Resonator Banjos are the go-to instrument of bluegrass players, as their loud sound cuts through other instruments and voices in the band.
Resonators make clawhammer style playing easier; however, for solo performance or more traditional music styles an open back banjo should do just fine.
Sound
Over time, banjo builders have sought ways to make their instruments louder. One such method involves adding a curved chamber known as a resonator to the back of an instrument – acting as an amplifier and making the banjo significantly louder than open-back instruments.
Bluegrass requires the banjo to take on an active role and stand out against its peers; old time has more of a background-sound approach with fiddle playing often taking precedence and open-back banjos often fitting better with this genre.
High Frequency Formants from Banjo Bridge Design presents several simple experiments focusing heavily on physics to illustrate the differences between an open-back banjo and resonator instruments, and also compares effects such as nylon strings, extra-light steel strings and McGhee tone rings to increase sustain and soften sound sustain. These results reflect players’ actual experiences.
Design
Banjos come in various designs. The most commonly seen are five-string resonator models with standard aluminum or maple banjo heads and tone rings to adjust brightness and tone of their instrument, but others feature flat or archtop necks, or are even curved like guitars.
Resonator Banjos are most often associated with Bluegrass music, although they can also be played across other genres. On the other hand, open back banjos don’t feature resonators and tend to produce quieter and mellower tones due to some volume being absorbed by your body when playing clawhammer style without fingerpicks. Furthermore, open backs usually have tighter string spacing that keeps them closer together than their counterparts.
As a beginner, we highly suggest choosing an open-back banjo as this will offer great sound at a reasonable cost, making it easier to play than resonator banjos. Both the Deering Goodtime 2 and Artisan Goodtime Special models offer this as they both include professional features such as geared tuners.
Adjustability
Resonator banjos feature a curved back, known as the “resonator,” that projects their sound forward, making them significantly louder than open-back banjos and making them the go-to lead instrument in bluegrass music. Furthermore, the resonator adds color and dimension to its tone.
Removing the resonator from an open-back banjo makes it more suitable for traditional music and folk styles, with warmer tones and reduced weight compared to their resonator counterparts.
The Kmise banjo features high-quality tuning pegs and a geared 5th string tuner, enabling you to precisely tune your fifth string for sharper and more accurate sounds. In addition, its thoughtful armrest design includes brass tone rings that add bass depth and increase bass frequency response, plus its tension hoop tensioner that tightens bass tone frequencies for enhanced tone production. Finally, its removable resonator makes this an excellent option for students wanting to stand out at jam sessions or rehearsals.
Maintenance
Resonator banjos come in all sorts of varieties, and it is key to find one that fits with both your aesthetic and tone preferences. Flange-mounted resonators offer greater tonal versatility while integral ones tend to offer more traditional looks.
Maintain a dust-free banjo to achieve optimal sound. Make use of a stand to keep it out of the way during playing sessions, and avoid direct sunlight as this may bake your instrument. In addition, do not store near radiators or damp locations like cellars and garages as this may damage it further.
Maintain a humidity meter to monitor the wood in your banjo and ensure its humidity stays between 40%-50% for optimal protection, and to prevent warping of its hoop and head. Crank the nuts on bracket lugs only until necessary; overtightening could result in uneven tension on its head that loosens from its connection to the hoop.