Banjo Hangout - Shopping Advice Forum Feed

CD for Earl Scruggs Book

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:23:00 CST

I have the Earl Scruggs book that I bought new and no cd came with it, was just wondering if any of you have the cd that you would be willing to part with or if you might know where I can get a copy any help is greatly appreicated. thanks

Why does the Huber website not answer?

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:58:09 CST

I sent an e-mail three days ago. I called and left a message. No answers. My order was taken electronically I think but the new HR-30 tone ring wasn't listed on the website. [?]

Beginner Banjo Recommendations

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:13:15 CST

Hi there, A friend of mine is buying a banjo for her boyfriend, who's never played the banjo before. (It's a complete surprise.) She asked me for recommendations, but the two good beginner banjos I know of (the Deering Good Time and the Gold Tone CC100R) are out of her price range. Instead, she's looking for something around $150. I don't really have any knowledge about cheaper banjos, and I don't want to tell her to get anything junky. (The cheap ones at music stores I've seen can be pretty bad.) He likes bluegrass, but I don't think he necessarily needs a resonator banjo. Is it possible to get a decent beginner banjo at that price? She started looking on craigslist, and found these two brands: "Aria" and "Guardian Angel". I had never heard of them. Would anyone recommend them? Also, she found this one online herself. Does anyone know if it's decent? http://www.music123.com/Rogue-Learn-the-Banjo-Starter-Pack-511197-i1146749.Music123#reviews If anyone has any recommendations I'd really appreciate it. thanks a lot, Mike

Savannah Travel Banjo

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 06:22:27 CST

I can get one of these for £129 or around $200 in your funny money[:p] Is it worthwhile for a total beginner? Thanks

Thinking about an RB-75, need help

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:17:03 CST

Okay, I have been out of the banjo loop for about 10 years and haven't played for that long as well. Pulled out my old banjo (stelling) and it is now to heavy for my aged back. I want to find a lighter banjo with as much quality. I'm not familiar with all the new banjos out now, but the RB-75, Crowe RB-75, and the Blackjack all looked interesting. It seems there are several RB-75 models. What are the differences between all of them and most importantly would they be a banjo you would want to hold onto for along time. The Stelling 1988 Gospel, sounds great ,but I have to ask the whole family to help bring it to me. Any advise on the RB-75 types?

Git-jo availability

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:03:11 CST

Hey everyone, It seems that there are a lot of Banjitars for sale, (I define a Banjitars as a guitar neck on a banjo resonator), but very few Git-jos (a banjo neck with a guitar body) for sale. In fact, I could only find one git-jo. http://www.cbguitars.com/git-jo.htm I think it would be really cool to be able to get a totally different sound while not having to learn anything new. However, the one on this website costs 2900$ for the basic model. Does anyone know of any Git-jos for sale for a little cheaper? Thanks for your time everyone. Paul

Now taking UKE orders

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:22:49 CST

We are now taking orders for our new line of Uke Banjos. Please see the link below for more information. www.melrosemusicsupply.com

Beginner banjo recommendations?

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:53:42 CST

My 11-year-old wants a banjo for Christmas. I'm a guitar man myself and know nothing about banjos. Any recommendations for a reasonably-priced starter instrument? Thanks.

Epiphone MB-100

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:33:36 CST

For a while now, I've been wanting to learn to play the banjo, and recently I've started doing some searching to figure out exactly how much I should be looking to spend. Mind you I don't want to spend a lot on a hobby that I have no intention of taking past something to do when I feel like relaxing. At the same time however I don't want to just waste my money on a cheap piece of garbage that will ruin the experience for me. But anyway after searching different websites for a while, I have come to the conclusion that the mb 100 is the cheapest one, and according to the the reviews I have been able to find, it's a good first banjo. Would you guys actually recommend this to someone who has never played a banjo before, or should I think about saving a bit longer to get something different? Also with every review I read, it said something to the extent of you need to get the bridge lowered. Is this something that I could do or learn to do myself or would I have to pay a professional to do this? And last question, I've read several reviews that complain about it being too quiet; is this really going to be a problem if I'm just going to be playing for fun?

Round Mountain Sounds

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:47:35 CST

I don't do this very often but Round Mountain Sounds in Conway, Arkansas now carries Arkansas banjos. They are great people to work with and Paula Finch will go out of her way to make you a happy customer. They also take credit cards. Here is their website address. http://www.roundmountainsounds.com/Home/tabid/944/List/0/Default.aspx Thanks, Joe

Which Béla Fleck tab book?

