The banjo reviews database is here to help educate people before they purchase an instrument. Of course, this is not meant to be a substitute for playing the instrument yourself!
7232 reviews in the archive.
Where Purchased: http://www.mikesbanjomute.com/
Howdy all,
Following much exploration & conversation with other pickers, I decided to drop coin on Mike's Banjo Mute. After playing with the mute for a couple weeks I can say I am thrilled. Mike's Banjo Mute performs exactly as advertised, is simple to use and incredibly quiet.
Without question, one of the best banjo accessories I have ever purchased... well worth the price.
Thanks Mike!
TheOtherMarshal
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: www.mikesbanjomute.com
I am very pleased with my Mike's Banjo Mute because now I can practice any time of day. Previously, I would not practice when my wife was sleeping, on the phone, or playing her mandolin. When she watched TV she would turn up the volume when I practiced. My wife is very happy with the mute. My banjo instructor recommended Mike's Banjo Mute saying that before buying the mute his wife often found his loud picking annoying. The mute is easily installed on the bridge, and its small size does not interfere with my right hand. The brass plate that rests on the strings does not create strange harmonics like rubber or plastic on some mutes. With the mute installed my banjo has a pleasant sound. I can practice both left and right hand techniques. For me there is only one negative. As a beginner/intermediate picker practicing a memorized song with the mute, I sometimes 'forget' parts of a song because I don't hear the normal banjo tones.
Overall Rating: 8
Where Purchased: Online
I can't tell you how pleased I am with Mike's Banjo Mute. From the quality of the piece itself to the sound it provides I could not be happier. I can't imagine any banjo player without one of these. Not only does it mute the banjo, the sound it provides is soft and accurate. It is easy to put on and take off and feels rock solid ... like it will last a lifetime. You won't be disappointed.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Maker
I have just purchased one of Mikes mutes and believe me it is the best mute I have tried. The attention to detail in the build is first class and it is to my mind rock solid. Having been a tradesman for over 50 years has been instrumental ( no pun intended ) in looking for quality and I see it, in this mute, Mikes service is exceptional from the USA to Australia in just 7 days, can't say fairer than that. so of any one is thinking of buying one........go for it you won't be disappointed
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: website
Received it in the mail promptly after ordering from Mike's website.
I am using it to tone down a very loud Deering Maple Blossom banjo with resonator. It certainly does that. It hushes it down in a big way. The tone is very quiet but pleasing. Ideal for practicing in close proximity to other people, but the tone is very different.
That said, I still think stuffing a rag behind the bridge lowers the volume enough that I don't wake the house up from my basement studio, and still retains the banjo tone, which I prefer to the mute.
However, if I was practicing upstairs and needed to really quiet down the banjo, I would use the mute.
All in all, a great product. Excellent quality and workmanship.
Matt Dougan
Ottawa, Ontario
Overall Rating: 9
Where Purchased: From Mike online
I have recently purchased Mikes standard 5 string banjo mute.
I am highly impressed with the functionality, engineering, quality and sound of this devise. This mute is everything I was looking for in a banjo mute.
I can now play as hard as I like without imposing on others. The sound is also quite good when muted.
Mikes mute is simple to install and remove and it fits my RB250 and my Deering, but is difficult to fit to my Epiphone due to the bridge spacing.
I just love this thing.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: directly from mikesbanjomute.com
It is a really good mute.
I own several other mutes (Ultimate, Iucci) and this is clearly the best.
The tone is still there and is ok but the volume is really muted. Love it!
Seems really well made, excellent build quality
Shipping to Sweden was no hassle at all
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online - www.mikesbanjomute.com
Mutes - MIKE'S BANJO MUTE - The Better Banjo Mute
My Aussie instructor (Heath Joyce - pickinlessons.com) demonstrated and strongly recommended Mikes Banjo Mute product as the best ever mute. The delivery to Melbourne Australia was prompt, the product was well packaged, and my queries were promptly answered in precise and clear detail even for a novice like me to understand. The mute certainly helps me to avoid disturbing the “wife’’ with my attempts at playing. I highly recommend it you if you are looking for a banjo mute and peace with the family and neighbours.
