Fitch Masters Five submitted 5/9/2008 Submitter dj9124 (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Cliff Fitch Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 3100 ($US) Sound This is the most incredible sounding banjo I ever had the pleasure of picking. The Beartracks tone ring in this banjo is just amazing. Today I tuned it to D tuning for Rueben and I was just blown away, sounds so much like Earls banjo that I couldn't believe it! The sound is so rich and sweet yet the volume is fantastic, not harsh at all, the banjo sounds like it is years older than it is, just have never heard a new banjo that sounds this good. Sound Rating 10 Setup The setup was excellent when I got it from Cliff, the only thing I did was lower the action just a tweak. The banjo sounded so good that I knew I did not need or want to change anything else. Setup Rating 10 Appearance This is a mahogany banjo, the color that Cliff stained this is beautiful, when the light hits it it almost looks like copper reflecting the light. The finish is top notch and beautiful to look at. The FE inlays are perfectly done and the "Fitch" logo on the headstock looks very classy. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability Cliff used all top shelf components and I have no doubt that there will not be any hardware issues. The 4 Keith tuners are exceptionally nice and smooth. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service Of coarse being a new banjo it has Cliffs warranty should anything arise but as well as this banjo is constructed I am sure that if anything does need attention it would not be due to the fact of any builders defect. Customer Service 10 Components As mentioned components are top notch, Blaylock/Crowe Beartracks tonering, Keith tuners. I do not think anything would need to be upgraded. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments It has been a hobby of mine over the last 10 years or so to trade and sell banjos. In doing so I have probably owned at least 30 to 40 banjos but decided to give up the trading and settle down with a keeper. I was planning on a Stelling to be my last banjo but ran across the posts about the new Blaylock/Crowe beartracks ring. I inquired about the Masters Five that Cliff just completed with the new ring and he sent me a sound clip of it. It grabbed my attention enough to purchase it and I am so glad I did. I can say without a doubt that this is the best sounding banjo I have ever had out of all those banjos that I tried. This banjo sounds so good and is so amazing that it has really brought the fun and excitement back to my picking. I highly recommend a Fitch Masters Five mahogany with the beartracks ring. If I ever lost this banjo for any reason I would definitely buy another one without thinking twice about it. Overall Rating 10

Neat Neat Kentucky submitted 5/8/2008 Submitter seanray (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Frank Neat Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 3500 ($US) Sound I'm a fan of the J.D. Crowe tone and Frank's banjos sound as close as I'm ever going to get to that tone. The banjo is very open sounding with a wide sonic range. The low end is tubby and the highs have a really sweet metallic shimmer to them. It's difficult to describe in words but this is a very classic (classy) sounding banjo. Sound Rating 10 Setup I received the banjo with a setup that was just about as good as you can get. The head was right between a G & G# so I tuned it up just a hair so that it's on the flat side of A Setup Rating 10 Appearance The fit and finish are what you would expect from Frank. In addition Jimmy Cox and Bill Blaylock's efforts are equally impressive. The Mahogany on both the neck and resonator is as good as I've seen. The Brazilian rosewood finger board is nice and dark and the ebony headstock overlay is pitch black with only the slightest dark brown in one small spot. The resonator has concentric rings and double binding. The inlay is exactly what I've been after with flying eagle inlays along with a style 4 headstock inlay. The inlay is insanely accurate with no visible fill whatsoever. The nickel hardware is shiny, spotless and just gives this banjo a great look without being way over the top. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability This banjo will outlive me so I have no worries about it falling apart. I have complete confidence in it so I have no plans to carry around a backup to shows. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service Frank and his son Leon were so great to deal with that I didn't even ask about a warranty. On the slim chance that there is a hidden flaw in the craftsmanship I have no doubt Frank will fix it. Customer Service 10 Components Frank Neat builds the neck, does the inlay work and fits and finishes everything. Jimmy Cox builds the rim, resonator and supplies the hardware. Bill Blaylock builds the tone ring. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments There are plenty of great banjo builders in the world today but for my personal tastes there are really only 3-4 options depending on how you count them. So my short list is: Frank Neat Osborne Chief Huber Gibson Since the Chief is basically the same as the Neat I'm not sure why the Neat is about $1k less so that made that decision easy. The Hubers are really nice banjos but the necks are a little thinner than I like, they cost more and everybody and their brother is playing them these days. In addition to that I really wanted the FE inlay with the style 4 headstock and again a Lancaster is about $500 more. The last contender was Gibson. Love them or hate them they are still the benchmark in the world of bluegrass banjos however the main deterrent I have with new Gibsons is that their cost vs. quality control seems a bit out of balance. So after shopping for over a year I went with Frank Neat and I'm very happy I did. Had a good deal on a used banjo, by any of the makers listed above, come my way things may have turned out different. I've played this banjo next to Hubers, Gibsons and stellings and they all sound great but to my ears the Neat sounds the closest to the Crowe tone and that's the tone I favor. Overall Rating 10

