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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!
7233 reviews in the archive.
Where Purchased: Shade Tree String Instruments
Year Purchased: 1987
Price Paid: 2400 ($US)
Obviously the way a banjo is set up can effect the sound. The most honest description I can give is that it is bright, true and clear. Notes hold true the entire length of the neck.
Sound Rating: 10
I'm not sure how it came from the factory, but the shop I bought it from made sure it was set up properly anyway.
Setup Rating: 9
After 15 years I still think the workmanship is fantastic. It is just a great looking banjo. The resonator and back are curly maple, the finger board ebony. The nickel plate has the finish of chrome and the abalone inlay fits perfectly and reflects deeply with alot of fire.The only area that could be improved is the head. Mine is made out of three pieces of wood. Not noticable except on the back of the head where the grain changes.
Appearance Rating: 9
The resonator has developed a half inch hairline crack by the heel of the neck. I could probably have OME fix this as warranty, but its hardly visable. The finish is holding up even on the neck.
Reliability Rating: 9
I actually called them on the resonator crack and they said it could probaly be handeled as a warranty item. This after 15 years!
Customer Service: 10
I had the shop do two upgrades( changes). I had Keith Tuners (4) installed. A mistake two would have been fine on 2 and 3. Also the tail piece was changed to a Price and just recently changed the bridge to a Snuffy Smith.
Components Rating: 9
The sound of a banjo can be changed. Not so the craftsmanship. Iv'e never seen any banjos that I like better cosmetically. Although gold inlay would have been nice.
Overall Rating: 10
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