Resonator Banjos employ a metal resonator to project their sound, making them perfect for performing bluegrass music at large venues with many listeners present. Open back banjos do not utilize this feature.
Remove the resonator of this instrument to reduce its sound significantly and practice quietly in dorms. This option provides an ideal solution for those wanting to practice without disturbing others.
The Origin of the Resonator Banjo
Banjos were already fairly loud instruments when first invented; but around 1860 someone came up with the brilliant idea to add a chamber known as a resonator to make it even louder and thus gave us today’s famous resonator banjos.
Resonator banjos produce an unique sound, setting it apart from other musical instruments. Resonator models tend to be heavier than their open-back counterparts and may dig into your back after long jam sessions.
Resonator banjos offer another advantage over open-back banjos: they can accommodate either of the two major styles of banjo playing: finger picking and clawhammer. Clawhammer is more traditional and involves slapping strings with your thumb and fingernail, while finger pickers may prefer playing through finger pickers’ fretboard. Most experienced clawhammerers play on resonator banjos; in fact many accomplished clawhammerers have played them for many years!
The Pros of the Resonator Banjo
Resonator banjos produce a distinct more twangy and loud sound than open-back models, which is ideal for live performances with other instruments (fiddles, mandolins, tubas or xylophones) competing alongside it. This makes resonator models ideal choice.
Resonator banjos tend to be heavier than their open-back counterparts due to the weight of the resonator bowl, which may become problematic over extended playing sessions or if you fear that its weight is straining your back.
Resonator banjos provide an easy solution if you decide that it is no longer needed or desired; simply remove it with one quick action in less than a minute! This enables experimentation with various sounds and tones without making permanent adjustments; making this option particularly valuable for novice players looking for their ideal tone before purchasing one permanently. This process also makes finding their ideal sound easier!
The Cons of the Resonator Banjo
Resonator banjos require slightly more care and maintenance than open-back instruments due to the additional brass tone rings and flanges; however, this should not be taken as a reason to forgo purchasing one.
Resonators serve as their own amplifier, making the instrument louder than its open back counterpart in live settings. This can come in handy when competing for volume with other instruments such as fiddles, mandolins, and guitars.
If you prefer an open back banjo, removing its resonator should be relatively easy – although this will significantly lessen its sound. With only 3-4 screws/bolts holding on, this should take less than one minute and is great for beginners who may live in dorms where their roommate can hear them practicing (I did it myself when living at college!). Also keep in mind that any type of banjo can be used with any style of music as long as the player feels at ease with it.
The Basics of Playing a Resonator Banjo
Metal resonators amplify and project the sound of banjos, producing louder and brighter music than an open-back banjo, making it suitable for band environments. However, regular maintenance checks should be conducted in order to protect it against damage and maintain optimal operation.
If you are considering purchasing a resonator banjo, be sure to purchase the best possible instrument within your budget. While others may advise against certain brands or models, it is wise to carefully weigh all available choices before making your choice.
No matter what kind of resonator banjo you select, its fundamental principles remain the same. Begin by tuning the strings to suit the song of choice and strumming them; be sure to utilize proper technique when playing chords; practice often in order to improve your skills and find your own sound; finally enjoy your new instrument!