Best
Banjo for Beginners
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Overall: Lightweight and easy to handle, making it great for beginners.
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Best Feature: High-precision components like geared tuning machines.
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Banjo for Professionals
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Overall: Ideal for folk, bluegrass, and old-time music styles.
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Best Feature: Meticulously crafted with maple resonator and a steel rim.
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Banjo for Intermediates
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Overall: Quality construction and durable materials.
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Best Feature: Immaculately built with nickel-plated hardware.
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TedScore™: 9/10
So you’re looking for the best brand of banjo, except you have a problem.
There are over 500 brands to choose from.
Of course, this is a massive issue for you because how on earth are you supposed to know which brand is great and which deserves to be in the trash!?
Well, don’t fret (sorry, that’s a terrible joke!), I have a great list of the top 6 brands that I’m happy to recommend.
As a professional banjo player, I’ve learned that the best way to get that smooth hum is to choose the best banjo for your style and level of skill.
If you’re looking for the best brand of banjo, then I’m happy to tell you right at the start that the brand I love is Huber. The other fantastic brand is Stelling. However, you won’t find either of these brands in this list!
Why not?
Because they’re the top of the top, really expensive, and really difficult to find.
And I’m guessing you’re a beginner, wanting to know what the best beginner brand is. And for that, you’ll have to read on…
Top Banjo Brands
Picking the right banjo brand can be overwhelming—you want quality, reliability, and something that sings to your style, whether you’re just starting or performing on stage.
From the trusty beginner models to the finely-tuned professional instruments, there’s something for every player level.
Deering
The Deering Banjo Company is a name and reputation that resonates with enthusiasts everywhere.
I enjoy playing my Deering banjo due to its excellent craftsmanship, rich and resonant tone, and easy playability.
The attention to detail in the construction and high-quality materials make it a pleasure to play, and the instrument’s adaptability allows me to experiment with many musical styles easily.
Overall, my experience with my Deering banjo has been fantastic and has become an essential part of my musical journey.
In fact, I own a Deering Goodtime, and can totally recommend it as a brilliant instrument:
Deering Goodtime Banjo
FEATURES: Designed with slender neck and a 22-fret fingerboard.
OTHER INFO: Meticulously crafted with maple resonator and a steel rim.
- Constructed with durable materials for long-term reliability.
- Boast clear tones and superb playability.
- Ideal for folk, bluegrass, and old-time music styles.
- Higher price point compared to some other banjo brands.
- Limited availability of certain models in some regions.
- Some players may prefer a different neck profile.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Gold Tone
Gold Tone offers a diverse range of banjos that cater to all play styles and skill levels.
I am thoroughly impressed with the Gold Tone banjo due to its remarkable playability, wide tonal range, and robust construction.
I appreciate their innovative designs and consider them an excellent value-for-money option, balancing cost with quality.
Gold Tone AC-1 5 String Openback Banjo
FEATURES: Sturdy composite rim and maple neck. Highlighted by a rosewood fingerboard and remo head.
OTHER INFO: High-precision components like geared tuning machines.
- Affordable price compared to other high-quality banjos.
- Lightweight and easy to handle, making it great for beginners.
- Durable construction with a classic look.
- Bridge and tailpiece may need upgrading for better performance.
- Limited customization options compared to higher-end models.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Recording King
Recording King banjos are recognized for their comfortable playability. They are highly regarded for their precise construction and use of top-quality materials, making them a popular choice among musicians.
I’ve played my Recording King banjo a lot, and I can confidently recommend it because of its great craftsmanship and rich sound.
If you want a high-quality banjo that sounds great and is well-built, this is the one to get!
Recording King RK-R35-BR
FEATURES: Mastertone style one-piece banjo flange, Nickel plated hardware
OTHER INFO: Presto-style tailpiece
- Full and vibrant tonal quality suitable for diverse musical genres.
- Exceptional artistry and meticulous construction quality
- Higher price point compared to other level models.
- Availability of certain models may be limited in some regions.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ibanez
Ibanez banjos are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, rich tonal quality, and playability.
I’ve been impressed with the instrument’s versatility and reliability, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced players.
If you’re looking for a top-notch banjo that delivers outstanding performance, I highly recommend considering an Ibanez.
Ibanez B200 5-string Resonator Banjo
FEATURES: 5-string Banjo with Sapele Bowl, Pearl headstock and fretboard inlays
OTHER INFO: Basswood rim; rolled-brass tone ring; mahogany bowl
- Good value for its price point.
- Offers versatile sound for bluegrass, folk, and country music styles.
- Heavier compared to other models.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Epiphone
Epiphone banjos are well-known for their deep and vibrant tone and user-friendly design, making them a sought-after choice among musicians.
Similar to their guitars, Epiphone banjos target musicians on a budget who desire an ideal balance of playability and sound quality.
Epiphone MB-100 First Pick 5-string Open-back Banjo
FEATURES: Mahogany body and neck; Remo head, Rosewood fingerboard with dot inlays.
OTHER INFO: Premium nickel plated hardware with white buttons
- Great choice for beginners and budget-conscious players.
- Lightweight design
- Delivers a traditional banjo sound.
