$1,499.00
Maple Rim
Maple Neck
Ebony Fingerboard
1-Piece Flange
11" Flattop Bell Brass Tone Ring
1 3/16" Nut Width
26 3/16" Scale Length
Includes Hard Case

$729.00

Neck Width: 1-1/4″
Scale Length: 26 1/4″
Rim Diameter: 11″
Neck Wood: Blonde Slender Rock Maple Neck
Number Of Frets: 22 Pressed In Nickel Silver Frets
Fingerboard Inlay: Hardwood Bow Tie Inlays
Tuners: Sealed Geared Tuners / Geared 5th String Tuner
Finish: Durable Satin Finish
Pot Wood: Blonde 3-ply Violin Grade Maple Rim
Hoop: Steel Tension Hoop
Head: 11″ Frosted Top High Crown Head
Hardware: 16 Flat Hooks with 9/32″ Nuts / 16 Bracket Shoes with Screw Attachments
Tailpiece: Deering Patented Goodtime Tailpiece
Coordinator Rod: Steel Coordinator Rod
Gig bag or Hardshell Case sold separately

A resonator back provides more projection of sound in the Goodtime Two. We make it here in the USA, at the Deering shop with the same tooling we use to make the top of the line banjos. Greg Deering designed the Goodtime banjos because there were no low priced banjos of enough quality for people to actually learn on without difficulty or giving up. He remembers what it was like to want a good banjo and not be able to afford one, so his gift to others is the Goodtime banjo line. Designed for success, the Goodtime banjos are the lowest priced American made banjos. They are so good many professionals have recorded with Goodtime banjos.

The Goodtime Two weighs 6 lbs - about the weight of a guitar. The Goodtime Two has a natural blonde maple with a satin finish to protect it. The rich, golden tone and the reverberation off the resonator sound great. You can definitely tell a volume difference between open back and a Goodtime Two. The sound waves aren't getting trapped between you and the banjo, which makes a pretty big difference. If you want a great low priced bluegrass banjo for travel and leisure that plays correctly and is durable, this is the best buy on the market!

$10,000.00 + shipping

Fairbanks Whyte Laydie # 7 Model 5 String Banjo (1907), made in Boston, Mass., serial # 24019, natural varnish finish, laminated maple rim and neck, ebony fingerboard, period black hard shell case.

This is a splendid original example of one of the most desired of all openback 5-strings: the early Fairbanks Whyte Laydie #7. With its large (almost 12" diameter) rim and long 28" scale this instrument produces a sound that few other banjos, new or old, can match. It is also a feast for the eyes as well as the ears! The #7 is an exceptionally beautiful banjo, with the elaborate early Consalvi-style hand-engraved pearl inlay on the peghead and fingerboard including the famous "gryphon" design on the headstock rear. The heel is elaborately carved in a floral pattern with a pearl-inlaid ebony heelcap.

The rim is equipped with Fairbanks' patented bracket band with the shoes are mounted to that, not drilled through the rim. The rim is fitted with the "Electric" tone ring that was the finest of its time (this banjo pre-dates the Tu-Ba-Phone by several years) and still a standard today. It is capped with tortoise celluloid on both edges and has elaborate herringbone marquetry along the bottom.

The Whyte Laydie model was largely the brainchild of David Day, chief engineer at Fairbanks and arguably the single most important if unsung banjo designer of all time. His technical and aesthetic innovations have been widely copied for many decades, yet few banjo players even know his name. 100+ years on the Whyte Laydie #7 remains a testament to his dedication to the banjo and a tribute to the original Fairbanks/Vega crew that built it. This is one vintage instrument that instantly justifies its stellar reputation as one of the finest of "old school" banjos ever made.

Overall length is 37 1/4 in. (94.6 cm.), 11 13/16 in. (30 cm.) diameter head, and 2 9/16 in. (6.5 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 28 in. (711 mm.). Width of nut is 1 in. (25 mm.).

This 115+ year old banjo remains in splendid mostly original condition showing average wear and some light repair, but is very fine for its age and far less re-worked than many. There is a filled hole for a resonator mounting pin under the "Fairbanks" nameplate on the dowel stick, that is the only really notable repair work. The original thin varnish finish on the neck shows some wear down to the wood in the lower positions, there is light wear to the rim as well. A small piece of binding has been replaced on the bass side of the neck near the rim. The frets appear original with some light wear, and the fretboard has some light divoting in the first position and some small chipping evident.

The hardware is mostly original and correct; just under half of the original and superbly elegant cobra hooks probably broke eons ago and were replaced with slightly later period Fairbanks/Vega hooks. The plating is relatively well preserved overall with the most loss on the wire armrest. The tailpiece is a period No-Knot and the hoop has been lightly notched where it is mounted. The original pearl-button friction pegs are fully intact and functioning, although as always must be handled with care. The banjo is set up with an old Rogers genuine calf skin head and newer bridge, making for an excellent player with the warm and rich traditional sound these are renowned for. The banjo rests in a nice period HSC, which appears to be of just slightly later vintage than the instrument itself. Overall Excellent - Condition.

