What Banjo Should Beginners Buy? | Cheap Vs Expensive

[@johnpaulhumphrey2981]

I you are a beginner, I recommend refinancing your house to get the most expensive banjo possible. Nothing quite warms you up as playing your banjo on the sidewalk after the bank takes your home

[@MasonCroneMusic]

😂

[@richardlucascronley5128]

i bought my first banjo from a homeless guy

[@lilolmecj]

@@richardlucascronley5128there ya go!

[@tylerphilco]

I played a $20 pos from a flea market (Lotus plastic/wood garbage) for 25 years until just now when I finally bought a big boy instrument. More than night and day; it’s a whole new universe of my potential.

[@jnsmill]

My first banjo at age 28 was a Kay, made in the 40s, then a few years later, I graduated to a Orpheum, learned to play a little on that, then at age 50, my son gave me a Deering black diamond for my birthday, then when I retired, I started playing in nursing, and assisted living homes with a gospel bluegrass band, I bought myself a Gibson RB3 wreath design, that has been my banjo now for almost 20 years, yeah, I’m old.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's super cool, thanks for sharing!

[@larrywitthar8066]

I admire you. Would like to jam sometime.

[@cathoderaytube7497]

A gospel bluegrass band. I knew there was such a bang out there.

[@MarvinBrown-j8j]

Kool Man!

[@raphaelvermin]

"experienced" is a better way to describe your age from the sound of it. Not just "old".

[@PatrickBallard-q3y]

I played an inexpensive bottle cap aluminum rim banjer. 75.00 total cost. I fixed it up over the years and it worked fine for 15 years. I do highly recommend getting a better quality to begin with. Its more satisfying when you learn a dozen songs to not have to fight bad tuners or thin sound.

[@kimconley3782]

Just bought a Rogue B30 for my first banjo. I have wanted a banjo for 40 years. My husband bought me one for Christmas. I’m 58 and just starting to play. I love it!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Have fun!

[@PatrickBallard-q3y]

Excellent choice. They are well made and sound good for that price range!

[@lilolmecj]

How are you progressing? I am considering buying my daughter who is 30 a banjo for Christmas. She is self taught on guitar and interested in the banjo now.

[@jesseserna8424]

I’m 59 and I been wanting to learn banjo for 40 years so this weekend I’m going to go shopping for one ,any advice?

[@cathytai]

​@@lilolmecjI am just starting but, from my experience with guitars, I would let her select her particular instrument in your price range of recommendations, one that feels right in her hands. She will be more likely to stick with the one she's drawn to. Just in my amateur experience. If it feels awkward or clumsy she may give up.

[@elisabethemory]

It took me a LONG time to hear the difference, but I finally hear the difference in tone. I had been saving money for a while, and just decided to get a pretty decent one to start off with. I have the RK-35 and I'm pretty pleased with it.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

The RK 35 is great. I've never played one but I've heard nothing but positive things about it and judging by the parts I can pretty well guess how it would feel and sound. Good decision!

[@WilFreeD68]

In august 2022 i bought a 5 strings banjo ! It was a dream which come true for me after 40 years... I am a 55 y.o guitar player and an inconditionnal fan of Bluegrass Music. I am French. Since i have my Banjo i can't help playing it even before my first cofee !! I bought a cheap one, 183 euros a 3rd avenue banjo (ah ah ah amazing unknown for ya'll i bet ! ) to be sure i would not be tired to fast. Goaaaaal !! love it ! thank you Mason for your video and lessons ! Much Love from France (south Macronia..)

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's awesome, thanks for watching!

[@josephcote8634]

I just ordered a $200 banjo on Amazon. It does the job well for its price.

[@gavinriley5232]

Man I'm a Jew from New England but the sound of a banjo just makes me feel at home. It's the sound of hard working good people and I love it.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's awesome, welcome to the channel!

[@nodolle]

Something amazing about the title of “Jew from New England” Amazing. Go with what moves you (:

[@williamkilleffer5382]

With a title like "A Jew From New England," you could write a book, or a song, or both... Lots of possibilities there.

