{"title":"5 String Banjo","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"deering-artisan-goodtime-two-banjo-5-string-with-resonator-new-12896","title":"Deering Artisan Goodtime Two Banjo 5-String with Resonator New","description":"The 5-string open back Deering Goodtime is our most popular banjo and an excellent value for a beginning or intermediate picker looking to get into the banjo world. The Artisan Goodtime Two takes the popular design and adds a resonator, which produces a louder, more focused tone that works well for bluegrass. Other upgrades include the Midnight Maple fretboard, which is created using a unique staining process developed by Deering; fancier inlays and an armrest.  Like its open back sibling, it features a 3-ply maple rim that produces a clear, ringing tone. The Goodtime tailpiece is Deering’s own design and the tension hoop is rolled in-house from raw metal.","brand":"Deering Banjo Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43189172240583,"sku":"DEEARTGOOD2RES","price":1329.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/8403940125681.jpg?v=1791016013"},{"product_id":"vega-white-oak-11-5-string-banjo-new-21995","title":"Vega White Oak 11\" 5-String Banjo - New","description":"We've often wondered why more American guitar and banjo makers don't use white oak, as it's an abundant domestic hardwood that makes fine sounding instruments. This Vega White Oak, made by Deering, uses its namesake wood for the neck and shell of this banjo. Because oak is so dense and sturdy, the top of the rim has tapered top edge, which makes a metal tone ring unnecessary. This results in a round, woody tone plenty of pop and projection. The Vega White Oak is ideal for clawhammer and folk music and it weighs in in just under six pounds. Includes a hardshell case.\r\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Deering","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44854194864327,"sku":"VEGWHITEOAK-01083825AX46","price":2399.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1710991.jpg?v=1791021725"},{"product_id":"deering-artisan-goodtime-americana-5-string-openback-banjo-new-22951","title":"Deering Artisan Goodtime Americana 5-String Openback Banjo - New","description":"The standard 5-string Deering Goodtime is our most popular banjo and an excellent value for a beginning or intermediate picker looking to get into the banjo world. The Goodtime Artisan Americana boasts some variations that will appeal to old-time style banjo pickers. The most noticeable feature is the Midnight Maple fretboard, which is created using a unique staining process developed by Deering. The Artisan Americana also has a 12-inch head, which produces the sweeter, mellower tone that many clawhammer players prefer. Other upgrades include an armrest and fancier inlays. Like its sibling, it features a 3-ply maple rim. The Goodtime tailpiece is Deering’s own design and the tension hoop is rolled in-house from raw metal.","brand":"Deering Banjo Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45055155011783,"sku":"DEEAAM25-04072502","price":999.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1713671.jpg?v=1791022788"},{"product_id":"1984-deering-maple-blossom-5-string-banjo-used-23591","title":"1984 Deering Maple Blossom 5-string Banjo - Used","description":"This Deering Maple Blossom was made in California in 1984 and thanks to its high quality construction and parts combined with excellent care there's no sign of weathering or wear.  Although not as ornately inlaid as more costly Deering models, the Maple Blossom was given all the best parts throughout, including a 3-ply maple shell, cast zinc flange and heavy cast bronze flathead tone ring. This banjo has all of its original parts except for the tailpiece which has been upgraded to a Fults tailpiece, which is far more sturdy and offers an almost unlimited range of adjustment. These tailpieces are not cheap and represent a significant upgrade.There's some light surface wear to the back of the resonator, but fret wear is minimal. A great bluegrass banjo ready for its next assignment. ","brand":"Deering Banjo Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45364243300551,"sku":"DEEMAPBLO-837084","price":2850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1419251.jpg?v=1791023416"},{"product_id":"deering-goodtime-americana-5-string-openback-banjo-new-23603","title":"Deering Goodtime Americana 5-String Openback Banjo - New","description":"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.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003ePlayed 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.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eTake a walk on the wide side with the Goodtime Americana banjo.","brand":"Deering Banjo Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45380758241479,"sku":"DEEGAM25-0730257","price":749.