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:35:14 CST

While I'm in the States next month I want to pick up a book of Béla Fleck tabs for my Russian banjo pickin' friend Nikita. The guy's been playing for barely 2 years and you should hear him tear up "Eager and Anxious". He's really into Béla's music and I'd like to know what y'all would recommend I pick up for him. I might even pick up more than one. Thanks!

epiphone mb 200 opinions?

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:02:58 CST

anyone with experience of these care to comment?

Best Book/DVD, etc. for ABSOLUTE(!) beginner

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:46:34 CST

Hello, Like the title says, is there a publication that is generally regarded as the best for total beginners? I have very little music theory knowledge and the only instrument I play is the drums (not very well either). I want to get a banjo and haven't yet decided between tenor or 5-string but it would be helpful to know what is well regarded Thanks a lot, Grantus

How not to do an ebay listing

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:12:34 CST

This seller has a few things to learn... http://cgi.ebay.com/fender-taylor-gipson-bluegrass-ovation-banjo_W0QQitemZ290371873429QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item439b832a95

How's your BlueChip holding up?

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:16:58 CST

I thought it might be time for a BlueChip thumbpick check in. I've been playing mine for 6 months now several hours each day and find no wear or any other problems. AND, in spite of some close calls, I haven't lost it or had it stepped on yet. How's yours doing?

70s epiphone 5 string flattop

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:08:42 CST

I saw one locally here for sale and wanted ya'lls thoughts.anyone ever owned one of these? made in japan...hows the hardware,tonering? are they desirable or collectable? I know a lot of the Japanese banjos can be purdy good ones for what they are. Just wondering if anyone would have any info thanks

Gibson Epiphone Masterbuilt Banjo

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:44:11 CST

I'm looking at a Gibson Epiphone banjo for sale locally. Does anybody know how I identify what model it is? 250? 500? other? If it is a Mb500 what price range is fair? It's in excellent shape. (Another beginner gave up too soon.) Thanks.

Gibson

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:32:41 CST

After reading a few threads it looks like Gibson is sinking further in to the ocean. With the possibility of Gibson going out of business who will be in line to take the place of the big dawg? Deering, Stelling, Huber, Neat, Arthur, Bishline, Kel Kroydon, RK, Yates to name a few. Who's the most likely candidate.

Consumer Reports for Banjos?

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:58:35 CST

Are there any resources available that would be similar to a Consumer Reports buying guide for musical instruments? I have been through the review section on the BHO which has been extremenly helpful.

Question for any ebay buyers

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 07:56:39 CST

I've been buying on ebay ever since it began, and have always had a love-hate relationship with it. One thing I dislike is the anonymous bidder i.d.'s, which IMO is ebay's way of allowing shill bidding so ebay can make more money. My question is, if you are interested in an item, and the high bidder has 0 or 1 bid history, do you suspect shill bidding and does this prevent you from bidding? I generally don't bid on such auctions unless I am convinced that the going price is fair and the item is something I really, really want. Mary "Do not pray for an easy life. Pray to be stronger. Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks." - Fr. Solanus Casey

tranjo pricing

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:08:00 CST

I've been looking at the tranjo's It seems that gold tone is carrying a korean made model to sell at a lower price. however the tranjo website's price is $720.00 and gold tone's price is: 719.00 Hardly seems worth it for $1.00 Also, was wondering if anybody has tried the new economical version coming in at $350.00 was wondering what the sound is like on it.. thanks. K.

Any holiday deals on Banjos?

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:45:54 CST

Now that I am committed to getting into the banjo, I am only waiting on the holidays to arrive to give my wife an excuse to throw that kind of money my way. I was curious, with so many who have seen the holidays come and go you could tell me, could I expect any holiday specials from online Banjo dealers? Something like a Christmas special or Black Friday deal? Since I didn't win the sweet Sullivan in the drawing, my plan was to get the Gold Tone CC-100R+ and hard case. The best overall deal I found was through banjoteacher.com, but that was going to put me somewhere around $560+. Ideally I would like to see that number at or below $500. Now, if some really holiday special on a different banjo of comparable capability, I might take that course. The Mrs and I will be anxiously awaiting your posts.

buyin an electric tenor?

