DOBRO

Dobro is the brand name used for a family of resonator guitars that originated in the 1920s. It was created by the Dopyera brothers and marketed as Dobro (a contraction of DO-BRO, from Dopyera Brothers). The instrument is characterized by a metal resonator cone mounted beneath the top of the guitar, with a cover plate and a bridge positioned on or over the cone. The resonator amplifies the sound, producing a bright, loud, metallic tone that is distinct from ordinary acoustic guitars. In common usage, "dobro" is often used as a generic term for resonator guitars, though technically it refers to the original brand's models.

Design and varieties: The classic dobro comes in two main forms: round-neck models played in the guitar position with a slide, and square-neck models played on the lap with fingerpicks. Both types use a single resonator cone, often with a biscuit-style or similar bridge, and a metal cover plate on the top of the guitar. They can have hollow or solid bodies, and were produced in various woods and finishes.

Playing and repertoire: Dobros are noted for bright tone, strong projection, and a distinctive sustain; players commonly use slide guitar technique and open tunings (such as open G) or altered tunings. The instrument is central to bluegrass and country music, and also appears in blues, folk, and jazz contexts. Notable players include Josh Graves, Jerry Douglas, Mike Auldridge, and Rob Ickes.

Legacy and brand status: The Dobro brand was historically associated with the Dobro Manufacturing Company and later became a trademark of larger guitar manufacturers. Since the late 20th century, Gibson Guitar Corporation has owned the name and produced Dobro-branded resonator guitars alongside other lines. Today, the term is also used generically to refer to resonator guitars produced by various makers, not only those carrying the original Dobro name.