Are You Just Beginning Banjo Playing? For starters, an open back banjo may be ideal as a first instrument. Without its resonator, this type of instrument allows for clawhammer style playing while being lighter than its resonator counterpart.
Open back banjos produce a soothing sound and are often less expensive than their resonator counterparts. Furthermore, their setup differs significantly and their string action higher.
The sound
Some banjo beginners may be advised to purchase the least expensive instrument available; that would seem wise; no one wants to waste their money buying something they won’t use or learn on.
But it’s also essential to keep other factors in mind when purchasing a banjo, including sound quality. Open-back models tend to produce softer tones with lighter weight and often cheaper prices compared to their resonator counterparts; this difference in sound can be particularly noticeable for beginners.
Resonator banjos feature a curved bowl attached to the back of their pot that makes them louder than an open-back model. They’re an ideal choice for bluegrass musicians who must compete with other instruments and voices for sound production, or beginners wanting an instrument that stands out in crowds; beginners may also find one particularly helpful as an introduction into bluegrass music. Unfortunately, though, their weight may make them unsuitable for everyone.
The design
Resonator banjos feature a sound chamber or pot that increases volume by raising its volume and projecting sound directly toward its audience. Resonators are ideal for bluegrass players looking for bright and twangy tones.
Open back banjos feature a more subdued and soothing tone, are lighter in weight and tend to be cheaper than their resonator counterparts; making them a good option for beginners or musicians who wish to play solo or with others in bands.
Open back banjos differ in their setup from resonator banjos in several ways, including higher string action. Both types are suitable for different styles of music; ultimately it’s up to each player to determine which works best for them and it is recommended that several models be tried before making your choice; one model recommended is Rover’s RB-20 which offers great standard features while still remaining easy for both novices and more advanced players alike to play.
The strings
Although resonator banjos may be more widely known among bluegrass musicians, open back banjos are an excellent choice for playing solo and traditional music. Plus, these models come equipped with excellent hardware like geared fifth pegs and guitar-style tuning tuners to provide easy tuning methods – perfect for beginners looking to start learning this instrument!
However, hardware may not always be of top-grade quality and in certain models the resonator may not fit perfectly; when this occurs it would be beneficial to invest in another model.
One key feature to keep an eye out for in an open back banjo is its tone ring, a metal or wooden ring attached to or resting on top of the rim beneath its head. This element plays an integral part in its sound; therefore it must be well made so as to guarantee both structural stability and an outstanding tone from your instrument.
The price
When selecting an open back banjo, price should be the primary consideration. Open back banjos tend to be cheaper due to using less material for their manufacture; nonetheless, it’s essential that you consider what type of sound you desire when making this decision.
Open back banjos tend to be cheaper and lighter than their resonator counterparts, producing a quieter sound suitable for bluegrass, folk, and old time music styles. Resonator banjos on the other hand provide deeper, louder tones ideal for more experienced players; beginners as well as advanced. Their deeper sound makes them great instruments for bluegrass music as well as other genres; more durable nylon strings last longer while remaining easy for any style to play on them as well.