Finding an open back banjo can be a challenging endeavor, with materials and construction considerations needing to be carefully evaluated in addition to its sound output capabilities.
Plus, it’s easily upgradeable later with resonators technology – making this an excellent option for beginners.
Material
Material choice of banjos is crucial as it has an impactful and lasting effect on their sound and durability. Cheaper materials often break down faster, necessitating earlier replacement needs; so before making your purchase decision it is essential that you consider which type of banjo best meets your requirements.
AKLOT’s open back banjo is constructed from beautiful tiger maple wood and offers beginners an ideal start with several extra features, such as a gig bag, tuner, capo and set of strings – it is also one of the more cost-effective choices on our list.
If you prefer louder banjo music, choose a resonator banjo. This type of instrument is best suited for genres like bluegrass and old-time clawhammer; its sound projects outward more effectively, making it suitable for live performances as well as large gatherings. Furthermore, its durability makes this an excellent option for beginners looking to continue playing long term.
Design
Beginners looking for their first banjo are best served with an open back banjo that is lightweight, with an ergonomic neck design, available in different wood species and featuring excellent sound quality. In addition, these instruments come equipped with a chromatic tuner, strap, and extra strings – essential components in learning an instrument!
An open back banjo differs from its counterpart in that its sound is softer and quieter, making it perfect for playing bluegrass music in small spaces.
Resonator-style banjos tend to be more affordable, making this type of instrument an excellent option for beginner players with tight budgets. But remember, low prices do not necessarily signify poor quality! Testing the instrument beforehand is essential to making an informed decision that matches up with your musical preferences and needs.
Sound
Banjo tones depend heavily on several elements, with tone rings playing an essential part. They sit atop the rim just under the head and transmit vibrations from its surface into its head, altering its sound and producing different results than expected.
Open back banjos produce a warm and subdued tone that musicians and listeners both appreciate for its traditional character. As such, they pair well with clawhammer style music genres as well as its cousin clawhammer style music genres such as Bluegrass. Furthermore, their lightweight design makes them ideal for travelling musicians who must carry their instruments for extended periods. They can even be attached with resonators that amplify sound output, making them suitable for use at loud conventions or venues where volume control may be an issue; some experienced players opt for leaving off resonators in favor of using just an amplified pickup setup instead.
Strings
Bluegrass banjo players typically opt for resonator type banjos for one simple reason: resonators enhance volume. But this may not always be beneficial. Some musicians might view playing without mutes against tradition of this genre and may look askance when performing during jam sessions!
Clawhammer-frailing players frequently prefer open back banjos with longer strings to accommodate this style, and use plectrums rather than finger picks for play. Open back banjos tend to feature brighter tones than closed-back models and louder, louder bass tone; they are lighter than resonator models too, so changing or adding compensated bridges can significantly alter its tone; for instance, adding heavier stiff bridges may increase sustain while thinner ones produce brighter tones without necessarily having more sustain;