square neck vs round neck resonators

[henry]

.. is there an advantage to a square neck resonator? It seems like you lose the ability to play it like a normal guitar if it's got a square neck.. but is it tonally superior? or would it allow higher string gauges? or a higher action..?

Henry

[Zumbilly(Murdoch)]

Henry
With the correct string gauges and tuned to an open "G" a square neck is needed due to the strain .
Billy

[henry]

thanks Billy

[Donny Johnston]

Henry, I don't know the answer to your question but, I have had a round neck Dobro since 1979 tuned to an open G with no ill effects.

[JeffM]

I've had a round neck Dobro tuned to A6 for the last 10 years or so with no problems.

[Zumbilly(Murdoch)]

If You intend playing dobro in a seated position I guess a round neck would be ok but if You need to stand with a strap attatched to the headstock then I doubt if it would be a good idea.
Billy

[henry]

thank you everyone for very informative posts.

string spacing and contours were not things I'd considered.
I think i'm gonna go for a square neck when I eventually get round to it.