Hi all,
I'm looking at adding to my resonators and getting an openback for some three finger and attempts at clawhammer. I'm pretty partial to a radius fretboard and tunneled fifth.
What are the options for openbacks that check these boxes? I know there's Nechville (Atlas/Atlantis wood tone ring) and Bishline (okie, Dobson tone ring). Any other contenders? Thoughts between these two?
Deering is not on the list - they've done tunneled fifth in the past but apparently aren't doing them now.
Thanks for the thoughts.
Open-back tone and style has more banjo crayons in the box than modern three finger. I would consider finding a quality used 'right now' banjo, with a tone ring, as your clawhammer skills and preferences develop (would have saved me cash and headaches). When you know what you like, you will know and won't need to research anymore.
Otherwise, make an effort to play a variety of open back tone rings, rims, and scale lengths.
Three finger is fine for evaluation; don't use picks and do test them with bare fingers.
Find a tone and style that suits you or speaks to your inner self, it is worth the effort.
Edited by - pinenut on 11/04/2025 14:26:43
note: If you currently own a tube/shoe and plate banjo; Bob's your uncle.
Edited by - pinenut on 11/04/2025 14:34:41
I have made custom open back banjos with radiused fretboards (your choice of radius) and tunneled 5th strings. Each of those options adds $30 to the price. Base price is $1200 for a 12" and $1175 for an 11". My website has more details at hoytbanjos.com.
Edited by - Zachary Hoyt on 11/04/2025 19:20:39
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