Issue 66 on sale now
Banjos
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| Budding banjoist, but wary of spending too much? Petra Jones examines the latest bargain deals on offer, with two starter packs ideal for those on a budget. The resurgence of interest in folk, bluegrass and old-time music has led to a number of budget starter pack deals appearing on the web. Two manufacturers who have been quick to recognise growing demand for quality beginner models at affordable prices are Deering and Tanglewood. The American family-run Deering have long been the banjo of choice for top country and bluegrass players like Jens Kruger and are very much seen as the Gibson of the banjo world. Tanglewood, in contrast, are probably best known for their guitars rather than their folk instruments, and are new entrants to this market. Both manufacturers have produced starter packs which include 5-string banjo, chromatic tuner, gig bag, strap, tutor book, fingerpicks and an extra pack of strings - all for less than £225.
First Impressions
First Impressions This banjo looks anything but a budget-priced instrument. With its silky smooth ebony headstock inlaid with mother of pearl to its bound mahogany sides in a classic curvaceous pre-war style, this banjo oozes quality. It looks the kind of instrument many first time players think they can’t afford but definitely want. Construction With a 11” diameter brass tone ring fitted to the outer edge of the rim, the TBLX-5’s nickel plated flange is fitted with 24 bracket hoops to give even tension. The resonator is constructed from stained mahogany that’s attractively lacquered and highly polished – impressive for a banjo priced under £200. Even the Tanglewood’s double bracketed engraved armrest is a thing of beauty etched with a floral pattern. Like the Goodtime, the action can be changed to suit the player but the sturdy Tanglewood also features double lag bolts attaching the neck to the pot and an adjustable steel truss rod. The bound rosewood fretboard features inlaid pearl flower markers matching the ebony headstock. Sound and Playability The Tanglewood has a rich and vibrant tone with resonant, lingering sustain all over the neck. There’s a good range from a deep vintage bluegrass tone at the low end right through to crisp highs perfect for old-time. The TBLX-5 really does play as good as it looks, and manages to imbue each note with life, warmth and character. Conclusion Both these starter packs represent good value for money, with each banjo offering an impressive construction and tone for a supposedly entry-level instrument priced at less than £225. The packs are pretty much identical – the only real difference is that the Deering Goodtime pack comes with an additional paperback maintenance manual offering advice and guidance on taking care of your banjo and making minor adjustments. Retailer Eagle Music are happy to customise packs, replacing tutor books with DVDs etc. Lightweight and portable, the Deering Goodtime is a good entry-level banjo that’s easy to just pick up and play. But the TBLX-5 remains the clear winner that easily exceeds expectations for a banjo in this price range. It’s the kind of instrument that even the most rapidly progressing beginner will take a few years to outgrow. While the Deering Goodtime is a respectable runner-up, it just doesn’t have the wow factor of the TBLX-5 which both looks and sounds great. The overall quality of workmanship is excellent and it’s hard to imagine these bargain banjos not being snapped up off the virtual shelves of the internet.
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