$1,199.00 USD

Modeled after the famed pre-war banjos, the OB-150 is a serious professional banjo. We have had more than one customer come in intending to spend much more for a banjo and happily leave with this model. If you are looking for the elusive pre-war Mastertone sound without taking out another mortgage then check this instrument out! Brass flat top tone ring, maple resonator, vintage brown satin finish, 3 ply maple rim, dual coordinator rods, terminator tailpiece, chrome hardware, 24 bracket notched tension hoop, adjustable truss rod, 22 frets, 26-1/4" scale length, 1-3/16" zero glide nut. Hardshell case included.

$999.99

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zh29BTOPJZM

"Pre-war" style, at a price anyone can afford, AND authentic tone and superb playability describe the OB-150. This Bluegrass banjo sports a three-ply maple rim and one-piece flange (just like the megabucks originals), a maple neck inlayed in authentic style, a brass flathead tone ring and a smooth satin finish. The OB-150 is professionally set up in our Florida shop and comes with TRANSFERRABLE lifetime warranty. Available as left-handed model.

This version is the same as the OB-150, but features a 12" radiused fingerboard for more comfortable playing.

Specs on our website.

$1,099.00

The Deco Series is the latest addition to Deering’s popular line of Goodtime banjos. The new banjos feature Art Deco inspired hardwood fretboard inlays and an Art Deco pattern engraved on the headstock. The metal hardware has a satin bronze powder finish that is hypoallergenic and resists tarnishing. This Goodtime Deco Special takes the standard open back design and adds a resonator and a tone ring, which produces a louder, more focused tone that works well for bluegrass. Like all Goodtime models, this banjo features a 3-ply maple rim. The tension hoop and the steel Goodtime Special Tone Rings are rolled and finished in-house at Deering’s workshop. In keeping with the Goodtime Blonde Series, the Goodtime Special features a natural blonde maple finish.

UPC 840394O00145
Fingerboard Maple
Neck material Rock Maple
Frets to body 22
Total frets 22
Scale length 26 1/4"
Finish Hand Rubbed Polyurethane with Carnuba Wax Finish
Nut width 1 1/4"
Neck shape D Shape
Tuners 14:1 Sealed Geared
Shell 3-Ply Violin Grade Maple
Tone ring Patented Goodtime Special Steel Tone Ring
Resonator Yes
Flange Two Piece Goodtime Series Flange
Diameter 11"
Case type None
SKU DEEDGS

The Gryphon Advantage: This instrument has been personally setup by a member of our repair staff. Gryphon’s sustained commitment to quality ensures that no instrument not at optimal playing condition is sold. This comes with a lifetime discount on future repair and customizations.

* * * * * * * *

Acoustic guitars, mandolins, and banjos are still the mainstays at Gryphon, as they have been for over 45 years, though our inventory of steel guitars and ukuleles continues to grow as well. In recent years an important part of our growth has been in instruments by very small companies and individual makers, as we continue to keep one foot, or at least several toes, outside the mainstream music industry.

$1,099.00

Scale Length: 26-1/4"
Nut Width: 1-1/4"
Neck Wood: Blonde Slender Rock Maple
Fretboard Inlay: Hardwood Bowtie Inlays
Tuners: Geared 5th String Tuner
Rim Size: 11"
Rim Wood: Blonde Slender Rock Maple
Rim or Resonator Binding: Black
Resonator Wood: Blonde Maple
Brackets: 16 Bracket Shoes 16 Flat Hooks with 9/32″ Hex Nuts
Tailpiece: Patented Goodtime Tailpiece
Head: 11″ Frosted Top High Crown Head
Armrest: Nickel plated Armrest

This is a fabulous option for the beginner to intermediate banjo player. Combining the quality of construction we've come to expect from all US-made Deering banjos with the affordability of their Goodtime series, Deering has created a quality resonator banjo from solid materials, at a great price point. If you're looking for a bluegrass banjo with good volume and tone, and prefer to keep the cost as low as possible, then this is the banjo for you.

$799 USD

There's plenty of music in this Deering Tenor Goodtime banjo. Featuring the signature good tone of the Goodtime, 19 frets for an extended range, and a resonator for volume it is a great choice for beginners and multi-instrumentalists alike. Made in USA.

The exact appearance of this item may vary.

$599.99

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKRzl5Keajs

12" Irish tenors are becoming very popular in Ireland. Join the trend and enjoy the increased volume, extended bass tonal range and Celtic inlay. Includes gig bag.

Specs on our website.

$1,500 USD

Fred Van Eps was a famous banjo player in his day. This is the fanciest Van Eps banjo we have seen. Brazilian rosewood neck and carved heel. This one also features a fancy resonator. The models that bear his name were designed by Fred and marketed by Lyon & Healy in Chicago. With rough semi-hardshell case. VG-EC except (could use new strings and minor set up, etc. - plays okay - sold AS-IS).

