Posted by chuckles50 on Wednesday, May 16, 2007
I finally purchased a new banjo. Perhaps some musicians, playing each and every week in a band may disagree with my choice. After much consideration and months of angst, it came down to either the Deering Calico (Honey Blonde) or the Deering John Hartford (grenadillo tone ring). I chose the Hartford. Now, if I were a bit younger and played in a band professionally, I probably would have chosen the Calico. It has great crackle and bark with an even tone throughout. But my 6th sense kept calling me back to the Hartford with its sweeter, more mellow tone. You gotta go with your gut feeling (at least I do) and since the band issue is not a factor, I am completely thrilled with my choice. I do have bad back issues to consider however, so the lighter weight of the Hartford will prove to be a bonus. I have nothing against all the other great banjo's on the market from Gibson to Recording King to Huber. So a discussion on which is better/best is moot. Deering builds a quality instrument IMHO, which is apparently good enough for Mr. Trischka and was good enough for Mr. Hartford. I am a big fan of both these artists and am an Deering fan as well. Many thanx to Grant at the 12th Fret in Toronto for making the deal come through both financially and spiritually. I am thrilled!
stanger Says:
Thursday, May 17, 2007 @12:55:53 AM
Good choice. The Hartford is my favorite Deering by a long way. If you ever become a regular member of a band, you'll find it will do the job for you quite well. There is the 'right' banjo out there for every player, and it sounds like you found yours!
NMD Says:
Thursday, May 17, 2007 @12:58:15 AM
I bought my Gibson from 12th Fret and Grant was very helpful. I was worried about buying a banjo sight unseen, but he was very patient with my questions to authenticate that it was real Gibson (it was a used banjo on consignment), and he made the whole process very easy. I've had it for 8 months now and I still marvel at the tone.
PruchaLegend Says:
Thursday, May 17, 2007 @2:12:32 AM
Congratulations on your new banjo. It is the perfect banjo for you!
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