Top-10 Bluegrass Banjos
Loved in the USA

The Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Maple Resonator Bluegrass Banjo is well-suited for bluegrass enthusiasts. One of its notable strengths is the use of high-quality materials, including a premium rock maple neck and a 3-ply violin grade maple rim, ensuring durability and a rich tone. The 1920's Art Deco inspired inlay adds a touch of vintage charm, making it visually appealing.

The banjo is equipped with a comfortable 'D' shape neck and 22 pressed-in nickel silver frets, making it easier to play for extended periods. The resonator, made from poplar and maple, enhances the sound projection, which is essential for bluegrass music.

The Deering Artisan Goodtime Special 5-String Bluegrass Banjo is a well-crafted instrument made in the USA that stands out with its slender rock maple neck stained a rich brown and a midnight maple fingerboard. The inclusion of a maple resonator and tone ring makes it ideal for producing the bright, clear sound desirable in bluegrass music. This banjo features planetary tuners for precise tuning, and the Goodtime Special logo engraved on the peghead adds a touch of elegance. The use of nickel strings ensures durability and a clear tone.

Despite its lightweight design (16 ounces), which makes it easy to handle and play for extended periods, the compact dimensions (3 x 3 x 3 inches) might be misleading as it suggests a very small size, which could be a point of confusion for potential buyers. Also, the number of strings listed as four seems to be an error, as bluegrass banjos usually have five strings. This banjo is suited for both beginners and intermediate players looking for a reliable, quality instrument. The satin finish adds to the banjo's aesthetic appeal.

The high rank (#350 in Banjos) suggests it is not one of the top-selling models, which might impact some buyers' confidence. Nevertheless, its strong build quality and sound performance make it a solid choice for bluegrass enthusiasts.

The Deering Goodtime Two Resonator 5-String Banjo is a fantastic choice for beginners entering the world of bluegrass music. One of its standout features is its lightweight design, weighing only 6 lbs., which makes it easy to handle and play for extended periods. Made in the USA, this banjo boasts a 3-ply violin grade maple rim, contributing to its durability and quality sound production.

The resonator enhances volume and projection, making it ideal for bluegrass music, which often requires a louder instrument to be heard in ensemble settings. The neck and body are crafted from rock maple, a sturdy and reliable material that supports consistent playability. The top is made from frosted mylar, which is known for producing a bright and crisp tone, desirable in bluegrass music. The maple and ebony bridge further add to the richness of the sound produced.

The alloy steel strings are durable and provide clear, bright tones suitable for beginners learning to play. However, the absence of a tone ring, which is often found in higher-end banjos to enhance sound quality, might be a drawback for some looking for advanced tonal characteristics. While the satin finish gives it a sleek appearance, some players might prefer a more polished look. Despite these minor downsides, the Deering Goodtime Two Resonator Banjo remains an excellent beginner bluegrass banjo, offering good quality at a reasonable price point.