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quote:
Originally posted by Leslie RAppreciate the response.
If I wanted to have a neck made for one, would that be fairly easy and doable, for an experienced neck builder
I’d have to have it done, that would be way beyond my capabilities.
It'd be doable, but if you'd want it to reflect the Paragon style accurately, it wouldn't be easy. The Paragon necks have unique binding and inlays, among other things. I'd reach out to some of the guys in Ireland who convert 5-string Paragons to tenors to find out which luthiers they work with.
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Originally posted by Eric AThe last thing I remember ordering from Clifford Essex was some strings that I couldn't find anywhere else. But then they were out of business? But then they weren't? I don't know.
The current "new" Clifford Essex really has nothing to do with the original company. The only connection is that Clem (the founder of the new version) worked for the original CE.
Clem died (why they were out of business), then Clem Jr. decided to keep it going.
But don't be confused into thinking that they are the same company as the original that closed in the late 1970s, or that they have any claim to Clifford Essex IP. They are just using the name like Deering and "Vega".
quote:
Originally posted by Joel Hooksquote:
Originally posted by Eric AThe last thing I remember ordering from Clifford Essex was some strings that I couldn't find anywhere else. But then they were out of business? But then they weren't? I don't know.
The current "new" Clifford Essex really has nothing to do with the original company. The only connection is that Clem (the founder of the new version) worked for the original CE.
Clem died (why they were out of business), then Clem Jr. decided to keep it going.
But don't be confused into thinking that they are the same company as the original that closed in the late 1970s, or that they have any claim to Clifford Essex IP. They are just using the name like Deering and "Vega".
Hey, this helps, thanks.
I know I ordered some wound 3rd strings that were not available anywhere else, and they also had some bridges and tailpieces of interest. No idea what they have currently.
Hi
I too have admired the Clifford Essex Paragon model since I first became interested in banjos in about 1970. I used to visit the Clifford Essex shop in London's Earlham Street several times a year, and bought my first banjo there from Clem Vickery. I've never owned a Paragon as bluegrass is my prime interest and the Paragon doesn't quite have the necessary volume/tone, although I've seen them played in bluegrass bands (in the UK).
In all my years, I've never seen a Paragon with a guitar neck, nor seen mention of that as an option in catalogues. I imagine that a skilled luthier could make a suitable neck in the Paragon style, I guess you'd also need a custom tailpiece and bridge.
Here in the UK, Dave Stacey is an acknowledged expert on Paragons and has worked on countless examples. He's a member here, so perhaps you could contact him to discuss the practicality (or not) of what you need?
I don’t yet have one. Been looking online, but I don’t see any for sale. I’m only thinking about this for the moment. I’m sure if I decide to go with it, I’ll find something.
I know the Paragon has tunnels going through the rim. I do have a banjo with that feature, a Paramount Triple X. It’s got the resonator with the funny little side clips. Has a distinct sound that I kinda like.
Seems like I once read there were 3 companies back in the 20’s that made a banjo with the rim tunnels.
I can’t remember who the 3rd was, if there was one.
The Paragon appears to be a beast of a very cool banjo.