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1716051.jpg?v=1791023455"},{"product_id":"vega-white-oak-12-5-string-banjo-new-23608","title":"Vega White Oak 12\" 5-String Banjo - New","description":"We've often wondered why more American guitar and banjo makers don't use white oak, as it's an abundant domestic hardwood that makes fine sounding instruments. This Vega White Oak, made by Deering, uses its namesake wood for the neck and shell of this banjo. Because oak is so dense and sturdy, the top of the rim has tapered top edge, which makes a metal tone ring unnecessary. This results in a round, woody tone plenty of pop and projection. The Vega White Oak is ideal for clawhammer and folk music and it weighs in in just under six pounds. Includes a hardshell case.","brand":"Deering Banjo Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45380791075015,"sku":"VEGWHTOAK12-07084925BB07","price":2499.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1716101.jpg?v=1791023456"},{"product_id":"1998-gibson-rb-6-sparkle-5-string-banjo-used-23622","title":"1998 Gibson RB-6 Sparkle 5-String Banjo - Used","description":"Gibson's Style 6 Mastertones have always been rare,  and the original versions were only in production for about a decade beginning in late 1927.  Gibson's reissues of Style 6 were also made in limited numbers, starting in 1995 and disappearing a dozen years later.  And this example is even more rare as it has a 40-hole archtop tone ring.   (We don't have any production totals for how many of the reissues were done in gold sparkle\/Argentine gray sunburst like this one versus those with \"checkerboard\" binding.)  While both the finish and the gold plating on this example are in excellent condition, this banjo did get played, as indicated by the wear to the first 5 frets (there are some shirt button squiggles to the lacquer on resonator).  It's original throughout with the exception of the tuners, which have been changed to a new set of Gibson-branded engraved gears (the button on the 5th peg was changed to match the headstock set).  FON stamped on the inside of the shell, btw, is 6-9801-1.  An excellent sounding Mastertone, and the combination of the gold sparkle binding and dramatic Argentine gray sunburst makes it a banjo that really stands out in a crowd of RB-3s and Earl Scruggs models!","brand":"Gibson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45387284644039,"sku":"GIBRB-6698011","price":6500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1419341.jpg?v=1791023493"},{"product_id":"ome-tupelo-12-5-string-open-back-banjo-new-24284","title":"Ome Tupelo 12\" 5-String Open Back Banjo - New","description":"The Tupelo may be a no frills open back, but don’t let the lack of ornamentation fool you; this is well-crafted instrument with the attention detail we have come to expect from Ome. The cherry shell includes 14 brackets and a Renaissance head produces a rich, resonant sound that captures the essence of traditional banjo tones. It has aged brass hardware, including the tension hoop and Sweetone tailpiece. The neck is crafted from high-quality cherry and has an ebony fingerboard with 17 hardened nickel frets and brass dot inlays. The tung oil finish enhances the natural beauty of the wood, while the brass dot position markers ensure easy navigation along the fretboard. The ebony capped heel adds a touch of refinement.","brand":"OME Banjos","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45910746267847,"sku":"OMETUPELO-225140","price":2495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1719571.jpg?v=1791024420"},{"product_id":"deering-goodtime-two-5-string-resonator-banjo-new-24862","title":"Deering Goodtime Two 5-String Resonator Banjo - New","description":"Three years after the Goodtime banjo revolutionized the banjo world, it was only natural that customers began asking them to make one with a resonator. They wanted a banjo that was as fantastic to play as the Goodtime, but that could compete in volume and projection in a jam setting. And if there is one thing Deering does well, it is to listen to the customer! So in 1999, the Goodtime Two banjo was born!\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThe Goodtime Two is similar to the Goodtime Openback, featuring a natural blonde maple vibe with a satin finish to protect it. The heart of the Goodtime Two is the same 3-ply violin-grade maple rim, which when paired with the 3-ply resonator, produces a rich, golden tone and offers a significant increase in volume from its openback counterpart.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThis is because any sound from the back is now not being absorbed by your body. Instead, the hard, concave surface of the resonator is providing a surface for the sound to bounce off and forward, projecting through the soundholes of the nickel-plated flange that surrounds the rim. ","brand":"Deering Banjo Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46222666596551,"sku":"DEEG225-02182614","price":849.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1721251.jpg?v=1791024882"},{"product_id":"rickard-maple-ridge-12-5-string-banjo-new-25181","title":"Rickard Maple Ridge 12\" 5-String Banjo - New","description":"The Rickard Maple Ridge is an elegant contemporary take on a popular late nineteenth century style of banjo construction.The 3\/8 inch thick maple rim has a 12-inch diameter and is fitted with a Dobson-style tone ring, the hottest thing going in the banjo world of the 1880s. The large head\/thin shell combination gives this banjo a thick, woody sound with lots of projection. You might even say this banjo has a mellow tone, at least compared to other banjos.