"Best Lap Steel on the Market for the money."

Feature:
I only use D'addario strings on all my instruments and the sounds are awsome. Mine was a new purchase with no accessories. I use a stevens bar and strickler for Brass finger picks.

Quality:
Fender is very strict with quality control on this instrument, the tobacco finish is my preference and I simply wipe with a quality cleaner after each use and polish occasionally. no chips, or flaws could be found when I received it. I recommend the Elderly Music Gig Bag designed for the Gretsch lap steel and it affords desired protection at a reasonable price.

Value:
I personally would have expected a larger price tag than the under 350 dollars from most dealers.

Desirability:
Everything about it from sounds to looks are nostalgia and I have received many inquiries about it being an actual vintage instrument. Most people think it is vintage with all the styling and chrome trim.

Sound:
Sound is reminiscent of bygone years. AWSOME ! The quality is crisp and clear and flows smoothly. Very little slide noise. It is a performer all alone or great supplement to a group. I use a finger ease spray string lubricant and the action is fast and smooth. First Rate in my book for the cost.

Ease of Use:
As with any string instrument there is a learning curve. But whether you read music or play by ear, the sound and quality is there. I have been playing for over 20 years and although certainly it is not a pedal steel, it is a great little insrument producing stand alone solo entertainment or with a group. It is easy for me to find chords on the Gretsch by playing by ear. practice, practice practice for Any string instrument.

Support:
I have only delt with Fender concerning replacement strings recommended by the manufacturer. Other than that, I have not had any issues in the first year I have owned this particular one. I use the manufacturer web site and have had good results. Mine is "stock" right out of the box. I seen no need for upgrades for occasional professional playing or just for my own enterntainment.

Overall:
If I were to replace this one...I would most certainly buy another Gretsch exactly like this one. No need to change brands or look any farther. It does everything I bought it for and more.