I have a Vega Little Wonder tenor with a 12 inch pot. I’d like to convert it to a 5-string. Can anyone recommend an affordable neck builder?
I’m impressed with Zach Hoyt’s work in this respect. He’s easy to work with, flexible and willing to accommodate specific needs, very responsive to inquiries, and has a reasonable price structure. In every instance I’ve dealt with Zach, which have been several, he’s always done a good job for me, and in good time. He’s an active member here and his website is easily accessed. (Others will chime in with more good suggestions, I’m sure. All the best with your project!)
Edited by - srrobertsiii on 04/24/2025 11:56:09
I worked with mark hinkler for a retro neck for a old Vega tuba phone (thinking of selling btw) and he is very detailed great on communication and knows what he’s doing and I felt the price was fair
In terms of "affordable" - not to be confused with cheap, as I do think both builders do an excellent job - builders that I have purchased items from, I would recommend Zach Hoyt and Steve Garritson from Stone Banjo Co.
They both have a different "style". I found Zach's necks to be more "chunky", not in a bad way, kind of like how a Pisgah is more "chunky". Steve's were more slender. Both necks were excellent.
I should I bought full banjos from both of them and at the time I did so they were building necks. I don't know if they do that anymore.
You might also check out Chris Sorenson at Companion Banjos or Hunter Lemon. Both of them are members here. While both of them primarily make bluegrass banjos, either one could probably make the style of neck you want.
quote:
Originally posted by the-fishI worked with mark hinkler for a retro neck for a old Vega tuba phone (thinking of selling btw) and he is very detailed great on communication and knows what he’s doing and I felt the price was fair
Mark built an excellent simple replica 5 string Gibson (basically a rb-00) conversion neck for a Montgomery Wards banjo I had. He has photos of the build on his website.
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