Overall Rating: 9
Where Purchased: http://www.mikesbanjomute.com/
In the interest of opacity, I am a complete noob. I have my first banjo and very little clue about how to play the thing. I could have bought a case to protect it, that might have wise... or a banjo specific stand as my guitar stand seems ill suited to the task. As my banjo has a resonator (and I think a weight problem, but who am I to judge) a strap might have been a good purchase. In the interest in maintaining harmony (of the marital kind) I decided that, after the banjo itself, my next purchase should be a mute. Even my dog agrees. So unfamiliar with the banjo am I that I cannot speak to how much or how little the mute changes the overall tone but I can attest that it changes the volume significantly. In a good way. I am no expert but I think it actually sweetens the sound a bit. Snugging it down finger tight (not really tight, snug) allows for strings that ring.. but in a manner that has not yet wakened my wife. I notice the sustain of my instrument more with the mute in place. A good product, well made for a reasonable price. It shipped to Canada much quicker than I had expected.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mike's Mute Web Site
Been using Mike's Mute for a couple weeks now and it works great. I'm on vacation right now and use it on my hotel balcony without disturbing the other guests or my wife and kids.
Easy to install and doesn't interfere with the right hand at all or cause any string buzz. It is super quiet and the banjo sounds different, but in a pleasant way; somewhat like a hammered dulcimer.
One side benefit for me as a new player is it allows me to hear how cleanly (or not!) I'm picking the strings. I now strive for cleaner picking and less clicking and scraping of my picks.
I have never used a different mute, but given the quality and effectiveness of Mike's Mute, I won't need to.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: From Mike
Bought a banjo, needed it as quiet as possible so that I could learn to play and not bother anyone. My living situation isn't as conducive to playing instruments as it used to be and I wasn't taking that into consideration when I decided to start over learning banjo...selfish me. So, I bought a Gold Tone mute, which is fine if I was alone outside and did not want to bother my deaf uncle that lives a couple of doors down from me, but it isn't good for my current needs.
So I wasn't playing at all. Then I found Mike's Banjo Mute. In videos, it seemed like it cut the sound down further than it does. What it DOES do is cut the sound of a resonator banjo by more than half and that is amazing. The tone is dampened but sounds good. Its about the volume of an un-amped archtop or hollowbody electric guitar. The mute installs easily, in seconds. Also, it has a low profile as well and isn't in the way when playing. I would recommend this mute over any other. The only reason that I gave it a 9 instead of a 10 is that I had a much higher expectation than is probably physically possible to achieve and hoped the volume would be reduced further.
Either way, I love it! Get one. Especially if you live in an apartment/condo or similar situation, you are a new picker and want to keep a happy marriage, you have young kids and can only practice when they are asleep, and/or you like your neighbors.
Overall Rating: 9
Where Purchased: http://www.mikesbanjomute.com/
I'm a fingerstyle guitarist who became interested in playing the banjo recently. I never realized how naturally loud the banjo was until buying a new one and starting to practice with it. Even practicing lightly gave me a little bit of a headache as well as disturbing my family. Mike's Banjo Mute was an excellent solution. It gives the banjo a softer sweeter tone that I can practice with. I found the softer tone actually helps in my technique as well, since any lack of accuracy isn't masked by the loud resonance. Now I can practice in peace and save the full resonating sound of the banjo for when I use it in gigs. Very happy!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mikesbanjomute.com
Been using this mute for a week now. Wow! This thing is great! Allows me to play inside while the family is home without "disturbing" them! :) Excellent quality. Very quick and easy to use. Fast shipping too.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: www.mikesbanjomute.com
Great mute, I no longer worry about waking up my neighbors, or anyone in the house for that matter. Easy to use and doesn't effect playability.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mikesbanjomute.com
Ok, I've read about this mute for a while; but, had my doubts. My wife's not a banjo fan so I don't play with her around, figured I'd breakdown and try one. Got it today, this is great I can practice upstairs and not bother anyone. I wish I had tried one sooner. This should be in every banjo players case.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: From Mike´s homepage
This is the best mute I´ve had, easy to use especially when using a compensated bridge like I do. Now my neighbour can sleep.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online
