usefultree - Posted - 04/17/2026:  18:12:16

Listing my reserve stash and a couple that didn't sell during the initial May+ 2025 post.

banjohangout.org/classified/114833

Orig May 2025 post w/ full backstory here

banjohangout.org/classified/109786

Please ask any questions you have. Thanks!

davidppp - Posted - 04/18/2026:  08:18:25

I got a couple the last time around, medium and super thin, neither with bracing. The purpose was to compare the damped-string bridge taps to simple theory. (It's an interesting way to characterize the difference between wood tops and drum heads. Bracing adds a theoretical complication, but the thin one deformed slowly but steadily under bridge pressure.)

My simple, crude mounting method used an old Remo head (pictured). The change in rim height was small enough to be within the adjustment range of my Goodtime.

In the end, I liked the sound enough to keep the medium thickness one on a banjo and keep it around for playing.

 

usefultree - Posted - 04/19/2026:  14:13:15

very cool, esp. the reinforcement between head and rod! ~ thanks for checking in and sticking with the experiment! the original lo gordon banjo delivered on all the tops.

usefultree - Posted - 04/21/2026:  07:25:17

update - ladder braced top and tension hoop sold - all others still available

usefultree - Posted - 05/22/2026:  07:26:37

looking to get ahead of extended travels - open to offers on remaining six tops.

martyjoe - Posted - 05/22/2026:  09:54:11

quote:

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Originally posted by davidppp

I got a couple the last time around, medium and super thin, neither with bracing. The purpose was to compare the damped-string bridge taps to simple theory. (It's an interesting way to characterize the difference between wood tops and drum heads. Bracing adds a theoretical complication, but the thin one deformed slowly but steadily under bridge pressure.)



My simple, crude mounting method used an old Remo head (pictured). The change in rim height was small enough to be within the adjustment range of my Goodtime.



In the end, I liked the sound enough to keep the medium thickness one on a banjo and keep it around for playing.

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I made a tenor guitar over the Christmas break which is pretty much like my tenor banjo's but with a wooden top. 2.5mm thickness top and 1.6mm back. The rim is 1/4 inch thick. I gave it a tensioning system and it has not sagged one iota. I know what you mean about bracing adding complications, this thing is LOUD!!!

usefultree - Posted - 05/23/2026:  09:28:56

wow! also like the headless approach- only seen that on guitars before.

martyjoe - Posted - 05/23/2026:  09:42:30

quote:

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Originally posted by usefultree

wow! also like the headless approach- only seen that on guitars before.

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It is a guitar. A tenor guitar. I also do it headless with banjos