Open back banjos offer a more subdued, relaxing sound ideal for traditional and folk genres; moreover, these instruments tend to be more cost-effective.
When considering purchasing a banjo, make sure you test various models so that you can select one best suited to your requirements. This will help ensure you find something suitable.
They do not need a resonator
Resonators are wooden bowls attached to the back of banjos that reflect sound to an audience, reflecting it back into an audience space. Open-back banjos do not feature this component and are generally lighter and quieter due to having closer proximity of sound chambers located closer to neck/body junction. Furthermore, string placement on open back banjos allows for more effective clawhammer playing styles.
Some banjo players choose to remove the resonator from their banjos in order to lower the volume level when performing in small rooms without disturbing others, while simultaneously diminishing its brightness of tone. Deciding between open-back or resonator models depends on personal preference and music genre; bluegrassers will need one while solo or tandem banjoists might find an open-back model more suitable.
They are lightweight
If you’re seeking a lightweight banjo, an open back may be your best bet. These instruments weigh less than six pounds and offer more string position options and even the option of working without resonators if desired – plus, they’re extremely comfortable to play!
Tone rings are one of the key components when purchasing a banjo, serving an integral role in its sound and can alter its tone depending on what material it’s made from.
Resonator banjos tend to produce more twangy and louder sounds than open-back banjos; however, beginners may find them challenging to learn how to play. Therefore, an excellent starting point for beginning players would be Deering Good Time or Good Time II banjos; these have soft yet less loud sound capabilities with much lower costs compared with classical resonators models.
They are easy to play
If you want an effortless banjo experience, open-back models could be just the ticket. They feature mellower tones and weigh less; furthermore they can be attached to resonators later if desired for additional amplification of sound.
However, if you plan on playing clawhammer music it is wise to invest in a resonator banjo. Clawhammer uses three finger picks which require louder banjo sound; having this resonator helps make the instrument louder so other people at jam sessions or large gatherings can hear it better.
Harder woods usually produce more resonant sound than softwoods and are easier to tune and sustain for longer, making banjos with tone rings often simpler to tune than those without one.
They are affordable
Beginners without much budget to spend will find an open back banjo an ideal choice. These less costly instruments provide a pleasant mellow sound perfect for beginners. When purchasing one, be sure to verify its materials used as these may affect its tone and volume as well as make sure its intonation is correct as otherwise chords will sound off-key.
Before purchasing a banjo, decide the style of music you plan to play. If your interest lies with clawhammer or old-time styles, an open-back banjo may be suitable; for bluegrass enthusiasts however, resonator banjos may provide better suit your needs due to their brighter tone that makes it ideal for jam sessions and weigh more than open-back banjos.