Just received Mike's Banjo Mute and it is awesome! Easy to put on, easy to take off. Really mutes the sound yet doesn't alter the tone. I was a little worried that the actual tone of the song or tune would change but really doesn't (Well, when I am in tune!). Very well made also. I highly recommend this mute. This is an especially great product for someone who plays out of tune as much as I do. I haven't tried it around my girlfriend yet but I am VERY sure she is going to appreciate this purchase!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mike's website
I needed a mute so my neighbors (and my wife) wouldn't throw rocks at me when I practice. I researched a lot of them. I decided on Mike's based mostly on reviews but also on how it works. The price didn't throw me because it looked like it is very well made. Well, it is. And I am extremely pleased with the sound -- almost like a dulcimer. Mutes without ruining tone. Well worth the money!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mikes Website
This mute has been a game changer for me. Because of the loudness of the banjo I've been limited to early morning or late at night for practice time. So when I went looking for a solution I was pleasantly suprised to find a video on youtube of a guy reviewing 2 mutes. From the video I thought Mikes was clearly more effective. I gladly spent the $30 hoping it would buy me some practice time...and boy did it! This mute takes so much sound out of the banjo, that honestly, I'll practice at the dinner table now. This mute has really opened up a lot of practice opportunities for me. Being able to take advantage of a few minutes here or there has been extremely helpful to me and kept me making progress.
I would highly recommend this product to anyone who is serious about banjo that sound might restrict their practice time. Also, I see this being a handy tool when I go to jam in groups.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online from Mike's website
This is an excellent piece of kit, as you can see from all of the positive reviews. I was looking for a mute, and this one was the quietest mute on YouTube, so I gave it a try. I'm in Afghanistan living in a metal shipping container and I can practice with picks without my neighbors banging on the walls (we can hear each other talking at normal levels). This was the smartest purchase I've made for my banjo. Mike's sent me a personal email thanking me for the purchase, and shipping was quick. All around great purchasing experience.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Direct from Mike
Mike's banjo mute is terrific. It is seems to be brass and does the job of muting my five string banjo very well.. A bit pricey but worth every penny.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mikesbanjomute.com
I have heard a lot of great things about this mute so I had to try it for myself. I have a Deering Goodtime Special. I want to use my picks but still keep the peace in the house. To me, the difference in volume is significantly different. It sounds like a soft guitar as opposed to the rich loud sound.
Installation involves loosening the screws and placing the mute along the bridge with the prongs towards the head of the banjo. Once tightened, this is as stable as a factory part.
Shipping was fast, as mine came by USPS Priority Mail. It had a nice drawstring bag to keep it from getting scratched.
It is a highly effective accessory to keep the volume down, but still allow you to practice with picks.
Highly recommend this.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: mikesbanjomute.com
I've been using two of Mike's Mutes since he introduced them a couple of years ago. I have the 5-string standard version and the 4-string version.
I've owned a lot of different banjo mutes in the past 35 yrs. Mike's are simply the best I've ever had. They are exceptionally easy to use, stay in place, don't damage the bridge and are on and off in a second or two.
Construction: Mike has done a great job of blunting all edges...no sharps anywhere. These are solid and well made, no cheap stamped parts here. I expect someone will be using these things on my banjos well into the next century.
Sound: These are extremely effective mutes. Ask my wife...no complaints! As with any mass-mute, the banjo sounds more guitar-like and notes sustain quite a bit longer.
In use: I really like the low profile of these mutes, they do stick up a bit (about 7/16") but that is quite a bit lower than the old violin-types (esp the old metal ones). There's nothing to drop down on the head, so they don't rattle. Also, they tend to lean back towards the tailpiece, so the brass bar doesn't buzz on the strings. They're low enough that even digging down in Scruggs mode near the bridge, my picking hand never touches the mute.
Overall: deep shot to center...outta the park! The best mute ever.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: from Mikes Mutes
Simple to use and attach, adds sustain and quietens the Banjo and makes it almost sound like a Guitar - Love it, and best of all - a dont get complaints from 'She who must be Obeyed' whilst the TV is in full swing ...lol - and you can make weights of a different size if you feel like experimenting .... looks heaps better than Wooden Clothes Pegs too .... they're a good thing, and a good thing never hurt anybody !