Gold Star GF-85 submitted 5/8/2008 Submitter Goldstar Kenny (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Janet Davis Music Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 899 ($US) Sound I love the sound it packs a punch and grabs peoples attention quickly perfect for the scruggs style bluegrass jam sessions It will hold its own with a Gibson all day All my jam buddies love it Sound Rating 9 Setup tom did an exellent job on the set up the only thing i changed othe than strings and bridge was to tighten the head skin from about a C to a D flat. As for strings i put ghs jd crowe signature series medium light 10-11-12-20-10 and a snuffy bridge Setup Rating 9 Appearance flawless very beautiful banjo for the money Appearance Rating 10 Reliability very dependable Reliability Rating 9 Customer Service havent so i guess a 10 Customer Service 10 Components everything for the most part is great i would opt for different tuning pegs Components Rating 9 Overall Comments it is as good as any GIbson ive ever played (a few) i would recomend this banjo highly it s as good as a 3000 dollar gibson i do think the Stellings i played were a tad better but all in all this banjo will jam with the best of them Overall Rating 10

Gold Tone Cripple Creek CC100 submitted 5/5/2008 Submitter KHuber (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Banjo Teacher Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 324.00 ($US) Sound Sound is great for an open back. I have no need for a resonator at this time. Sound Rating 8 Setup The setup was nice, low action. I have put on a set of light strings. Setup Rating 7 Appearance I don't care for the finish at all. The rim and neck are two different colors. Probably the worst part about the banjo. Appearance Rating 5 Reliability Hardware seems solid, the hooks look cheap but strong. The banjo came with two L-shoes that looked like they were bad castings. I changed the tuners to Waverly 2-band style and put on a Grover bridge. Reliability Rating 8 Customer Service I have had to contact Gold Tone for a couple of replacement parts (L-Shoes) and the President himself responded and sent them out no questions. Update, I recieved my parts and they were wrong, he sent me hooks & nuts. I've tried to contact him with no response. Customer Service 2 Components All in all it is what I was expecting for a beginner banjo. It is a solid instrument that I'm sure will last for many years. Components Rating 9 Overall Comments I balanced this one against the Deering Goodtime and after reading everyones reviews on both I decided on the Gold Tone. I bought it to use on the deck and up camping. It's light and an easy banjo to hold and play. I wish it came in a darker finish. Overall Rating 7

Arkansas Razorback submitted 5/5/2008 Submitter HunterPassmore (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased from Joe Jakonzcuk(the maker) Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 2895 ($US) Sound This is the best banjo i have ever played!!!It is really rich in tone and volume.Very bright but not bright as in making your ears bleed. There is a lot of variety in sound with this banjo but mostly good for BLUEGRASS!!!!! Sound Rating 10 Setup The set-up was perfect and the head tensioning was set at a G# and the hardware was fitted perfectly....like i said the banjo is the best banjo i have ever played. Setup Rating 10 Appearance Thw wood is quilted maple w/ a dark finish with flying eagle inlay with razorback inlayed at the 21st fret. There were no flaws what so ever....truley an outstanding banjo. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability the hardware is from prucha and many banjo makes uses prucha so i am guessing it will last a lifetime.the finish is still really new so i am waiting to see how it subsides. This is the banjo that i would travel on tour with or at a gig or just a jam. Very reliable. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service Joe Jakonzcuk is probally oone of the nicest guys you'll ever meet....if there is any thing wrong with the banjo he built he will fix it free of charge just to make you happy and satisfied with the banjo he makes. Customer Service 10 Components very top quality. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments I would recommend this banjo to anyone that is a serious player and wants a top notch professional banjo. Truely the best in this price range. Overall Rating 10

Prust Boucher submitted 5/5/2008 Submitter roosme (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Eric Prust Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 270 ($US) Sound I play clawhammer and just love the sound of this banjo. It has a warmth and richness that seems to come from deep in the earth, the reality of things, the good and the true. Sound Rating 10 Setup Eric sent three bridges of varying heights to accommodate the variations in the tension of the calfskin head, recommending the middle height, which I used and haven't had reason to change in two months of spring weather. The playability has been excellent thus far, perhaps a bit high as you go up the neck, but this may be a characteristic of fretless banjoes. I should mention this is my first fretless. Setup Rating 9 Appearance Though no one will say this is a highly finished banjo, it is still a beauty in my eyes, and everybody I've shown it to seems to love the look of this banjo. The calfskin head looks like a piece of the sky, and the maple neck is very nicely figured. Yes, there is a rough hewn quality to it, but I like that. It's real. It's not trying to be anything more than what it is. And the sound and feel are what matter most. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability I think this banjo will surely outlast me, provided I don't run over it with a truck. I hope my children and grandchildren will love it as I do. I think they will. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service Eric and Donna deserve beyond a 10 here. I didn't think there was anyone on the planet who still did business this way. First of all, communication with them was excellent. You tell them what you want, they make it and send photos. If you like the photos, they ship the banjo, well packed, but they won't take money until you receive the banjo and are satisfied with it. There's a level of honesty and trust here that you just can't find anymore. I can't praise them enough. Customer Service 10 Components Eric has chosen the components well. Everything seems as it should be on a replica of a Civil War era banjo. When I play this banjo, I know I'm playing something real, made by a real human being, with a big heart. The music benefits, believe me. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments I absolutely recommend this banjo if you are looking for a Civil War era replica that sounds terrific, plays terrific, and has the look and feel of the ages. Overall Rating 10

