Open back banjos lack a resonator, making them lighter and simpler than their resonator counterparts. Their distinctive sound and tone make them suitable for specific genres of music and playing styles.
These instruments are especially well-suited to clawhammer and frailing styles of play. This article will outline some key considerations when it comes to purchasing an open back banjo.
Sound
Resonator and tone ring elements play a significant role in creating the sound of a banjo. Resonators consist of bowl-shaped parts which rest at the back of its pot to amplify and focus sound; this makes resonator banjos particularly suitable for genres that demand loud and prominent tones.
Open back banjos lack resonators, making their sound softer and quieter than that of resonator banjos. This makes them the ideal choice for folk or clawhammer styles of playing banjo that require warm tones such as clawhammer.
When purchasing a banjo, take into account both your budget and musical preferences to select an instrument best suited to you. Test different banjos before making your final choice to ensure you find one which provides the optimal musical experience and allows you to reach new levels as a banjo player.
Design
Open back banjos are an increasingly popular style in bluegrass music. They feature a flat head made from various materials like metal and wood and feature lightweight design intended to last for many years of playing, as well as being compatible with different kinds of strings such as metal and nylon strings.
Tone rings are another key component of open back banjos and must fit seamlessly with both your style and budget. Made of either metal or wood, tone rings rest atop the rim under the head to impact sound production; choose wisely!
The Goodtime open back banjo is an ideal choice for beginners, boasting a mellower tone at a lower cost than its counterpart, the resonator banjos. Plus, its lighter design can make transportation much simpler; additionally, its features such as its truss rod help with tuning as well as creating rigidity to enhance posture when playing the banjo.
Comfort
Comfort when playing banjo is paramount; finding a chair where your back can rest while the feet rest flat on the floor is ideal. A strap can also help distribute some of its weight when using a resonator.
Most banjo players experiment with various seating positions for optimal banjo playing comfort. Ideally, the neck should be set high enough that it allows a clear view of the fretboard and easy left-hand access across it with one hand. Many players also place latex surgical tubing over their knee rest so as to protect the player’s thigh during extended jam sessions.
There are various online resources that offer instructions for setting up and tuning a banjo, with specific details on which components should and shouldn’t be altered. But having access to professional luthiers can make the entire process simpler.
Price
Open back banjos come at various price points. While typically less costly than their resonator counterparts, their prices depend on which music style and features are desired by you and may increase or decrease depending on these considerations.
Before beginning to shop for a banjo, it’s essential to first identify what type you intend to buy. Bluegrass players require a resonator banjo with its distinct bright and twangy sound while traditional musicians and indie artists could benefit more from an open back model that produces warmer and smoother tones.
Open back banjos may also be equipped with resonators, though this will reduce volume levels of the instrument. To determine what kind of banjo you need best, visit a music store and try both styles out; speaking to an experienced professional about differences between open back (resonator) and closed back banjos will make making your choice much simpler.