(If you like the look of this banjo, but want a snappier sound, it also comes with an 11-inch head, which ups the trebles a fair amount.) The neck has a graceful 'boat heel' design with a lot of heft to it. The peghead is the 1880s paddle style. This banjo has 25.5 scale length, an ebony fretboard, dots with star inlay and frailing scoop, antiqued brass hardware, and Rickard’s 10:1 Ratio tuners, which make tuning a breeze. Includes a new case.","brand":"Rickard Banjos","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46395628552391,"sku":"RIC12MRA-1813","price":2175.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1722411.jpg?v=1791025290"},{"product_id":"rickard-dobson-standard-12-5-string-banjo-new-25184","title":"Rickard Dobson Standard 12\" 5-String Banjo - New","description":"Rickard’s Dobson Standard is built with a maple neck, a 1\/2 inch thick maple rim and faux tortoise binding, aged brass hardware and their 10:1 Ratio Cyclone Tuners It has a 25.5\" scale length, an ebony fretboard with a frailing scoop and EVO gold fretwire. It’s fitted with a Dobson-style tone ring, the hottest thing going in the banjo world of the 1880s. The 12-inch head gives this banjo a thick, woody sound and the tone-ring adds a bit of clarity and projection. You might even say this banjo has a mellow tone, at least compared to other banjos. The neck has a graceful 'boat heel' design with a lot of heft to it and the peghead 1880s paddle style. This Rickard banjo is a thoughtful blend of modern functionality and antique aesthetics. ","brand":"Rickard Banjos","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46395628617927,"sku":"RIC12DOBSTD-1826","price":2375.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1722441.jpg?v=1791009252"},{"product_id":"pisgah-banjo-co-rambler-dobson-special-11-brass-spun-rim-walnut-neck-srt-scale-new-25196","title":"Pisgah Banjo Co. Rambler Dobson Special 11\" Brass Spun Rim, Walnut Neck, SRT scale - New","description":"Pisgah’s Rambler Dobson Special 11” sits at the more premium end of their Dobson-style offerings. It’s built with a walnut neck, an 11” pot with a spun brass rim, and aged brass hardware. This one features the shorter 25.5\" scale length, which makes for a very comfortable, easy-playing feel. The Richlite fingerboard includes an S-scoop frailing scoop, so you can play over the neck and get that deeper, plunkier tone. It’s also fitted with a Dobson-style tone ring, one of the hottest innovations in the banjo world back in the 1880s, and still a favorite for open-back banjos today. The 11” head gives this banjo a clear, forward voice, while the tone ring adds depth and low-end. The neck has a “folk in walnut” heel design, which is elegant and sturdy, and features a vintage-style \"fiddle-shaped\" headstock with a Richlite veneer and star inlay. This Pisgah is a thoughtful blend of modern playability and faithful vintage tone and style. It comes with a Pisgah-branded Access gig bag.","brand":"Pisgah Banjo Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46408203370695,"sku":"PISRDSWAL11-4019","price":2336.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1722511_beab56b8-33e1-4a73-95c3-aed3f2e412bf.jpg?v=1791025290"},{"product_id":"pisgah-dobson-12-cherry-short-scale-5-string-banjo-new-25209","title":"Pisgah Dobson 12\", Cherry, Short Scale, 5-String Banjo - New","description":"The Pisgah Dobson is perfect for those looking for a lighter weight banjo with good sustain and projection.  Pisgah's Dobson tone ring, modeled after the original 1881 patent, is bell shaped and gives the banjo good sustain and resonance while only adding 9 ounces to the total weight.  The Pisgah Dobson is very responsive, making it a joy to play.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThe short (25 1\/2\") scale length will immediately feel familiar to any guitar player, making it an easy choice for players looking to seamlessly blend both worlds. The slightly smaller vibrating length also reduces the overall tension of the strings, giving the banjo a little more rounded and loose sound than its snappier full-scale counterpart. It's perfect for players looking for a warm, intimate sound that is also easy on the fingers.\r\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Pisgah Banjo Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46411295326407,"sku":"PISDOB12CHSRT-4021","price":1934.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1722541.jpg?v=1791025327"},{"product_id":"deering-white-lotus-5-string-resonator-banjo-new-25287","title":"Deering White Lotus 5-String Resonator Banjo - New","description":"The bluegrass inspired White Lotus banjo, named for its lotus flower inspired inlay pattern, is centered around the patented white oak rim. Notably lacking a traditional heavy tone ring, the natural white oak rim closely recreates a bright, crisp bluegrass punch, ushering in a new era in playing comfort and sound for today’s banjo player.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Deering Banjo Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46451283230919,"sku":"DEEWHITEL-04036326BE44","price":2949.