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The banjo reviews database is here to help educate people before they purchase an instrument. Of course, this is not meant to be a substitute for playing the instrument yourself!

7107 reviews in the archive.

Pisgah: 12" Stainless Walnut Dobson Rambler

Submitted by halfpintx on 2/19/2018

Where Purchased: Pisgah Banjo Co.

Year Purchased: 2017
Price Paid: $1695 ($US)

Sound

The volume is much louder than expected and can hold its own in a group setting with ease. The tone can be changed, of course, by where you play on the head. I play both 2 and 3 finger style and am in the process of learning clawhammer and this banjo seems to suit all 3 styles. I even throw in a few blues tunes now and then.

Sound Rating: 10

Setup

I opened it up and started picking. The action was set higher than I was accustomed to, but it didn't take long to adjust, and I feel the higher action may help increase the volume, so I won't be making any adjustments in that regard.

Setup Rating: 10

Appearance

I love the natural woods of this banjo. Deep East Texas where I live, like North Carolina is full of persimmon and walnut, so I chose those woods. Finger oils are already giving the persimmon fretboard a rich patina. One minor flaw on this beauty was, 2 of the fret markers on the folk heel were not sanded off. I am positive Patrick would have corrected this had I brought it to his attention, but I was not about to let go of my banjo for on dadblame minute!!! No points off for this.

Appearance Rating: 10

Reliability

I expect this banjo to be passed down to many different generations with no problems. Built solid and made to last, and that's good, because I carry it everywhere I go.

Reliability Rating: 10

Customer Service

I can't say enough good things about Patrick. Kept me informed on progress and gave me everything I asked for and then some. In fact, before long, I am going to have him build me a fretless banjo! I just wish I could give more than a 10.

Customer Service: 10

Components

Hair trigger gotah tuners, no knot tail piece, which I will at some point change to a hawk tail.

Components Rating: 10

Overall Comments

I would like to thank all of you folks that helped me back in August, 2017, when I first started looking

for a clawhammer banjo. I spent a little more than my $1200 budget, but I'm as happy as a "mule in a brier

patch"! I can't count the times I have gone to sleep holding it in my arms, anyway thanks to all for your advice,

and when I get a little braver, I'll do a video. Anyone looking for a great banjo, you really do need to check out a Pisgah.

All My Best,

m.e.grimes

Overall Rating: 10