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:59:55 CST

I've been playin tenor banjo for just short of 2 years, I play in a folk-punk band so it gets played harder and louder than usual. What with chaotic onstage antics n whatnot i've already had to replace everything but the resonator and neck but even they're in a state. I use a k and k twin banjo pickup through a pretty good DI box with good leads and I still get feedback. I'm looking to get something a little more sturdy that's going to be able to cope with the music and venue's we play. Any suggestion's for electric tenor banjo's that won't break the bank? Thanks, Caitlin. www.theroughneckriot.com

Elliott vs BMF Capo

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:06:17 CST

Does anyone know the difference in a BMF and Elliott capo. Both are push button release. I have a couple Elliott capos, but was just wondering the difference

Made in the USA

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 12:00:02 CST

Ok... I'm looking to buy a complete set of hardware for a banjo project. I want to buy parts that are Made in the USA. I need some advice... I'm not writing this to stir up anything. I just am struggling with my decision and want to know of any experience with any of the sellers' quality. What are the pros and cons of Huber's parts vs American Made Banjo parts vs Cox parts? All are Made in the USA. Price isn't the issue here... I really would just like some opinions on quality... based on experience not on heresay. Any help is appreciated!!!! Kevin

Follow up Buying a Banjo in USA

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:25:24 CST

As i said in my last post, i might be buying a Jo whilst in the USA. We will be staying in a town called Griffin in Georgia, and will be traveling around that area. Can any of you kind Folks accross the Pond tell me where to look for a good used Jo in that area ie/ Music shops etc. Thanks very much for all the replies on the first post. It was very helpfull.

tone ring

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 06:31:07 CST

What is a prototype tone ring? Does it mean its not good for market yet? Maurice Minger

Getting a Banjo in USA

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 06:17:40 CST

Hi All, I dont know if this is the right Forum to post this topic, but any help would be appreciated. I am going to the USA for my Brother in laws wedding, if i see a Banjo i fancy i might buy it. Can anybody tell me are you allowed to carry on the Aircraft ie, as hand luggage a Banjo. I dont want to check it in the hold because it will be in a soft case and might get damaged. I have been on the Delta site and they say that Guitars, and Violins etc may be carried on. Also what would be the Customs situation if its a 2nd hand Jo thats been given to me by a member of the Family ?[:)]

Kat Eyz Bridge - McCormick hard wood maple

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:50:30 CST

My buddy Mike Smith, founder of Kat Eyz Bridges, came over tonight and we're working on some sound clips of his Cougar, Bengal, and Jaguar banjo models for sale. Very nice banjos!! These clips are for his new website that is under construction. After we completed the recordings, we started looking at his bridges, and I told him I was looking for something a little brighter than what I had on my banjo, but not too bright. Mike explained that the gram weight was a key factor in tone, whilst working with a good hardwood maple. Mike has acquired some great old hardwood maple, he calls McCormick wood. I'm going to let the banjo set up a few days while the tone settles in. But already, Mike was able to deliver exactly what I wanted. This bridge is the original version with the Kat Eyz design; of course he also also makes the Prowler bridge, a more traditional looking bridge, with the same old wood. These are top o' the line bridges, folks. Mike has all sizes, combinations and styles available. He also logs each bridge info (top and bottom width, gram weight, spacing, height, type of wood, type of ebony, etc...) so that if anyone wants the same bridge made Mike can duplicate the same bridge again. Thanks, Mike for the opportunity to work with you, and I look forward to using your products in the future. Doug Knecht For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You. Psalm 86:5

Inexpensive quality banjo?

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:01:06 CST

I'm thinking of upgrading. However, prices range from reasonable to astronomic. I have yet to win the lotto so my funds are limited. Many suggest that you get what you pay for but I have to think that there are manufacturers who can assemble a reasonably priced good quality instrument (5 string resonator) that rivals the tone, sustain, etc. of the high priced banos. Or, is this a pipe dream? Does anyone know of any companies that make a good quality instrument for a reasonable price?

New Huber Ring /34 tb 1

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:05:14 CST

I just got my old gibson tb 1 back from Huber with the new ring in it. Oh my.I never played a banjo this great.I mean it has everything I've ever dreamed of having in a banjo. I've played some old flatheads but I don't think mine would have to take a back seat to any of em. I'm so excited.This thing is a hoss. Deer Creek Boys http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSB_KUkb3-4

