jrimes - Posted - 04/21/2026:  12:04:24

A relative of mine is gifting me an all-original Gibson TB-11 and I can't decide what type of neck to have made for it. I love the thought of a maple Style 7 with the block inlays and a flat fingerboard. (Full disclosure: I currently own a TB11 conversion with a Sloan tone ring and mahogany Neat neck with flying eagle inlays that is an absolute monster!)

My question... in your opinion, what would be the perfect neck for this banjo?

Looking forward to your advice!
-Josh

RioStat - Posted - 04/21/2026:  12:42:05

I see from your profile that you're a history teacher.....so I assume you appreciate history.

Have a historically correct "RB 11" conversion neck built for it, and also leave it as a tone-hoop banjo, don't cut it for a tone ring.

You already have one Style 11 with your choice of neck, and cut for a tone ring......make this next one  look like an RB 11

Just my opinion.....

Bill Rogers - Posted - 04/21/2026:  12:48:09

Exactly. Choosing to retain the ability to restore the original TB-11 makes sense.

banjopaolo - Posted - 04/21/2026:  13:23:16

It seems that you play also Mandolin: why don’t you leave it with the original neck and play il as a tenor?

The Old Timer - Posted - 04/21/2026:  16:32:07

If you want a Style 7 neck, do it.

jrimes - Posted - 04/22/2026:  08:37:34

quote:

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Originally posted by RioStat

I see from your profile that you're a history teacher.....so I assume you appreciate history.

Have a historically correct "RB 11" conversion neck built for it, and also leave it as a tone-hoop banjo, don't cut it for a tone ring.

You already have one Style 11 with your choice of neck, and cut for a tone ring......make this next one  look like an RB 11

Just my opinion.....

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RioStat... yes sir, I LOVE history, so an RB-11 neck sounds appeasing. I like the idea that it's light-weight and I've seen Ritchie Dotson's style 11 necks which look outstanding. I really appreciate your opinion! 

jrimes - Posted - 04/22/2026:  08:39:36

quote:

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Originally posted by banjopaolo

It seems that you play also Mandolin: why don’t you leave it with the original neck and play il as a tenor?

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This has also crossed my mind. The banjo was my great uncles and I hate to manipulate it. However, I'm also afraid that if I leave it as a tenor, I'll never play it.

I sure appreciate your input!