I finally broke down and decided to get a tonebar for my Dobro. I've been using a glass finger tube ever since I started learning (which most people don't recommend). The tonebar changed the game! Everything sounds brighter (in a good way) than the glass tube. The string-side surface is curved like the glass tube, but the sides and top contours make it MUCH easier to hold onto- which results in fingers and thumb not accidentally slipping down and muting strings when you don't want to. It also comes in a plastic storage tube with a cap- not something that they had to do (It's a chunk of chrome-plated brass, after all), but it is a nice touch. If you're just starting out doing slide on a Dobro (or a lap steel, which this product is made for), don't repeat my mistake- get this tonebar!

Sound
I can only vouch for using this product with a Dobro, but it sounds MUCH better and stays in your hand easier than the glass tube. It actually makes me pick up the Dobro more often than I did.

Features
The best feature (other than the tone) would be the sculpted top and sides. It makes it easy to keep a hold of without muting accidentally. Plus, it's a chrome-plated hunk of brass- about 5 ounces. You can feel the quality.

Ease of Use
It sounds amazing compared to my glass tube. I ordered this at the same time I ordered the D'Addario/National brass finger pick set to replace my cheap steelies. The old… read more Dobro sounds like a totally different instrument!

Quality
Well, it's a chunk of brass coated in chrome plating. I'm not sure you could wear it out any time soon.

Value
I mean, when you consider how long a quality tone bar will last, I'd say the price is pretty darned good. It's similar in price to the strings I use for my 5-string bass guitar. I'll probably replace those strings quite a few times before I ever need to replace this tone bar.

Manufacturer Support
I've dealt with Dunlop before (on a different product). They were helpful, friendly, and promptly answered my questions.

The Wow Factor
Coming from a glass tube, the contours and the weight were what I found appealing.

Musical Background:
Drums, Bass, Dobro, Harmonica, Recording

Musical Style:
Just about anything. read less