Rob MacKillop - Posted - 07/09/2014:  09:56:48

I see Deering are bringing out a six-string, guitar tuning, banjo in their Goodtime series. It looks good to me. I like the tailpiece and the bridge plate. And it is strung with classical guitar strings. Interesting:

deeringbanjos.com/pages/solana...d3b085311

Edited by - Rob MacKillop on 07/09/2014 09:58:40

wheredidmattgo - Posted - 07/09/2014:  19:02:27

That sounds very interesting, I'd love to try one out.

Explorer - Posted - 07/09/2014:  21:29:23

I find that bidge plate to be interesting. It makes me want to experiment with thin veneer to see what kind of changes it makes on banjo tone.

Tom Hanway - Posted - 07/10/2014:  03:22:26

Good spot Rob. Deering is such an innovative company.  They think of things that people want and need, for starters. This looks great.  I love the bridge plate, especially if it reduces feedback while producing clear tones with good sustain. And nylon strings, way cool.  Very enticing!  

Warmest regards ~ Tom

Rob MacKillop - Posted - 07/10/2014:  03:38:54

Cheers, Tom. I have an order in for one, and might review it later. 

Rick McKeon - Posted - 07/10/2014:  16:29:42

Beautiful instrument! If I had money I would definitely get one. I bet guitar rags would sound great.

Rick

zac987 - Posted - 07/12/2014:  11:51:27

I'd prefer a Goodtime Longneck before this....but interesting concept. I'm not sure if it'll catch on, though.

Banjo Studio - Posted - 07/14/2014:  10:17:52

We have some on order.  Let us know if you're interested or have any questions.  You can place your order for one here: banjostudio.com/products/deeri...ing-banjo

Joel Hooks - Posted - 07/14/2014:  18:40:52

So, it is a guitar neck banjo?

Interesting that they cite an expired patent that seems to be the exact same thing-- a "bridge plate."

google.com/patents/US786625?dq

For those who know this stuff better than I, can one just re-file on expired patients and claim them as new and their own?

wheredidmattgo - Posted - 07/15/2014:  13:06:20

I like the wording on that patent, thanks for the link Joel.

Janet Deering - Posted - 07/18/2014:  07:44:35

No, one cannot site old patents and claim them as their own. We sited that as a different idea not to be confused with what we patented. What came up on Google is strange in the spelling and grammar and clearly not a bridge "plate". The difference is why the patent office issued us a patent on our invention. It would have been dismissed otherwise. It works amazingly well to bring out an authentic earthy sound from the Solana 6 banjo. I look forward to your experiences when you get to play one.