Pennington long neck submitted 5/3/2008 Submitter john bange (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased banjo hangout Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid $620 historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound dan described the banjo as being bright with his rolled brass tone ring. this is very accurate...more so that my tubaphone...perfect for the type of music usually associated with the long neck banjo Sound Rating 9 Setup set up was excellent...string height perfect Setup Rating 10 Appearance good looking banjo...few rough spots to the head stock which I will polish out...pot is drop dead gorgous Appearance Rating 9 Reliability threw tuners away and installed new Gotoh's...rest is top notch...right in line with price Reliability Rating 9 Customer Service no worries... Customer Service 9 Components as I said...threw the tuners out..replaced the Stew-Mac tail-piece with a Waverly copy.everything else top notch Components Rating 9 Overall Comments for the price, this is one of the best banjo's I have purchased and I could not be more pleased...selling the gig bag and waiting for my new hcs Overall Rating 10

Enoch Dobson 12" submitted 5/1/2008 Submitter mrphysics55 (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Fretted Instruments of Birmingham (Alabama) Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound This Clawhammer Banjo walks the ground between being too tubby or too bell like. It actually seems to have captured the best of both worlds. It has a crisp, clear high end and a growling low end. I bought a 12 inch rim and, as expected, it contributes a great deal of bass. The banjo has a surprising amount of volume. It's tone and output are evenly balanced across the strings. The walnut pot, combined with the Dobson tone ring produces a surprising amount of sustain. I chose to "stuff a sock in it" to plunk it down just a bit. The result is a wonderful OT sound that is plunky, clean and clear. I have already used it in a Jam situation and it came through with flying colors. Sound Rating 10 Setup The setup was fine out of the box. It's action is relatively low, yet still allows room for the thumb as I play over the long frailing scoop. I chose to tighten up the head a wee bit as it seems to have settled some since it's installation. I don't intend to alter the setup at this time. After I get to know it I may tinker some ... but for the life of me I can't imagine what I would want to fool with. Setup Rating 10 Appearance It has the elegance that folks have come to expect from Kevin's work. Walnut has been employed for the one-piece neck and for what looks to be a 2-ply, approx.7/16" thick, pot. The thick fingerboard and peg-head overlay are made from dark (or darkly stained) ebony. The peg head sports one of Kevin's expertly, engraved stars. The finish is is flawless and more like that which you find on his higher end models. The fret work is phenomenal. The edges of the fingerboard are eased off and the fret ends are smooth and unobtrusive. Appearance Rating 9 Reliability Anyone who has owned any of Kevin's banjos, from his production Tradesman to any of his upper-end models, can vouch for their quality and reliability. This Dobson doesn't appear to be an exception. I wouldn't hesitate to leave the house and gig with nothing but an extra pack of strings. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service I have never needed to make repairs on any of my Enoch banjers. This is my third. If I ever have to have this banjo serviced, I know I can count on my local Retailer and Kevin. Both of these fellas are friendly, expert craftsmen and musicians. I know that the banjo has a warranty but I haven't bothered to read that fine print. I have no worries in that department. I know if anything goes wrong with this banjo that Kevin and Fretted Instruments will make things right. Follow-Up: Kevin just informed me that these banjos have a Lifetime Warranty. What's he gonna do about a 150 years from now if this banjo develops a problem? ;>) Customer Service 10 Components Kevin has chosen to use a different style of shoes on this model. They have a vintage look and the ball end nuts complement the comfort provided by the classic Dobson heel. All the hardware looks to be of high quality. Kevin has not scrimpped. The Gotoh brand planet tuners work very smoothly and hold well. Most of all, Kevins choice of woods make this a beautiful, solid machine. Components Rating 9 Overall Comments Kevin has hit a home-run with the Dobson. It seems to be a great value for the price paid. Like Kevin's other high-end products, I predict that it will be a banjo that people will want to hang onto. Don't expect too many of them to show up in the Classifieds. My only GRIPE about this banjo was that I sold my Tradesman to help fund it's purchase! Overall Rating 10

