SirRight - Posted - 07/11/2013:  12:09:37

Hi guys,

I did a quick search of this site and found that some Deering models tension hoop and fret board are supposed to touch, i.e. the Goodtime, reference:  banjohangout.org/archive/235822

I found this video on YouTube that shows banjos are supposed to have a gap on both sides of the tension hoop, it doesn't matter how much as long as there is a gap.  This video shows a Yates banjo and Warren Yates is speaking:  youtube.com/watch?v=7p5oeTd_oBo

​Does my 2008 Deering Calico require this gap as well?  The video shows that loosening the  tension hoop, repositioning, and retightening should fix it but I don't wan't to do a thing until I know it actually is required.

Thanks in advance.

Phil - MO - Posted - 07/11/2013:  13:50:16

You'll find different opinions on many setup procedures being repeated on this site.  Roger Siminoff in his book "How to set up the best sounding 'banjo" says it should touch.  It has been discussed before but I sure wouldn't do anything serious like refitting the neck.  Siminoff says insert a shim so it touches the stretcher band. I think a shim would slide down into the cutout on the neck unless glued?   For what little I know, I like a gap.  Greg Deering also says the tailpiece should rest on the same tension hoop on his tailpiece, others insist on a gap.  I've tried both procedures and both do change the sound a little (I think), but I can't decide which I like best.  I guess you could slide a shim between the fretboard and the tension bar and see if it makes a difference you like in the sound.  I like to change the head when the coating gets worn off, so I like a gap so I don't have to loosen the neck.  By the way, how do you like your Calico?  I have been wanting to upgrade from my Sierra to something with trim on the fretboard and the headstock, but I really like the sound of my Sierra after tweeking the setup.

SirRight - Posted - 07/11/2013:  14:31:29

Thanks Phil.  I love my Calico.  I personally don't like a banjo that is too twangy and prefer a banjo that is more of an orchestra-like stringed instrument. (you can check my homepage to see my banjo setup).  I play Scruggs style at about the center position.  I have never played a Sierra but from some research, the Calico is an upgrade both in appearance and sound quality.  The only similar sounding Deering banjo would be the Golden Era.

SirRight - Posted - 07/24/2013:  10:09:11

Anyone else do this to their Calico? I'm still waiting for other people's opinions, just in case the Calico is supposed to have the fret board touch the tension hoop.

Tatersoup - Posted - 07/24/2013:  11:18:34

Contact Deering and ask them. They are great people to work with.

jwoods - Posted - 07/24/2013:  11:38:44

Slight touching is not a problem.

As long as the tension hoop is able to move when the head is tightened, it's fine.

Edited by - jwoods on 07/24/2013 11:40:11

Janet Deering - Posted - 09/09/2013:  18:32:23

That is right. It is set up to touch. If it's not broken don't fix it.
You will find lots of opinions on all sorts of things because not everyone wants the same sound or playability.
If your banjo is playing and sounding good then enjoy it. If you are ever in the San Diego area bring it in to our factory in Spring Valley And we will give it a free check up. If you come Tues - Friday around 1 pm you can join our factory tour. We are happy to answer your questions anytime.