Wondering if anyone can give me some information on this banjo up for sale? Hohner LE Artist 1970s/80s. I do not have access to the serial number. I see one sold on Reverb that looks like the same model, but the headstock on the Reverb post says "Made in Japan", while this instrument does not. Thanks :)
Edited by - deadtom_949 on 04/19/2026 20:32:12
Hohner LE Artist: MIJ, two coordinator rods (nice), 3-piece neck, tube and plate, thick multi-ply rim, likely die cast flathead, very similar to the Epiphone Masterbuilt and others.
These "Custom Made" labeled two-piece-flange banjos are well made and are a good value as intermediate players.
https://reverb.com/item/48550691-hohner-le-artist-banjo-made-in-japan
Edited by - pinenut on 04/19/2026 21:34:27
as far as i know all the hohner banjos were made in japan ,, probably by the kasuga company.
Any knowledge of the instrument quality? This is up for $400 obo w/ hard case, seems like a good deal for a backup banjo if they play well.
quote:
Originally posted by deadtom_949Any knowledge of the instrument quality? This is up for $400 obo w/ hard case, seems like a good deal for a backup banjo if they play well.
That is a fine price. note: don't trust the latches on the case shown, replace them or secure it for carry with a strap/belt.
My experience with the MIJ two piece flange banjos has been good. They are stable and well made with middle-of-the-road neck dimensions and are reasonably compatible with standard Gibson type parts. The tone ring is likely die cast and is less assertive than a brass/bronze flat-head; it has a friendly forgiving tone/setup and is pleasant in open back mode.
Edited by - pinenut on 04/20/2026 10:43:19
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