Vega Plectrum Banjo. Custom built using a 1968 Vega Pro II pot assembly and resonator. After playing a VegaVox for years a 'regular' depth resonator was desired. The 1920s were to shallow, obviously losing bass, so the later Pro model was used. A plus being able to use an Ome knee mute. Banjo is perfect. Being completely retired it is being offered after 25+ years of usage. The banjo is nearly in mint condition.
Specs:
RESONATOR - completely covered with curly maple veneer the back using the original pie division motif with a star inlaid with engraved mother-of-pearl rather than plastic.
BODY - gold flange, tone ring, bracket band, armrest, tailpiece, all fancily engraved using an early Vega pattern, (armrest chrome engraved). The notched tension hoop replaced with a non-notched one so any standard 11" medium crown head can be used -
original 10 15/16" heads are difficult to find and only one option is available, (a glued type I do not care for). The only slightly worn gold is near the neck on the highest point of the tension hoop and a little on the tailpiece - otherwise perfect - as are the gold engraved tuners. Aluminum coordinator rods replaced with Gibson style for strength and easy adjustment. 4 finger tailpiece another plus for sound and tuning.
NECK - curly maple, 26" scale, (width 1st fret: 1 13/16", 22nd: 1 11/16" - includes binding) with overall motif from Artists Supreme Super Paramount of the early 1930s. Notice the peghead has a 'hidden' truss rod cover - seen only by the 2 gold screws incorporated for the 1920s look with modern easy adjustability. Neck originally made by James DeCava of Liberty Banjo Co. with all the elaborate carving and metal engraving - including the resonator work, (curly maple, pie sections, star and engraving), by Renee Karnes, the best in the business. Stainless steel frets - never needs re-fretting.
This banjo sounds, looks and plays wonderfully, the finest I have ever owned. After all these years I believe another should enjoy it. Comes with a new Reunion Blues Continental Voyager case. I am lowering the price to $3,500.00, not because of financial need, but because I want to part with anything I am not using anymore.