Resonators add volume and projection to a banjo’s sound, making it ideal for bluegrass and clawhammer styles of playing. While more expensive than an open-back banjo, they provide better beginner options thanks to features like notched tension hoop, 24-round US threaded hooks and matching nuts.
Only issue with this banjo are its low quality strings; but that should not detract from its overall excellence.
They are louder than open-back banjos
Resonator banjos tend to be louder than open-back models, making them the ideal choice for bluegrass players looking to project their sound to larger audiences and reduce feedback issues. The best resonator banjos are constructed of quality materials such as metal or wood for easy playing as well as producing rich, vibrant tones with easy fingerpicking techniques – ideal for traditional bluegrass, John Hartford and clawhammer music styles alike!
Resonator banjos feature a bowl-shaped resonating chamber at the rear of their bodies to amplify sound and direct it toward an audience. They’re typically used in fast-paced genres like bluegrass music; an open-back model may be better suited for slower genres like folk and clawhammer music.
Open-back banjos feature a more gentle tone, are less costly, and are easier to transport than their resonator counterparts. As such, they’re often chosen by beginners learning clawhammer or folk music as they tend to be lighter weight and easier to manage and transport.
They are more durable
Although not as loud as higher-end banjos, the Goodtime Two banjo still offers beginners an ideal starting point. Thanks to its mahogany neck and rim construction, it boasts warmth not found with other banjos at this price range; additionally, its geared fifth tuner makes this an excellent value-priced banjo option.
A standout feature of this banjo is its 24-hook brass tension hoop, making it easier to maintain consistent tension over time. This feature is particularly important as uneven tension can lead to dead spots in tone that affect bluegrass players with heavy volume demands. If you need an affordable banjo that will stand up over time then consider this model; though you may require some set up before finding its sound at its full potential it is certainly worth checking out.
They are easier to play
There can be some confusion surrounding 5-string banjos, specifically their various varieties with or without resonators. Many newcomers to the instrument do not understand why certain banjos come equipped with what appear to be wooden chamber-like backs or what resonators does for that matter.
Resonators help make banjos louder, while adding depth and tone. This type of accessory is great for beginners learning bluegrass music or clawhammer banjo, or those wanting to perform music at small gatherings and parties.
This banjo may not come pre-assembled from the factory, but with proper setup it can still provide an affordable way into this genre. Additionally, its geared fifth tuner provides a significant upgrade over the friction pegs typically found at department stores.
They are more expensive
People often assume a banjo equipped with a resonator is superior, when in reality both options can serve their respective functions well – it all depends on your musical genre preferences!
If you are playing bluegrass with a band, resonators are an essential piece of gear. Not only can they project the sound of your banjo more clearly, they will also make it easier for the other band members to hear you! However, these heavy instruments may pose back problems during long jam sessions.
If you live in a dorm room, an open-back banjo may be worth considering as it allows for quiet practice sessions with no one nearby sleeping five feet away. Mute devices exist that make your banjo even quieter. Unfortunately though, their durability may not compare with that of a resonator and their noise may prove annoying to neighbors in close proximity when practicing together.