[@Perfumery_by_Sabin]

I’ll tell you hhhhhhwat

[@gavinriley5232]

@@Perfumery_by_Sabin Gotta say I am a fan of those propane accessories.

[@pb51-d8f]

I started playing in ‘76 with a $99 banjo. My teacher had an Ome , which I really wanted to upgrade to. I got a Washburn B17. Very happy with this choice. Then banjos are just awesome.

[@psychicspy]

I was at a music store yesterday. I really liked the open back Dirty 30 $299.00 and the Gold Tone Deering $1399.00. I think I will start with the Dirty 30.

[@levistokes3960]

My first Banjo I just bought a couple months ago. Just started my Banjo journey. It's a gold tone CC-50RP. Dark maple finish, planetsry tuners. I love it. I named her Betsy. 😂 I spent a little more money on it. My uncle is in a bluegrass band, and he told me gold tones are a good brand. I want the deering Blackgrass SO BAD. That's a beautiful banjo. That wont be till later. I wanted to learn Banjo to keep it in the family and stay connected to my Appalacian roots, I grew up in West Virginia.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Awesome!

[@PuddleWalkersOutdoors]

First off great video Mason. You covered everything a new player needs to know going into a shop or second hand store looking for banjo. Myself I really enjoy the middle of the field instruments. The majority of them can be modified into a great instrument that's custom to what you want. I also think the most important part is how comfortable the instrument sits on your lap while you play it.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks! Yeah, you're right. My Gold Tone is technically middle of the field, I just referred to it as expensive in this video because I'm sure it would be to someone just starting out.

[@PuddleWalkersOutdoors]

@@MasonCroneMusic I place middle of the field in the $400-$1500 for guitars.

[@MultiRedneck66]

I started out on a B30 and still have it. Ended up picking up a Gold Tone along my travels too.

[@hannelorescherzer6527]

I am beginning to play banjo and I am very grateful for your information! Thank you so much! I am watching you from Germany!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

So cool, thanks for watching!

[@bartmitcham9697]

The same thing goes for guitars. Another suggestion is if you by a cheaper guitar or banjo, get a pro to set it up for you. Lots of people don't stick with a string instrument because it has a poor set up and is much harder to play.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Yep, setup is a huge deal!

[@larrywitthar8066]

I've always said that "there is no such thing as a beginners guitar ". If money is the problem, buy a decent one used.

[@JJ_TheGreat]

6:39 That’s why I am listening through headphones, which (imo) makes it easier to hear sound - and the differences.

[@cathytai]

Yes it is certainly not great through my cell phone speakers, nothing is, lol.

[@nathanlester5054]

Mason, that OB250+ is sounding better every time you play it! Great video with very useful information!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thank you! I've been doing lots of adjustment on it, I think I've got it about how I want it now.

[@artsymamanana]

I have a goodtime, I like it. It has a nice tone for the price. I do notice the difference between the 2, and I agree that for a beginner, that banjo it will take you right through intermediate stage.

[@eddiemoore8468]

All Goldtone instruments are very good. I originally moved up from a banjo similar to a Goldtone CC-50 RP. It’s a better quality entry level instrument. Since them I’ve moved up to better instruments with a decent quality tone rings. They truly make a difference in sound. I would recommend any Goldtone instrument to anyone. Everyone I’ve heard is good. On the plus side also, they are all set up to play when you get them in. You can’t beat that.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

I love mine. I've also played the Twanger and it was great too.

[@ToIsleOfView]

I heard an old Gibson banjo that projected with so much volume that it needed special mic settings compared to a second banjo. I asked the artist what he thought. He did not know why the years had been so good to that banjo. I am a guitar player and I have experienced how they change tone as they age. It's why old Italian violins can sell for a million dollars. I thought you were going to explain every part of the banjo that makes it cheaper and more expensive. What kind of wood, frets, tuners, plastic, metal, decoration, inlays, bridge, diminisons, precission fit, resonater details, weight, and lastly the tone differences from each component.

