Sullivan: Vintage-35 Walnut

Submitted by schlange on 1/27/2011

Where Purchased: FQMS

Year Purchased: 2010
Price Paid: Don't Remember historic exchange rates / currency converter

Sound

This review is for the collaboration banjo that Sullivan created to be given away on the BHO. I got to play it for a couple months before it was given away. It's got great pre-war sound, especially considering it's brand new.

Sound Rating: 9

Setup

Needed a couple minor tweaks, but nothing major. Probably just shook loose in the mail!

Setup Rating: 9

Appearance

I love the hollow inlays on the neck--they really stand out. And the marquetry on the reso is very impressive.

Appearance Rating: 10

Reliability

Not sure, because I had to give it away when it was still brand new! :-) But it seemed to be all very well-made, so I wouldn't have any concerns about reliability.

Reliability Rating: 10

Customer Service

The Sullivan family is always very helpful when I call 'em. Second to none--I wouldn't have any concerns about their level of service.

Customer Service: 10

Components

The V-35 tonering is the stand out component. This thing really rings! Great sound.

Components Rating: 10

Overall Comments

Best banjo I've ever laid my fingers on. Can't wait to get one of my own in a few months.

Overall Rating: 10

Cases (Hard, Flight): Guardian Hard Shell Case

Submitted by schlange on 11/15/2010

Where Purchased: Janet Davis Music

Overall Comments

I found this case acceptable, except for one thing--the hygrometer, which comes embeded in the top of the little flap used to cover the pocket where you can store things inside the case... it stick up a bit from that flap, and it rubs against the neck of my Deering Goodtime!

So I just wripped it out. Not exactly the ideal solution, leaving an ugly hole. But it works.

Other than that, it's a decent case. Not quite as heavy-duty and tight-fitting as I would have hoped, but you get what you pay for with cases.

Overall Rating: 7

Janet Davis Music

Submitted by schlange on 9/19/2007

Overall Comments

Every interaction I've had with JDMC has been awesome--I highly recommend!

Overall Rating: 10