Hi, I'm looking to get into plectrum - ragtime, early jazz etc Can anyone recommend a good quality banjo under $1000? Or is it better to buy a vintage model? Thanks
I’m interested in the answers to this! I’ve been wondering about dipping my toe (or plectrum, I suppose) into the four string banjo world.
If you already own a five-string banjo (and I assume you do), just take off the 5th string and tune your low D string to a C. You'll then be tuned to CGBD, 4th to first string. The five string functions perfectly as a plectrum and you won't need to buy a second banjo to get your feet wet.
You might also find this information of interest: https://www.banjohangout.org/blog/34982
Edited by - Omeboy on 11/24/2020 16:26:57
You can buy fine vintage Vega open back plectrum banjos from before WWII for $1000 and under. If you want a resonator they are also offered, and attach easily. These are fairly plentiful.
A quick Google search produced this one at the website "Reverb" (an aggregator of other on line ads for musical instruments). Standard disclaimer, I have nothing to do with this offer, and I am not "vouching" for this instrument in any way. Just to show you they are out there.
Edited by - The Old Timer on 11/24/2020 16:59:04
Thanks Omeboy, the link was very interesting. My current 5 strings are nylon strung, open back so not sure they would be good for plectrum style.
Dick - thanks for the link, that does look like a good banjo, only I am in the UK and imagine shipping would be costly, I did see a Vega Regent for sale over here on Reverb, looks nice, but I havent a clue if its any good - think it was about $700. Would these be a better choice than for example the Goldtone PS 250?
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