In 1927, the National String Instrument Company began producing the first resonator instruments. Over the years, the National brand became so synonymous with resonators that many blues players who prefer their unique sound simply refer to any resonator as a "national guitar." Intended to offer players a louder voice, the innovative resonator produces an interesting, warm sound that you won't get from anything else. But did you know National's resonator concept extended much further than just the guitar!?
Going back to 1928, National built mandolins with single-cone resonator in the same style as their six-string guitars. While these resophonic mandolins were discontinued after the '30s, they produce a powerful, throaty sound that you can only get from a resonator. It's fun to explore this timbre with the mandolin vocabulary.
This National Triolian dates to 1933. It features a metal body with a single-cone biscuit resonator. The original grey crystal finish is worn and patina-ed in just the perfect way. This authentic piece of americana is just a piece of folk art; this is a playable, functional mandolin with a unique, metallic resonator sound. It would be an excellent songwriter's instrument, and because of the authentic Americana style, this mandolin would be a fun piece to show off and hang on the wall. This 1933 captures the vibe and character of yesteryear, and its unique sound will inspire new ideas, songs, and stories.
This 1933 National Triolian is in very nice cosmetic condition for its age. The finish shows some wear around the playing area, and it is fairly worn on the edge where your arm goes across. The coverplate is slightly notched on the bass side of the biscuit, likely so the strings wouldn't buzz against it (see photos). The action runs a bit on the higher side, but it's still a really fun instrument to play. And what a cool wall hanger! This 1933 National Triolin includes a modern gig bag.