Anybody have any experience with Deering banjos?

[callous_frigid_chill]

I'm looking at the goodtime model. I like the fact that they are american made, and seem to be from a reputable company. It's only 300 bucks, too.

Any thoughts?

http://www.music123.com/Deering-Goodtime-Banjo-i38605.music

 

[Boogie Bill]

Re: Anybody have any experience with Deering banjos?

I have an really nice Ibanez Artist banjo that I bought new back in 1976. I love it, I don't use it a lot--I don't really consider myself a banjo player. But, if something were to happen to it (God Forbid!),....well, lets just say I have my eye on a Deering Maple Blossom or Calico 5-string. Now, those are really expensive banjos, but they still offer good value for the money. It is EASY to spend BIG BUCKS on a banjo, believe it or not. The Good Time banjos do offer good value for the money, but they won't have the tone of a more expensive banjo. You are the only one that can determine if it appropriate for you. Like most inexpensive instruments, I think they can really benefit from a PROFESSIONAL set-up, by somebody that really knows banjos. (And these guys are harder to find than good guitar luthiers!)

Good luck!

Bill

 

[RevJToad]

Re: Anybody have any experience with Deering banjos?

I was on a banjo mailing list a number of years back which included a lot of experienced guys, and the reviews of the Goodtime and the Goodtime 2 were universally glowing. You pretty much can't get a better banjo for the money, or so they claimed.

I never did get the hang of that clawhammer picking - you've gotta do the exact opposite of what your guitarist's instincts tell you to do. Sure does sound cool though...