Rare Fred Van Eps banjo!
No SN
1920s
VG-EC *(see below)
Two piece Brazilian rosewood neck with carved heel
3-layer center strip
19-fret ebony fingerboard
Fancy pearl inlays of various shapes
Headstock overlay features fancy pearl inlay and "VAN EPS" logo
"Pancake" tuners with cream buttons
Fancy wood marquetry fingerboard underlay
Bass side has pearl parallelograms fret markers
Metal-clad maple rim
~12" plastic head
28 brackets
Van Eps tailpiece
Hooks attach into tension hoop
Arched tone ring on metal struts that fasten to the rim
Resonator features Brazilian rosewood veneer and pie section pattern on back
Fancy wood marquetry on sides and back of resonator
1-1/8" nut, ~22-¾" scale
Once had an armrest (now gone, broken mounts are still on tension hoop)
Replacement nut
Neck has added shims at heel and at the end of fingerboard
Front of headstock is over-sprayed
Rough import semi-hardshell case (yellow lining)
*VG-EC except (could use new strings and minor set up, etc. - plays okay - sold AS-IS)

$10,000.00
Original Uncut Maple Pot
Original 40-Hole Archtop Tonering
Original 1-Piece Flange & Hardware
Repro Maple Neck (unknown builder)
Rosewood Fingerboard
Style 5 Maple Resonator (possibly refinished)
Includes Non-Original Hard Case

$1,595.00

New Ute 11″ Maple Ltd Open Back

New / SN: 205
1 1/4″ nut width / 26.25″ Scale

We are almost to the end of our run of these special banjos, known as “Specials” or “Limited” editions. Today OME, ODE and UTE brands of open-back banjos are built using American Cherry wood.

These “specials” and “limited editions”, are made with Mahogany, Walnut, or Maple. These special banjos are made in small batches by Chuck Ogsbury, the founder of ODE, OME and UTE banjo brands in Boulder Colorado.

This is an 11″ UTE open back banjo with a flamed maple pot.

At the peghead, you’ll find a rosewood overlay with a buffalo nickel inlayed at the center. The nickel tuners, including the 5th string tuner, are K&H, and feature bronzy-colored buttons.

Moving down to the neck, there’s a volute right behind the peghead, situated behind the bone nut. The neck profile is generous and full-feeling, particularly in the first position, similar to late 1800s styles. There is an ebony heel cap.

The fingerboard on the neck is handcrafted by Chuck Ogsbury using an exotic wood. The fingerboard is flat and features medium-sized pearl dot inlays. White dot position markers adorn the side. The last five frets on the fifth string side of the fingerboard are beveled at a 45-degree angle for more rambunctious frailing without bruised fingertips. Two railroad spikes are placed at the 7th and 9th frets for capoing at A and B respectively.

There is a flamed maple dowel stick that matches the flamed maple on the rim. The outer bottom of the rim is bound with tortoise celluloid.

The hardware on the rim has an antiqued appearance, including the tension hoop, shoes, hooks, and nuts inside the pot. The bridge is a Dotson, and the tailpiece is a No Knot type.

This banjo also comes with a high-quality OME gig bag.

$2,600.00 + shipping

Vega Regent Model 5 String Banjo (1927), made in Boston, Mass., serial # 72794, natural varnish finish, laminated maple rim and neck, ebony fingerboard, original black hard shell case.

This is a fairly late example of the Vega Regent, one of the simpler classic 5-strings of the 1900-1920s Fairbanks/Vega banjo line. While not a fancy model, the Regent is still built with Vega's typical exemplary craftsmanship to a simple and attractive design. The just-under 11" rim is similar to the Little Wonder, made of laminated maple with tortoise celluloid binding around the bottom edge. It is fitted with basic but solid hardware including open-end nuts, a notched hoop and simple sheathed tone ring. The neck is laminated maple with a bound ebony fingerboard featuring pearl dots with a single star inlay at the 5th fret. The headstock is the classic Vega shape with no adornment, just a plain dark wood cap.

This is a rare original later 1920s 5-string instrument with matching serial numbers on the neck and rim and all dowel stamps correct. In this period Vega was primarily building 4-string jazz banjos; the 5-string was in eclipse in roaring '20s America, outsold massively by tenor and plectrum models. The instrument has a mix of modern and original hardware so is not a completely original banjo but IS a very good player's example of one of America's great workingman's 5-string banjos; not flashy way, but a solid performer then and now.

Overall length is 37 1/4 in. (94.6 cm.), 10 15/16 in. (27.8 cm.) diameter head, and 2 9/16 in. (6.5 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 27 in. (686 mm.). Width of nut is 1 1/8 in. (29 mm.).

This is a good player's banjo showing a decent amount of age and playwear but set up in good gigging condition. There is general finish wear overall, most noticeable on the back of the neck where the original very thin vanish is mostly worn away. It looks like a thin overfinish was applied long ago, and now most of that is worn off as well. This has left the neck with a great smooth worn-in feel.

The tortoise celluloid rim capping has been replaced with the correct original style material; this is not a functional issue as this was simply a decorative addition. The bottom of the rim is fairly heavily worn and has had some black varnish added over the original; the rest of the rim and dowel finish remain original.

The hardware is a nixed bag; all of the hook/nut sets are original, with the "cut-off' nuts Vega was clearing out at the time. The nuts in particular show some corrosion and plating loss. The other rim hardware is original except the tailpiece is modern No-Knot repro. The geared tuners are modern Planet style, including the fifth string machine. Regents from this period were equipped with non-geared tuners, so these are a very useful upgrade for actual steel-string playing purposes.

