[SpruceTop]

Originally Posted by frankmcr

Banjos of a given quality tend to be more expensive than guitars of the same quality.

I would strongly suggest a Goodtime, made by Deering (one of the top banjo makers) specifically as an entry-level instrument of high quality:

https://www.deeringbanjos.com/collec...oodtime-banjos

Street price circa $490.

Also, closed back models (called "resonator banjos" in the banjo world) are louder than openbacks, maybe something to consider when looking for a beginner's banjo. Resonator models are also more expensive. Go for an openback, they're 100% okay for classic country.

I second the Deering Goodtime as a good banjo to start on and it's pretty much professional-grade too.

Current Banjos:
Vega No. 2 Tubaphone
OME North Star Walnut
Eastman EBJ-WL1 Whyte Laydie
Vega 12" Old Tyme Wonder
Rickard 12" Maple Ridge Dobson
Pisgah 12" Walnut Tubaphone
Bart Reiter Regent Whyte Laydie
Deering Sierra Flathead