Prust tackhead with square peghead submitted 5/1/2008 Submitter kbaake (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Direct from Eric Prust Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid $320 ($US) Sound The resonance is amazing with strong fundamentals and subdued but well audible harmonics that perfectly match the style of the banjo. It is plunky, but the tones seem to leap out of the tight head. I play a variety of old time styles at an early intermediate skill level and this suits me perfectly. It shines on Mike Seeger songs in modal tunings as well as Minstrel songs, but also does well as on G tuning (especially when lowered to E). Sound Rating 10 Setup Strings were lose for mailing and the bridge was in an envelope with instructions on exactly where to place it. I haven't made any changes, but when it is time to replace the strings I will probably try Aquilla Nylgut strings, which Eric recommends for the lower tunings that I like. The strings it came with are La Bella nylons, which sound great, too, and can be tuned to standard G. I requested wood inlaid marker dots where frets would be to help me adjust to fretless and to provide finger reference points up the neck. This is well worth the extra $20, although your ear quickly figures out the right positions. Setup Rating 10 Appearance It is simple but elegant, with a natural maple neck, white oak pot, and calfskin head that is has natural variations in color from cloud white to gray translucent. Looks real nice in my music room. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability The pot brackets and other hardware seem sturdy and well machined. Everything is crafted well to last, as far as I can tell. The tuning pegs fit snuggly. But the banjo also is lightweight, which I prefer, about the same as my Deering Goodtime. Reliability Rating 9 Customer Service Eric answers emails the same day and is extremely helpful. When I was first interested we had several email exchanges about going fretless, the differences between the tensioning model and tackhead models, and use of fret markers. Eric was informative but never pushy. After I made my choice Eric kept me up to date on the progress and sent pictures when it was ready--a week after I placed the order. When I got the banjo I had a few questions on tuning and working with the violin style tuning pegs, which were new to me. Eric's advice was helpful and I now feel in synch with this wonderful instrument. Customer Service 10 Components Can't see anything that needs to be upgraded, unless you wanted to ask for machined tuning pegs that might be easier if that's what you are used to. Components Rating not rated Overall Comments As others have mentioned, this is an amazing deal at $300 for a unique musical instrument. It opens up a world of sounds, which are truly old time and almost organic in tonal quality. I would buy another. Overall Rating 10

Gold Tone Whyte Layde WL-250 submitted 4/30/2008 Submitter f#dead (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased other player Year Purchased 2007 Price Paid 400 ($US) Sound I bought this Whyte Layde from GW. From his review, it just wasn't his sound. I couldn't be happier. Thnx Peter, it has a good home here. It goes daboink when plucked and kachang when strummed. The sound is full and loud. I play alone but suspect this banjo could hold it's own in a group. Bang for the buck is exceptional. I do plug it in to an amp at times (it has the factory pick-up installed) and get my rock on. Having the scoop adds that sound to the variations and can be haunting and rich. Firm plucking creates a growling pop in the higher strings and the bass is smooth but could be a little deeper. Sound Rating 8 Setup I have not made any changes to the banjo since I bought it. When it arrived, I tuned the strings and it was ready to play. Setup Rating 8 Appearance I like the medium level of adornment. This banjo is my "dark horse" in the herd. The finish is thick and without flaws. The chrome is bright and holds up to skin contact well. Appearance Rating 8 Reliability Overall I would say this banjo is well made, sturdy and a pleasure to hold and play. It is heavier than many open-back banjos and lighter than a few. I have not compared other Whyte Laydes. I don't gig ( yet ) and I consider this banjo dependable. Reliability Rating 8 Customer Service NA Customer Service not rated Components If this banjo lacks any boutique parts it makes up for w/ solid workman grade components in a factory built hand assembled attractively finished product at a bang up price. Components Rating 8 Overall Comments For the price I paid, I am throughly happy and I intend to hang on to this for a good long time. I think the new retail price is reasonable and I would consider replacement if needed. Someone else said "who would steal a banjo"? I would add "some idiot". I previously had a cheap aluminum pot resonator banjo and a masterclone. Sold em. My interest now is open-back styles and this banjo is very servicable for that. I haven't played any other Whyte Laydes cause this is the WL for me now. As for me this was a good 2nd stage upgrade after I determined what style of playing I like. I am lusting for some other types of open-back banjo but not to replace my WL. I have given this a solid 8 in all categories. Overall Rating 8

Deering Goodtime Special submitted 4/28/2008 Submitter instntkrma (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Prussia Valley Dulcimers, Waverly OH Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 600 ($US) Sound Having played the Deering Goodtime 2 (available at your local Guitar-Mart) I'd sought out the Special in hopes of some bluegrass tone-ring punch, which this banjo delivers handily. Soft and sweet or loud and bright, just as described. Sound Rating 8 Setup The gentleman at PVDulcimers took this banjo from the wall, adjusted the bridge a bit, picked a few enviable licks and handed it over. I'd recommend shopping locally for this instrument (or any banjo, for that matter) to guarantee no accidents in shipment and to ensure it's set up as you like it. Setup Rating 8 Appearance With its signature unrefined natural satin finish, some people say this is an ugly banjo. Those people are jealous. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability This is a good, solid, American-made hunk of wood that could survive a two-story toss by a jealous lover, though I'd rather not test that assessment. Many online sources (including the Deering website) state that this instrument weighs 7 lbs, which I doubt. It's a good, honest weight. Not as heavy as a full on brass tone-ring, but not 7 lbs, either. Reliability Rating 8 Customer Service Now, this could turn out to be disappointing, but I suppose only time will tell. Upon completing the one-year warranty card, I spied a check box stating "Please Send my FREE Way to Happiness Booklet". I'd assumed this would be a bit of inoffensive religious literature, but I Googled just to be sure. As it turns out, this is a bit of Scientologist literature. I can only assume that, in order to obtain a warranty and the promised Owner's Manual, I'll have to suffer an onslaught of Scientology pamphlets as they attempt to convert my mailbox from its heathen ways. Again, only time will tell, and I would have bought the banjo anyhow, but I wish they hadn't been all sneaky about it. Customer Service 5 Components I've read a few complaints about the Vega-style arm rest on the Goodtime series, and I can confirm that it is much higher than one would expect an armrest to be. However, I think this benefits the beginning player, as it reinforces the proper wrist angle and encourages you to anchor a finger or two. A little discomfort is a small price to pay for good technique. Components Rating 8 Overall Comments The Goodtime Special is somewhat harder to get ahold of than other models in the Goodtime line, and will cost a bit more in a local store than over the Internet, but it's worth the expense in quality, tone, sustain, and style. The instrument has the sound and heft of a banjo twice its cost but comes in under $1k by eschewing the unnecessary gloss and refinements. Support your local luthier and snag one today. And unless Thetans are your thing, consider setting up a fake address for that warranty. Overall Rating 8