The frets were replaced from the nut through the 5th; above that they appear original. The ebony fingerboard shows some scarring from this process, with some visible filled chips and spots in that first position area where obviously a lot of playing has been done. At the upper end there is a small chip off the treble side edge to the wood and binding. The 5th fret star pearl inlay appears to have been re done, with some smooth fill around it. The nut has a couple of extra string slots that are not easily explained, but do not cause any issues!

Fitted with a standard Remo head this Regent has a bright, full sound with plenty of punch but less of the overtones typically heard with a more elaborate tone ring like the Tu-Ba-Phone. As more affordable old-time banjos go this is an authentic original 1920s 5-string solo or string band instrument at a reasonable price not much above a quality modern copy. It including a fairly rare original "bump"-style HSC, worn but still fully functional and always cool! Very Good + Condition.

$4,200 USD

Very cool example of this model. Needs a little TLC to bet back in top playing condition. Mahogany neck with carved heel. Metal clad rim with ~11-3/8" skin head, Electric tone ring. Fancy engraved inlays. With rough 1930s hardshell case (purple lining)

*VG-EC except needs (dowel stick reset, new head, setup, etc. - sold AS-IS).

SN 3151
c.1892-93
VG-EC *(see below)
Dark brown stain on mahogany neck with carved heel
21-fret ebony fingerboard with fancy engraved pearl inlays
Some cracks in center of fingerboard, first 7 frets appear replaced
A couple inlays have been repaired (frets 5 and 12)
Fingerboard features 2 layer of wood underlay
Headstock overlay features fancy floral inlay
Ebony headstock underlay with back strap
Maltese cross tuning pegs with floral engraving
Metal clad wood rim
~11-3/8" skin head
30 brackets with grooved tension hoop
Electric (Whyte Laydie) tone ring
Rim stamped "PAT. DEC.30.90"
Dowel stick stamped "ELECTRIC" and "A.C. FAIRBANKS & CO. / MAKERS / BOSTON"
1-9/32" nut, ~27" scale
Bone tailpiece stamped "PAT.9.21.86"
With rough 1930s hardshell case (purple lining)
*VG-EC except needs (dowel stick reset, new head, setup, etc. - sold AS-IS)

Please ask for more pics… Dead mint condition… Virtually unplayed… Purchased brand new by me in October 2023… One of the last Ome Banjos to come out of Boulder, Colorado…Serial 7488

26.25" scale & 1.28" nut width
Two-way adjustable truss rod
Juniper MOP & Abalone shell inlays
Victorian peghead with ebony overlay
Boat shaped ebony capped heel
Inlayed front and side position markers
Bone nut
Capo spikes at 7th and 9th frets
Tung-oil varnish finish
12" 2-ply maple rim with Rolled Brass tone ring
Ebonite capped and simulated tortoise bound rim
Sweetone tailpiece
Heavy notched tension hoop & Renaissance head
Deluxe hard-shell, plush-lined case
Rosewood armrest
$3445 + $75 ship.. no trades… I donate to the café… Thanks for looking

$749 + $50 ship..Please ask for more pics.. this Banjo is in dead mint condition... Virtually unplayed.. original owner... The Goodtime Artisan Americana™ features a 12" rim creating a stronger bass response and warmer tone. Renaissance head. The Artisan version of the Goodtime Americana boasts a rich brown stain, planetary banjo tuners, 5th string capo spikes at frets 7, 9, and 10, and a Midnight Maple fingerboard…retails at $1029…I donate to the café..no trades…thanks for looking

Please ask for more pics...serial 3685..This banjo has a Curly Maple Resonator and Neck. The fretboard is Ebony with a Red Fox inlay pattern. All of the hardware is nickel and all original and includes a Stelling One Piece Ribbon Flange and a Stelling No Hole Tone Ring..includes original Stelling case..This banjo has been lightly played, gently handled and is in exceptionally clean condition and delivers the entire Stelling experience from presentation to tone and playability...I donate to the café..no trades...$3995 + $50 shipped...thanks for looking

$2,250 USD

A fancy open-back banjo from back in the day, this Professional FF2 Special features a dark-finished bound maple internal resonator with 2 f-holes, 11-1/2" Fiberskyn head, Bacon tone ring, 3-piece maple neck with centerstrip, pearwood fingerboard, overlay, fancy pearl floral inlays. Needs work to return the banjo to its former glory. Newer hard shell case. Made in USA (needs set-up, neat press neck, fretwork, etc. - sold AS-IS)

SN 5848
c.1920
VGC (needs set-up, neat press neck, fretwork, etc. - sold AS-IS)
1-3/16" nut width, 27-1/2" scale
11-1/2" Fiberskyn head
Grooved tension hoop
Dowel stick stamped "2", "SPECIAL", "5848", "BACON PROFESSIONAL FF"
26 brackets, bolts and L-shoes
Dark-finished bound maple internal resonator with 2 f-holes
Bacon tone ring
Original Bacon / E.O. Winship "Pat. Pend" tailpiece
3-piece maple neck with b-m-b centerstrip
22 fret ivoroid-bound ebonized pearwood fingerboard with fancy inlays
Stained pearwood peghead overlay (and backstrap), floral and logo inlays
Heel cap features floral inlay
Newer Five Star planetary tuners with ivoroid buttons
Geared 5th string with newer pearloid button
Wire armrest
Newer hard shell case (cherry red lining)
Made in USA

