Deering Goodtime 2 Opinions ?

[littlewing6283]

Hello,

Ive decided to take on trying to learn banjo. Did some research sounds like the Goodtime 2 is right for me. Quality seems to be nice. It was between that and a recording king rk20. Ive never tried to learn banjo.

Any thoughts or opinions on this particular banjo ?

Im mainly interested in learning some Avett brothers covers but I assume once I dive into the instrument it will open me up to an entirely new world of music to get to know.

[Dan Carey]

Deering. I just sold a Gold Tone nd replaced it with a Deering Goodtime.
There is no comparison. And if you want a resonator installed later, it's a piece of cake to install one.

New:


After a short while, I installed the resonator:


The Gold Tone (left) and My Dean (right)


The Deering beats 'em both!

[littlewing6283]

Thanks for the input Dan. I actually ordered the one with a resonator already so im pretty excited.

also nervous as im not sure ill be able to learn. Havnt tried to learn a new instrument in a long time.

[roylor4]

Originally Posted by littlewing6283

Thanks for the input Dan. I actually ordered the one with a resonator already so im pretty excited.

also nervous as im not sure ill be able to learn. Havnt tried to learn a new instrument in a long time.

My wife and I play as a duo and she has a Goodtime 2 as well as a Goldtone open back. They are both fine instruments for the money. Sturdy, well made and good players.

I don't think you could go wrong with a Deering, honestly.

As for difficulty learning - it's open tuned and easy to play. I don't know any banjo chords but can pick hers up and play 1-4-5 blues easily. I don't think you will have any problems.

Congrats on the new banjo - I'm sure you will enjoy it.

Roy

[cu4life7]

I was in your boat exactly, wanted to play some avetts stuff and went with the deering goodtime open back. I could not be happier!!! This banjo is a fantastic deal and there are even pros who keep a goodtime on a stand at home because of the great tone and carefree use. I have no plans to upgade. Deering makes a phenomenal product.

[Dan Carey]

Some folks also play 'em professionally:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgVoA4wYYE0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQJsINyDb9s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CeMZybhmBgg

[BoneDigger]

The Goodtime is a very nice banjo. It has great tone for a pretty good price. Also, they are very easy to play if setup well. I own two Recording King banjos and a Deering. They are all very nice. The Deering and RK banjos generally compare very well and you would be fine with either. But, I think you did very well to get the Deering. Now go have some fun learning to play it.

Todd

[catdaddy]

Love my Deering Goodtime 2 banjo. Fine instrument. Congrats and enjoy!

[littlewing6283]

update recvd it. It played fine but I think I got sent a demo model. There was scratches in the chrome and a chip on the neck. lots of people on the banjo forum jumped on my back about how its a cheaper banjo and live with it. When I pay for new I want new. The vendor luckily is exchanging it with no issues.

[BoneDigger]

Originally Posted by littlewing6283

update recvd it. It played fine but I think I got sent a demo model. There was scratches in the chrome and a chip on the neck. lots of people on the banjo forum jumped on my back about how its a cheaper banjo and live with it. When I pay for new I want new. The vendor luckily is exchanging it with no issues.

The Goodtime 2 is not a "cheaper" banjo. These things sell for over $500. I would certainly ask for a new one if it was me!

Todd

[Hotraman]

I started teaching 5 string banjo when I saw a demand for it.
The Deering is a great banjo to learn on.

I would suggest getting a few instruction books.
I use Alfreds Teach Yourself to play Banjo.
It introduces rhythm and strum/ patterns early into the book.
Fingerpicks come later.

I love teaching and playing banjo, especially in a " folk / rock / americana " style outside of bluegrass / clawhammer.

Have fun!