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online
I've purchased four mutes so far. Unfortunately, my two-year old also likes them and keeps hiding them in air vents, etc. It does not slide off, easy to adjust, and I love the sound. I can play in a hotel room with the neighbor none the wiser.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Gift
Received this as a gift on Father's Day - I think it was my families way of giving themselves a gift. LOL - a gift that keeps on giving. Well needless to say they will not have to endure the echoing sounds of FMB ever again. Very easy to use - pops right on and the difference in sound is night and day as seen on some other YouTube demos- it really is a great accessory - a must if you live with other people! It's only my 3 rd day with it and I will be using this item on a weekly basis. I give it very high ratings -At first glance I was going to knock it down a notch based on more of an esthetic one .. the threaded pins are a nylon vs. metal. But after checking the website I found the rational behind the use of nylon:Nylon screws are preferred over any other. Its slight flexing allows the mute to rest to the backside of the bridge to prevent annoying string buzz. Unlike plastic, it will last a lifetime. Unlike metal, it creates a more pleasing, softer sound and offers an enhanced sustain.
The rest of the mute is very nice Brass top - Aluminum hooks to catch the bridge.
I am very happy with this item - My Family Is happier!!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased:
Received Mikes Banjo Mute in the post yesterday. 9th June 2015 Very impressed by speed of delivery from USA to UK. Communication with Mike was spot on and he marked my package as a "GIFT" to expedite it through British customs. It is a gift for my son. A very neat and well made mute. It looks good on the banjo and does the job beautifully. Cut the sound down to under half much to the relief of both his wife and neighbours
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mikes website
Just received Mike's great Mute "Downunder" in Canberra Australia! Great sound and really mutes the banjo but still sounds terrific so that I can keep practicing with or without picks. Now have a happy wife as I am only a beginner and she and the neighbourhood don't have to continue to listen to me practising! Would definitely recommend this mute and the great customer service from Mike. February 2017 - P.S. Just bought my 2nd mute from Mike to save keep swapping it across Banjos :) Works really well just like the previous one and our two beagles now come into the music room whilst I am practising! These mutes are lot better than the Deering ones (sorry guys) and really work and the banjo's stay in tune :). Really fast postage from the states too. Thanks Mike :) Cheers Karl in Canberra Australia
Brilliant product and very easy to use and arrived promptly from the USA and very reasonable postage cost.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mike's website
Researched before I bought this mute for my new Deering Goodtime Parlor banjo. There were some good youtube demos. The mute is excellent both in terms of ease of use: it just slips on and off and tightens with a few turns of the screws. And the mute is pretty incredible. I was worried about the neighbors but no problem now. I wouldn't even worry about someone sleeping in the other room. And the sound with the mute is quite nice. I sent Mike an email just to double check that it would be ok for this particular Deering and he responded right away. No regrets, best purchase ever and worth it!
Overall Rating: 9
Where Purchased: Mike's online store
Very happy with Mike's banjo mute. It really quietens down the banjo but does not lose sustain. It is easy to attach to the bridge.
Good to deal with someone like Mike who has come up with such a useful and well-made product for banjo players.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: online
The mute works great and is easy to learn how to install by going to Mike's website.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: mikesbanjomute.com
I have spent a good portion of my life, including the present, living in multi-family dwellings. I'm currently in a quadruplex townhouse. Because of this, I tend to only play my minstrel banjo at night, since it is much more quiet than my resonator banjo (an archtop Stew Mac). I like my neighbors, they like me, and I want them to continue to like me!
I've tried various makeshift banjo mutes, over the years. The one I've used the most was a piece of furniture foam stuffed below the bridge, between the strings and the head. While this does effectively lower the volume, it almost completely eliminates sustain. My normally bright sounding archtop produces a dull, but quiet, plunking sound.