$2,495.00

Scale Length: 25.5"
Nut Width: 1.25"
Neck Wood: Curly maple
Fretboard Wood: Richlite
Peghead Overlay: Richlite
Peghead Inlay: None
Fret Markers: 3rd, 7th, 10th, 12th, and 15th frets
Nut Material: Delrin
Spikes: None
Tuners: Gotoh brass open-gear with paddle buttons
Finish: Stained matte
Rim Size: 11"
Rim Wood: Curly maple
Tonering: Dobson
Brackets: 18
Tailpiece: Aged brass Hawktail
Head: Remo Renaissance
Armrest: None
Case: Pisgah padded gig bag
Need More Specs? Contact Us!

We don't carry a better banjo from Pisgah than the Dobson Professional, a premium open-back designed for serious players who aren't willing to compromise on quality. The Asheville-based manufacturer's reputation for quality craftsmanship and old-time authenticity are on full display here, with all curly maple construction and an exquisitely milled neck terminating in a classy open headstock. As the name implies, this instrument boasts a Dobson-style brass tone ring under the hood, lending it extra volume, sustain, and a vintage-inspired tone suitable for early American music. Pisgah keep the cosmetics understated and classic, opting for a dark stained finish and aged brass hardware. Included in the price is a Pisgah gig bag.

Suggested retail $2,399.99
Our price $1,799.99

Mahogany Resonator & Neck
20 Hole Bell Brass Tone Ring
Bound Ebony Fretboard
27-3/8” Scale Length
Deluxe Hardshell Case

Modeled after the original Mastertone banjos of the 1930's, the Recording King RK-Elite offers players vintage sound and handcrafted construction.

Professional components like a classic Mastertone-style tone ring and true steam-bent 3-ply maple rim put this banjo in a category by itself.

With classic design features like the vintage-style double-cut Recording King peghead and custom Hearts & Flowers-style inlay, this banjo proudly wears its historic heritage.?

The 27-3/8" scale delivers extra punch, combining traditional sound and looks with modern power.

Model:RK-ELITE-76
Resonator:One-Piece Mahogany
Rim:3-Ply Maple
Flange:Mastertone-Style One-Piece
Head:Remo Frosted Head, 11" High Crown
Tone Ring:Mastertone-Style
Tension Hoop:24-Hook Brass Notched; Round American Threaded Hooks and Nuts
Coordinator Rod(s):Dual 1930’s Style
Neck:One-Piece Slim Profile Mahogany
Fretboard:Bound Ebony
Hardware:Nickel-Plated
Tailpiece:Presto-Style
Bridge:Maple / Ebony; 5/8"
Nut:Bone
Fret Markers:Custom Hearts & Flowers-Style M.O.P. Inlay
Inlay:Custom Hearts & Flowers-Style M.O.P. Inlay
Peghead:Double-Cut Recording King
Overlay:Ebony Peghead Overlay with Mother of Pearl Inlay
Tuners:Gotoh Planetary Tuners With Geared 5th Peg
Binding:Ivoroid
Scale Length:27-3/8"
Armrest:Included
Finish:Gloss

-----------------

The Acoustic Shoppe has quickly become one of the leading sources for acoustic instruments, accessories, and online and in-person learning. As a full-time touring band, The Chapmans performed and recorded at the highest levels of bluegrass and acoustic music for many years. The Acoustic Shoppe allows them to share their years of experience as professional musicians and teachers with customers locally and around the world.

Today, The Acoustic Shoppe serves musicians and students around the world, through online and in-person sales and instruction. Their teaching studio, The Academy, is a state of the art music learning program that allows students to learn at their own pace with top teachers. The shop carries high-quality instruments at every price-point, all expertly set-up and ready for you to play.

$1,695.00

This Pisgah Banjos - 12" Woodchuck is a quality open-back at a great price. Hand-made in Asheville, NC with native hardwoods this 12" features an Ash rim and neck, paired with a classic rolled brass tone ring. This combination gives the Woodchuck a rounder, more full sound thanks to the larger pot, while delivering plenty of volume and sustain thanks to the rolled brass. Here in a 25.5" scale length, slightly shorter than banjo standard, makes for a comfortable player with a bit less string tension aiding that more mellow tone. Includes a Pisgah branded Access Stage One gig bag.
12" Ash rim with brass grooved tension hoop with stainless steel hooks
Rolled Brass tone ring
25.5" scale length
Ash neck with satin finish and traditional dowel stick
Richlite fingerboard - metallic face dots and standard scoop
17 frets
Paddle Headstock
Folk Heel
Remo renaissance head
Two way adjustable truss rod
Ebony-topped bridge with traditional tailpiece
Balsam Banjoworks hardware
4 Gotoh Planetary tuning pegs with geared 5th Gotoh tuner
Access Stage One gig bag

-----------------

About us: For over 40 years, Mass Street Music has been proudly selling, buying and trading the best vintage, new and used guitars, amps, mandolins and more right in the heart of Lawrence, Kansas - just a short drive from Kansas City and Topeka. We also ship globally, bringing the best hometown guitar service & selection right to your door. We're known for exceptional quality, value and outstanding personal service. A set up from one of our luthiers is always included with a new instrument. Welcome to Mass Street Music... sit back, grab a cup of coffee and browse a while.

