Banjo Hangout - Shopping Advice Forum Feed

TKL Concept vs. Crossrock case (openback)

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 8 Jun 2026 22:24:34 CST

I’m looking for any input on which is a better case.

The Tkl 2.9 Concept linked below has almost no reviews online. I know they’ve been around for a while (early 2000s) but based on some videos from NAMM it seems like they possibly re-released them?

How do they stack up against a crossrock?

I 100% fly with my banjo often and almost always carry it on. I tour professionally and it’s just the nature of the beast. I’d love a second hand Calton, but they’re just hard to find and I can’t justify the price tag for a new one at the moment. I’ve been watching the used market and nothings come up.

I play a 12” Rickard openback that’s currently in a superior ply case.

Link for the Tkl 2.9 concept openback case below:
tkl.com/product/concept-2-9-5-...2EALw_wcB

Making a Gold Tone CC-50 More Bluegrass-y

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 7 Jun 2026 19:29:48 CST

As the title implies, I have a Gold Tone CC-50. I bought it off the shelf at a local music shop on somewhat of a whim a little over a year ago. I had signed up for a group banjo class, and while I had heard of terms such as "Scruggs" and "clawhammer" and understood the basics, I hadn't bothered to think about the open back vs. resonator distinction. And frankly, I got the CC-50 because I needed a banjo to bring to class and the price was right. The aforementioned class was in Scruggs style, and I took to it with enthusiasm and have been going to a weekly bluegrass jam ever since. I love playing the music. The banjo, while nothing fancy, seems to get the job done. It stays in tune pretty well and sounds decent to my ears. I pretty much only play Scruggs style on it. With some single-string type stuff for fiddle tunes I suppose. I dabble in melodic every now and then.

I would like to explore some options for making this thing a bit closer to a "proper" bluegrass banjo. I don't have much interest in clawhammer. I can't really justify buying a new banjo right now - someday I definitely will, don't worry! But for now I was thinking maybe I could get a resonator and new bridge for this thing as a relatively low-cost, low-risk way to get more of a bluegrass feel.

Gold Tone sells a CC-50 resonator with hardware for $200. I was wondering if I could get something cheaper on the used market, and if so, does anybody have any advice or recommendations? I think I can get just the hardware from Gold Tone as well.

Similarly, with the bridge, does anyone have advice on what kind of bridge would make this thing sound more bluegrass? I think the one I have on it is a bit thicker than bluegrass banjo bridges I've seen. I know there are a ton of options out there and they often specify what they're intended for (bluegrass vs. old time, etc), but I'm always curious to hear perspectives.

For reference, here's the CC-50 on Gold Tone's website: goldtonemusicgroup.com/goldton...nts/cc-50

Here's the resonator they sell for it: goldtonemusicgroup.com/goldton...ts/13cc50

Also, if there are other parts of this banjo that could be replaced or modified for more of a bluegrass sound, I'm all ears! Thanks for reading!

Adjustable Strap

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 7 Jun 2026 15:02:39 CST

Hi friends,
I’m looking for a normal old school, leather cradle style strap that uses Chicago screws to mount. But is easily adjustable while wearing for seated or standing position.
Anyone know of a strap like this?
Please let me know. Thanks

Please Help!

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 7 Jun 2026 09:57:11 CST

This banjo was gifted to me many years ago and I never got around to learning how to really playing it so I would like to sell. I want it to have a home where it's actually played
Anyway, I have NO idea how much to sell it for so any and all advice would be much appreciated! It is in Excellent condition.
I've attached pictures.
Thanks so much!
Christina

Has anyone seen a Hall 3-Way Banjo Wrench available anywhere recently?

eric@banjohangout.org — Sat, 6 Jun 2026 14:49:57 CST

Has anyone seen a Hall 3-Way Banjo Wrench available anywhere recently?

I've been looking for one of the Hall 3-way bracket wrenches (1/4", 9/32", and 5/16" all in one tool), and it seems like they're out of stock everywhere I check.
From what I've read, banjo players really seem to like these wrenches, and they get recommended pretty often. I'm wondering if they're actually discontinued. I'd really like to have all three sizes in one place, or at leaest a 9/32" and 5/16" on one tool.

https://www.banjoteacher.com/banjo-supplies/tightening-the-banjo-head/three-way-banjo-head-tightening-wrench-tool.html
https://shop.12fret.com/products/hall-3-way-banjo-wrench

Thanks!