Sullivan Festival submitted 4/28/2008 Submitter mudskippercory (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Janet Davis Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound Wow, this baby is just sweet, down the neck it has a nice not to bright, but clear sound a still gives a really nice Umph to it. Up the neck is just beautiful, the harmonics are really nice also. Sound Rating 10 Setup Janet Davis set it up just the way I like it. They are such great people to work with Setup Rating 10 Appearance It is a nice basic look to it, but still really pretty. I would not change a thing. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability They peg's are really strong much much better then the ones I have on my other banjos. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service I only deal with Janet Davis and will stay like that. I have dealt with other companies were they were nice also. It is just something about Janet Davis that is really great. I even call to talk to the manager when ever someone helps me out to let them know, what great people they have working for them. Customer Service 10 Components They only thing I might change is the bridge, I got a Snuffy Smith, I love Snuffy Smith bridges. other then that I dont' think anything needs to be upgraded. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments Over all I think this is such a great banjo. Have two others this is my first USA made, and I can tell the difference right off the bat. I am so thankful I got an alarm system on my house. It sucks that I have other banjo's though, because I will NOT pick up any other then my Sullivan, this baby is just sweet , I even named her :) Overall Rating 10

Saga ? submitted 4/27/2008 Submitter wantedule (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased folkladen Munchen Year Purchased 1985 Price Paid 3000 (deutch mark) historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound It's good for bluegrass-after "SET_UP" I just use good microfone,-I 'm not satisfate with any PICK UP. Sound Rating 8 Setup It easn't SET UP ! I must lowered saddle,'couse ton on 1 st freet was to high. Setup Rating 5 Appearance that was good Appearance Rating 9 Reliability Good Reliability Rating 7 Customer Service ??? I made no contact Customer Service not rated Components I broke tail peace Components Rating not rated Overall Comments I's good banjo, may be a liittle to expencive Overall Rating 9

Gibson RB-250 submitted 4/25/2008 Submitter mybote (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Private party Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 1500. ($US) (bought USED) Sound Bluegrass. Fills all my needs and expectations. Sound Rating 10 Setup The banjo was already set up and included Keith tuners. very smooth action. Setup Rating 9 Appearance This is a 1970. Some chips out of the binding, dings, inlay is all intact,etc. Been played ALOT. But neck, frets and hardware are still in great shape. Appearance Rating 5 Reliability Hardware is very durable and will last many more years. Finish has wear marks but is durable. I would gig with this banjo without a backup. Reliability Rating 9 Customer Service never dealt with the company Customer Service not rated Components outstanding componants are keith tuners. No weak or cheap parts. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments Very happy to recommend this banjo. If this was stolen, I would get another. Overall Rating 10

Gold Tone Orange Blossom OB-250AT submitted 4/25/2008 Submitter mybote (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Weatherford, Tx. Year Purchased 2004 Price Paid 650 ($US) Sound Bluegrass. Full Bright Loud. Set up at the store. Great, smooth neck. Rings like a bell. Sound Rating 8 Setup I would make no changes Setup Rating 8 Appearance Stands out in the crowd. classy. Appearance Rating 8 Reliability reliable hardware. dependable. I use this banjo as a backup. Reliability Rating 8 Customer Service excellent customer service. Very responsive. Customer Service 10 Components For the price , I wouldn't change anything. It is a great banjo just stock. Components Rating 8 Overall Comments For a banjo in the 1000 dollar range. This beats them all. Parts and accessories are available by many companies. If it were stolen, I would get another. Overall Rating 8