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1725911.jpg?v=1791025430"},{"product_id":"deering-goodtime-acoustic-electric-5-string-openback-banjo-new-25337","title":"Deering Goodtime Acoustic\/Electric 5-String Openback Banjo - New","description":"Everyone's favorite American-made banjo can now be turned up to 11, thanks to the addition of a fully passive Kavanjo® humbucking pickup. This makes it easy to quickly plug into your favorite amp, pedals or PA system and eliminates feedback.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eWhen the Goodtime banjo was first released in 1996, it revolutionized the banjo world cementing its place as a lightweight, affordable, great-sounding American-made banjo, heralded for its affordability and great value.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eToday, the Deering Goodtime banjo is as popular as ever, continuing to be the choice among musicians of all skill levels, thanks to its excellent craftsmanship, superior sound quality, and affordable price point. It is also the most recommended banjo for beginners!\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eCentral to the success of the Goodtime banjo is the construction which utilizes high-quality materials and components, including a three-ply violin-grade maple rim, and an exceptionally stable and slender hard rock maple neck, ensuring that it delivers a rich, full sound with excellent clarity and projection. The Goodtime tailpiece is our own design, the tension hoop is rolled in-house from raw metal. Deering took time to source the best possible tuners to compliment the Goodtime affordability and topped it off with the best banjo strings on the market.\r\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Deering Banjo Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46499184738503,"sku":"DEEGAE25-04272612","price":999.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1726091.jpg?v=1791025495"},{"product_id":"circa-1922-van-eps-recording-5-string-banjo-used-25342","title":"Circa 1922 Van Eps Recording 5-String Banjo - Used","description":"Circa 1922 Van Eps Recording 5-String Banjo - Used","brand":"Van Eps","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46508074205383,"sku":"VANRECORD-505","price":1750.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1421681.jpg?v=1791025496"},{"product_id":"circa-1960-van-eps-beacon-5-string-banjo-used-25343","title":"Circa 1960 Van Eps Beacon 5-String Banjo - Used","description":"Circa 1960 Van Eps Beacon 5-String Banjo - Used","brand":"Van Eps","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46508170412231,"sku":"VANBEACON-00024","price":1450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1421691.jpg?v=1791025495"},{"product_id":"ome-tupelo-11-5-string-open-back-banjo-with-cherry-neck-new-25402","title":"OME Tupelo 11\" 5-String Open Back Banjo with Cherry Neck - New","description":"The headstock of this banjo showcases ebony buttons atop Rickard Cyclone tuners, embodying the Paddle shape. With a nut width of 1 5\/16\", it ensures a comfortable playing experience. The headstock design reflects classic elegance, seamlessly blending with the banjo's overall vintage look.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eCrafted from high-quality cherry, the neck features an ebony fingerboard with 17 hardened nickel frets and brass dot inlays. The tung oil finish enhances the natural beauty of the wood, while the brass dot position markers ensure easy navigation along the fretboard. The ebony capped heel adds a touch of refinement.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThe body of the Tupelo banjo is constructed with meticulous attention to detail. It includes 14 brackets and a custom 5\/8\" OME bridge for optimal stability and tone. The rim stick coordinator rod ensures structural integrity. The cherry rim paired with a Renaissance head produces a rich, resonant sound that captures the essence of traditional banjo tones. Aged brass hardware, including the brass aged tension hoop and Sweetone tailpiece, further accentuates its vintage charm. The wooden armrest and tortoise shell binding add a touch of elegance, while the ebonite rim cap provides durability.","brand":"OME Banjos","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46586063192263,"sku":"OMETUPELO11CN-226049","price":2495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1123111.jpg?v=1791025578"},{"product_id":"ome-jasmine-12-limited-edition-5-string-open-back-banjo-with-mahogany-neck-new-25403","title":"OME Jasmine 12\" Limited Edition 5-String Open Back Banjo with Mahogany Neck - New","description":"For the banjo connoisseur, we present the OME Jasmine Limited Edition—a rare opportunity to own a piece of modern lutherie history. With production strictly limited to only 25 handcrafted banjos worldwide, the Jasmine is an instant heirloom destined for the discerning player and collector.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eAt the heart of its extraordinary voice lies a custom 12\" OME Vintage Tonering. This is the key that unlocks a sound of breathtaking power and a nod to turn of the century old time thump. You’ll immediately hear the bell-like clarity, commanding projection, and crystalline sustain that defines a truly great banjo, responding to your every touch with authority and nuance.