jwestx4 - Posted - 03/06/2008:  23:13:47

I am just starting out playing the banjo, and have been playing for about a month. Currently I am borrowing a "no-name brand" banjo from a friend that needs a lot of TLC and the local music shop says not to waste my money on repairs, and I totally agree. My question is what is a half way decent banjo to start out on. I don't want any total junk. I have looked at the local music stores in my area and local options are Fender FB-54, and FB-55, Bean Blossom brand, and a few used ones at local pawn shops with the only name brand being Melodier. My problem is I don't know a good one if I were to see it because of inexperience. The Fenders are $300-$500, with a lighty used FB-55 at $399.00. The Bean Blossoms are $200-$500. The used Melodier is $199.00, witch it looks good except for some wear on the head, it looks like its an older model but it looks nice. Any suggestins from folks that know would be great. Thanks!

banjo13 - Posted - 03/07/2008:  00:02:41

First off do you plan on playing clawhammer or three finger Scruggs style? and also how much do you have to spend? There are plenty of others that are are good starter options.
I think when you are getting started playability is the key. You want to find something that feels good that has good action that doesn't tear up your fingers when you play. This will make all the difference in the world in my opinion because if you don't have an instrument that is comfortable it is no fun to learn.

Tyler Greene
"It is the tradition that a Kentuckian never runs. He does not have to…" Gibson v. Commonwealth, (Ky. 1931).

Edited by - banjo13 on 03/07/2008 00:11:32

stanleyfan01 - Posted - 03/07/2008:  00:51:44

I have a Washburn from Musicians Friend, that's served me pretty good.

cockneybanjo - Posted - 03/07/2008:  01:21:35

really you can't go too far wrong with any of the Asian starter banjos, within their limits. Most of them are the same thing rebranded anyway.

there is definitely a difference between the cheapest ranges, and the next step up, which I would say is worth paying for. Geared fifth string tuners, as opoosed to the friction ones often seen an cheapies, are well wortthwhile.

A lot of people at this point, will say Deering Goodtime or Gold Tone CC-100, GT get my vote but both are popular and well spoken of

I would say that you don't need to decide what style you are playing just yet. Most of these starter/intermediate instruments have detachable resonators anyway. Get one with a light brass tone ring or tone hoop, detachable resonator; don't let anyone tell you that you need to fuss about with set-up or changing anything at this stage, and you will be all set for some time to come

Edited by - cockneybanjo on 03/07/2008 01:23:22

BanjerJeff - Posted - 03/07/2008:  05:37:50

check out banjohut.com ...give them a call

Jeff
Dayton,OH

Music hath the charm to soothe a savage beast, but I'd try a revolver first.
Josh Billings

jwestx4 - Posted - 03/07/2008:  09:03:12

I'm sorry I forgot to mention the style that I am trying to learn is the 3 finger Scruggs style. Thank you for your advice, maybe if a few years I will be asking you guys advice on a better banjo when I'm a little better. I also forgot to metion that I love the banjo hangout, its a great sight, especially for a beginner like me that knows nothing about playing the banjo, but alot about listening to one beign played. Thanks!

Dave Coin - Posted - 03/07/2008:  12:56:12

Rover banjos are well-built and cheap.

new2picking - Posted - 03/07/2008:  22:55:58

Hey there! I just started 2 weeks ago and after doing some research and reading different boards and reviews decided on a Deering Goodtime II. We were able to pick it up for $449 plus $89 for the hard shell case. I love it - I've found it easy to play, good sound quality and sturdy. Best of luck!

dlvolz - Posted - 03/08/2008:  18:39:29

Try banjo.com, they have some good starter banjos at good prices.keep picking

Banjo Jo

goghiti - Posted - 03/12/2008:  10:44:11

I started with a Fender FB-55 from Elderly Instruments. Didn't really have any experience in playing but liked the looks and the price. It has served me well and I still play it alot even thought I've upgraded to a Deering Sierra. But of course, there are many good banjos out there. It'll come down to price and what feels and looks and sounds good to you.

Believe me my young friend, there is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as simply messing about with banjos. (with apologies to Kenneth Grahame)

jwestx4 - Posted - 03/12/2008:  15:45:01

quote:

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Originally posted by goghiti

I started with a Fender FB-55 from Elderly Instruments. Didn't really have any experience in playing but liked the looks and the price. It has served me well and I still play it alot even thought I've upgraded to a Deering Sierra. But of course, there are many good banjos out there. It'll come down to price and what feels and looks and sounds good to you.

Believe me my young friend, there is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as simply messing about with banjos. (with apologies to Kenneth Grahame)

---

BJ Saalfeld - Posted - 03/13/2008:  10:22:46

I have the Gold Tone Cripple Creek 100R. It's a great banjos. It sells around $350.00. It's lightweight, good tone and plays well. You can't beat them for the
money. Ihave the banjo for 4 years and still going. I like it very much. Good luck with whatever banjo your choose and welcome to the BHO.

BJ

Keep on Picking!