Helix: Discussion

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:25:11 CST

this is a strange new material, spooky, loud, proud and lightweight. Please give your advice about specs and price. Value emerges in a depressed market: www.helixbanjos.com Helix Jackrabbit @ $499 is made from high pressure VERTICAL 50-year bamboo flooring, very springy acoustic qualities. Weighs just 5 pounds with the tone ring.. specs: 18 brackets Helix rim/ 3 piece Helix neck of bamboo, laminated solid peghead and heel design. Helix tone ring and tension hoop. Ren head, Gold Tone hardware/entry planetaries. The neck has a Rosewood fretboard, Walnut top/back/heel caps. Bamboo headstock inlay. Helix headstock. spikes @ 7 & 9. Bamboo Longneck for $49 extra. That's a Helix Antelope Jack, backwards truss rod, solid peghead and heel. $50 shipping case required, 50% buyback on the case. Refund of shipping overages, reimbursement of overnight letter, return policy. I am a new custom builder, I've been on the hangout for 3 years, 2 years with my trademark. I have 36 rims in 36 months being played. The idea for the bamboo rim came from different hangout members, Xnavyguy, Roll Player who used bamboo bridges, tank772, and way leads unto way. Bamboo is structurally sound, acoustic, renewable, GREEN and lightweight.. Made in Arizona. The Banjo Hangout.org has helped me immensely, I have met the greatest and best people here. Real culture aided by electronics. I am very grateful and very supportive. Thank you Eric, and all others involved. [img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/medium/14222-1591972852009.jpg[/img] [img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/small/14222-17244282009.jpg[/img][img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/small/14222-33241327102009.jpg[/img][img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/small/14222-43641327102009.jpg[/img][img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/small/14222-53941327102009.jpg[/img][img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/small/14222-121121327102009.jpg[/img][img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/small/14222-224121327102009.jpg[/img] [img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/small/14222-15629175112009.jpg[/img][img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/small/14222-154401427102009.jpg[/img] "Chance the Banjo" of the FUZZY BOTTOM BOYS taking a break after chasing a Helix Jackrabbit [img]http://www.banjohangout.ws/banjohangout.org/storage/photos/small/14222-13849161582009.jpg[/img] http://www.helixbanjos.com (_)===='===::}

mike seeger

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:30:48 CST

the southern banjo styles dvds are really good. i mean, that cd's almost a textbook as it is, and it covers a bunch of different styles.

John Hartford and Mike Seeger videos

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:24:51 CST

I wonder if anybody could tell if those videos are good, from the info on Homespun, what I know of the artists, and my experience with Homespun material, they should be. The Banjo According to John Hartford Southern Banjo Styles with Mike Seeger The reason I ask is that I have a huge pile of instructional dvds, and have decided that I really only should buy more only if they are VERY interesting and inspiring!

New Banjo - Brand / Model?

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:48:23 CST

My wife bought her first banjo (Goodtime) from the Deering display at the Walnut Valley Festival, Winfield KS last summer. She practices about ten hours a week and is taking lessons (bluegrass). I have every reason to think she will keep with it. She is an accomplished hammer dulcimer player and plays at mandolin and piano. I would like to get her a better banjo. I play guitar and have Martin, Taylor, Fender and Rickenbacker's and feel she would benefit from an upgrade. We have been checking out Deering, Stelling and Huber banjos but I am overwhelmed by the large number of models, levels of ornamentation and claims of tonal superiority by all the manufactures. What would be a top three makers you would suggest we consider and what models should we look at? Her musical taste varies from fiddle tunes to more modern country and now bluegrass. I know this is very subjective but we are new enough at this to benefit from the variety of answers I expect. Corky

Value of prewar archtop tone ring

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:11:46 CST

I have a very fine parts banjo with a 40-hole Gibson archtop ring from a prewar Granada. But I'm thinking of converting it to a flat top and selling the ring. I'd appreciate any input on what such a ring might be worth. Thanks.

Family Circle

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:25:32 CST

Anyone looking for some new bluegrass might want to consiider Famil Circle by The Del Mc Coury Band. It is great new cd.....GREAT....I cant stop playing it. "Obsession is a great subsitute for talent" Steve Martin www.myspace.com/rwkuta

Hondo vs Combo Banjo

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:14:17 CST

I'm looking for a beginner banjo to purchase for my son. I've found two banjos on Craigslist. A Combo Banjo for $100 and a Hondo Banjo for $125. Does anyone have any thoughts/advice on either of these brands? Thank you. Thank you to everyone who has replied so far. I've done some more research since my first post and have some more info on the "Combo Banjo". It is actually a TRTB1 Trinity River tenor banjo. That explains why no one knows what a Combo is, and why I couldn't find anything on a Combo Banjo. Thanks, again, for all of the responses.

Need a Gibson expert -- Crowe/75, Scruggs, Granada

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:04:43 CST

Hello Everyone, Could some of you longtime Gibson experts please advise on what the difference(s) in sound are between Gibson's premier models: 1) the JD Crowe/RB75, 2) the Earl Scruggs, and 3) the Granada (assuming as sold from Gibson new and they're all made out of the same wood)? I know that the JD Crowe/RB75/Blackjack models all have the RB-75 tone ring and the other two have the Kulesh tone ring. But they are all advertised as having "that pre-war sound" of course. But what really are the differences in how they sound compared to each other? Thanks. Rockyjo