[@85rockhound]

The Gold Tone has more snap and ring to it. But the other one still sounds decent. Playability is improved with the Gold Tone I'm sure. I have been playing for a long time. I bought an RB 250 new in 1979, and I bought a Gibson Earl Scruggs Standard about 20 years ago. I think I'd like to get a moderately priced banjo to take to camp fires and such. I go through hot and cold phases with my playing, am coming out of a cold phase now. You play good and am an inspiration to me. Thanks.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks! I've never had the opportunity to play a Gibson, but everything I've heard about them is amazing. I'd love to get one someday.

[@85rockhound]

@MasonCroneMusic They can be had, but since the flood that took out Gibson's manufacturing in Nashville, last I heard they are not making any banjos or Dobros.

[@cathytai]

​@@85rockhound😢

[@Mando287Banjo]

all things considered that rogue doesn't sound half bad. i find the bottle caps like that can have a pretty good tone to em especially in comparison to a banjo with only a wood rim

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Yeah, I'm pretty sure it sounds better than my Ibanez.

[@joedodsworth4301]

Im left handed never even played a guitar or banjo but im going to be getting one soon as i absolutely love the sound

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Awesome, have fun with it!

[@barrysmith8193]

I’m left handed also been playing for over 20 years. Do not let anyone talk you into starting with a right handed banjo. You will soon regret your decision. Next up is rely heavily on you tube to learn to play. Right handed instructors will never get that you are left handed and think differently. I’ve been through at least 6 of them. Once you get started you will find what a joy it is to play. Good luck to you.

[@Trapper4265]

I couldn't tell the difference until I visited the Huber Banjo shop down in TN. The "playability " was key for me. Every strike, fret, hammer on, pullout, was effortless, with superior tone and sound.

[@monastero]

Never give a bad instrument to someone who intend to learn to play. Otherwise, you may kill the mood to learn. I know it! A good instrument is the first stepstone

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Inexpensive doesn't always mean bad. Find a good quality one by all means

[@rtoguidver3651]

I had a Rouge guitar for years, I paid $50 for it new, and it came w/ a case and stand w/ free shipping.. It's in the closet now, replaced by a Martin D42. I bought my Gibson RB100 for $1000 used - 30 years ago and it's still going strong.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's awesome

[@taylormade9693]

I just came across your video. I’m gonna watch more. I’m one of those who have a banjo that I really wanna play.. i’ve actually had it long enough to be proficient at it. I love banjo music. My relatives are from the Hills and haulers of Kentucky. And some of my relatives have even played. And your banjo looks a lot like the one I bought. I was going to buy an inexpensive one like you said to learn how to play it. And the one I ended up buying was at a super big reduction in price. So instead of buying a $300 cheap one, at the time I bought the $1300 one for $300 instead at the time I bought it nearly 20 years ago . What a blessing that was for me.. I plan to watch your videos and learn how to play. Blessings.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's awesome, have fun!

[@jacobspark8394]

I've have no experience with the banjo whatsoever, but man can I hear a difference. That Gold tone sounds way better. Maybe its all those years playing Banjo-Kazooie on my old N64

[@MasonCroneMusic]

😂 Thanks for watching!

[@JJ_TheGreat]

6:21 So can I - without ever playing a banjo (I’ve just tested one out), but just listening, I can hear the resonating in the background of the Gold Tone, which the Rogue doesn’t have. It sounds so much better. That’s why I would want to spend a little more money on an instrument - as it is likely to encourage you to play it more. For example, lets say that you go and buy the cheapest instrument (I like the mandolin, and so I am looking for my first one [the banjo is nice, too, btw]). Now (let’s say) as you are playing it, the tone is harsh - and you don’t like the sound - so as a result, you end up deciding that that instrument isn’t for you. This is the reason that I believe you SHOULD spend A LITTLE more, even for your first one of that instrument. That way, you will know that it isn’t the instrument, which you might end up blaming - but it is your technique. You will (potentially) be spending hours with the instrument, so you should make sure that it has a sound/tone you enjoy - otherwise, why bother playing it, as opposed to something else which you do enjoy the tone of?! This is just my perspective.