Today, I received my Mike's Banjo Mute. The price is very reasonable...I paid $35.49 including shipping. And Mike Stidd shipped it immediately upon receiving my order. I was very pleased at how quickly it arrived, but the true pleasure was in using it for the first time. It is super easy to install and to adjust. I have a Grover Compensated Bridge, so I was a little concerned that it may not fit. There was no reason to be concerned. It fit just fine. Before putting it on, I played through Red Wing, unmuted. Then I put it on, plucked a little, heard some buzzing, adjusted the tension, plucked some more, then played Red Wing, muted. My right hand did not vary from my normal technique, and I immediately felt a huge grin spreading across my face as I played. Not only was the volume low enough to maintain the peace with my neighbors, the sustain was amazing! The overall tone does change, but it's a pleasant change that suits the lower volume well. I played for about an hour and loved every minute of it!
If you're considering a mute for your banjo (no, not that sledge hammer we've all seen), you can't go wrong with a Mike's Banjo Mute. It is money very well spent!
Vince Abadie
Gumbograss
Update: It took me a while to realize it, but my Mike's Banjo Mute was lost in the cleanout of our house (we had moved from the multi-family dwelling to a single family home in June 2015) after the flood of August 2016. I really liked this mute, and I plan to contact Mike soon and purchase a replacement!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: mikesbanjomute.com
Being brand-new to banjo, I've learned a lot, quickly. Like... my wife gave me a not-so-pleasant look when I would pull the banjo out to practice. Sure, being new I'm not pleasant to listen to, yet. But it was the volume that really seemed to be the issue.
I took my banjo downstairs to practice where I can easily lose myself an hour at a time.
A few days of doing this, I noticed more high-pitch ringing in my ears when in silence. I value my hearing and protect it as much as possible. So I was curious why I had the ringing sensation (didn't put it together quite yet).
The next night, I was practicing and realized how incredibly loud the banjo really is and had a hunch. So I pulled out my trusty decimeter. I was shocked to see 80+ db --consistently.
For anyone unaware, 80 db of sound energy sustained over an hour will cause hearing damage. That's where the additional ringing in my ears was coming from.
Because of this revelation, I immediately fired up my favorite internet search engine and begin the research. I didn't even think there was something called a banjo mute. I was happy to see that a banjo mute isn't a far-fetched concept after all.
A personality trait I have is to research something until I feel I can make the absolute best decision possible. After several hours researching and reading about banjo mutes, my decision was made. The next morning, I ordered Mike's Banjo Mute. And later that morning I was notified that It had shipped that same day.
I eagerly awaiting it's arrival and was rewarded quickly. Putting the mute on the banjo was like nothing I could have anticipated. It is *SO* incredibly quiet, yet all the tones remain open and clean. It's just QUIET! Running over to my wife with banjo in hand, she prepared "the look". I strummed a few chords and ran a couple rolls. The look on her face was wonderful. Confusion and surprise. I proudly showed off Mike's Banjo Mute and she was appropriately impressed. Another marriage saved along with a little of my hearing.
There are few products which I purchase that exceed expectations. Mike's Banjo Mute is one of the few items which as done this.
On a side-note regarding build quality... my father was an industrial mold maker. I grew up around machine shops and high-precision machining (mostly aero-space). The quality of manufacture is great. There was some residual buffing compound in the engraving (yes, it's engraved and polished/buffed), but it's a piece of art. And if you're really worried about the buffing compound in the engraving, it could easily be removed. But I'm going to leave it in, because it's likely part of the tuning and contributes to the quietest mute possible.
