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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!
7232 reviews in the archive.
Chris Cioffi (Banjo Restore Review)
The short read. "Chris is the Best" at getting the most out of your banjo. His knowledge of banjos, and attention to detail, will have your banjo looking, playing, and sounding, the Best it ever has. (Highest Rating)
A longer read. I had a banjo that needed some work. My problem was, who do I take it to? Who do you trust to do the work? Will the work be of good quality? These questions were answered in part when I found Russ Carson's "81 Crowe" Utube web site.
Russ was playing a few banjos restored by Chris at his Tone Lab Shop. After hearing Russ play and comment on Chris' work, I decided to give Chris a call. Talking with Chris is a real treat. He "knows" banjos, and is willing to share his knowledge. I told him what I had and some of my concerns. He mentioned he has worked on a number of these banjos and was familiar with their problem areas. After talking to Chris I felt confident I was making the right choice in having him work on my banjo.
Through out the whole repair process, from the estimate, to shipping, to finding unexpected issues, Chris was informative via, email text, telephone, and photographs. He assisted in providing alternatives and options when needed. The repair process did not take very long and before I knew it, my banjo was back. I consider this a restoration because every aspect of the banjo was looked at for tone, playability, and appearance, all from a skilled, dedicated craftsman. The banjo now looks, plays, and sounds, better than it ever has.
A side note to the repair process is a "before" and "after" video shot by Russ Carson, and posted to Utube. The video provides an interesting perspective on the repair process, and highlights the skills of both Chris and Russ. They make a great team.
I am very happy with my banjo and the work that was done. I highly recommend Chris for any of your banjo repair needs.
Sincerly, Banjer user
Overall Rating: 10
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