vandyfan - Posted - 09/20/2009:  15:12:18

I am looking to buy a banjo to start on. I would like to keep it under $350 for my first banjo. I have been looking at the mastercraft all mahogany and mastercraft all maple. Which should I consider and also if you guys have any suggestions on other brands please let me know. Thanks.

1four5 - Posted - 09/20/2009:  15:14:23

Add $50 and get the Goodtime II in the classifieds here.(if it's still there)

Dean

mountiepicker - Posted - 09/20/2009:  15:22:15

You will get many opinions with a ton of different options. There are great beginner banjos out there. Since I am still a beginner I will share what I started with. The Deering Goodtime II is a great instrument. Very user friendly. Very quality at a great price used or new. There are many banjos you can get to start that will lead you to success. My vote is for Deering. Just my opinion.

Jason

Bill Rogers - Posted - 09/20/2009:  15:28:48

All banjos are not created equal--even at the lower end of prices. The Goodtime II suggestions above are excellent, and I concur. We are all assuming that you want to play bluegrass. If not, then let us know and wait for revised suggestions.

Bill

mtnpckr - Posted - 09/20/2009:  18:00:16

I've owned both the Goodtime 2 and the Mastercraft Classic Mahogany, and while they are both good beginner banjos, in my opinion the mastercraft had better volume and tone. The mastercraft has a fingerboard, inlays and looked and felt more like I wanted in a banjo. Either will probably require some set up or at least a good tweaking.
I would also look hard at the Recording King RK20 songster, while i haven't owned one, i have been impressed with the few I have heard and everyone seems to give them high reviews.
Either way, good luck and welcome to the hangout.

"Never take yourself seriously, others are always ready to do it for you"

vandyfan - Posted - 09/20/2009:  19:10:43

yes I plan on playing bluegrass. I appreciate all the opinions. I am keeping an open mind to all... so lets keep the opinions coming.