Richelieu 5001 golden eagle value?

eric@banjohangout.org — Sat, 6 Jun 2026 12:20:20 CST

I recent purchased this Richelieu 5001 banjo and was curious what fair market value would be?

It looks like it has upgrades from a standard 5001 such as gold plating and additional carving.

There is some surface wear, checking, dings, etc.

This was owned by a founding member of banjo buddies dixieland band so chatgpt says its an i.portant part of chicago jazz history? 6 digit serial number starting with 40, which means 1980 just before the fire at their factory?

need a cheap open back banjer for clawhammer

eric@banjohangout.org — Sat, 6 Jun 2026 11:09:18 CST

Aye up, folks. I am currently bereft of banjo. My choice. I'm guitaring and warbling mostly. But I have the itch again. I'm not going to spend much at all. In short, I've been looking at Ozark 2109G and Barnes & Mullins (Albert), Ashbury 25. Sure I could spend more, but I'm not going to. This would be for home use .. mainly, with an occasional excursion out on jam sessions. I have learned a bit (Thanks, to Dan the Clawhammer man - I can drop and double thumbs in ma sleep) but I'm a guitarist / singer most of all.

Thanks for paying attention. Any ideas would be welcome.

Cheers
Malcolm

Gibson RB-250 or Deering Sierra - Which one should I get?

eric@banjohangout.org — Sat, 6 Jun 2026 07:43:09 CST

I have an opportunity to purchase a Gibson RB-250. Should I get this banjo or a Deering Sierra? Thanks.

First Banjo: Gold Tone CC-50 or CC-OTA?

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 3 Jun 2026 02:36:45 CST

Hi all,

First time poster at the beginnings of a potential banjourney.

I am looking to get my first banjo on the second hand market and have two options: Gold Tone CC-50 or CC-OTA. I intend to focus on clawhammer style. This will be my learning instrument - hopefully getting me from nothing -> something. Both in great quality (photos attached) and very similar prices, so could get either.

Looking for some advice. Would you always strongly advise against going A scale for a first and only banjo (to my understanding I can still tune down to standard G)? Does the scoop neck give any points to the OTA over the 50?

Thanks in advance for any help on the topic!

Best.
-E

Banjo Truss Rod Cover

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 2 Jun 2026 17:22:09 CST

Hi,

Does anyone know where I can find someone who makes truss rod covers for banjos? Im looking for one that isn't 3d printed and are custom so I can get my name put on them.

Thank you

Tariffs/duties on Canadian banjo?

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 1 Jun 2026 14:36:33 CST

I was curious to know if there is any recent experience on tariffs/ duties on imported banjos, specifically from Canada. My research indicates that a banjo would be assigned the code of 9202.90.6000 under the Harmonized System, and that as such would not be subject to duties upon import by virtue of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). A recent sour experience importing a tone ring from up north makes me wary, however. Has anyone recently imported a banjo or similar stringed instrument from our northern neighbor recently, and if so did Uncle Sam tax the import?

Mitch & J

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 1 Jun 2026 07:09:30 CST

I saw a CL posting for a Gibson that says it has a Mitch & J 38 SPL pot. It does appear to have those words engraved on it.

Is that a thing, or did someone just engrave something on his pot and the CL lister has no idea?

I’m neither the seller nor am I considering buying it; I’m just kind of educating myself with postings that bubble up.

hudsonvalley.craigslist.org/ms...6586.html

Electric Tuner device recommendation for Nylgut strings (edited)

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 29 May 2026 12:14:09 CST

@Banjoinalaska is trying to get recommendations on the best electronic, clip-on tuners for an open back banjo that is using Nylgut strings. Does anyone have recommendations for me? Maybe just the best clip-on tuners for open back banjos. Any advice or recommendations would be most appreciated. Thank you.

Odd size banjo head

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 27 May 2026 16:26:22 CST

I have a 1926 Washburn tenor banjo made by Lyon & Healey and I'm tring to find a clear head with an unusually high crown. The crown height from the top of the rim to the playing surface is 5/8" and the inside diameter of the head rim is 10 ¾". I can't seem to find one anywhere. Does anyone know of someone who custom makes clear plactic heads?

Gold Tone Joe Mullins Banjo

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:45:04 CST

I'm thinking on a lighter weight banjo. I can't seem to find any actual owner reviews on this model banjo. Every review I have found is mostly cut and pasted from the manufacturer. Is there anyone on the forum that has actually bought this model that will post their review ? There are no shops close to me that has this model in stock where I can go and pick one.

