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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!
7235 reviews in the archive.
Where Purchased: http://www.bluechippick.net/
Great pick. No scratching sound. Feels comfortable on my thumb. Definitely recommend trying one. If nothing else you can sell it if you don't like it. I plan on buying a second one when I get another banjo.
Highly recommend!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: ebay (from a hangout member)
Year Purchased: 2009
Price Paid: 2,350 ($US) (bought USED)
Great sound. It's mahogany so its not too bright. Has a very balanced sound up and down the neck. Typical Stelling sound. I am having trouble tuning up the neck but it is because I am still messing with the bridge placement.
Sound Rating: 10
Purchased used so I can't speak for the normal Stelling setup.
Setup Rating: not rated
Absolutely beautiful!! I really like the inlays.
Appearance Rating: 10
Very reliable. Can't imagine needing to take a second banjo anywhere out of fear this one would let me down.
Reliability Rating: 10
I have had no dealings with the Stelling company.
Customer Service: not rated
Top notch. Professional instrument, professional components.
Components Rating: 10
Highly recommend especially if you can find one used.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Janet Davis Music
Good craftsmanship. Compact and sturdy. Nice instrument stand to take places. Still a bit nervous because it doesn't stabilize the neck, but it is very well built. If you are looking for a compact stand like this, this one works. Must say it is a bit pricey but it was bought as a birthday present so I'm not complaining.
Overall Rating: 9
Where Purchased: 2009
Great DVD. Comes with tab for the tunes covered. Anytime you can watch Bela Fleck play it is worth the money. He does a nice job of explaining patterns and even throws in a couple of practice techniques. The tunes covered span a wide variety of banjo music. Filmed in the 80's so that explains the haircut and clothes!
Highly Recommended!!!
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Janet Davis Music
Pat Cloud uses a different approach to banjo. Great musician who thinks outside the box. This book contains as much text as it does tab. Thoroughly explains his concepts. Don't expect a ton of playing examples. Only a couple of songs. This book is more about ideas than songs. Gives great stuff to practice.
If you are looking for something a little different that is theory based this is the book.
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: Janet Davis Music
Overall it is well built but poorly designed. My reason for purchasing this case cover was to be able to throw the banjo over my shoulder and go. However, this case has the strap hooks in awkward places. They cross the opening so you have to unclip it every time to open it. Duel shoulder straps are an option if you order straight from Colorado cases/Small Dog. I called them to add the straps but they stated they don't add them aftermarket. I am currently having a seamstress add the other hooks and move the current one so it will fit on my back.
It's well built but needs some design improvement.
Overall Rating: 6
Great service. I have ordered several things online from Janet Davis Music. Prompt Shipping. Quality products. Great prices.
Overall Rating: 10
Fantastic teacher! Really has a passion for bluegrass and it's contagious! Really can relate to individual students' needs. Dave takes a vested interest in his students' progress and success. I would highly recommend Dave Asti. Heck of a nice guy too!
Overall Rating: 10
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