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eAn instrument this rare demands flawless performance. That’s why each Jasmine is fitted with K\u0026amp;H planetary tuners for peerless tuning stability. And while its soul is vintage, its engineering is state-of-the-art; a modern dual-action adjustable truss rod guarantees a lifetime of perfect playability and absolute control over your setup.","brand":"OME Banjos","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46586131579079,"sku":"OMEJASMINEMN-226051","price":2995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1123121.jpg?v=1791025578"},{"product_id":"2003-prucha-fall-in-love-5-string-banjo-used-25451","title":"2003 Prucha Fall In Love 5-String Banjo - Used","description":"Hailing from the Czech Republic, Prucha Bluegrass Instruments builds a variety of world-class bluegrass instruments. Their faithful renditions of classic models capture the heart and spirit of the instruments played by the greats. This banjo is no exception. This poetically named Fall in Love 5-string resonator banjo plays like a dream. It has a full, punchy sound, perfect for any three-finger\/Scruggs-style player in need of a great-sounding bluegrass banjo for any setting. The neck and resonator are crafted from nicely figured maple. This banjo has been well cared for but it has been played and has a few minor nicks, dings and scuffs here and there. The frets are in good shape and show just a hint of wear. There are two holes in the back of the headstock that are most likely from a set of cam-style D tuners, which are not present.  Includes a hardshell case","brand":"Prucha Bluegrass Instruments","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46617221988551,"sku":"PRUFALL-0502","price":2850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1422031.jpg?v=1791025704"},{"product_id":"waldman-chromatic-cherry-5-string-banjo-new-25992","title":"Waldman Chromatic Cherry 5-String Banjo - New","description":"Chuck Waldman is a solo builder working in the Sierra foothills town of Sonora. He likes to build with domestic tonewoods, many of which are harvested just a few miles from his workshop. The neck and shell of this banjo are made from cherry, a wood that is light, strong and makes great instruments. The fretboard is ebony and the accent details are claro walnut.  The design is deceptively simple but with a closer look you'll notice the artistry the builder gives to functional details.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThis model is called \"The Chromatic.\" The pot is drilled in progressive depths in the same proportion to the fret spacing, hence the \"chromatic\" designation. Waldman drills 4 holes with depths based the chromatic scale of a 25 ½” string length neck. Each hole acts as an integral tone chamber adding tones to modify the main chamber of the pot. They add nice full overtones without ‘wolf notes\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThe banjo is loud and bright and not at all \"plunky\" or dark sounding. It has good volume with strong projection. “This banjo has my new concept for a tone ring: Douglas fir,” Waldman says. “I’m using a “guitar top wood” where the rim contacts the banjo head. Just as this wood affects the voice of a guitar, it produces a clear, concise tone for the banjo.” The metal parts including the tuners are raw brass which will develop a nice patina over a few years. ","brand":"Waldman","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46733380026567,"sku":"WALCHROMATICSTEP-181","price":2075.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1422311.jpg?v=1791026045"},{"product_id":"1889-s-s-stewart-universal-favorite-3-5-string-banjo-used-26003","title":"1889 S.S. Stewart Universal Favorite #3 5-String Banjo - Used","description":"Although not shown in S. S. Stewart's 1896 catalog, there is a description of this model below the illustration of the Universal Favorite No. 3, reading \"The same number...made with fancy wood finish inside of rim, engraved border on outside of metal rim, thirty brackets, handsomely pearl inlaid...\" and with a cost $10 more than No.3.  With the exception of the calfskin head, this Stewart appears to be close to original throughout and the finish is in remarkably clean condition.  There are four Grover Champion tuners in the case pocket, but  the original celluloid tuners have been remounted.  There's a hint of fret wear,  suggesting this banjo may have only had steel strings on it for a short while (and it appears the fifth peg was never changed).   One of this instrument's most outstanding features is the marquetry on the inside of the rim, another example of S. S. Stewart's awareness of Aesthetic Movement design which was popular in Philadelphia at the time.  