Rover RB-30 Open Back
submitted 1/15/2010
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Submitter |
Grumpy1 |
Where Purchased |
Bryans Music |
Year Purchased |
12/09 |
Price Paid |
164 ($US) |
Sound
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Although I owned a banjo in the past (15 yrs ago) I consider myself a novice. I bought it as a learner due to price/quality and it sounds just fine to me. It is brighter sounding than my last one (Iida) which was more mellow. I transfer my guitar finger picking so I'm doing 3 finger folk/country, more or less. I'm happy with the bright, cheerful sound.
UPDATE: I recently added an off the shelf resonator and new strings. I was amazed at the instant increase in volume. Others have noted how much more projection it now has. I have done a few Rest Home gigs and it was well heard by all and came in much louder than vocal and guitar where I got a few calls of "louder" please. (solo act) With the resonator the aluminum pot, which was quite bright, now has added depth and tone. |
Sound Rating |
9 |
Setup
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I bought this unit at a special price because the plating has some small flaking on the ring. It was shipped from Saga's SF warehouse and the bridge did not accompany it. Packaging was adequate and it arrived in good shape. Bryan followed up diligently and made sure they sent a bridge. They sent 2 actually. Set up was OK. I only knew what I've read here so I adjusted the neck slightly to level the action, installed the bridge, tuned it and started playing. The tuning pegs kept slipping until I realized the little screws were a tad loose. Tightened them and everything has been fine since. I may discover it needs adjustment after I learn more but I'm quite satisfied. |
Setup Rating |
7 |
Appearance
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I was pleasantly surprised at the quality apearance for the price. The aluminum pot gives it a different look and probably contributes to the bright sound. The neck is well finished and no rough edges. Finish is consistent and smooth. As my guitar has a custom neck due to my small hands I was pleased that the neck can be played fast and I don't have a reach problem. At least fast for me (not saying much). Fret markings are clear and smoothly finsished. The Rover name is stylized on the head and gives a nice touch. |
Appearance Rating |
9 |
Reliability
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I think this unit is a haul around player. It appears sturdy and the neck finish is comparable to better units I've seen. I play it daily trying to assimilate technique. Slow going! - GRIN - Time will tell how it holds up. If I ever achieve gig quality playing I would not feel too outclassed. However I can't yet speak to it's volume in a group of instruments. |
Reliability Rating |
not rated |
Customer Service
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I've only dealt with Bryan and I will say that he followed up diligently on my questions and called instead of relying on e-mail. Several times in fact. He also is sending me a gig bag as it was offered in the ad, although it might have been outdated by the time I placed my order. In all contacts he was courteous and knowledgeable. I would certainly not hesitate to deal with him in the future. No contact with the factory. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
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My banjo knowledge is limited but I've done a bit of guitar work. The tuning pegs must have been upgraded since the last reviewers purchase as mine were decent quality units. Don't know the make. Unlike the last reviewer I did not experience a problem with the other strings I used. Knowing I would probably break a few I bought a couple spare sets of MasterCraft light bluegrass strings. Sure enough I had to replace the 1st and 5th due to my tuning ineptitude. They work fine and truthfully might sound just a tad better than the supplied ones. I don't know why the head retainer ring is flaking but I suspect a bad plating job. As of yet I've not noticed any other parts defects. Think I know someone who will replate if it gets to bad but not worried about it. |
Components Rating |
9 |
Overall Comments
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Considering the price I am very satisfied. The neck finish work is comparable to my older Iida. I think it is going to hold up fine although I will most likely get a resonator unit as I (hopefully) improve. I would not hesitate to buy another at this point if lost. It's a little better than I expected it would be. |
Overall Rating |
10 |
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