For beginners looking to learn banjo, 6 string banjos offer an ideal starting point. Essentially resonator guitars with more strings and an added tone, 6 string banjos can be played acoustically or plugged in and come equipped with both resonators and openback options to suit various playing styles.
These banjos feature fingerboards designed with radiused fingerboards similar to guitars, making it easier for guitarists to play. But keep in mind that some things won’t work the same when using a 6-string banjo.
They can be played just like a guitar
Once properly configured, a six string banjo (also known as a guitjo or banjitar) can be played much like a guitar. While most guitarists may not find it natural to switch instruments so easily, practice can help master this craft. First step should be checking all strings are on frets by playing chords to see whether any are buzzing against other frets; if that occurs then adjust neck accordingly.
Once again, to successfully play banjo requires some precision when hammering on and pulling off of its top two or three strings. While this requires greater care than when playing guitar, this skill is essential when performing Dixieland music or any style that demands up-and-down strokes; additionally, banjo strings have less sustain than their guitar counterparts so you must hit hard when performing these types of musical styles.
Adjust the bridge as necessary by moving it back a little, if required. This will improve sound by eliminating an octave overtone that causes strings to buzz. The adjustment screw should be accessible by unscrewing a triangular piece of plastic on the head; you may require a hex screwdriver for access. Once done, it’s time to retune.
They can be played acoustically or plugged in
Six-string banjos can be played acoustically or plugged in, using either light gauge strings or heavier gauge strings, to produce an unforgettable sound. They offer more overtones than guitars for an individual sound; and can even be strung with light or heavy gauge strings depending on your genre of music; heavier gauge strings tend to produce deeper bass-heavy sounds while light gauge strings offer clearer melodies. Heavy gauge strings will require regular string replacement, yet offer deeper, clearer sounds overall.
If you’re playing acoustically, make sure that each string makes contact with its head and bridge and that if loose, the sound will become muffled and incomprehensible. String lubricant can help reduce friction while protecting them from becoming dry over time.
A 6-string banjo is unlike its guitar counterpart, so it’s essential that you understand its inner workings before purchasing one. Otherwise, you may end up with a subpar instrument which cannot be played; to prevent this scenario from occurring entirely buy an excellent banjo from the outset.
Keep in mind that most 6-string banjos sold without proper setup when purchased; with exception to those from Deering Goodime lines, most banjos that cost under $1000 require having the head tightened and neck adjusted before becoming playable.
They can be changed to suit your playing style
One of the first tasks when purchasing a banjo should be checking that all its components are tight and ready for play. Although most banjos ship fully assembled, chances are it may require tweaking at some point during its journey across the Pacific or train journey to distribution center (and potentially truck ride to your house). As such, knowing how to set up your banjo yourself or hire professional service provider may be necessary for proper operation.
Change the sound of your banjo by altering its head. There is a range of heads available, including Renaissance, Black Fiberskyn and Wild Prism. In addition, purchasing a capo can quickly and efficiently change keys – however beware as capo’s may alter tone!
Another way to alter the sound of a 6-string banjo is by adding or removing a tone ring. A tone ring reduces resonation of the banjo and can make it more difficult to detect overtones; it may also impact its volume; therefore it’s wise to experiment before buying one. You could also change other components such as nuts, saddles, and picks to further customize its sound.
They can be resonator or openback
Six string banjos come in both resonator and openback models depending on your playing style. Resonators are ideal for genres such as bluegrass that require louder sound output; their vintage-sounding tones also lend them more appeal than openback banjos; however, these models can be much heavier to carry around without an accessory such as a strap.
Open back banjos are ideal for clawhammer and fingerpicking styles of playing and are less expensive than resonator models. Unfortunately, their sound may be lower; therefore it might not be appropriate to practice with someone asleep five feet away in your dorm room. If you want to limit volume during practice sessions, use a mutes on your bridge bridge for maximum efficiency.
Some banjos come equipped with pickups that make them suitable for live playing or busking, making them suitable for live performances or busking. You can find different models of pickups by manufacturers like Fishman, LR Baggs and Kavanjo that can either be retrofitted onto your banjo or purchased separately.
A 6-string banjo is a popular choice among guitarists looking to learn the banjo without investing in an instrument of full size. Also referred to as a guitar-banjo, guitanjo or ganjo. Quality 6-string banjos feature beautiful wood finishes with stunning craftsmanship from respected makers; many even come signed by famous musicians!