Hello friends, I currently own a 2004 Deluxe, and while I really like it, I am considering moving up to a Masterclone, or even (don't hate me) a true Mastertone. I have read a little about the Golden Era, and that Banjo sure seems to fit, but I was wondering about the Eagle II.I've heard a few clips, and it really sounds great, I would be looking for something with more punch than the Deluxe.
So, of the Eagle II owners out there, what do you think? What about the weight (10lbs?), and the new tone ring?
8 Comments |
 | RUSTYSTILL says:
12/28/2011 1:07:51 PM
Hi Randy,
Tastes are sure different. When I went on a search for a "good" sounding bluegrass banjo the RB 250 was recommend highly. I tried some and really didn't care for the tone. When I heard the Deering Calico, I fell in love. Loud, punchy and clear and clean. I've had it almost 2 years now and every time I pick it up I just think, wow, what a great sound. Yet others feel the same way about banjos I don't really care for the tone of. What YOU like is most important as there a remany tastes and opinions on them. The Calico is definitely worth a listen. It is a very heavy banjo but on stage I haven't had a problem , just make sure you use a good grip when picking it up by the neck :) Jim
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 | roady24 says:
12/28/2011 1:10:52 PM
A pre-2006 Golden Era would be my choise. I have one but it is not for sale (EVER!!!).
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 | irasmith says:
12/28/2011 2:57:49 PM
Thanks Ron, and Jim..
Yes indeed you are correct, it is personal decision. I really want to try a Calico, there is a really good demo on you tube, and it sounds GREAT. Problem is of course it is all about the set-up. Ron, the Golden Era seems so cool, I've never played or heard one. STLL I was hoping for comments about that Eagle II Banjo. Thanks again
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 | tkocason says:
12/28/2011 3:04:18 PM
The Eagle II has a different sound but it seems a step back or at least even with the Deluxe.
Unless it's a sound you really like I don't see the point.
To me in playing the different models I could get my hands on I'm in love with the Calico.
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| irasmith says:
12/28/2011 4:20:59 PM
tkocason, ya I know, that is exactly what I was thinking also, good point. Nothing wrong with the Deluxe, I mean it a really sweet banjo, but I'm after the next level. Hope that makes sence.
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| roady24 says:
12/29/2011 5:37:19 PM
I have a Calico also it is one of a kind blue color custom but the Golden Era sounds better and the neck shape fits my hand better.
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 | Pappy says:
12/31/2011 7:09:38 PM
Hey there, irasmith.
I am an Eagle II owner. My Deering experience is from a basic open back Goodtime, graduated to a Mohogany Sierra, Now have just recieved , my Eagle II 4 weeks ago. As an upgrade from the Deluxe,yes, the Eagle delivers. For the objective sound I was searching for, the Eagle delivers for me. However, it took a great deal of correct set up information , which was offered here on the banjo hangout before it met and surpassed my expectations of this fine machine that Greg Deering and Jens Kruger have created.I am a true follower of Deering Banjo. Have picked Stelling, and Gibson. I always come back to a Deering. The tone ring of the Eagle II sure does deliver the volume and tone as described on the web page. A knowledgable banjo set up person can fine tune this machine to meet you're subjective tone. It truly responds with the lightest touch and when I drive it hard as per a Ralph Stanley or an Earl Scruggs style it just keeps producing strong note after note. This banjo is not like anything availabe today.He has his own distinct tone. If you are able to,pick on one before you purchase. If you cannot, only order from a Deering master dealer, such as Janet davis ,Elderly Instuments or perhaps Banjo.com ,these people know how to set up this banjo to extract the sound that this amazing banjo has to offer.I almost gave up on mine,but with the knowledge base here at banjo hangout I was able to adjust mine to become a cannon!! Yet ,still be so suttle for a love song to my lady. Now, go and find a Banjo that can offer that.
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 | jswkingsfield says:
2/15/2012 8:09:45 AM
I have an Eagle II, and it is a sweet thing. The tone is bright and clear. I did try the Sierras with the 06 tone ring in both mahogany & maple, and a Deluxe with the 06 tone ring, and they sound about the same, and yes, I was tempted to go with the mahogany Sierra, very mellow, rich sound. My opinion is the Eagle has a brighter profile, and that's the sound I was going for with that selection. But, I also recently bought a 2004 Gibson RB-4, which weighs about a pound more. I prefer the Gibson for Scruggs pieces, it has a fuller, growlier tone, long finish to the sustain, and I have a tendency to look for sustain in a stringed instrument, a holdover from violin-playing days. In my case, it's a matter of tonal memory -- I find I reach for the Eagle if I'm going for a Tony Trischka sound, but the Gibson if it's a Scruggs or Reno sound source. They're just very different beasties tonewise, both equally valuable in my book (leastaways that's how I justified buying both). Have fun deciding!
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