Hartford Set-ups

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652 Members, Created 1/27/2011 -

Administrators: Randyc1959 (owner)

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From JRushing on 9/18/2011 2:10:13 PM

Deering John Hartford banjo owners, how do you set-up your Hartford??? Head type and tension, tailpiece type and height, strings brand and gauge and any other changes or modifications worth mentioning. Thanks I just got mine and absolutely love it. I play alot of different types of music so I am curious about other owners playing styles and set-ups. Thanks again.

6 Comments
	Strelnieks says: 9/20/2011 6:15:24 AM I'm afraid my JH is rather "boring." I don't know about my head tension other than to say, "just right." I use a Snuffy Smith II bridge, light gauge strings and a Presto tailpiece. The only thing interesting about mine has nothing to do with the sound: I put black ebony tuning pegs on it this spring and think it looks awesome that way. I'll post photos here some time.
	dcb says: 10/30/2011 10:30:58 AM I use the factory supplied head and tail piece. head is tuned to A. The tail is about 1/4" and I replaced the bridge with a sossebe 5/8 standard spacing. I use GHS strings 9.5, 11, 12.5 20w 9.5. still has all the original hardware. I like the heavier 3rd stays in tune better when you do a lot of bends. I might take a little off the head maybe to a G or G# Just to see what it sounds like. Dave
	maryzcox says: 11/15/2011 2:41:00 PM Mine is set up with gold hardware and a black head--it looks awesome with the steamboat inlay--plays wonderful too. :)
	japus says: 12/16/2011 9:07:15 PM Shortly after I purchased my Hartford ( 8 years ) I installed a fibreskin head. I keep the head tension at 91-92 on the dial.] This has pleased me when I play it, and also when I hear others play it. If you want to hear what your banjo really sounds like, let someone else play it. I used about 5 different bridges and forgot what's on now. Strings used were lites, med lites, and med...I loved the mediums, however if I did not play for a while my fingers lost their toughness. I went back to the med lites. I play a lot in DD, and in sawmill tuning this banjo sounds terrific This banjo's a keeper.
John Storey says: 12/25/2012 11:12:43 AM In case anyone knows of one I am looking for a used John Hartford Deering. Would prefer one with John Hartford on headstock. Thanks, John
	camlan says: 12/11/2013 11:34:48 AM I too am looking for a used Hartford 22Fret with wood tone ring or maybe a Calico with wood tone ring. Not picky on the pop-off resonator. I have a very mint 2011 Deering Maple Blossom I am looking to trade. Hope the banjo I am trading for is not more that 7 years old. Also, my passion is more bluesy bluegrass and adaptation of modern blues to banjo. Anyone know of some good tab sources or books for that! I love my Deering MB and hope to love the Hartford even more!! Big Thanks!
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