If you've been on the fence regarding this mute, this quality item will last generations and will exceed expectations. Just buy one and know you made the best possible choice.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: www.mikesbanjomute.com
I'm new to learning the banjo and have been at it for several months. I try to practice every evening and my wife (in another room) doesn't mind the noise. She even encourages me to practice when I don't feel like it. So my wanting to mute my banjo was more for my privacy when practicing than for my wife. I searched on-line and found Mike's Banjo Mutes. I'm glad that I ordered it. The quality and workmanship is very good. Mike sent them out right away and I received them several days earlier than I was expecting. I have them on an open back banjo and it sounds like an acoustic guitar but not as loud. I have experienced some resonance when picking but I feel that is more my technique than the mute as I don't hear this all the time. I know that they work because now my wife turns down the TV every now and than to hear me practice. Good product.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: On-line from Mike
Very effective, well made, very easy to put on and remove and does not interfere with my practice and it substantially reduces the volume.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: On Line
I have not been practicing much at home as it drives the family crazy. I bought Mike's Banjo Mute and it works excellent! I can now sit on the couch and practice the banjo in front of the TV and not disturb others in the home. I recommend this to anyone who wants to quietly practice.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Banjo Hangout
I just received my new Mike's Banjo Mute. At first I had some difficulty figuring out how it attached to the bridge. I emailed Mike and he promptly gave me the link to his Website where there are clearly written installation instructions and a clear picture of what the mute looks like when attached. Then it was easy to attach. Lately I have been playing my banjo with tef files on my computer. When I attached the mute I had to turn my speakers way down so I could hear the banjo! This is a very well made and well designed mute and I recommend it.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online
My banjo mute (made by Mike Stidd) arrived today. This is the first banjo mute I own.
My first impressions was how well this thing was made. It will probably outlast me.
Once fitted, my banjo (and Ome Juniper) became slightly louder than my solid body electric guitars when unplugged! I did expect some muting but this is way more than I hoped for.
Then the surprise! Probably because of the muting, a lot of the flaws in my picking became apparent. I find this to be an even better use of this mute (than the muting itself) because it will help me clean up my picking.
I am very impressed with this little piece of brass. And because it is little, it is totally unobtrusive and my picking hand does come into contact with it at all. I'm a happy customer. Thanks Mike!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mike Stidd
Fine product. Well made. Does what it is supposed to do. Fast service. Recommended - good job!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mike's banjo mute website
this is an amazing product! Great service, great communication, and swift shipping. Highly recommend it..spend the extra money and get the good one!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: mikesbanjomute.com
Works great and and as advertised! I ordered this online through Mike's website and it arrived within a week. It is easy to place (less than a minute) and reduces sound by about 75%.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online
This is a great piece of equipment. As I am just starting out, some of the noise I make can be painful to others.
This mute is everything the advertising says it is. So glad I found it.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: mikesbanjomute.com
I never have used a mute before, but recently my wife and kids have taken over my practice area (also known as the living room) just as I am getting ready to practice. I didn't want to carry my banjo upstairs to the bedroom, so I decided to buy a mute and practice in the living room after they decide to go upstairs and go to bed.
I bought Mike's mute and it does a fantastic job! It quiets my banjo to just slightly louder than an unplugged electric guitar. Now I can practice without having to worry about keeping them awake.
I find other times to practice as well, when I don't need the mute, but when I need to practice after they have gone to bed, this one works great!
Lance
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: http://www.mikesbanjomute.com/
I spent many months stuffing t-shirts in my resonator to muffle the sound when practicing but would have to remove the resonator at least once a week when I played out. The time spent muting this way was getting pretty annoying and the screws were starting to thread.
I ordered Mike's Mute, got immediate email confirmation from him and he shipped it out very quickly. I had the mute in my hand in a couple days and it works great! Some may be nervous about the plastic screws BUT you should know that Mike went through several versions with metal screws that had less than pleasing sonic results. He very convincingly defends the plastic screws and I believe him when he says breakage is a non-issue.
It makes the banjo quiet without altering tuning and keeps a pleasant tone.
Thanks Mike!
Mike
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Direct from Mike
Quick delivery. Works very well and seems to be quality made. Now I can actually practice in the other room without driving my wife crazy. Thanks Mike.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Direct from Mike
Without a doubt the best mute I've ever used. Pretty quick and simple to install. My wife loves it!
Only complaint.. can't be left on while case is closed.
I got the radiused version and had to flatten it out a tad in a vice to fit my 14" radius better... No biggie though.
Very nicely made. Mutes very well but tone still sounds good. Doesn't interfere with my picking hand.
When I lose this one I'll buy another right away!
