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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.
Where Purchased: http://www.mikesbanjomute.com/
I spent many months stuffing t-shirts in my resonator to muffle the sound when practicing but would have to remove the resonator at least once a week when I played out. The time spent muting this way was getting pretty annoying and the screws were starting to thread.
I ordered Mike's Mute, got immediate email confirmation from him and he shipped it out very quickly. I had the mute in my hand in a couple days and it works great! Some may be nervous about the plastic screws BUT you should know that Mike went through several versions with metal screws that had less than pleasing sonic results. He very convincingly defends the plastic screws and I believe him when he says breakage is a non-issue.
It makes the banjo quiet without altering tuning and keeps a pleasant tone.
Thanks Mike!
Mike
Overall Rating: 10
Where Purchased: The Music Emporium (Lexington, MA)
Year Purchased: 2013
Price Paid: $650-700 ($US)
I am very impressed with the sound of this banjo. It has drastic tone and feel changes in the X and Y positions and sounds in tune all the way up the neck. For a banjo of this price, I have been very pleased.
Sound Rating: 9
The action was a little high for my liking but it was easy enough to set it up for my style.
Setup Rating: 6
The banjo is pretty plain since it isn't a professional model; however, it is an attractive instrument.
Appearance Rating: 7
So far, the hardware is holding up fine. I play this banjo several hours a week and tote it around to bars and clubs. It seems to be a workhorse!
Reliability Rating: 9
NA, haven't dealt with Gold Tone yet.
Customer Service: not rated
The tuner's seem pretty cheap and I wouldn't be surprised if I crack one some day but overall the components get the job done.
Components Rating: 8
For the price, this is a very solid banjo. I often hear from others that they love the sound and can really feel the difference when playing up the neck. The dynamic range is very good. I do wish the banjo was louder but that is what you get without a tone ring!
Overall Rating: 8
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