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The banjo reviews database is here to help educate people before they purchase an instrument. Of course, this is not meant to be a substitute for playing the instrument yourself!
7232 reviews in the archive.
Where Purchased:
I prefer a Kerschner over a Presto or any tailpiece that has a fold-over cover. There will be NO vibration and hence no noise from this tailpiece. I purchased 3 from Stewart-MacDonald then waited for several months for them to be delivered. When I finally received them they looked great in the packaging. Upon mounting them I noticed that I was unable to push the first and fifth strings into position through the slot in the tailpiece. Further inspection revealed that there was an obstruction in the slots. I believe that it is either from the casting or plating processes. This does not make these tailpieces useless as I have been able to thread the strings through the holes.
I like an adjustable tailpiece. The Kerschner is one that is a proven design and allows one to adjust both overall string tension and individual string tension. I didn't notice any real tonal improvement when changing from the original Presto tailpieces once I got them properly adjusted. I did notice that I can make the banjos sound real bad when adjusting the tailpieces to apply too much or too little tension on the strings. Fortunately, this tailpiece makes that adjustment easy.
Overall Rating: 7
Where Purchased: Stewart-MacDonald
I'm new to the banjo and loving learning. I have a Gold Star GF-85 that had the factory tailpiece on it and it just sounded flat or off to me... a total newbie. I bought a Kershner tailpiece and installed it. Did the set up on the action, bridge, etc based on several videos I watched and must say, it sounds GREAT! Totally different sound that before, much louder, sustain and harmonics are very good! I'm sure there may be some top of the line tailpiece out there but I'm extremely happy with the value and performance. Stew-Mac shipping was fast and efficient too!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Stewart-McDonald
Good quality nickel plated brass tailpiece. Very reasonable price from Stew-Mac, $34.00 plus shipping. Looks great on my Gold Tone BG250F and really improved the sound. Sounds like a great bluegrass banjo now. I highly recommend this tailpiece as a replacement for the poor quality Gold Tone tailpiece.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Janet Davis Music
My RK85 came with a very cheap, thin, non-adjustable tailpiece. I replaced it with a Kershner which is adjustable, long, and heavy. If I remember, correctly, Kershner might make two different models - this one is the heaviest one. Setting the correct string agle (see my review of Recording King), this tailpiece is absolutely the best! I'm tempted to change the original clamshell on my 1929 Granada, but want to keep that one original. Highly recommend!
Overall Rating: 10
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