[@Nicholas-dreamlove]

Hi Mason, I recently purchased a 60's Beltone Irish tenor 4 string banjo and I'm very excited on learning. Since I also play guitar, the banjo seemed relatively easy to learn..Cheers mate.

[@justprentice]

I'm a month in an on a Rogue B30. Thank you for not making me feel like a loser for playing it lol!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's awesome! I played one for several years.

[@Saguache]

Man, I like the sound of the Rogue better than the Gold Tone. Thanks for the video, I'm looking at picking up the banjo

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Do it!

[@2000HoursofBanjo]

I'm starting out on a Deering Goodtime. Once I log 1000 hours of practice, I will be looking to treat myself to something nicer...probably a Nechville Galaxy. But for now, I am really enjoying my Goodtime.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Awesome! It's typically good to start on a cheap one and upgrade when you're ready, you're on the right path

[@hatink4319]

Thank you. I've been on the fence on getting a banjo.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's awesome, you definitely should!

[@colenichols3580]

Wow, what a difference those two are it’s amazing. Actually, I’m just starting to get back into playing the banjo from when I was a kid significantly older now.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Have fun!

[@charlesbranch4120]

Mason, thank you for that comparison. I'm subscribed to Gold Tones emails, so have watched their B-stock list often. A couple weeks ago, I picked up a Gold Tone NOS B-stock AC-5 and with that substantial discount ordered an armrest from Gold Tone. Maybe the missing armrest made it B-stock, but I am very pleased with its tuning stability and getting back into learning the instrument after dropping out of that first Coronado (a Gambles store brand?) bought used ca. 1985 and requiring tuning every time I picked it up. Older and wiser, now's the time, and we'll have grandkids interested, too. Thanks!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Glad you enjoyed the video, thanks for sharing!

[@kylelinn1384]

I started with a Dean BW5! still sounds and plays great 13 years later!

[@tedtedsen269]

i play gold tone ob300 orange blossom (goldplated) and i have two deerings also, the ob300 is amazing like your 250 my impression is soon as the banjo reaches about 1200 usd they're all good no matter the make

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's cool! And yeah, that price point seems to be where banjos get good.

[@captainbeaky]

I went straight to an OB250, on the basis of “buy nice or buy twice”, but then I’m less worried about trying for a couple of months and then putting it away forever - I’ve been playing various instruments since I was 5, and the banjo was a 60th birthday present from my family. Much nicer tone than others I have played, and looks gorgeous. 6 months in and having a lot of fun with it - playing it in public for the first time this weekend, and it will appear in our Fleetwood Mac tribute gig later this year, for “Say you love me “.

[@jbmows]

Oh, that is so satisfying when you play them back to back! That Rouge looks just like the harmony banjo I started out with. Except mine had no arm rest!😁

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's cool! It's a good little starter banjo.

[@Michael-dd6hl]

My 1st banjo was a RK/R20. Now I have a GoldTone Orange Blossom . 550bucks for the Recording King 1175 bucks for the Gold Tone, even though I got it for 500bucks. I have both and play em both. Both are good sounding 5strings. The Gold Tone is a powerful five string for the cash.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's awesome. OB 150 I assume? I have an OB 250+ and an OB 2

[@naeliv6099]

To me as a Pianist, Guitarist and Singer I love your content keep up the good work man ❤.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks!

[@kaptkrunchfpv]

You can for sure hear the difference. The tone of the gold tone is way more metallic sounding.

[@thegrandlevel313]

I still play my rogue a lot. The bridge is the big problem, so I actually put a bone bridge and new pegs… since then, it’s still my favorite.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Awesome 😎

[@zuioprt]

i play the guitar like forever, borrowed a crappy banjo from friend for a month, got hooked and now i got a deering goodtime 2. worlds apart. got it used (12y) for a fair price.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's awesome, thanks for sharing!