The subtle engraving along the bottom of the rim, and the extra helping of inlay on the fretboard,  also echo common Aesthetic Movement themes. \r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eTwo of the 30 brackets have nuts that don't quite match the rest, and some of the hooks are a bit long. ","brand":"S.S. Stewart","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46734497022151,"sku":"SSSUNIFAV-5960","price":3250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1422401.jpg?v=1791026046"},{"product_id":"pisgah-12-roscoe-5-string-banjo-new-26219","title":"Pisgah 12\" Roscoe 5-String Banjo - New","description":"The Pisgah Roscoe is a great choice for players looking for a lighter weight banjo with a round, dark tone and good projection. This is Pisgah's least expensive model and they were able to bring the cost down by keeping the cosmetics simple. The 12-inch shell is fitted with a walnut tone rim, which, as Pisgah puts it, produces “amazing plunk.” The cherry neck has a graceful 'boat heel' design with a lot of heft to it. The peghead is the 1880s paddle style and features a plain walnut overlay. The Roscoe has Pisgah’s short 25.5” scale length, a Richlite fretboard with a frailing scoop and antiqued brass hardware. The Roscoe is not just a great banjo for the price, it's a great banjo, period. Includes a padded gig bag.\r\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Pisgah Banjo Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46920822030535,"sku":"PISROSCOE12-4171","price":1695.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1124401.jpg?v=1791026213"},{"product_id":"gold-tone-ob-250-orange-blossom-5-string-resonator-banjo-new-26228","title":"Gold Tone OB-250 Orange Blossom 5-String Resonator Banjo - New","description":"The Orange Blossom (OB) banjos harken back to Gold Tone's early days and their popularity hasn't diminished over the decades. These professional-grade banjos evoke the great pre-WW ll banjos played by the Masters: Earl Scruggs, Don Reno, J.D. Crow all depended on those great banjos from the Midwest USA to power their sound. The OB-250 has everything needed to produce THAT tone: a sand-cast bell brass flathead tone ring, a cast one-piece resonator flange circling a multi-ply maple rim with twin coordinator rods and an extra-deep curly maple multi-ply resonator for better low-end response. The curly maple neck has a bound ebony fretboard with hearts \u0026amp; flowers inlay. The bracket hooks even have metric threading to enable finer tension adjustment. The price includes a hard shell case.","brand":"Gold Tone","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46920888287431,"sku":"GOLOB250-22607300","price":1599.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1124471.jpg?v=1791009419"},{"product_id":"pisgah-banjo-11-appalachian-cherry-short-scale-5-string-banjo-new-26359","title":"Pisgah Banjo 11\" Appalachian Cherry Short Scale 5-String Banjo - New","description":"The Pisgah Appalachian is all you need if you are looking for a quality, step-up banjo!  It is a simple, classic, no-frills banjo, similar in features to the Pisgah Possum, but with a rolled brass tone ring instead of persimmon to give a little more punch to the tone.  This banjo is perfect for anyone looking for a solid heirloom banjo that can be played for centuries and doesn’t break the bank.","brand":"Pisgah Banjo Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46964081131719,"sku":"PISAPP11CSRT-4176","price":1995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1124581.jpg?v=1791009418"},{"product_id":"gold-tone-mastertone-ob-2-5-string-resonator-banjo-new-26227","title":"Gold Tone Mastertone OB-2 5-String Resonator Banjo - New","description":"Gold Tone Mastertone OB-2 5-String Resonator Banjo","brand":"Gold Tone","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46966696313031,"sku":"GOLOB2-22607068","price":2099.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1124461.jpg?v=1791026251"},{"product_id":"pisgah-banjo-co-12-dobson-professional-maple-new-26406","title":"Pisgah Banjo Co. 12\" Dobson Professional Maple - New","description":"This Pisgah Dobson Professional has a 12-inch head and a short, 25.5\"scale length. The banjo has a slotted headstock fitted with Gotoh tuning machines and it has a decorative laminated fretboard that accentuates the elegant curve of the S-scoop. This model has a maple shell fitted with a brass Dobson tone ring, a setup that produces a bit more punch and power than an all-wood rim that you’ll find on their Woodchucks and Possums. This banjo has a maple neck and shell and aged brass hardware. Includes a heavy duty, padded Pisgah gig bag.","brand":"Pisgah Banjo Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46987664785607,"sku":"PIS12DPSRT-4170","price":2949.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1124961.jpg?v=1791026358"},{"product_id":"2010-gibson-rb-75-j-d-crowe-blackjack-5-string-banjo-used-26444","title":"2010 Gibson RB-75 J.D. Crowe Blackjack 5-String Banjo - Used","description":"This RB-75 J.D. Crowe Blackjack was crafted in 2010 by Gibson in Nashville. It’s part of a limited run and its genesis is a bit of a mystery. According to rumor, this banjo was going to be based on a 1940 gold-plated RB-75 that was special ordered by Mack Crow, an early three-finger-style banjo innovator from North Carolina. That banjo was the only gold-plated RB-75 that Gibson ever made. Also, much of the metal work was engraved, suggesting Gibson used hardware that was destined for a higher priced model. Anyway, for reasons that remain obscure, that replica never went into production. Instead, Gibson offered the model you see here. J.D. Crowe does indeed play an RB-75, but it doesn’t look anything like this. (Did Gibson just assume one Crowe, or Crow, was as good as another?)