Source for cheapy lefty banjos

eric@banjohangout.org — Sat, 23 May 2026 18:32:26 CST

Does anyone know of an Asian source for cheapy/entry level left handed 5 string banjos? I get asked from time to time and there is nothing here in NZ. I realise that the demand is very low but it would be good to be able to source some. There is nothing on Temu or AliExpress.

Who's still making banjos these days?

eric@banjohangout.org — Sat, 23 May 2026 04:26:38 CST

Greetings hangout, it's been awhile since I've spent time here!

My main gigging instrument (gold star) is getting to the point where it either needs some tlc from a luthier or I need to invest in a new one.

I don't even really know what the options are anymore. Did i hear RK went caput? I know Ome got sold off to gold tone, and Arthur Hatfield passed away. Who is still making pro level reso banjos? l know gold tone, deering, bishline, i assume saga still makes gold star...are huber and yates still in the game (not that i could afford one)? Any other makers or companies I should check out?

Tim O'Brien Songbook now available!

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 22 May 2026 10:29:08 CST

HI all. The new Tim O'Brien Songbook is available. 40 songs spanning Tim's incredible career, including Nellie Kane, Midnight on the Highway, Walk the Way the Wind Blows. Book includes both charts and lyrics with chord changes. Also, Tim shares his knowledge in chapters on singing and songwriting. Please spread the word! You can find it HERE on Amazon.

Original Paige design banjo capo

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 21 May 2026 19:40:39 CST

Do any of you guys know where I can find an original style Paige banjo capo? I'm looking for one that has the flip down bar lock instead of the hook bar lock. The new ones are fine but I like the old style better. I'd like to find a nickle one but a black one will work. Thanks so much. Ron.

Used banjo books

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 21 May 2026 12:00:30 CST

I'm trying to increase my picking speed and came across a video of Geoff Hohwald who showed his method for that practice. He also showed a copy of a book he had written about the subject. I'm wondering if there are any other pickers out there who have banjo books around they don't use any more and would be willing to sell them at a "reduced" price. Shipping of course would also be part of the purchase.

Want to purchase banjolit Dr. Arm mini armrest

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 19 May 2026 20:26:40 CST

I am looking to purchase a banjolit Dr. Arm mini armrest in walnut.

All music stores that carry them in the U.S. are currently out of stock due to the banjolit company move to a different location. The banjolit website shows all items out of stock due to their move and states they hope to be back up and running towards the end of this month.

If you have one you would like to part with, please let me know thru the hangout. Thanks.

Best Travel Banjo; Advise please!

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 18 May 2026 20:56:22 CST

Hi everyone,

I'm new to this forum, though I actually bought my first Bart Reiter banjo through this marketplace — and I love it.

I'm gearing up for 5 days floating the Rogue River in Southern Oregon next month. I'd really love to bring a banjo.

Does anyone here have experience bringing a banjo on rafting or river trips?

I play old-time/clawhammer and would love something that still feels musical and inspiring, even if it's a little quirky or rugged.

Thanks so much for any help — all advice and opinions welcome!

Warmly,
Megan

Banjo Hangout vs Mandolin Cafe Banjo Ads

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 18 May 2026 14:17:13 CST

Hi all,

I've been playing and buying/selling banjos for 3 years now, so I'm relatively new to things. I sometimes look at the banjo classified ads on Mandolin Cafe. It looks like their banjo ads are 90% music store listings and 10% individual owners. It seems like Banjo Hangout is the opposite.

I'm not judging the quality of the listings on either site, but I'm curious if anyone knows why music stores post more on Mandolin Cafe for banjos and why individuals prefer banjo hangout.

Question about trading a Fairbanks for a Vega.

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 12 May 2026 05:56:11 CST

So lately Ive been considering attempting to trade a 1890/1 Fairbanks Electric for a later model Vega Regent (possibly even a Senator) but I’ve seen some ridiculous prices people are asking for some of these lower end Vegas and it has me wondering if it’s even worth trying.

It seems insane to me that Regents would be selling more than some WL’s and I’m hoping these are just sellers looking to find a mark for an overpriced instrument.

I’m curious what y’all think? Have these lower end Vegas really jumped substantially in value in the past year and am I wasting my time offering such a trade?