Visit us:
On Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/massstreetmusic
On Twitter - https://twitter.com/massstreetmusic
Our Website - https://massstreetmusic.com/

$800 USD

Fine Dobson banjo from the late 19th century. This one features a walnut neck and dowel stick, fancy pearl inlays and metal-clad rim. This one needs a bit of TLC to get back in top playing condition. With newer hardshell case (blue lining). VGC+ except needs work (dowel stick reset, fretwork, strings, bridge, etc. - sold AS-IS)

SN 24
Late 1880s
VGC+ *(see below)
Walnut neck with folk heel and figure eight headstock shape
V-shaped neck profile
Thin 17-fret pearwood fingerboard
Fancy pearl inlays
Ivoroid violin peg tuners, 5th string tuner replaced
Small shim at end of fingerboard
Metal clad wood rim
11" Elite Renaissance head
36 brackets
Dowel stick has celluloid plate engraved "Victor"
Dowel stick stamped "SPECIALTY" and "GEO.C.DOBSON / 290 SHAWMUT AVE. / BOSTON, MASS."
1-3/16" nut, ~25-3/8" scale
Original tailpiece stamped "GEO.C.DOBSON / BOSTON / MASS. / VICTOR"
With newer hardshell case (blue lining)
*VGC+ ex

$1,995.00

Scale Length: 25.5"
Nut Width: 1.34"
Neck Wood: Cherry
Fretboard Wood: Ebony
Peghead Overlay: Ebony
Peghead Inlay: Buffalo nickel
Fret Markers: 3rd, 5th, 7th, 10th, 12th, and 15th frets
Nut Material: Bone
Spikes: 7th and 9th frets
Tuners: Nickel-plated planetary with amber buttons
Finish: Hand-rubbed matte
Rim Size: 11"
Rim Wood: Multi-ply curly maple
Tonering: None
Brackets: 24
Tailpiece: Aged brass no-knot
Head: Renaissance
Armrest: Select hardwood
Case: Padded gig bag
Need More Specs? Contact Us!

Suggested retail $778.00
Our price $699.00

The Americana is the most affordable 5-string banjo from Deering to be fitted with their 12” rim, which gives the banjo a stronger bass response and a much warmer tone. The fullness and warmth of the larger rim is further enhanced by the addition of a 12” renaissance head which beautifully complements the banjo both visually and sonically.
Continuing the long standing Goodtime philosophy of offering the best value American made banjos available, the Americana is the lowest priced 12” model on the market today and retains the distinctive natural blonde Goodtime aesthetics. In keeping with the rest of the Goodtime line, this banjo also features guitar style tuners, a rock maple neck, nickel plated hardware, and hardwood inlays.

Played with an old time style technique, the Americana is reminiscent of banjos from a period when larger rims were more prevalent which makes the 12” a great setup for playing old time music. A traditional 11” banjo with a frosted top head has a far brighter sound and will “cut” more. Since the combination of the wider 12” rim and the renaissance head makes for a wonderfully laid back sound in comparison, the Americana lends itself perfectly for musicians looking to use the banjo to back up a vocalist or another instrument, instead of playing the a lead instrument role.

NECK
Neck Wood: Rock Maple
Neck Shape: Comfortable "D" Shape
Stain: Natural Maple
Finish: Satin
Nut Width: 1 1/4"
Nut Material: Lexan Polycarbonate
Tuners: Sealed Geared Tuners
5th String Tuner: Goodtime Geared 5th String Tuner
Frets: 22 Pressed In Nickel Silver Frets

Rim: 3-Ply Violin Grade Maple
Rim Diameter: 12"
Tone Ring:
Head: 12" Renaissance Medium Crown
Tension Hoop: Beveled Steel Tension Hoop
Hooks & Nuts: 16 Flat J-Hooks with 9/32″ Nuts
Armrest: Goodtime Armrest
Hardware Plating: Nickel
Tailpiece: Deering Patented Goodtime Tailpiece
Finish: Hand Rubbed Polyurethane with Carnuba Wax Finish

DIMENSIONS
Neck Width at the Nut: 1 1/4"
Scale Length Nut to Bridge: 26 1/4"
Rim Diameter: 12"
Overall Instrument Length: 37 1/2"
Weight Approx.: 4.5 lbs

-----------------

The Acoustic Shoppe has quickly become one of the leading sources for acoustic instruments, accessories, and online and in-person learning. As a full-time touring band, The Chapmans performed and recorded at the highest levels of bluegrass and acoustic music for many years. The Acoustic Shoppe allows them to share their years of experience as professional musicians and teachers with customers locally and around the world.

Today, The Acoustic Shoppe serves musicians and students around the world, through online and in-person sales and instruction. Their teaching studio, The Academy, is a state of the art music learning program that allows students to learn at their own pace with top teachers. The shop carries high-quality instruments at every price-point, all expertly set-up and ready for you to play.

