Recording King RK-80
submitted 4/19/2009
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Submitter |
Reneker |
Where Purchased |
Fitch Banjos |
Year Purchased |
2009 |
Price Paid |
899 ($US) |
Sound
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This banjo has plenty of volume. It has a tinny sound that I do not care for. I have been able to make small improvements i the sound but not enough to my liking. My Gold Star GF-85 sounds much better |
Sound Rating |
7 |
Setup
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The action is good. Apparently the quality control at Recording King is lacking. I removed the resonator to check the torque on the bracket nuts and found that the supplied T-wrench would fit about half the nuts. The same was true when I used my other T-wrench on the RK. So, I bought a whole new set of brackets and nuts, problem solved. I replaced the Head with a Snuffy Smith and found that the tone ring was so tight I could not move it. I decided not to force it for fear of damage. Neck is too narrow from 1 to 5. |
Setup Rating |
6 |
Appearance
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The mahogany woodwork is beautiful, however the neck binding looks like cheap pure white plastic and does not match the antique tone on the peg head. To me it sticks out like a sore thumb. |
Appearance Rating |
8 |
Reliability
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I like the tuners. They are smooth but I do not believe I will be using this banjo on a gig. Just too many little inconsistencies for me. |
Reliability Rating |
7 |
Customer Service
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I wish I had received a banjo which reflects Cliff's reputation. He offered to correct any issues. Unfortunately the expenses involved in shipping do not make it worth the trouble. |
Customer Service |
8 |
Components
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Wood work is killer. It is just beautiful. The neck or the nut problem needs to be addressed. I cannot push off string 4 without sliding off the neck. The brackets and nuts are very poor quality. The bridge is low end. I wish it sounded as good as it looks. The case is of poor, cheap quality. The leather tab on the inside compartment came off within 2 days. |
Components Rating |
5 |
Overall Comments
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I would not recommend this banjo. Maybe I got a lemon but I bought it from Cliff to insure I would not get a lemon. I have a Gold Star GF-85 which is far superior. I have had the RK for several months and played it to make sure I would not submit a "knee-jerk" review. |
Overall Rating |
6 |
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Instrument Alley
submitted 5/31/2008
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Submitter |
Reneker |
Overall Comments
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Poor customer service. I hope hope things have changed since I bought from them. My order was shipped only after I called and left a message to cancel my order. |
Overall Rating |
1 |
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