Overall Rating: 9
Where Purchased: Mike
Received my new mute quickly from Mike. I found it to be easy to install and brought the volume down significantly so I am able to practice while my family is sleeping, reading, etc. I also discovered an unexpected benefit--with the reduced resonance/overtones, I was able to hear irregularities in my timing much clearer. It was rather humbling, but allowed me to work on improving. Once I get a lick down, I can remove the mute to check my tone. I highly recommend this product.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online
I had Mike make a mute for me for my 6-string banjo. I just sent him some pictures of the bridge and he made it--all in less than a day and it was shipped! I just got it yesterday--it works great. All other muting methods I have tried made the banjo quieter, but none of the sound I like to hear when I play was preserved--meaning that it wasn't any fun to play that way (muted). With this Mike's mute, the volume is reduced, but the sound is still good and it's just as fun to play muted or not. I think I'll even be using this mute to do some back-up on my recordings--it actually sounds that good. Great product and great service from Mike!!
Ray Farnworth
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: online
Bought this mute off www.mikesbanjomute.com last week and arrived extremely quick to where I live in Australia in ordinary post( considering I bought a guitar stand the same day from Sydney in my own country and it still hasn't arrived).
It came in a red pouch and was very quick to manouvre underneath the strings behind the bridge, screwed the thumb nuts down on the brass piece that mutes the strings and after a quick tuning adjustment it was ready to play.
Immediately I heard my wife say that's better!! Yeah right! I would compare the muted volume to my Ibanez hollow body guitar. You would be hard pressed to hear the muted banjo through a closed door so as I work on a ship my fellow shipmates shouldn't be bothered with my incessant practicing.
When my wife is out I have just been unscrewing the nuts off and take off the brass plate and play the banjo with base still in place.
So in conclusion I would be happy to recommend Mike's Banjo Mute as it does exactly what the website says it does.
Happy wife, happy life!!!
Overall Rating: 9
Where Purchased: from Mike by mail
I really like this mute. The volume of the banjo is drastically reduced, the resulting tone is still quite that of a banjo with noticeably more sustain. This increased sustain does not interfere with rapid picking. The sound produced by the muted banjo is quite pleasing in itself - in a way it expands the tonal possibilities of the instrument. It is good-looking, solid and well-designed, and will probably last forever. You feel like you are getting something for your money here. It sure enables you to play whenever you want to.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: mikesbanjomute.com
Mike's Banjo Mute definitely works. I'd been practicing in my apartment's laundry room, so I wouldn't wake my roommates or neighbors. Then someone complained about me being in the laundry room, so options were slim. BUT, now I'm using the mute, and my roommates say it's super quiet. The mute really lowers to volume, while still giving each note a crisp sound, so I can hear what I'm doing.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: www.mikesbanjomute.com
I purchased this mute about 3 months ago and I am quite impressed. Mike has done an excellent job of creating and building a mute that does a great job and looks great as well. When in place, my banjo's volume is dramatically reduced making it suitable to be played late into the night or early morning. This mute also increases the sustain of the banjo and gives it an almost dobro-like sound. I've also found that when I use this mute, I am more aware of what my right hand is doing. I didn't think a mute would help with right hand technique, but it really has. Overall, this is a great product and I would suggest anyone who has considered buying a mute to get one from Mike.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: www.mikesbanjomute.com
Very pleased with Mikes Banjo Mute. It really quieted down my RK-75, and there was no buzz to it at all. It will allow me to practice a lot more. Highly recommended.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: directly from Mike
It's hard to add anything new to all the other fine reviews I've read here on Mike's Banjo Mute. I will just say that all the glowing reviews are accurate and I am totally pleased with my purchase - both in function and build quality. I would make the same purchase again in a heartbeat.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: On eBay
This is the best sounding addition to one's arsenal . It not only mutes the banjo to a level perfect for practicing but also changes the sound to a very sweet and resonant tone. It gives the banjo not just a quieter tone but another voice as well. I highly recommend this mute!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online
I am just starting out on the banjo.
When I picked up my Hatfield banjo, I stayed with family friends and starting picking that night and the next morning. Unfortunately I didn't realize much of the house could hear my "work". As I told my dad I was going to go pick he said I might want to use my Mike's Banjo Mute.
I live in an apartment with relatively thin walls. Out of consideration for my neighbors, I purchased my Mike's Banjo Mute well before my banjo was ready.
Working with Mike to ensure I ordered the right mute was a joy. Mike is responsive and gives great advice.