I appreciate any insight and have a great day,

Matthew

Question about Stelling tailpieces

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:43:34 CST

Hi! I've been looking at Stellings, and have a question about the tailpieces. Seems like Stelling has/had its own unique tailpiece design, plus the fact that there is no hole on the flange for the tailpiece screw makes the banjos incompatible with all the household names like Presto, Kerschner, etc. So now that Stelling is out of business what are the options besides drilling holes in the flange and/or the tailpiece? I found the Sterner tailpiece, but I've no idea of its quality. Or do newer Stellings have a hole in the flange?

MIJ Archtop

eric@banjohangout.org — Sat, 9 May 2026 15:01:10 CST

I have an opportunity to buy this Unbranded MIJ Archtop banjo. The only branding i see is for the head and it's a Lumitone.
The seller wants less than $200 for it. I think it's worth it being an Archtop.

Gold Tone BG-150F vs BG-175F: Full Comparison

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 8 May 2026 13:46:55 CST

Hey all,

Saw a thread on r/banjo today from someone trying to decide between the BG-150F and the new BG-175F so we put together a full comparison page that walks through specs, includes demo videos of both, and answers the most common questions:

banjowarehouse.com/gold-tone-b...-bg-175f/

Ceres tone ring

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 7 May 2026 13:56:53 CST

I had a banjo that I’ve had a while, as one of my back up banjo’s. The tone ring that was in it, was very bright, and loud. I have probably 30 bridges, I keep on hand, to try as needed. I tried almost every one, to try and get the tone I like. None would help, so I bought another “named” tone ring. I set it up as I always do, basically the same sound. I was able to purchase a “Ceres” ring that Jim Britton has. I put the ring in this banjo, and set it up as before. Tuned it to standard tuning, and right off the bat the tone is already much better than ever. It will only get better as the banjo is played and settles more. I’ll be playing this banjo on future shows coming up for sure.

Deering Blackgrass vs Blackgrass Special: With or Without Tone Ring Compare

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 7 May 2026 12:25:42 CST

youtube.com/watch?v=hOJWWl1Lq5w&t

Would like to purchase a RK R25

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 7 May 2026 06:51:49 CST

I am looking to buy a Recording King RK R 25. If you have one that you are willing to sell, please reachout.

Deering Golden Wreath Vs Deering Eagle II?

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 6 May 2026 18:13:17 CST

Does anyone out there have experience with these two banjos who can give a good description of the differences and advantages of them? I play mostly folk music, learning three finger, do a good deal of clawhammer, but would like a banjo that can fit many styles. I know the Wreath is a straight ahead bluegrass banjo, but is capable of being adjusted to manage a lot of tones. The Eagle is also designed specifically for versatility.

For people who have played or owned them both, why would you go with one over the other, and what did you like about one or the other that made you keep it? Any disadvantages? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

Gold star j.d. or gibson rb?

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 6 May 2026 11:36:00 CST

Hey guys, I have a question, I have an opportunity to purchase either a 2017 gold star j.d. or a 1965 gibson rb 100. They are both within the same price range but I only have the scratch for one. I will be able to try both of them out in person. What do you think?

Is there a contemporary Vega Tubaphone-style banjo being made?

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 6 May 2026 06:08:59 CST

I am thinking of buying a Vega Tubaphone tenor banjo as a different sound to my B & D Silver Bell. Is there a banjo being made now that comes close in sound to the Tubaphone? I would buy an original Vega but thought I would look at contemporary options.

Thanks for any help.

Ken

Gold Tone OB-2 vs OB-2+: 19-Hole vs JLS Tone Ring Comparison

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 5 May 2026 11:36:12 CST

youtu.be/ppLZ8DhPIbk

Caveat emptor. ...."Style 12"....?

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 4 May 2026 21:27:49 CST

...umm....anyone care to examine the puzzle pieces and agree with me ?
....bogus me thinks. RB/Style 12 ?

banjobuyer.com/banjo/114514

Amazing Slow Downer or Song Surgeon for hearing backup

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 4 May 2026 17:13:54 CST

Can anyone tell me if Song Surgeon is better than Amazing Slow Downer as far as being able to pull back up to the front and hear it better?
Thanks,
Ken

Gold Tone Grandee, Greg Rich Granada, or prewar original Style 6 flathead?

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 1 May 2026 20:06:33 CST

Update: I've received comments about the sound quality of the banjo clips being affected by YouTube compression. The original clips, in 320k mp3, are now posted here.