Birch Vintage Elite "Z" Bridge by Desert Rose

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 07:33:58 CST

Has anyone tried the "Birch" Vintage Elite Z bridge by Desert Rose, I already use the maple Vintage Elite which I find superb, I'm just curious to the tone / volume comparison I could expect.... Owen. http://www.banjohollow.ic24.net/index.htm "A banker is a fellow who lends you his umbrella when the sun is shining, but wants it back the minute it begins to rain." -Mark Twain

Presto tailpiece evaluation

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 07:25:43 CST

I need a couple of Prestos and will order soon. Is there a difference in the Presto I would get from FQMS or Janet Davis? Does Prucha make these for both retailers? Does anyone have a recommendation of one over the other? I want to get the best ones available. Thanks for the input. John Lewis

Open backed banjo for Scruggs-style?

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:05:45 CST

Hi guys I've been playing for a while using a fairly traditional resonator 5 string banjo. It's not an awfully good one (poor action, no geared 5th, etc) and I want something slightly nicer. Eventually, if I think I deserve it, I'm going to treat myself to something really lovely, but until I do, I want a good practice instrument. Given that I live in a flat (what you leftpondians would call an apartment) in London, I want to keep the volume down. This being the case, I don't really see why I need a resonator banjo for practice. I'm learning Scruggs-style playing, but would an open-back be suitable? I'm thinking I can get a better instrument for my money if it's not so complicated and as long as I ask for it to be set up for Scruggs rather than frailing, I should be okay. I was thinking about this instrument - what do you think? http://www.andybanjo.com/cgi-bin/trolleyed_public.cgi?action=showprod_RB175OZ2

Onboard Korg tuner

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 20:40:42 CST

I've seen those cool little Korg tuners that are oval and can be mounted to the hooks on the banjo. I can't seem to find anyone who sells them. I've seen ones that clip onto the head but not the kind that can be mounted. Does anyone know who sells them? I've checked FQM and JDMC. Brian

Dam Bridge

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 19:55:23 CST

Hi All, If anyone has followed the Bridges that xnavyguy has been building, and would like to try one, I have been making some of the ones he and some of his friends came up with, called the Dam Spillway Bridge. I was really surprised at how these bridges improved the sound of my banjos. I am not making them with the vertical grain design that Jerry came up with, but making them out of Red Oak, with the traditional cross grain, with no cap on them. They have a design that transfers the sound straight down to the head, from each string, and I think that is what makes your banjo sound so good. If you want to try something different, and maybe better, give one a try. I have a play it, and if you like it, pay me deal. If you don't like it, don't pay. Can you get a better deal than that? Check out my ad in the classified section. Thanks, stringbean45

Wanted: Tailpiece for banjo-mandolin

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 18:33:16 CST

I'm searching for a suitable tailpiece replacement for a 1900s Favilla Bros Banjo-Mandolin. If anyone has something that will fit the bill (a one point drilling unit) please get in touch.

Doesn't this seem to be a great deal?

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:01:23 CST

I always thought of these being worth more than $600 ! http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220509803517&ssPageName=ADME:B:WNA:US:1123#ht_3527wt_1131 [url="http://www.deanhoffmeyer.com/nationalpicks/frameset.htm"][img]http://www.deanhoffmeyer.com/patpend.jpg[/img][/url] http://www.deanhoffmeyer.com http://www.nationalfingerpicks.com http://www.banjohangout.org/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=45886

Sliding Mag vs. Fishman pick-up

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:53:25 CST

Hey guys, I never have heard either of these personally so I'm wondering whats the better buy? Pros and Cons? Gold Tone's sliding mag is $140 and the fishman is around $200. I've heard great things about the fishman rare earth pick-up though. Thoughts?

Buying Online

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:46:36 CST

A couple of years ago I got burnt pretty bad on Ebay buying a mandolin, and since then I've been pretty wary of buying expensive things without seeing them first. Granted, ebay is asking for trouble. So, comes time for a banjo, and I'm looking at this guy: http://folk-instruments.musiciansfriend.com/product/Epiphone-MB200-Banjo?sku=518694 Seems like it has great reviews, with most people paying more than it's offered for here. So do people think it's safe to buy a banjo without seeing it? Do people trust "Musician's friend?" Is this a good banjo for the price? Thanks, Nick

Banjo Practice Gadget

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:46:10 CST

A few years someone marketed a simple block of wood with 5 strings stretched out to use for right-hand technique practice. Anyone remember this gadget and where to get one? Thanks "The balance of life: a dog to adore me, a cat to ignore me."

Odessa 5 string

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:42:03 CST

Anyone have any experience with an Odessa? Seen one, heard one? Thanks, OldFox Every workplace should have a Banjo Break