His mutes are well constructed, feel great, are easy to attach in no time, and are really just great products.
When I returned home the following week, I started to pick, but it was a little late in the night. I attached the mute, and WOW, it really cute down the noise. I mean, this thing is easy to use and REALLY works. It was worth the money and I know my neighbors will appreciate it (for awhile). But the nice thing is, the mute doesn't really kill the sound of the banjo, just the noise level.
I highly recommend Mike's Banjo Mute to anyone. It was money well spent and I know it will continue to give me options when playing in close quarters..
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: www.mikesbanjomute.com
Hi I am new to playing the banjo and also live in a condominium. I was researching ways to quiet or tone down the sound when I came across mikes mute on this forum, I started reading reviews and watched a couple youtube videos and was sold on the idea. I recived my mute today and must say I am impressed. i usually only get to practice during the day witch is hard working 14 hour days lol. But I just played my banjo and its 10:30pm and couldnt be happier with the results, I recommend this mute to anyone starting out to veteran players
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: http://www.mikesbanjomute.com
I ordered this banjo mute directly from the website. I was slightly put off by the very basic website. However, I trust the reviews on this site and I have to say that they did not let me down. I ordered the mute and everything went smooth. I received the mute in just a couple days time. I was truly shocked to see it that quick. I even received a tracking number with lightening speed. Now on to the mute itself. I currently live in an apartment and I was getting very tired of having to play without my picks due to it being so loud. I stumbled across this mute and I can certainly say that it is worth it. The mute itself is made very well. It is a simple design and it is very effective. The mute nearly cuts the sound in half. I don't think I will be getting anymore complaints from the neighbors when I am practicing my rolls. I find that when the mute is on, it doesn't mess with the tone. It actually seems to give my banjo a nice mellow and warm sound that is quite nice. The best part about it is I can now sit on the couch and watch tv while I am practicing!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online
First of all Great customer service..second, not only is this a great mute...it may just be the best money I've ever spent.its built beautifully, with weight, precision and quality....down to his engraved name...but it easily over delivers on my expectations. (And my families)
awesome, awesome product!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Mike's Store online
The mute works great. I can play banjo anytime and not distrub anyone. Great product.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: mikesbanjomute.com
I totally agree with all the other reviewers about Mike's mute. I'm a former instrumental music teacher, but a novice at the banjo, so my husband deserves some peace & quiet when I practice. He compliments me frequently, but also admits to having a tin ear. Mike's mute makes my banjo sound much better even when I make mistakes. Thanks Mike for a great product.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Erm, online somewhere. Maybe direct from the manufacturer?
I've tried a couple of mutes, and this is by far the best I've found. It's easy and quick to install and remove, and it does a good job of muting things. The sound of the banjo does change - it takes on an almost nasal quality, with more sustain; a bit guitar-like.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Online Direct from Mike
As a beginning player in a household that doesn't love the banjo (I know, right?) I needed a mute to enable practice and interpersonal harmony. I looked at a few reviews and settled on Mike's. Great choice! It dampens the volume dramatically. On my banjo it changes the tone modestly (makes it a little tinny but does not reduce sustain), but after using it for a 15 minutes I no longer noticed. Simple to install and remove (hint, don't overtighten the screws). If I were choosing again I wouldn't change anything.
Perhaps the best part was the purchase process. Easy online ordering direct from Mike, and the bridge mailed out the same day with an accompanying email to let me know. Paypal made the financials smooth. 3-4 days later the bridge arrived in the mail.
UPDATE: I've been using the mute for a couple of weeks and need to amend my review. After some experimenting, I found that tightening the mute further eliminated any tinny sound and also increased my sustain while muting the volume. Great assessory; I just needed a little time to adapt to it.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: From Mike
I practice hard for one hour every evening. There are other folks in the house and they requested I play more softly. I didn't know how to practice softly. I would bang away, jaws clenched, for my hour and I finally realized I had to make a change. I checked out Banjo Mutes and came across Mike's site. Ordered one and now everyone is happy. Mike's Mute allows me to practice hard, hear what I need to hear and leaves the others in peace. If you want/need a mute I can tell you I like mine....
Overall Rating: 10
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