What Is A Banjo Guitar?
A Banjo Guitar, sometimes called a banjitar, has 6 strings and plays and tunes very much like a guitar, making it a whole lot easier to learn on than a 5 string for those who have played a guitar. Your finger action, chords, etc will be similar if not the same, so the change for those just learning the banjo will be simple. Note, there is no closed gear on the 5th string. Also, there isn't a huge sound difference between most models with the addition of the 6th string alone compared to the standard 5 string: It's the quality of the banjo that is always the biggest factor in the sound. However, you might be disappointed if you want to strictly play traditional bluegrass, with ultra fast Scruggs style rolls, etc. (But, you CAN perform rolls). However, the 6 string banjo's ability to use guitar chords, and rich sound, do make it well suited to playing the blues, country, dixieland, ragtime, etc; in fact it's great for experimentation and creativity. And don't let purists tell you that it isn't a real banjo, or worth getting. It's been around for 100 years, and as long as you know what it can do, and what you want, it can be special. I put a very good demo of the 6 string here for you to get an idea, and you can find a lot more with a quick search.
What Are The Best Bargains in 6 String Banjos?
First, let's look at quality for the price, and then look at customer satisfaction. Also, who buys each model? For example, a great buy for an experienced banjo player who plays with a group is not going to have the same needs as a beginner banjo player. I will include in my reviews of 6 string banjo guitars models that will fit most playing levels, but are still affordable for most people. I was going to cap the pricing at $400,and I had included the Gold Tone as the best, but they are few and far between on Amazon (lowest price for it anywhere new). Also, it looks like they are going to offer a different lower cost with composite materials in Oct. I will wait and see how that stacks up in quality before I review it here again. For consistency and cost value, I will give edge to the Dean Backwoods (see below), then a close second to the Jameson, currently unavailable, as the best choices right now in 6 String models that don't break the bank but are high in quality.
Dean Backwoods 6 String Closed Back Banjo-Best Buy For The Money
Dean 6 String Banjo Guitar With Resonator
Dean is a long time maker of stringed instruments and has this quality banjo guitar out there that I have included because of it's great quality, pricing and the good customer service that backs it up.
For the money, you get a very good brand quality banjo guitar from an established instrument maker with a rich great banjo sound, a resonator and a nice finish. Guitar players will have no problem with this instrument, and can start playing it immediately. Most will make fine tweaks to set it up to their liking. It costs more than the Jameson, but it is well worth it if you can afford a bit more.
5 star rated on Amazon...learn more here.
For the money, you get a very good brand quality banjo guitar from an established instrument maker with a rich great banjo sound, a resonator and a nice finish. Guitar players will have no problem with this instrument, and can start playing it immediately. Most will make fine tweaks to set it up to their liking. It costs more than the Jameson, but it is well worth it if you can afford a bit more.
5 star rated on Amazon...learn more here.
Jamesons 6 String CURRENLY UNAVAILABLE-CHECK BACK
Jameson 6 String Banjo Guitar
Jameson still makes the best selling 5 and 6 string banjos. Their 6 string banjo guitar has a closed back resonator, (which can NOT be removed), and is a very well made and beautiful instrument for the money. I don't know anyone who bought this that doesn't rave about it. Easily could sell at $400 or more for it's splendid quality, looks and sound.
This is a good choice for the guitar player who wants to spread his or her musical wings and learn to play the 6 string banjo without spending a lot of money. It's also just right for the beginning banjo player or to give one as a gift to someone who is starting out. Most people are amazed when they get it at how nice looking the finish is.
Check it out and if it's right for you, buy it here for the lowest price:
This is a good choice for the guitar player who wants to spread his or her musical wings and learn to play the 6 string banjo without spending a lot of money. It's also just right for the beginning banjo player or to give one as a gift to someone who is starting out. Most people are amazed when they get it at how nice looking the finish is.
Check it out and if it's right for you, buy it here for the lowest price:
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Want to learn about mandolins or ukuleles? See our other helpful buying guides:
Best Mandolin Buys and Ukulele Buying Guide |
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