Most 6-string banjos feature radiused fingerboards to make playing easier for guitarists; however, not all models do.
Many banjos arrive without having been properly assembled, requiring you to perform some adjustments in order to begin playing them – for instance adjusting the bridge.
They are similar to an acoustic guitar
Six string banjos provide an effective way of experiencing the sound of a banjo without learning its playback. There are open back and resonator models, giving you options of either playing acoustically or with an electronic pickup. Their longer neck allows players to easily reach those higher notes that create the signature banjo sound.
Naturally, there are numerous models of banjos on the market – some more luxurious than others – but one thing remains consistent: A good banjo can sound similar to an instrument such as guitar.
However, even with its versatility a 6-string banjo remains difficult to play. Hitting its higher strings requires skill and hard playing; open chords may sound cacophonous without fretting or deadening lower strings; this approach works fine for Dixieland music but may not suit Bluegrass or most other forms.
A 6-string banjo can be equipped with a pickup for live or busking performances, making them suitable for live shows and busking gigs. Companies such as Fishman, LR Baggs and Kavanjo offer various pickup models at various price points; some even feature built-in piezoelectric pickups to provide further clarity.
They can be open back or resonator
Make sure your banjo comes equipped with a piezoelectric pickup if you intend on playing live or busking and recording. Fishman, LR Baggs and Kavanjo offer various models at various price points so take into consideration both your budget and resale value before making a choice.
Most 6-string banjos feature radiused necks similar to a guitar’s, making transition from guitar playing easier for newcomers as well as fingerstyle players. However, some exceptions exist such as Gretsch “Dixie 6,” Deering Goodtime Solanas, and Rogue 6-string models which lack this feature.
Coordinator Rods are long bolt-like devices designed to keep the pot from distorting while also providing necessary stability in holding down its neck on its body. You’ll typically find these by unscrewing the triangular piece of plastic on its head; when tightening them with your hand they may loosen slightly as you tighten. Don’t be alarmed if when snugging them tight they don’t feel quite snug when completed!
They can be fitted with a piezoelectric pickup
Piezoelectric banjo pickups can be an excellent way to amplify the sound of your instrument in an non-invasive and simple manner. Piezos tend to pick up higher frequency ranges better than magnetic and microphone pickups and microphones and produce an impressive sound when combined with an amplifier; however, due to increased feedback risks they should only be used sparingly.
Stick-on piezo pickups (such as that seen on sonofhop’s banjo) provide another solution. It works by attaching a small metal “shim” beneath the underside of the banjo head just “north” of the coordinator rods at the center foot of the bridge; when played, this vibrates when struck; this signal then converts into electric signals by way of its pickup system. Most banjo piezos use standard guitar strings; however you may need to adjust gauge settings accordingly for optimal tone and playability.
Piezos can be ideal for acoustic blues players needing to briefly double on banjo. Before making your choice, though, carefully examine your score to ensure chords rather than individual notes are required – otherwise a 6-string banjo may not work. Some guitarists who perform Dixieland have used six-string banjos modified so the 5th and 6th strings have lighter tunings tuned an octave or so higher; this gives it a gutsy plunk similar to an acoustic Dobro!
They can be acoustic or electric
Most 6-string banjos designed for bluegrass use are acoustic, providing authentic banjo sound even when playing through an amp. Some models even come equipped with pickups that you can plug into an electric guitar amplifier to increase volume and improve tone; these options are great for bands looking to play live at large concerts.
Deering Goodtime 6-String Banjo: an Acoustc/Electric Banjo Model Available Today This instrument features a steel rim which produces an excellent tone; guitar-style neck; metal guitar strings can also be used instead of traditional banjo strings; easily findable! This instrument can be played acoustically or amplified and makes an excellent addition to your music library.
Flatpicking open (root position) chords on any banjo can sound chaotic and overbearing; because low strings keep ringing even if you are not hitting them directly. To stop this, either fret or deaden two of the lowest strings, or fingerpick single notes or barre chords high up on the neck; both techniques produce Dixieland-influenced sounds while adding texture to your soundscape.
Some may consider the 6-string banjo an unauthentic instrument, yet its history spans over 100 years and includes jazz and blues styles of playing as well as being featured on many classic recordings in American music history.