Submitted by BiggT (see all reviews from this person) on 7/16/2016

Where Purchased: Direct from Dogwood

Year Purchased: 2016
Price Paid: Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter

Sound

Being a brand new banjo, all the parts are still coming together to figure out that they are a banjo...I play clawhammer and love the old-timey sound. I chose a tu-ba phone tonering for this banjo. It is a definite upgrade to the rolled brass tone hoop in my other openback, and I really like the sound of the old banjo. I had my reservations about this as MIke had not used a tu-ba phone in one of his banjos before. This one has more volume. The tone is less metalic, more respsonsive and produces a wide variety of tones based on the attack. The tone can be crisp and bright or nice and fat. It sounds great up the neck. Overall I really like the fullness of the sound produced by my Dogwood and it will only get better.

Sound Rating: 9

Setup

The action was just a bit higher than I am used to, but that is easy to adjust. I may play with the head tension to really get to know the range of this banjo's capabilities. As indicated above there is really no need to change the setup as far as improving the sound is concerned...

Setup Rating: 9

Appearance

Every banjo Mike Chew makes is unique. Pictures just don't do them justice. I am amazed at the beauty of the woods and finish. The inlays are custom and they look great. It really is a piece of art. The look of this banjo far exceeds my expectations. This banjo has the curliest maple neck I have ever seen. It is set off by the hand rubbed oil finish. The pot, fretboard, and peg head overlay are all wenge. The contrast is stunning. The brass harware sets it all of nicely.

Appearance Rating: 10

Reliability

All of the parts are top quality. It is a fine hand made instrument. Many generations will enjoy this banjo.

Reliability Rating: 10

Customer Service

Mike and I became fast friends. I don't think the banjo will need any warranty work, but I am confident that he would do what is necessary to make things right if it ever did.

Customer Service: 9

Components

The woods Mike uses are amazing. The curly maple is unreal. I have never seen maple with that much figure. I also selected a Buckeye tail piece...it seems to be great quality as well. The Gotohs have a great feel to them.

Components Rating: 10

Overall Comments

Overall the experience of building a custom banjo was well beyond my expectations.  I got a great banjo and made a friend in the process.  Each Dogwood is unique.  Mike has the unique ability to really catch your vision and utilize his artistry to produce a work of art.  

Overall Rating: 10