Fitch Masters Five submitted 4/22/2008 Submitter jebmd (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased BHO Member Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid (bought USED) historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound This banjo has a deep low end punch that I'm not use to, a nice dark growl on the forth string and plenty of pop on the first and second string. I love a Stelling but I must say I love the "dark" tone of this banjo. Sound Rating 10 Setup Just tightend the head and she was ready to go. The last owner took excellent care of this banjo. Setup Rating 10 Appearance Deep red straight grained mahogany, flying Eagle inlay. Engraved tail piece and armrest. Very nice fit and finish. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability Even though I'm the second owner Cliff has extended the lifetime warranty to me. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service The best possible, look at the warranty. Customer Service 10 Components Mahogany neck and resonator, Sullivan FF rim, Crowe unplated ring, Krishot tuners and a Wadsworth bridge. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments I don't think you can get close to this banjo's tone in this price range. In my opinion Cliff Fitch builds a superior banjo. A mega bang for the buck. The good news is if something happens to this banjo, I know where I can buy a replacement. Overall Rating 10

Lee custom submitted 4/21/2008 Submitter maryzcox (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Chuck Lee Year Purchased 2007 Price Paid Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound This is the perfect sound for playing in old time bands. Gutsy, but clear. Good volume without being overly bright. You will not need any stuffing in this banjo head--it sounds perfect just the way it is. Sound Rating 10 Setup This banjo was set up wonderfully out of the box. All I have to do is occasionally change strings. I've put medium gauge bronze wound cryrogenic American Made Banjo strings on it and it sounds great. It came with a Texas scoop which I really like a lot because I can capo into D or A and not loose the last two notes up the neck while playing. Setup Rating 10 Appearance This banjo is extremely easy on the eyes. The woodwork is both beautiful and flawless. There is a color inlay on the peghead of the girl sitting in the moon playing a banjo and her basset hound floating on a cloud. The neck has the prettiest piece of marbled walnut I have ever seen and it is set with paduc and maple stripes that are a beautiful touch. Everything about this banjo is quality. Chuck even stained the natural skin head to have a slight sepia appearance. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability The gears are Bill Keith and they have black plastic buttons. The rim is Tony Pass ancient wood birch. Of course I can depend on it. I've already played it on stage and in the field and it works wonderfully. Folks are always asking to see it and play it when I take it to festivals. It also has a clear and pretty recording voice. It is recorded on "Turkey In the Straw'' (banjo & bass duet) on my new CD, "Florida Banjo." Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service Chuck is the creme de la creme of instrument makers. He is polite, considerate, and jovial and it was a pleasure to work with him every step of the way. Customer Service 10 Components The whole banjo is a showpiece--the woodwork, the rim and tone ring, the gears, the inlay--the neck is easy to finger and I love the slightly shorter scale--25 1/2. This banjo takes a multitude of tunings and sounds good tuned up into high D and A as well as a low A tuning. Love the Texas scoop--wish I had that on my other scooped banjos. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments This banjo is worth every penny. I love it and feel this banjo was built just for me. You can't hardly go wrong with a Chuck Lee. I've played many of his models and regardless of price or ornamentation--the consistantly have that Chuck Lee old time tone that is so sought after in a 12" headed old time banjo. Overall Rating 10

Recording King ne plus ultra 036 submitted 4/19/2008 Submitter maryzcox (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Recording King Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound Ne Plus ultra has a white laydie style tone ring and it has a warm,yet bright tone. It is one of the nicest tones on a maple rim with a white laydie tone ring I've heard. The tone is close to that of a vintage banjo. It fits my style of clawhammer quite well. Sound Rating 10 Setup Setup included my name engraved on the truss rod cover and railroad spikes installed for the fifth string. It came slightly damaged in shipping--the tailpiece screw was bent and the tailpiece was out of place. I took it to a local luthier for the repair and set up--and it sounded awesome. Setup Rating 9 Appearance The inlay is awesome--Greg Rich designed it and it looks like a cross between tree of life and flowerpot except it is all in motion. An exquisite piece of art. I also love the appearance of the blonde maple with the ebony stripe and cap. I fell in love with this banjo the first time I saw a photo of it. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability It appears sturdy and the gears keep it nicely in tune. I've already taken it out to a couple performances and in the field and it holds up very well. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service I love Recording King and Ali and Greg. They have been very generous with me and I've only had positive dealings with them. They offered to fix the part that was damaged in shipping, but it was easier and quicker for me to have it done here. Customer Service 10 Components I think this banjo is worth about double of what you would pay for a new one. It is a nice all around clawhammer banjo that looks as nice onstage as it does in the campground. The gears work nicely and everything about it sounds good. I may in the future, change the bridge to a moon bridge (because I like them) and the head to a real skin head--but the sound is so nice as is that I'm hesitant to change anything at the moment. The neck fits my hand well, not too thin or thick and it fingers easily and in tune all the way up the neck. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments This is about the nicest banjo I've seen in this price range. You can buy this banjo from Elderly Instruments for just under a grand and it is one of the best deals around. It sounds and plays much like a Wildwood Troubador that I owned years ago--except the Ne Plus ultra has a prettier tone, and it is actually prettier with the fancy inlay and the contrasting maple and ebony woods. Please don't steal this banjo--it has my name on it--and I love it. Overall Rating 10

