speedtheplow - Posted - 07/24/2011:  14:16:31

What do folks think about Chanterelle banjos? I'm thinking about a 12" standard with the rolled brass tone ring. Is it worth the extra bucks to get a Whyte Ladye tone ring?  

Thanks, Dave

Emiel - Posted - 07/24/2011:  14:53:04

Chanterelle banjos are highly regarded. 

"Is it worth the extra bucks to get a Whyte Ladye tone ring?" The question is if you​ like the sound of this tonering better than the brass hoop. It's about personal taste, not only about if you should pay more...

Galante_K4 - Posted - 07/24/2011:  15:02:21

If you can find one, buy it! :-)
American builders like Mike Ramsey and Bart Reiter deliver more banjo for the buck.

thombanjo - Posted - 07/24/2011:  15:33:09

Ramseys are great banjos.  So are Reiters.  I know a clawhammer teacher who buys Reiters for his students because of the consistent quality and I believe a more affordable entry level   model offered. I am not recommending one over the other, just passing along what I know.

speedtheplow - Posted - 07/24/2011:  16:39:42

Thanks. I own a Bart Reiter, and I got a chance to play one Chanterelle last month. I read that the necks on Chanterelles are wider, but I hope it's not enough to throw me off after playing my BR. Are the necks that different?

Dave

The Old Timer - Posted - 07/24/2011:  19:10:37

I've played a bunch of Ramseys, and he makes a wide variety, so you can choose the sound, look and feel you like. Let's put it this way, I'd like to own one!

frailin - Posted - 07/24/2011:  19:18:14

I visited the guy in his shop.  If I was in the market, I'd buy from him any day.  I really like his work.  

Craig

frailin - Posted - 07/24/2011:  19:18:21

I visited the guy in his shop.  If I was in the market, I'd buy from him any day.  I really like his work.  

Craig

oldwoodchuckb - Posted - 07/24/2011:  19:24:31

Mike will basically do anything you want but it will take a certain amount of time. I'm not sure how long but he has basically vanished into his workshop and no one seems to have seen him in a year or so. I'm not sure taking every order that comes in is particularly good for a man's long term health, but I do know he is still in touch with a few people so I assume he is getting in some playing time.

Instead of getting on the waiting list, I did internet searches every day for almost 2 months before I found my Ramsey Special. I was searching for the Standard, Special, or even Student - which all have the same pot and brass hoop. I bought the first one I found  - unseen, and unheard, because I knew I could sell it for more than I was paying. I can't understand how Mike can make banjos for what he charges.

Big Joe - Posted - 07/25/2011:  04:55:19

I've got a 12" special in Maple and I love it. I would certainly recommend his banjos. I love the size and feel of the neck and he only uses first class hardware. While they are not "cheap", they are an incredible value in a banjo.

frailin - Posted - 07/25/2011:  05:04:41

You can say that again!

frailin - Posted - 07/25/2011:  05:04:56

You can say that again.