Hi all, I've just posted a YouTube video with sound clips of four banjos: a new Gold Tone Grandee, 1988 Gibson Greg Rich era Granada, a 1929 Gibson Style 6 original flathead 5-string conversion and one mystery banjo. The sound clips are audio-only, and there's a form for you to leave your opinions of the sound.

All of the Grandee reviews I've seen, including the comparison videos, show you the banjos as they're played. This is a chance to judge the banjos by sound alone. After enough responses, I will post another video identifying the banjos in the clips.

I proposed this video to Gold Tone a couple of months ago, and they were intrigued enough to send me a Grandee on loan. We've had no other conversation since, and they have not seen or had input on the video. To me, that shows tremendous confidence in their product, and as I've set it up and played it over the past few weeks I'd say that confidence is justified.

This video is purely about the sound. After the comparison test is over, I plan to post another video reviewing the Grandee itself, showing details of the banjo construction and pointing out some of the design differences between the Grandee and the original Granada design. I may also do a comparison (with video) of the Grandee and an OB-3 Twanger that I have owned for several years.

The link to the voting form is in the description of the video. Check out the sounds, and leave your opinion on the Google form. Let's see how today's banjo stacks up against some of the best of yesteryear. Enjoy!

Have you tried the Gold Tone Tensionator tailpiece?

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:16:00 CST

I'm wondering if anyone has tried the Gold Tone Tensionator tailpiece and what your thoughts are on it. I like the Oettinger style tailpieces, but the prices are very high. I know you often get what you pay for, but the Gold Tone version looks nice in the pictures and at about $99 I'm curious what the results were for anyone that has tried it. Thanks

Banjo Mecca in Boston?

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 04:27:49 CST

Hey folks, I'm considering a trip to bean town and wondering if there are any can't-miss banjo shops in the area?

Catalog of neck dimensions

eric@banjohangout.org — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:14:48 CST

Has anyone created a spreadsheet or cataloged the neck dimensions of the factory banjos? This has been a key discriminator for me when considering buying my next banjo. I've wasted a bunch of time on banjos that just didn't 'fit' well. It would be nice to be able to discard considering banjos that I know are outside my dimensional thresholds.

Duel Coordinator Rods vs Rim Stick

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 07:36:12 CST

What are the advantages/disadvantages of each. Thanks.

Brooks Masten banjos?

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 00:47:18 CST

Anyone here have experience with Brooks Masten banjos? I've watched some videos online but it's hard to judge from those. I have an option to buy one and am interested in any thoughts on quality and tone? How would they compare to other brands in that price range, like Pisgah? This would be for clawhammer. The one I am considering is maple, Dobson ring, 12 inch calfskin head.

ToneSlab thumb picks legit?

eric@banjohangout.org — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 13:03:45 CST

Curious if anyone else have ordered from them? Ordered late March and still haven’t heard anything back on shipping, etc. I reached out to support, but haven’t heard anything. :(

Any Capek owners out there? This one tempts me.

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:12:58 CST

I know owning one won't make me sound like Ned Luberecki or Jim Britton. But every one of these I have heard (admittedly, not in person) sounds great. And this one seems to be at a very reasonable price. I am surprised it has been available this long. Any thoughts or experiences (PMs are fine)? Its my understanding that these are the same build as the higher-end models without the bling. (And their bling is really nice).

Gold Tone OB-250+TP vs OB-Standard+ | JLS Tone Ring

eric@banjohangout.org — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 03:18:07 CST

youtu.be/EWsQiPMaOdA

Gold Tone OB-150 vs BG-150F | Hear the Difference

eric@banjohangout.org — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:57:31 CST

youtu.be/qbxL1lilZrk

Flinthill Chief

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:49:51 CST

Friend of mine has a Flinthill chief flathead in very good condition and wants me to help him sell it. What is it worth these days?

Thanks
Barry

Gold Tone CC-BG vs CC-100R | Hear the Difference

eric@banjohangout.org — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:38:09 CST

youtu.be/FeXKqlLWkek

Gold Tone OB-Grandee vs OB-2 JM Sound Comparison

eric@banjohangout.org — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:20:54 CST

youtu.be/RZRNi50az-g

Hohner LE Artist 1970s/80s

eric@banjohangout.org — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 20:12:29 CST

Wondering if anyone can give me some information on this banjo up for sale? Hohner LE Artist 1970s/80s. I do not have access to the serial number. I see one sold on Reverb that looks like the same model, but the headstock on the Reverb post says "Made in Japan", while this instrument does not. Thanks :)