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!
7232 reviews in the archive.
Where Purchased: Banjo.com
Year Purchased: 2025
Price Paid: $5595 ($US)
Rich, full tone all the way up and down the neck. No tweaking needed for my taste, this banjo had the sound I was looking for from the first note picked.
Sound Rating: 10
I have not made any changes to the setup. Barry and his folks already had this in great shape but, as with other banjos I have had, I'll probably need to do a bit after everything settles in.
Setup Rating: 10
This is a beautiful mahogany banjo with top shelf parts, wood, finish, and fit. I'm a fan of the wreath inlay as well.
Appearance Rating: 10
Yes, finish and hardware is top notch and I have zero concerns about it's longevity.
Reliability Rating: 10
Barry Waldrep is extremely helpful, friendly, and accessible. Lifetime warranty.
Customer Service: 10
No weak or cheap parts on the Shelby banjos, they have purposely held to the top tier of parts and workmanship. Super nice fiberglass case as well as some interesting touches with respect to engraved owner's card to go with it.
Components Rating: 10
I cannot say enough good things about this Shelby Whitewater banjo. It will be one of my best banjos ever and in my possession until I'm gone and the kids have the farm sale...you cannot go wrong with one of Barry's banjos.
Overall Rating: 10
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