[@ezrvs]

I own Taylor and Martin acoustic guitars primarily and Gibson and Fender electrics. So, I feel it’s best to get an instrument that won’t disappoint me. Learning the banjo, my own ineptitude is disappointing enough without additional obstacles being added from a poorly constructed instrument. As Laertes was instructed by Pelonius about clothing, “Costly thy habit as thy purse can buy, But not expressed in fancy; rich, not gaudy”. I chose a Deering Artisan Special for my first. As I said, my only disappointment so far is me. Lovin’ the banjo and having a ball learning it.

[@cathytai]

I started on a Guild acoustic but now I will happily noodle on any pos that's decently set up, lol although I have my good acoustics, electrics and 5 string basses, too. But honestly the guitar I pick up the most is one of my inexpensive used parlor steel strings. It's just so fun and handy. 😊

[@firebanjo7565]

Bought a Good Time 2 for my first. Took me seven years to step up and buy a 1964 Vega speed necked w/a 1924 Whyte Laydie pot. Great vid 👍

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks! That's awesome.

[@AECRADIO1]

Big difference in tonal quality and projection. I started learning years ago, then life took over. Never lost the desire to play, never will. I would love that gold tone, it really sounds great. Thank you for useful information!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks for watching, hope you're able to get back into it!

[@masonsmarkstoneveneercorp120]

I’ve only been playing just shy of a year and I can definitely hear a big difference. Mine is an older cheap banjo and it sounds just like your B30. I didn’t realize the potential difference there can be.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Yeah, a nice banjo makes a huge difference! The way it feels when playing is significantly better too.

[@RandallDelling]

I hear the difference, but it doesn't make a difference. They're just different and both sound good in your hands. Playability is important. That's why I love my Les Paul Custom. I'm starting Banjo with an Ibanez. We'll see how it goes. Looking forward to learning.

[@JJ_TheGreat]

6:32 I disagree… You don’t have to be “experienced” in playing an instrument to hear the difference in tone. Unless you are talking about the difference in listening to the instrument - and that goes to becoming an active listener vs. being a passive listener. I could hear quite a difference between your 2 banjos - by focusing and using active listening techniques.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

I just meant it's easier to hear when you're an experienced player and the difference is often experienced more by the player than the listener

[@johnpaulhumphrey2981]

Great demonstration. I actually think that the duller tone works better with cheaper recording equipment. But the other one is way cleaner

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks!

[@bryanhenderson8807]

I find that Goldtone makes high quality instruments. They have a shop I believe in Florida where they set up the instruments before selling them I have a Goldtone Beard "Dobro" which I think is excellent. As far as starter banjos, I got a Deering Good Time 2 banjo, which I thought was great. I don't have it now, but I would recommend those as well as Goldtone.

[@Knappist]

My first banjo was a shel tone it sounded awful but I learned to pick on it, forty years on I have played my Gibson RB250 for the last 39 years I improved so fast on the Gibson, if you are serious about playing buy the very best you can afford it will pay you back ten fold 🪕

[@MasonCroneMusic]

I completely agree!

[@reggietheanarchistrat8805]

My mom got me a used Deering Goodtime for 250 for christmas since she found a good deal on it

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Awesome!

[@fancysheep2393]

I'm getting a rogue B30 later this year (in December) and I am so excited

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's awesome! It's so much fun

[@3345646]

To get a banjo that projects loud enough to be heard requires a very heavy instrument. Which to me doesn’t encourage me to pick it up as much. I went ahead and got a deering good time banjo. Great tone and playability. It’s Lightweight but doesn’t project in a jam setting.

[@Buckshot00fan]

If it's an open back you can retrofit a resonator....they have them for sale on thier website. I got the Artisan Special which has the resonator and tone ring...it's quite loud.

[@caloykoy1]

It is fascinating even the wood used would make a difference in the sound. 😊 I guess the more adept one gets at playing the banjo, the more nuanced one hears the sound.

[@jasonsummit1885]

I don't even play the banjo. I have before, but it was a homemade mountain banjo that my great great grandpa made. I do play a lot of other instruments, but the one that I play all the time is the accordion.