$1,927.00

This Pisgah Banjos - 11" Appalachian Cherry with Vintage Heel brings that old-time banjo sound with the a few upgraded features. Hand-made in North Carolina with native hardwoods, this 11" features a Cherry rim and neck, paired with a traditional rolled brass tone ring, combining for that classic clawhammer sound. The standard banjo scale length has something to do with that as well, providing more string tension to drive that renaissance head a little harder, for a bolder sound. We've also upgraded this model with tastefully aged brass hardware, along with a vintage heel and a cherry armrest for a more refined look and feel. Includes a Pisgah branded Access Stage One gig bag.

11" Cherry rim with 18 notched tension hoop, and double pointed shoes
Rolled Brass Tone Ring
26 3/16" scale length
Cherry neck with satin finish and traditional dowel stick
Persimmon fingerboard with standard scoop
Paddle Headstock
Vintage Heel
17 frets
Remo renaissance head
Two way adjustable truss rod
Ebony-topped bridge with Hawktail tailpiece
Cherry Armrest
Aged brass Balsam Banjoworks hardware
4 Gotoh Planetary tuning pegs with geared 5th Gotoh tuner
Access Stage One gig bag with PBCO logo

-----------------

About us: For over 40 years, Mass Street Music has been proudly selling, buying and trading the best vintage, new and used guitars, amps, mandolins and more right in the heart of Lawrence, Kansas - just a short drive from Kansas City and Topeka. We also ship globally, bringing the best hometown guitar service & selection right to your door. We're known for exceptional quality, value and outstanding personal service. A set up from one of our luthiers is always included with a new instrument. Welcome to Mass Street Music... sit back, grab a cup of coffee and browse a while.

Visit us:
On Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/massstreetmusic
On Twitter - https://twitter.com/massstreetmusic
Our Website - https://massstreetmusic.com/

The Luscomb with an all wood pot as visible in the photo. The banjo is a very good condition All original parts except I think that the makers metal plate is missing on the dowel stick but you can see the name is still Engraved in both sides. The photo is of the pot before I put it back together, so you can see the pot construction. I also re glued the fingerboard which was loose and straightend the neck, which is perfectly straight now. The ebony tuning pegs work well with the nylon strings, which is what I have on it now. I decided to remove the old skin head and replaced it with a Renaissance head to get better tension on the head and also better projection. It is also listed on ebay with more photos.

$2,495.00

#1107 / OHSC

Prucha instruments are known for their excellent quality and superior sound and are hand-made in The Czech Republic. Their instruments are played by some of the most prominent bluegrass musicians around the world today.

The Pioneer model is a step up from Prucha’s basic model, featuring added pearl inlay and a satin finish. It boasts outstanding response and projects a beautiful tonal quality on any stage. This particular Pioneer banjo is in excellent condition, and it comes with a nice hardshell case for protection.

Specifications for this 2016 Prucha Pioneer Resonator Banjo include a natural finish, mahogany resonator material and rim, flathead tone ring, notched tension hoop, Remo head, one-piece flange, and a mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard. Pioneer engraved fingerboard and simple, but tasteful, diamond fingerboard inlays. Black bindings on resonator and along fingerboard. C-profile neck and a 31.5mm nut width and cream tuner buttons. The bridge is made of maple with ebony top, and the tailpiece is nickel plated.

The banjo is in excellent condition and ready to play! Comes with a hard shell case.

$1,250.00 + shipping

J. E. Dallas Concert Fretless Model 5 String Banjo, c. 1890, made in London, England, serial # 1896, natural varnish finish, spunover rim, mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard, black gig bag case.

John E. Dallas was one of England's premier banjo makers, starting in a small workshop in London's Oxford Street with J E. Brewster in 1873 and two years later set up as a music publisher and banjo maker at 415 Strand. Dallas was an excellent craftsman who fashioned some very high-class banjos and zither-banjos. By 1893 he took over the entire 415 Strand premises for his workshops making a large range of instruments, some sold under his own brand and more for other firms and teachers. For some years he claimed to personally test every banjo before it was sold. In 1905-6 his three sons were made directors and the firm became to J. E. Dallas & Sons.

This interesting 19th century fretless banjo was built well before that, simply stamped "J. E. Dallas" on the dowel stick. It is not possible to date exactly but 1890 would be a fairly good, if late period estimate for a fretless of this type. It is stamped "Concert" on the shaped dowel along with the makers name and serial number, those latter two also stamped inside the rim. The slim mahogany neck has a smooth ebony fingerboard with star and dot markers, but no fret lines. It is fitted with varied-size position dots on the upper side designating every position, a practice common in England but not the US.

The rim is a fairly standard spunover type similar to most American banjos of the period, with a complete set of Dallas' fancier hooks and nuts. The original Celluloid pegs are also intact. We don't often find good fretless banjos of this type; this one is not only a fine quality if fairly plain instrument but exceptionally well preserved. This is a fantastic find for an experienced fretless banjoist and a great "starter" for the player just dabbling in microtonal banjoistic possibilities!

Overall length is 35 3/4 in. (90.8 cm.), 12 in. (30.5 cm.) diameter head, and 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 28 in. (711 mm.). Width of nut is 1 3/16 in. (30 mm.).

