Thread: Please help me decide on a banjo

Hello my friends. I have decided to start a new instrument and have been interested in the sound of a banjo for some time. I have a very prominent instructor who is keeping his eyes out for a local banjo, but his knowledge is entirely in vintage banjos and his internet usage is limited. I am looking for a beginning banjo in either used or new.
The trouble arises in the fact that what I am looking for is a tenor or plectorum banjo for under 500 USD. I don't mind having it shipped, but know little about the brands available to me and how I can compare them. I assume (like with my shaving) I will obsess and find myself with a new banjo soon after and possibly built from scratch or a kit. I will always keep my first banjo, but will add to the collection.
Thank you for your suggestions.

Banjos @ Lark in the morning world musical instruments

There are a few listed here that are just a bit over your 500, there are also some kits and there is a repaired one that may be worth your looking at.
Good luck with your search!

Originally Posted by deighaingeal

The trouble arises in the fact that what I am looking for is a tenor or plectorum banjo for under 500 USD.

I learned plectrum banjo by using a five-string and removing the fifth string. Instant plectrum banjo. Five-string banjos are much more easily found in your price range. For learning it might be a good temporary solution.

Originally Posted by Ogershok

I learned plectrum banjo by using a five-string and removing the fifth string. Instant plectrum banjo. Five-string banjos are much more easily found in your price range. For learning it might be a good temporary solution.

Easier to sell too if you upgrade to a better one or find it isn't your thing. Check out Banjo Hangout forums too. They have a classifieds section and no telling what you may find there.