[@Romans--bo7br]

Great Video.... and the first one of yours that I've come across..... "Liked and Subscribed" and will watch more of yours. I am JUST starting on the Banjo, and after a bunch of research.... I settled on getting an "Ibanez B200" resonator, for my first Banjo, and just received it this last week (Oct.9th, 2024).... unfortunately, the bridge (packed separately) was broken, the middle "leg" was broken off at mid-point. I ordered a brand new, Hardwood (aged Walnut) bridge from Dotson's... who is a well known Banjo Luthier. Anyway..... it is supposed to arrive here, this coming Wed. (Oct.16th).... and excited, so I can get it under the strings and get it set-up to play..... or, in my case, learn on. LOL I already "smell" a Deering, Open Back Banjo, coming my way, in the Very near future. I also play Bass (electric, acoustic/electric & Ukelele Bass), Lap & Console Steel Guitars, and learning the Mandolin & Mandocaster..... also, Bass & Chromatic (slide) Harmonica's. Oh!!..... and I'm 75 years "young", and having fun!!

[@AGuyThatMakesStuff]

I feel like banjo can make anyone miss their hometown in Kentucky, even if they’re not from Kentucky. I want to learn banjo so bad

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Do it!

[@Buckshot00fan]

My first challenge before I even decided on what Banjo I wanted was getting a thumbpick that would fit and thankfully with some help I got a Goldengate and it fit just fine unlike the other "Large* sizes in other brands. Then I knew wanted an American made model....and I've always been a fan of Deering. I listened to all the beginner models that I could afford both open back and resonator....with and without a tone ring. I decided on the Artisan Goodtime Special because it was the best sounding of all of those I lookedvat...it had a resonator....Tone ring....railroad spikes already installed (was just thinking of future use) and its made in the USA. The Ibanez 200 and the RK 35/36 both are cheaper and may have a slightly better sound or tone but I guess I'll worry about that when I learn and step up into a Deering that isn't a learners model. Or I may drop the money to buy myself a Hatfield Buck Creek from John Hatfield in Glasgow Ky. I talked to the guy at Dollywood playing it, and he recommended it over the Deering, but he told me the playability of the Deering is well worth the entry price for learning on. After I got it I found another challenge was finding a hardcase to fit it.....I bought a Crossrock ABS from Amazon and my banjo flopped like a fish in it....I gotba Road Runner ABS from Guitar Center and it fits like a glove. I called Crossrock, and they wanted to sell me a 400 dollar fiberglass case....I was like nope...I got the Road Runner on sale for 119.....oh the things you run into before even playing your first note.

[@3345646]

I like Bennet Sullivan who teaches banjo online. The ap store has his pocket licks ap for a few dollars. Steve Martin chose him to play on his broadway musical.

[@themusicman80]

I bought a Harley Benton banjo from thomann and it is just as good as any high dollar banjo. You need to try one1

[@themusicman80]

My Dad had a 19 20 something Gibson GoldTone banjo and my HB sounds a lot like it....not bad for a cheapie with quality!

[@cG-es8mb]

I can tell the difference between the 2 sounds but the rogue sounds good. How is playing the banjo compared to ukulele? I guess which one is harder to learn?

[@RedwolfTalk]

I am just now taking up Banjo at 38 and I got mine for the low low price of free. Great Grandpa Allfonse always said anything free is worth saving up fer😂 Anyway a nice lady gave it to me because she decided she would try and then gave up on it. She heard me saying I wanted to get into bluegrass fiddle and gifted me the Banjo. It is an inexpensive ADM, but after tightening the head, positioning the bridge appropriately and setting the neck right it sounds ok enough to learn own. I have been practicing my rolls everyday for atleast an hour. Getting faster and more accurate everyday. Will upgrade to an Ibanez soon for something a bit better but not expensive.

