The 1956 National Model 1033 Hawaiian Lap Steel Guitar is a striking example of mid-century craftsmanship, designed to deliver pure, resonant tone without the influence of electronics. This version reflects the original essence of Hawaiian lap steel guitars, which were crafted to project naturally warm, singing tones ideal for the traditional melodies of the genre.
Founded in the late 1920s, the National Guitar Company earned international recognition for its groundbreaking resonator guitars, which solved the volume issues faced by early acoustic musicians. Their distinct blend of Art Deco aesthetics and innovative designs made them a household name among blues, jazz, and Hawaiian players. By the 1950s, National had become equally known for its electric and acoustic lap steel guitars, with the Model 1033 serving as a prime example of their dedication to craftsmanship.
The Model 1033 stays true to the earliest traditions of Hawaiian lap steel design. With no pickup, the guitar relies on its solid body and string resonance to project sound, offering a pure, unaltered tonal character. The natural acoustic response of this instrument is ideal for home practice, recording with a microphone, or intimate acoustic performances.
The body showcases National's characteristic blend of functionality and style, featuring a clean, simple design with visually striking fretboard markers and a durable, no-nonsense build. Its solid construction ensures stability under high-tension tunings commonly used in Hawaiian, blues, and country music.
Without an electric pickup, the Model 1033 relies on the player's touch and the guitar's natural acoustic properties to shape its voice. It produces a sweet, singing tone with pronounced clarity, particularly in the mid and upper frequencies. The lack of electronics makes it an excellent option for players seeking a raw, unprocessed sound that closely mirrors the earliest Hawaiian lap steels.
Its naturally bright, focused tone is perfect for traditional Hawaiian melodies, country-style slide work, and bluesy runs. When paired with a sensitive microphone, the guitar's acoustic character shines through in recordings, delivering a warm and authentic sound reminiscent of pre-electric lap steel performances.
Features:
Country of Origin: USA
Body Material: Solid wood construction
Finish: Gloss natural finish
Neck: Integral with body
Fingerboard: Painted with markers
Pickup: None
Bridge: Fixed metal bridge with string-through design
Scale Length: Approximately 22.5 inches
Tuning Machines: Deluxe tuners
Case: OHSC
