I recently acquired a 2022 Frank Neat mahogany (RB-3) with a Kevin Shelton tone ring, which Frank now endorse, since Blaylock is not making rings. I will say it’s one great sounding ring. It has the tone I like, a dry but at the same time very rich. It has pop, but not too much sustain, and plenty of volume. Of course Frank’s work is impeccable. Kevin is a member her, plus I’m sure Frank can hook you up with one of the rings if you are interested.
I have to agree on the Shelton tone ring. A few weeks ago I had Frank do some work on a RB75 copy he had made for me back in the early 90's. I knew that Frank had used various tone rings over the years (Ryan, McPeak, Blaylock), but when I asked what rings he was using now, he said 'A gentleman in Florida had gotten the formula from Blaylock '(who had passed away and no longer making rings), and started producing rings that Frank was now using. I asked Frank to put one in my banjo. I could tell a big difference. Louder, without being harsh, little or no overtones. Overall, extremely pleased. I think Kevin got the formula right!
Kevin is from Alabama.
I'll let Frank know.
Kevin is indeed from Alabama, and a fine fellow he is. I also have one of his tone rings in an RB 2 that I have had for probably 25 years (Yes, an original RB 2. DO NOT fuss at me for cutting the rim in the banjo, it had been cut prior to my acquiring it) and the ring is fantastic.
Kevin makes a great ring. Very reminiscent of Bill Blaylocks rings. Also, Bill Blaylock is very much alive. He celebrated 83 years of age on 1/18/25. He retired from making rings due to a loss of eyesight.
