I have. I use it on an old Bacon now as it sat on top the hooks of my 00, which made it seem unstable. It does not do this on the Bacon.

As far as function, it's exactly what you want. I think the Oettinger's hooks (more like small rounded talons) are preferable because they won't scratch your trousers. That, and it's slightly wider base, are my only issue.

I saw one on a buddies banjo and checked it out. My only input is that you can definitely tell it's a "made in china" metal part. The edges and lines are not as refined and the plating doesn't look very good. But it's also the only version available at this point, and less than half the price of a real one. Can't speak tk the sound but I've heard they're quite heavy compared to a presto so you can guess. Give and take I suppose but it's the only option if you want individual string downforce adjustment.

I REALLY like Oettinger-style tailpieces. I've had a few originals on B&D Tenor banjos. They are really fantastic.

I have a (pre-Gold-tone) tensionator on my Williams Kenny Ingram model bluegrass banjo in the place of its original Presto. I know that is unconventional. But the individual string adjustability just sounds better to me. I tried re-installing the Presto, but really missed the sound of the tensionator...so that is my preferred set-up.

I have a Oettinger reproduction by Lyndon Bespoke Banjo on my Nashville Banjo Co "the Proctor" custom governor model. I think it is a big sound improvement over the original no-knot. It is beautiful too! Those tailpieces are pricey - but well worth the cost on a custom instrument (IMHO).

I have no experience with the Gold Tone tailpiece.   

Not to hijack this thread but, do Goldtone still make their own version of the Fielding tailpiece ? I have a few originals on different banjos and love em, Just wondering how the Goldtone versions measure up.

I have the tensionator on a tenor, and I'm about to order another (waiting for a sale). It's import quality, and the screws are rough on you as you handle the banjo but it works well. It'd be nice if it had a tilt adjustment, but it doesn't rest on the tension hoop at all. I'm concerned about this because the tenor I'm about to put it on needs very low height on bass and very high on the treble strings and I'm worried it will tilt my adjustment away. The one I have it on now is not wildly far off level with the bridge and it certainly works fine for that.

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Originally posted by spoonfed

Not to hijack this thread but, do Goldtone still make their own version of the Fielding tailpiece ? I have a few originals on different banjos and love em, Just wondering how the Goldtone versions measure up.

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Yes they do - they call it a vintage style tailpiece and also the High Moon Crescent tailpiece. I have one on my AC12. I like it but I can't compare it with the Fielding as I've never had one of those.