banjonz - Posted - 07/21/2025:  16:01:58

Since my previous post banjohangout.org/topic/403038,  I have finished it. 

when I got this, it was a mess. It came un-assembled and in a state. I had to get the metal parts soda/sand blasted as the plating was deteriorating badly. It would of cost a huge amount to get it replated, so I left it as it is. I looks kind of funky, one of a kind.

I researched the name and found it was made in either Korea or China in the 1970’s. I have never seen this brand or make before so I guess it is unique.

The build appears to be more substantial than the equivalent entry level (cheapy) instruments from China. It weighs 3.5kg and feels solid.



I have replaced all the hooks and nuts as well as the tuner pegs. I have also totally refretted it. I have installed capo spikes at frets 7, 9 & 10 for playing in the keys of A, B & C and set it up for playing.



It comes with its original case which considering the age, it is in great condition. I have seen much worse.

The co-ord rods look funky. I though they may have been after market but I suspect, given the deign and build, they most likely are original.

I couldn't adjust the action so I shimmed the bridge that came with it.

 

Jbo1 - Posted - 07/21/2025:  16:19:03

So....how does it sound? Can you provide a sound clip?
Nice job on getting it back together, BTW.

tdennis - Posted - 07/21/2025:  17:56:20

Does this have a laminated b/w/b nut & a zero fret ?

cottontop - Posted - 07/21/2025:  19:12:17

Looks good.
Joe

Pauls Pretty Good Stuff - Posted - 07/21/2025:  20:41:19

Take a little (lotta) weight off that bridge and see what it sounds like.

banjonz - Posted - 07/22/2025:  17:06:26

quote:

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Originally posted by tdennis

Does this have a laminated b/w/b nut & a zero fret ?

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Yea, and no!

banjonz - Posted - 07/22/2025:  17:08:53

quote:

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Originally posted by Pauls Pretty Good Stuff

Take a little (lotta) weight off that bridge and see what it sounds like.

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The 'weight' is actually rosewood laminations to get the bridge to a height where the action is good and playable. The 'co-ord' rods are only there to attach the neck to the rim. As adjustments, they are non functional.

banjonz - Posted - 07/22/2025:  17:16:30

quote:

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Originally posted by Pauls Pretty Good Stuff

Take a little (lotta) weight off that bridge and see what it sounds like.

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The sound is even but not crisp. 

Beverly Hillbillies

 

Pauls Pretty Good Stuff - Posted - 07/23/2025:  06:34:01

Take the weight off the sides, not the top, i.e. make the bridge thinner

Jbo1 - Posted - 07/23/2025:  09:48:57

It sounds pretty good.

banjonz - Posted - 07/23/2025:  15:46:45

quote:

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Originally posted by Jbo1

It sounds pretty good.

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Yes, it is not too shabby. I have sprayed up the head so that would alter the tone a bit. I realize one cannot make a silk purse out of a sow's ear, but I am reasonably happy with the result.