Steel guitars are a type of musical instrument that produce sound through the vibration of strings, similar to traditional guitars. However, they are played horizontally, often resting on the player's lap or on a stand. The sound is enhanced using a metal slide, which allows for smooth glissandos and unique pitch variations. Steel guitars are commonly associated with genres like country music and Hawaiian music. There are two main types of steel guitars: the lap steel guitar and the pedal steel guitar. The lap steel is simpler, while the pedal steel features foot pedals and knee levers that allow for more complex note changes. Both types are celebrated for their distinctive sound and versatility in various musical styles.