Morgan-Monroe Appalachia MFB-4DX submitted 4/18/2008 Submitter dandaman19620 (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased banjo.com Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound great sound but i have a black deering head on it so its different than the regular frosted remo head that comes with it. i havent played it with the frosted head. Sound Rating 8 Setup the banjo was made very nice. its had some what looked like glue or something on the fret board maybe from the inlays but i cant get it off. Setup Rating 9 Appearance most bueatiful banjo i have ever held. mother of peral inlays all the way from top to bottom. gold hardware is done nicely. Appearance Rating 9 Reliability it feels solid. very heavy but i think it will last a long long time Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service i havent dealt weith the company Customer Service not rated Components the armrest is kinda cheap just standard. i put a wooden one on it and its great Components Rating not rated Overall Comments beautiful banjo. you are definatley paying more for the look than the sound. ive heard banjos a couple hundred cheaper sound better but they also have frosted heads. i think the black head might be holding my sound back Overall Rating 9

Bart Reiter Whyte Laydie submitted 4/18/2008 Submitter RWJones1970 (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Spruce Tree Music Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 1800 ($US) Sound I play clawhammer style and this Reiter Whyte Laydie banjo is exactly what I have been looking for. Nice bright yet warm harmonic sound when played over the neck...which is where I primarily play. Sound Rating 10 Setup This WL was set up at a medium height which is what I prefer. This leaves me plenty enough room for my thumb to get under each string. Setup Rating 10 Appearance I love the old Vega/Fairbanks banjos so it's no surprise I chose a Bart Reiter banjo. I love the classic Vega peghead shape with the well known Star, Griffon, Leaf inlay in the peghead and star at the 5th fret. I have looked at many banjos and this particular inlay style is one of my favorites.The entire banjo is constructed of hard rock maple with a natural finish. The fretboard is a nice dark smooth ebony. This particular WL is scooped which Bart does not normally include as a standard feature. Bart's inlay is unblemished. The appearance of the entire banjo is flawless. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability I have only heard fine remarks concerning Bart Reiter banjos. It came to me from Madison Wisconsin to Upstate New York through UPS. It is built solid as a rock as there are no loose parts and no buzzing strings. It appears very dependable and only time will tell the rest. I take excellent care of my instruments (some of you know well) so if something should go I will be surprised. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service 1 year warranty. Customer Service 9 Components For me the standout components are the Whyte Laydie tone ring and the scoop. The whole banjo is just a work of art and craftsmanship. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments I love everything about this banjo. When I first began my banjo journey it was Bart's WL model that caught my eye right off. Instead of buying it right away I have been through seven very nice banjos and lots of money before acquiring this one. Buy the one you want right off !!! It sounds similar to my old Ramsey Fairbanks Electric but yet the Reiter has a warmer, fuller, and brighter sound. Probably has something to do with the setup.....anyhow, I would be so bummed if this banjo ever was lost. Then I would get over it and buy another one Overall Rating 10

Kyle K Smith Legend submitted 4/17/2008 Submitter banjonit (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Another Hangout Member Year Purchased 2006 Price Paid Don't Remember (bought USED) historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound My model is mahogany. Sound is very full and sweet. Great note definition Reaches down very low, but not the least bit tubby. The bass notes are incredible, but there is excellent balance both across the strings and up the fingerboard. Great volume. Sound Rating 10 Setup I don't have the courage to alter a Kyle Smith setup. Setup Rating 10 Appearance Workmanship is exceptional. Very rich mahogany. His fleur de lis inlay pattern looks very nice Appearance Rating 10 Reliability Only top components were used. Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service I have not had to deal with Kyle regarding any issues with the banjo, but I have had several very pleasant exchanges with him. Although he did not sell me the instrument, he maintains an interest in it and I have no doubt would help me resolve any issues if I ever had one. Customer Service not rated Components TN20 Ring; Pass Rim; Prucha parts. The neck is wide and v-shaped. Very comfortable. top of the line stuff Components Rating 10 Overall Comments I would recommend this banjo without hesitation. If I ever bought another banjo, I would want the same neck. Overall Rating 10