\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThe Blackjack has a number of unique features. Like the Mack Crow banjo, the metal parts are copper flashed, and then covered in thin satin gold plating. This gives the metal a darker sheen. The inlay on the headstock and fretboard is a pattern Gibson designed in the 1920s which was never used but has elements of the simpler Flying Eagle pattern. (J.D. Crowe’s 1938 RB-75 has Flying Eagle inlays.) The neck has a very distinct V-shape, which some players love, but a few find it hard to play. It also has a Sullivan 20-hole flathead tone ring. \r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eOverall, this banjo is in fine structural and very good cosmetic condition. We just refretted it and set it up with a new head. This banjo has been played a lot the gold plating is worn here and there, which lets the copper show through.There are a few minor dents in the finish on the resonator, most likely from shirt buttons. There are railroad spikes at the 7th, 8th and 9th frets. The original J.D. Crowe signature truss rod cover is long gone and has been replaced with a brass one. The original Presto tailpiece broke, a not uncommon occurrence, and it was replaced with a Gold Tone Straightline Tailpiece. This banjo also has two Keith pegs on the 3rd and 4th strings. Includes the original Gibson hardshell case, which, for some now obscure reason, has has the word Gibson blacked out.","brand":"Gibson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47021921173703,"sku":"GIBRB75-75100843","price":3950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1423111.jpg?v=1791026393"},{"product_id":"circa-1915-orpheum-no-2-5-string-banjo-used-26448","title":"Circa 1915 Orpheum No. 2 5-string Banjo Used","description":"Circa 1915 Orpheum No. 2 5-string Banjo Used","brand":"Orpheum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47022247280839,"sku":"ORPNO2-142312","price":1650.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1423121.jpg?v=1791026393"},{"product_id":"pisgah-12-possum-walnut-standard-scale-5-string-banjo-new-26477","title":"Pisgah 12\" Possum Walnut Standard Scale 5-String Banjo - New","description":"The Pisgah Possum has walnut for the neck and shell and Persimmon for both the fingerboard and tone ring. Using wood for tone rings has become more popular in recent years as it takes the edge of the sound that a metal tone ring can produce. The 12-inch head also mellows the tone a bit, giving it a pleasing woody tone.","brand":"Pisgah Banjo Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47046364692679,"sku":"PISPOS12WALSTD-4239","price":1796.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1125301.jpg?v=1791026428"},{"product_id":"pisgah-banjo-co-12-woodchuck-5-string-new-26504","title":"Pisgah Banjo Co. 12\" Woodchuck 5-String - New","description":"If “Round Peak” is the sound you are looking for, look no further than the Woodchuck….Tried and true, the Pisgah Woodchuck is the workhorse of touring musicians across the country.  It’s rolled brass tone ring and simple appointments make the Woodchuck a classic sounding and simple, “no frills” banjo.  Featuring a walnut neck and black ash rim, you simply can’t go wrong if you are looking  affordability, durability, and something with a little more projection and volume.  The Woodchuck was débuted in 2015 and has been one of our most popular models ever since….Comes with a Lifetime Warranty.  Made in North Carolina USA.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eClassic Look with classic tone: The Woodchuck is the most affordable hand made open back banjo on the market today.","brand":"Pisgah Banjo Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47055664251079,"sku":"PISWOOD12-4235","price":1664.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1125391.jpg?v=1791026428"},{"product_id":"2012-ome-custom-12-silver-primrose-5-string-banjo-used-26538","title":"2012 OME Custom 12\" Silver Primrose 5-String Banjo - Used","description":"A custom order from OME when their workshop was in Boulder, Colorado. The silverspun tone ring is much like the tone ring the Bacon Banjo Co. used in their \"Silver Bell\" models in the 1920s \u0026amp; '30s, and it's a spun, not cast, flathead.  Silver Bell plectrums were known for having consistent tone up and down the neck, and this OME, which has the same string scale, offers that tonal option in a 5-string open back.   Near perfect condition throughout.  Beautiful neck inlays, an OME trademark. ","brand":"OME Banjos","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47119135998151,"sku":"OMEPRIMROSE-5376","price":3250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1423301.jpg?v=1791026516"},{"product_id":"2010-ome-golden-angel-custom-5-string-banjo-used-26539","title":"2010 OME Golden Angel Custom 5-String Banjo -Used","description":"This custom was made by the original OME crew in Boulder, CO.  