#16
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My Dad gave me an old Healy and Lyon 5 string open back many years ago yet being so wrapped up in career stuff, and the guitar, that I never got to learn how to play it. Once retired I thought it would give it a go but was leery of playing that old instrument. So I looked around, checked it all out, and found a Jameson Guitars 5-String Banjo 24 Bracket, resonator for about $150. It is easy to play and for me to learn on. It is well built from my perspective with no sharp edges on the fret ends or brackets. For the first modern made banjo it will be fine until I decide if I will move up. It looks great by the way and is available at a major online retailer.
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Always remember "Fins Up" Last edited by CaptRedbeard; 09-09-2019 at 10:04 AM. |
#17
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Hey everyone, sorry for the delay in my replies. Was in the hospital with some heart problems. Will read thru all of your great advice and reply soon
Bill |
#18
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Hi Bill
I suggest the newish Gold Tone AC1 ($200) or AC1-R ($306) available from most dealers or direct at goldtonemusicgroup.com. I bought the similar AC4 four string version. I liked it so much that I bought another to play in different tuning. AC1 won best of show at the 2018 Summer NAMM. AC1 weighs only 3.75 pounds because the lovely polycarbonate (?) rim weighs less than maple and its sculpted design requires less metal hardware. My AC4s sound loud and clear as a banjo should. I got two of the Gold Tone mutes (folded brass strip that slides onto the bridge piece under the strings) for practising without annoying others in the house. The zero fret feature is much nicer than expected. The string spacing is 1 inch at the nut (the same as my Deering Good Time). The neck is sleek and easy to play. The neck has an adjustable truss rod and the sculpted heel is nice. The strings were set up perfectly. I use electric guitar gig bags instead of banjo gig bags - light weight, perfect fit, proper size pockets, accommodates a foldable music stand, and many good. choices. Cheers. |
#19
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Another supporter of the Deering Goodtime. They’re a lot of banjo for the money.
One thing to keep in mind - Banjo’s have more adjustments than a guitar and can be very sensitive to proper setup. An instrument bought online may need a setup which could wipe out any savings. Check out The Banjo Hangout. I’m a longtime member there and it’s a great resource for everything Banjo related. Good classified selection and most of the folks who frequent the site are nice people.
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Bill Guitars: 1910's Larson/Stetson 1 size guitar 1920 Martin 1-28 1987 Martin Schoenberg Soloist 2006 Froggy Bottom H-12 Deluxe 2016 Froggy Bottom L Deluxe 2021 Blazer and Henkes 000-18 H 2015 Rainsong P12 2017 Probett Rocket III 2006 Sadowsky Semi Hollow 1993 Fender Stratocaster Bass: 1993 Sadowsky NYC 5 String Mandolin: Weber Bitterroot |