[@jebbkinney8516]

I've played guitar and bass since I was a young kid in many bands n have just decided to learn to play banjo...I bought a cheap one just to learn on but my biggest issue is the sound quality difference as I'm used to playing on high quality instruments but that being said, it's best to learn something new on something inexpensive vs expensive....I will say that there is definitely a learning curve. Trying to retrain my fingers from playing bass and guitar 5 finger to three finger banjo is a chore...lol. Just a matter of patients and practice

[@davidelliott8364]

Hi from the UK, Mason 👋 I guessing I could be slightly, cough, cough, older than a lot of your subs. However, what has made me take up the pen, ok, stylus, is apart from I love listening to good banjo playing (I fell in love with the sound & the look of the banjo due to a Scottish comedian, Billy Connolly) it is the warm, friendy and polite way you host your videos. It makes a wonderful change from listening to some of the brash, abrupt and faux superiority that I, and I suspect others, receive from our IRL interactions. I really enjoy listening to your playing but it is the measured advice you give that has made me pull the trigger to buy a banjo and sign up for lessons. This is a great channel. It is informative, wonderful to listen to and friendly such that it feels oddly like hanging out at a club. Great work, Mason. Your folks must be super proud of their talented Son. I wish you all the success you deserve. All the best, Dave

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thank you so much Dave, welcome to the channel! That means a lot to me 😀

[@davidelliott8364]

@@MasonCroneMusic You are most welcome. Thank you for providing content, and a personality, that is really worth everybody's time. Awesome stuff. Take care. Dave

[@shaunw9270]

I'm a guitar player and useless at 5 string banjo...I bought a Deering Good Time open back which I pick up once in a while when I get the urge. I don't own any other banjos to compare it to , but to me it sounds good , has a comfortable action and never goes out of tune .

[@MasonCroneMusic]

I hear those are pretty good but a bit expensive for what they are. I've never tried one myself though

[@shaunw9270]

@@MasonCroneMusic I'm in England and weighed up it was better value to buy a very plain looking American made instrument than a fancy looking Chinese one 👌

[@Steve-jf3hf]

Great info Mason, and well videoed. I'm on the cheaper end with a Washburn B-9 at the mo, but as you explained, it does me well for what I need to achieve for the basics first, and I guess I'll know when it could be time to move forward a bit (hopefully..). Cheers Steve👍🏻🪕

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Absolutely true, thanks for watching Steve!

[@DanielWhite-ob2yq]

Playability and do what makes you happy but not homeless!!! I now play a Rover RB-20 that I paid $200 for, and it is light weight, so it doesn't hurt my back, plays well and sounds just fine for what I do with it. When I started playing years ago, I went thru my share of flashy trash banjos. I do love the sound my old Avarez Whyte Eagle arch top, but it's just too heavy.

[@riverthecat]

When you want to hear about a thing then you gotta hear from ssomeone who knows their subject...this is excellent insight...many many thanks from Ballinteer Dublin..

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks for watching!

[@markosterman419]

I have always found that sticking a rolled up sock between the head and the dowel stick or rods up near where the rim meats the head always makes any cheap banjo sound better.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

I'll have to try that

[@kalipcole7195]

Right, I started out in the weirdest way lol, I started out with a 1987 Alvarez 5-string then moved to a Oscar Schmidt then got a fender cheap banjo, then got my expensive Morgan Monroe! I went from expensive to cheap the expensive 😆 but it all depends on your playing level and if you like the banjo like you said, I love the banjo and I enjoyed playing it so I kept progressing till I got me a good one, my family couldn't recognize the tone difference until they heard it in person! Is definitely a different sound between each one of them

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's cool! I did something kinda similar, I played the Rogue B30 in this video for a couple of years, then "upgraded" to an Ibanez b200, but I didn't realize that it wasn't really an upgrade. I honestly like the sound of the Rogue better 😂 It's just a fancy looking banjo and like I said in the video that was all I used to care about. After trying a truly good banjo and experiencing the difference I started looking for a better one. I got my Gold Tone (which is a $1900 banjo new) used for $600. I couldn't believe that I found that kind of deal on it, I really love it.

[@kalipcole7195]

@@MasonCroneMusic that's a really good deal I found my Morgan Monroe, originally $3,500 I got four $500!! Just could not believe the deal LOL

[@MasonCroneMusic]

@@kalipcole7195 It's an MGB-1 right? Those are around $600 new if I remember correctly.