The shell construction is kind of a hybrid of resonator banjo and open-back banjo styles, you can see that the \"Megatone 400\" tone ring is a flathead ring with lots of holes machined into the bronze casting. Highly figured one-piece curly maple neck with lovely inlays in the distinctive OME style, plus highly detailed engraving on the tension hoop. The tone has the usual clarity you expect in an open-back banjo but with lots of \"bottom end\" as well. \r\u003cbr\u003eWe're guessing this was possibly a presentation piece or special gift, as it shows almost no signs of having been played. ","brand":"OME Banjos","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47119165096135,"sku":"OMEGOLD-5525","price":5500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1423311.jpg?v=1791026517"},{"product_id":"1930-gibson-pb-granada-original-flathead-w-f-neat-neck-5-string-banjo-used-26593","title":"1930 Gibson PB Granada Original Flathead w\/ F. Neat Neck 5-String Banjo - Used","description":"The early 1930s Gibson Granada banjos with flathead tone ring have long enjoyed near-legendary status among bluegrass banjo pickers. With a few rare exceptions, virtually all were originally made as plectrums which were later converted to 5-string models by replacing the neck (the more popular tenor versions had a different tone ring). This example is unusual as it had a storied existence for decades as a plectrum, before it began its second life as a 5-string.\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003ePaul Martin was a banjoist and band leader in the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1920s who attracted Gibson’s attention by playing on NBC radio. Gibson, then as now, was looking for high-profile artists to promote their brand, and in the wake of plummeting mandolin sales it looked like banjos might be their ticket out of a financial quagmire (in 1930 when Paul Martin and his wife traveled to Kalamazoo, Michigan to pick out a high-grade plectrum banjo, the guitar didn’t dominate American popular music as it would years later). While Gibson had introduced  showboat banjo models, such as the Florentine, with carved resonators and celluloid fingerboards, the Granada was the top Gibson Mastertone aimed at real players, and with gold plated \u0026amp; engraved metal parts and a profusion of pearl inlays on the figured maple neck it delivered lots of flash from any stage. \r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThis PB-Granada began its second life when it was purchased from Martin’s widow in the mid-1980s and converted to a 5-string.  Martin had altered the original neck with an additional string (not a drone string) and mounted small lights inside the shell to keep the skin head  tight (the Paramount banjo company sold a kit for this purpose, as skin heads loosened, dulling the tone). One of Martin’s additions was fortuitous, the gold Grover Presto tailpiece is for five strings, a rare find today. \r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThese Doehler one piece die-cast resonator flanges are somewhat fragile, and the original for this banjo was broken.  A replacement flange from a 1931 TB-2 was found and gold plated. With the exception of the flange and the tailpiece, all of the metal parts are original, including the armrest and tension hoop with Granada engraving (there are a few small screws that don't match, the tailpiece hanger bolt is nickel). The original rim is Gibson’s thick 3-ply maple “fat-boy”, topped with an equally desirable heavy weight 20-hole flathead tone ring.  The 9582-5 FON is stamped on the interior wall of the rim, and Gibson painted a matching number on the interior of the resonator.  The inner sidewall of the resonator shows the modification Martin made to accommodate his “head lights”, and there's also a 1 1\/2\" section of the binding on resonator wall which has been repaired, and a crack in the finish below it (see photos). We're assuming that the scratches to the Gibson decal and inner shell wall, and wear to the original coordinator rods, are also the result of the original owner's tinkering and mounting of the electric lights. (There's a period photo showing an electric cord dangling from the resonator flange.)\r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eThe original plectrum neck went missing in the late 1980s (back then original necks were rarely saved), the shell and resonator, with the exception of the flange, are much as Paul left it.  The 5-string neck, made by Frank Neat in the late '80s,  is an accurate reproduction of Gibson’s 1930 Granada style, and has the original 4-to-1 Grover tuners with pearl buttons. The resonator was refinished in the original sunburst coloring. For decades this Gibson Granada saw lots of use, and although the owner had a light touch there is fret wear  (see photos).  This vintage Mastertone hasn't been cleaned and scrubbed and polished, it doesn't squeak when you move it on your lap.  It plays like what it is, an instrument that's seen lots of use in two distinct phases that cover almost a century.  Comes with a Calton case \r\u003cbr\u003e\r\u003cbr\u003eAvailable for in-store sale only.","brand":"Gibson","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47233163002055,"sku":"GIBPBGRANADA-95825","price":81500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/files\/1423531.jpg?v=1791026565"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0503\/4947\/3991\/collections\/collection-5StringBanjos.png?v=1619549169","url":"https:\/\/www.gryphonstrings.com\/collections\/5-string-banjo.oembed?page=2","provider":"Gryphon Strings","version":"1.0","type":"link"}