- Lower volume and projection than resonator-equipped models.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Types of Banjos
When I’m picking a banjo, I love exploring different styles out there. Each type has charm and sound; knowing the differences helps you find the perfect banjo that suits your music.
Open-Back vs. Resonator Banjos
Open-Back Banjo
This is the old-timey classic with a mellower sound that’s perfect for folk. I find these to be lighter and great for clawhammer playing.
Resonator Banjo
By contrast, this one’s got a resonator attached to the back, giving it a . It’s the go-louder, brighter tone to for the bluegrass band, and when I need that extra projection in a jam session.
Specialty Banjos and Hybrids
Banjolele
Imagine a ukulele and a banjo had a baby – that’s the banjolele. It’s a quirky little instrument that’s fun and easy to play.
Banjitar
A banjitar combines elements of a banjo and a guitar, featuring a six-string configuration similar to a guitar but with the tonal characteristics of a banjo.
Sizing Variations
The size really does matter when it comes to banjos. The tenor banjo, with its shorter neck and 17 to 19 frets, is ideal for traditional Irish music.
For someone like me, who might dabble across different genres, the six-string banjo offers guitar tuning with a banjo’s soul.
Assessing Banjo Quality
When I talk about banjos, I get very excited about things like the quality of the wood and the way the instrument is made.
Materials and Craftsmanship
I’m drawn to the sight of mahogany or walnut on a banjo, as these woods not only look beautiful but also enhance the richness of the sound.
Mahogany produces a warm, mellow, and smooth banjo tone, while walnut offers a snappy, assertive twang. Additionally, meticulous craftsmanship significantly influences the instrument’s tone and playability.
Design Features that Affect Tone
Here’s a nifty tidbit: the bell brass tone ring is like a secret sauce for that classic banjo cluck.
It’s what gives some tenor banjos their punchy, bright sound that cuts through the air like a hot knife through butter.
Another key feature is the banjo’s bridge. A well-made bridge will transfer the strings’ vibrations efficiently, bringing out every nuance of your picking.
Durability and Longevity
High-quality banjos are built to withstand the test of time (and the occasional fumble).
Look for ones with sturdy hardware and a solid neck-to-body joint—where much of the stress happens.
History and Evolution of Banjo Brands
The narrative of banjo brands is one of craftsmanship and innovation. As you tune into this section, you’ll discover how venerable brands have shaped the twangy world of banjos.
Pioneering Brands and Their Legacy
Oscar Schmidt and Epiphone are among the old-timers in banjo production.
Oscar Schmidt, established in 1871, and Epiphone, founded in 1873, are distinguished brands with a significant legacy in the Banjo Hall of Fame, credited with pioneering enduring design standards.
For instance, Epiphone’s move from Greek instruments to American banjos early in the 20th century marked a significant shift in banjo-making.
Gibson, a renowned name in quality string instruments, has been influential in bluegrass circles, shaping the resonator banjo’s bright and projecting tone, known for cutting through any jam session.
Modern Innovations in Banjo Making
Modern technology has brought a renaissance in banjo design and production.
Deering banjos embody contemporary craftsmanship with a range of traditional and innovative designs, catering to both beginners and professional players with open-back and resonator models.
Craftsmen blend traditional techniques and modern technology to create banjos with exceptional sound, utilizing innovative designs and materials to expand the instrument’s capabilities.
This evolution allows for greater customization, offering players the opportunity to discover their unique sound. The banjo’s evolution, blending vintage charm with modern playability, captivates musicians globally.
Banjo Community and Resources
The banjo community is a vibrant tapestry of music and camaraderie, welcoming all, from folkternative tunes to bluegrass rhythms, with open arms.
Forums and Networks
I can’t help but get excited chatting about the hottest forums where other banjo players and lovers gather.
Banjo Hangout tops my list—you’ll find me there, swapping tips and stories with passionate pickers of all levels. It’s a goldmine for both the curious beginner and the seasoned virtuoso.
In these forums, discussions aren’t just about banjos. They expand to other fascinating instruments like the banjo—a unique crossbreed that carries the soul of a banjo and the heart of a mandola.
Trust me, diving into these topics is as exciting as playing a new riff for the first time!
Events and Festivals
Let me whisk you to the events and festivals every banjo enthusiast marks on their calendar.
The Roaring Bluegrass Festivals take center stage, where the banjo is king, and the music fills your soul. You’ll catch me there, foot-tapping to the strums of a five-string.
Folk festivals are something else—they’re where banjos mingle with myriad musical instruments. Some even offer free banjo lessons where you can play banjo.
I always look forward to these gatherings. There’s nothing quite like the strumming of a banjo harmonizing with the twang of a fine banjo under the open sky. Pure bliss!
Best Banjo Brands
Summary
It’s no secret that choosing the right banjo can be a delightful journey.
Each brand has its charm, whether it’s Deering’s hand-built marvels or Gold Tone’s modern twist on old-school cool. Your perfect match is out there, waiting to play those heartwarming tunes we all love.
Here’s a nifty breakdown to guide you.
Remember, it’s not just about the instrument; it’s about the joy it brings. Pick up that banjo, and let the good times roll!
Before you go…
Get ready to pluck and strum your way to musical bliss by knowing your four string banjo tuning!