This fretless banjo is in excellent condition for its age, something like 130 years on still quite a functional instrument. It looks like the entire neck and dowel finish along with the interior rim were lightly overcoated with a new varnish application long ago, so the patina is not as aged as it would naturally be. There is very little subsequent finish wear, the plating has some minor spotting, pitting and corrosion but for its age is relatively clean as well. The headstock veneer has an ancient tight split on the face.

The head is an older calfskin, and the hardware on the banjo appears largely original including Dallas' fancy hooks and nuts. The ivoroid tailpiece is an older style, possibly original but it looks more like a later repro. The bridge is vintage styled but newer. The neck is quite straight, the fretless fingerboard has virtually no wear (it is of course a gut-string banjo) and playability is excellent. This is an excellent instrument within its 19th century limits (gut or nylon strings only, please!) and a lovely authentic fretless player. Overall Excellent Condition.

$2,500 USD

Ready to pluck, this well-made old time banjo by Bart Reiter features a maple rim with walnut rim cap, a 2-piece mahogany neck, and a Bacon-style tone ring, with Five Star planetary tuners. Appointments of ebony fingerboard, heel and peghead overlay. Original TKL hard shell case. Made in USA.

Brown stained finish
2-piece mahogany neck with centerstrip
11/16" maple rim with walnut rim cap
Bacon-style tone ring (no internal resonator)
Ebony fingerboard scooped after 7th fret, pearl dot inlays
11" Elite head
24 brackets, bolts and L-shoes
Notched tension hoop
No-Knot tailpiece
Ebony heelcap
Ebony peghead overlay features pearl star inlay
Five Star planetary tuners and 5th string peg with pearloid buttons
1 -1/4" nut, 26-1/4" scale
Original TKL hard shell case (gray lining)
Made in USA

$1,650.00 + shipping

Cammeyer Vibrante Model 5 String Zither Banjo (1920), made in London, England, serial # 4634-104, natural finish, laminated walnut rim, rosewood neck with ebony fingerboard, original brown leather case.

This instrument is a classic English Zither Banjo, a style little known in the US but once "All the rage" in the UK. These instrument have their own specific stringing, style and lore dating back to the 1890s in England. While based on a designs brought to the UK by Brooklynite Alfred Cammeyer, the zither banjo has remained a largely English (and Commonwealth) favorite for well over 135 years now! Some of the specific quirks include the 6 tuners (only 5 are actually used!) with the drone string running in a tunnel under the fingerboard to the headstock. The metal rim-inside-the-resonator was Cammeyer's patented system, and was highly influential on banjo design on the continent as well as the UK while largely forgotten in the US.

Following a suggestion from British opera diva Adelina Patti, the celebrated American banjoist Cammeyer first traveled to London in 1888. Soon he was performing for London's high society; Sir Arthur Sullivan (of Gilbert & Sullivan) encouraged him to compose solos for the banjo, which became very popular. In 1893 Cammeyer partnered with Clifford Essex to produce his zither-banjo designs under the "Essex & Cammeyer" brand, setting up a London manufacturing facility. The partnership dissolved in 1900 but Cammeyer continued to make mostly zither-banjos until retiring in 1939. Many other English builders made instruments to the same design, notably Windsor, and they are still played in England today.

The man in charge of the Cammeyer workshops was Sidney W. Young who was responsible for the designs of this "Vibrante" model as well as "Vibrante Royal" zither-banjos and "New Era" banjos bearing the Cammeyer name. Cammeyer himself retired in 1939, but some were still made afterwards. Cammeyer's serial number system for the "Vibrante" models was quite detailed. This banjo's first number 4634 is the sequential sequence in the shop ledgers, applied to every model. The second half is a sequence specific to the Vibrantes, indicating this is the 104th banjo in that series. Available information dates it to around 1920, just as Britain was recovering from the First World War.

This is a Standard Vibrante model with a 9" diameter head; the Vibrante Royal had a larger 9.5" head size. This is a very fancy banjo with beautiful grained woods and elaborately carved inlay in the fingerboard and headstock. The stringing, technique and sound of the Zither banjo are unique and unfamiliar to most American players, but as these instruments go this is a very high-grade example.

Overall length is 38 in. (96.5 cm.), 9 in. (22.9 cm.) diameter head, and 2 3/4 in. (7 cm.) in depth at side. Scale length is 27 1/4 in. (692 mm.). Width of nut is 1 3/8 in. (35 mm.).

For its age this is a clean instrument, with some older restoration but generally in very good shape for over a century on. The entire banjo including the fingerboard has an old noticeable clear overfinish, likely done many decades ago (this was a popular thing to do in the '50s and '60s among banjo enthusiasts, to make the older instrument new and shiny again). It shows only very light subsequent wear overall and no other visible repairs or alterations. There are some old dings and laminate checks on the back of the resonator under the finish, so they have been there a long time.

The banjo is set up with a hand-tucked plastic head, an unusual way to do it but perfectly functional. The neck is not 100% straight (few century-old Zither banjos are) but quite playable within the stringing and style these instruments are known for. It includes the original leather case, a real museum piece mostly well preserved if not really functional for traveling as the leather straps are broken. Excellent Condition.