that players continue to chase nearly ninety years later. Whether played acoustically or recorded through a microphone, there is a directness and authority to a good Duolian that modern instruments rarely replicate.
This example features the later 14 fret neck design introduced during the mid 1930s, offering improved access further up the fingerboard compared to earlier 12 fret examples. The mahogany neck is paired with an ebonised maple fingerboard and has been professionally converted from its original square neck configuration to a round neck, allowing it to function as a versatile playing instrument rather than a dedicated lap style guitar. The work was carried out to a high standard in Japan and is complemented by a stainless steel refret for excellent durability and playability.
Showing honest wear consistent with its age, this Duolian retains all the character that collectors and players look for in a pre war National. Loud, responsive, and unmistakably vintage sounding, it is an instrument that continues to reward both traditional slide players and modern musicians looking for something genuinely different.
Specifications:
Year: 1936
Country: USA
Model: National Duolian
Serial Number: 4667
Finish: Original Duco Style Finish
Body: Steel
Neck: Mahogany (Professionally Converted to Round Neck)
Fingerboard: Ebonised Maple with Dot Inlays
Neck Joint: 14 Fret
Scale Length: Approx. 25"
Resonator: Single Cone
Soundholes: Twin F Holes
Frets: Stainless Steel Refret
Tuners: Vintage Style Open Gear
Case: Non Original Hard Shell Case
Crafted in: Los Angeles, California, USA
