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Keith Billik - Posted - 05/21/2024: 13:30:01
Hey all-
I hope some of you can find this helpful: I just published a podcast episode breaking down all the main categories of effects, along with demonstrations on an acoustic banjo. Cheers! (also available on all the podcast apps)
banjopodcast.com/144-banjo-effects-primer/
KCJones - Posted - 05/22/2024: 05:54:08
This is awesome Keith. Thank you.
I feel like electrification and particularly effects have been explored by lots of players, but nobody has ever really documented what works and what doesn't, or made a type of guide like this. So congrats and thank you for expanding the circle of banjo knowledge for everyone else.
Pix5String - Posted - 05/23/2024: 08:58:50
Keith, this is so cool. I’ve always thought the banjo deserved a wider playing field (no pun intended). I’d like to try some of what you are showing us and as I listened to this episode the “effect” it will have for me is getting the banjo in my hands even more and experimenting. I’ve enjoyed all of your episodes and learn something from each one. For other readers, I support the Picky Fingers Podcast through Patreon. I KNOW I’ve gotten more than my money’s worth! Thank you Keith for preserving these wonderful people and things Banjo!
Willie Spence
eagleisland - Posted - 05/23/2024: 10:04:51
That was terrific!
Keith Billik - Posted - 05/31/2024: 05:27:34
Thanks for the kind feedback, everyone (and especially Willie for being a VIP)!
I was an electric guitarist before I ever laid hands on a banjo, and playing with effects was always a fun artistic experiment- why shouldn't us banjo players be able to have some fun too, right? I still strive toward a natural banjo sound 98% of the time, but it's nice to add some variation every now and then.
TTtheBear - Posted - 05/31/2024: 06:02:55
I have a POD XT Multi-effects modeling pedal which I use sometimes. I mostly use it to add some sustain with compression and reverb and the eq to punch up the highs. I've played around with different amp models with various types of overdrive. I can get a fair amount of tonal range and mich more sustain.
I am using the EMG magnetic pickup that mounts on the upper co-rod. I get better note separation and balance than I do if I'm mic'ing the banjo acoustically with an SM-57.
Probably would not work as well with banjo and player set up for clawhammer, although I can't say for sure 'cause it ain't me.