Hatfield Buck Creek submitted 4/15/2008 Submitter bluemusic4us (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Arthur Hatfield Year Purchased 2007 Price Paid Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound I ordered the banjo with a Factory Floor rim and Arthur's 20-hole tone ring. It sounded good. When there I heard a walnut model and a standard BuckCreek with Cox rim and no-hole ring. It sounded really good, in some ways better than mine but Arthur said it had been put together longer. My banjo's sound was very good but never opened up like it should have, kind of tight, not really letting loose on the low end. After 8 months and the banjo never opening up and maturing, I sent it back to Arthur and told him to exchange the rim for a Cox rim and no-hole tone ring. I've now had this incarnation for 4 months. It was quite a bit louder from the start and has opened up like the other version did not. IT SOUNDS GREAT! Sound Rating not rated Setup Arthur set is up with his .656 Crowe spaced compensated bridge. It plays very well and his neck feels very good. I've had a GTR, Stelling, Deering, Ode D, and this neck feels every bit as good as any of those. Head tightness and tail piece height all just right. Setup Rating not rated Appearance His standard BuckCreek with mahagony neck and resonator. Snowflake inlays look very nice. Fit and finish of the flange and hardware were all flawless. Appearance Rating not rated Reliability Yes to all. It is a professional, reliable, dependable banjo in every aspect. Reliability Rating not rated Customer Service Here is where I can pretty confidently say that Arthur Hatfield is the best when it comes to customer service. I'm preaching to the choir for many of the Hangout members, but Arthur can't be topped. Customer Service not rated Components I like the fact that Arthur tells you exactly what you're getting in terms of components. Cox rim, Gill resonator, Hatfield tone ring and neck, Gotoh tuners, etc. As you might deduce, I'm no longer a big fan of all the hype surrounding the "old wood". It just didn't deliver in my situation. Components Rating not rated Overall Comments In my initial conversation with Arthur, I described playing Steve Huber's original RB-75 and being blown away. I said I wanted that sound. Arthur knew exactly what I was talking about and told me that you can't get the pre-war sound without having a pre-war, but that was the sound he was shooting for in his banjos. I can't say enough about the banjo, the price (value), service, appearance, all make this probably the best professional banjo buy out there. Overall Rating 10

Fender FB-54 submitted 4/13/2008 Submitter Miffyandfrends (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Never purchased Year Purchased Price Paid Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound The tone was brilliant ALTHOUGH if the bridge were to be higher by an 1/8th inch or so It could be easily better Sound Rating 9 Setup Tuning was off a little but that isn't fender's fault. Bridge I would change to something slightly taller Setup Rating 9 Appearance Very pleasant looking except for the flange, looks almost exactly the same as the Epiphone mb200. Appearance Rating 9 Reliability I would say that being fender, they would have to have good quality products to obtain such a good name. Reliability Rating 9 Customer Service Customer Service not rated Components Worm drive tuners. 1PC Aluminium rim/flange. mahogany resonator, steel strings. Components Rating 7 Overall Comments I saw this advertised for $549 NZ D I would say that it's worth it. especially for a beginner. Overall Rating 9

Unbranded $179 (NZ D) crapstick. submitted 4/13/2008 Submitter Miffyandfrends (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased Trademe.co.nz Year Purchased 2007 Price Paid $179 (NZD) historic exchange rates / currency converter Sound For bluegrass it is rubbish, sound's very KRONZJ but also very quiet. Sound Rating 1 Setup Action too high, frets not in correct places, Out of tune, Head all sloppy. Setup Rating 1 Appearance Surprisingly pleasing, unlike sound. Appearance Rating 3 Reliability NO, NO AND NO Reliability Rating 1 Customer Service Customer Service not rated Components flimsy "collapsible type" J hooks, mounting plates, chrome hardware, friction fifth peg. Components Rating 1 Overall Comments NO, I hate it, I would get a something else if it were stolen. (steal it, please!!!) I should have asked the seller if it was actually playable. Overall Rating 1

Bowlin Fretless Banjo 1865 Model submitted 4/13/2008 Submitter maryzcox (see all reviews from this person) Where Purchased John Bowlin Year Purchased 2008 Price Paid 795.00 ($US) Sound Big booming sound with gut strings, skin head--very robust and fun to play. Sound Rating 10 Setup Sounded wonderful right out of the box. John marked where to put the bridge very well --easy set up. Setup Rating 10 Appearance Lovely with elegant dark wood, dark fingerboard, hardware is antiqued. Looks like a vintage 19th century banjo, but with new parts and construction that make it so easy to play. I particularly love it that the fingerboard is glossy. Appearance Rating 10 Reliability Everything quality. In fact, I plan to take it in June on a tour from Tallahassee to Pasadena to Albuquerque to Brasstown, then back to Tally again. This is the first minstrel type of banjo that I have felt comfortable with on the road in changing climates. I took it festival camping last weekend and it played quite well around the campfire at night. In fact, the folks camped next door who we didn't know, came over the next morning and said "What was that big banjo you were playing last night? My husband and I think that is the most beautiful banjo we have ever heard. " Reliability Rating 10 Customer Service I love John Bowlin. He is such a gentlemen and I enjoyed every communication with him. :) I hope there will be John Bowlin Society gatherings in the future--I would love to meet him and his lovely wife in the future. (She is a wonderful quilter) Customer Service 10 Components I love the little period tuning wrench he slipped into the case. I'm really tempted to wear it as a necklace. :) Also, the bridge is heavy duty and carved like a heart. The whole banjo is very elegant with a romantic, yet boisterous personality. Components Rating 10 Overall Comments Sure--this banjo was a wonderful value. I'd cry if someone stole it. Please don't steal it because it would not fit your hand or play nicely at all for you. It was made especially for me and would not sound as good for anyone else. Also, my sons would hunt you down and take it away from you and they may even use violence--so it's best to not even think about taking my banjo. Overall Rating 10