[@kalipcole7195]

@@MasonCroneMusic no sir it's a mix of Morgan Monroe and Gibson parts it's a custom built banjo has no serial numbers or names but is a Gibson made Morgan Monroe, I had it looked at professionally and two people price it at $3,000 or $3,500!

[@davidelliott8364]

Sorry, me again. I totally forgot to say, I can clearly hear a difference between the two banjo's. The Rouge, whilst a nice, mellow sound, was, for me, ellipsed by the bright, alive sound of the Gold Tone. Great comparison. Certainly has helped me. Cheers, Dave

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks!

[@OurLifeHasGoneToShed]

Nice video Mason! Thinking about upgrading my Morgan Monroe MNB-1 to a Recording King RK-35.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks! That's awesome, you won't be disappointed.

[@KristinShorey-ii8de]

An old Kay Silvertone is a good starter. I also had a Conqueror, I think they were made in Japan by Teisco? Pretty good. Both need a little set up and may need some TLC depending on what kind of condition they're in. The Silvertones are often helped by a shim behind the heel of the neck, which tends to slip as the wood shrinks abit over time sometimes. Some quality planetary style machine heads are are a good improvement too, but economy ones are ok after you get used to them. Worn ones won't stay in tune. A new hardwood foot style bridge is a good improvement, so is a presto style tailpiece. These things can make an old cheapo a nice banjo, and those old Kay Silvertones AND Conquerors both play well, are quality made, and sound great for low budjo banjos

[@DoctorMandible]

Is it all in the sound? I play acoustic guitar and expensive ones sound better, yea, but mostly the benefit is that they *play* so much easier.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Same thing here, the playability is way better on the Gold Tone.

[@claudioortiz5830]

Great video man. I'm from Chile and there are no brand new banjos here, I've looked everywhere. They are selling me a 2nd hand Epiphone MB-200 made in Korea in 1996 for 500 dollars, everything looks and sounds good and it's the only option here other than importing one and paying all the extra money. Would you get it or wait for a better one? I'm a beginner. I would really appreciate your take on this.

[@jakesmet9426]

I started pickin guitar and mandolin, and ALWAYS wanted to play banjo, so I DEFINITELY shouldn't have gotten the Gold Tone EB-5 LMFAO...I was more worried about being able to play LIVE, that I didn't look hard enough and got antsy...TOTALLY should've went for the Gold Tone OB-150 right away, that sound is in my opinion, THE BEST AND CHEAPEST approximation of that "prewar fathead" sound!!!! Thanks!!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Yeah, good banjos certainly make a difference!

[@mattclegg557]

It it was guitar's or banjo or whatever I'd buy quality second hand as the resale value will still be there and you will play an instrument that will help the learning process and if you give up playing you get your cash back.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Yep, my nicer instruments were used when I bought them. It's a great way to get a great instrument for a more reasonable price.

[@stephenbouchelle7706]

I’m planning on buying up - from my $50 pawn shop Silvertone to a $300 Washburn or Recording King. Despite being able to play some styles pretty OK, that’s hitting the top of my financial limit. I think of some old blues guys blazing trails on cheap no-name guitars (e.g. Hound Dog Taylor)

[@yamnuska1]

Thanks for all the insight. I have been looking at both the closed and open back banjo. What is you preference? Thanks for the great videos. Keep it up 👍

[@MasonCroneMusic]

All of mine are resonator banjos. They're typically preferred for bluegrass and open backs are preferred for old time clawhammer, so it just depends on what style you want to play. Thanks for watching!

[@danielgraham5987]

Sounds amazing and a lot of clarity, may i ask what kind of strings do you use....thank you

[@MasonCroneMusic]

I use ghs medium lights.

[@joelhenderson5404]

You should buy the best for them. If it frets good and doesn't hurt their fingers they will stay with it. I bought my son the Earl Scruggs edition 185 signed by Earl. My daughter got a good Martin guitar. They are still playing bluegrass today. Buy the best.

[@Calvin.The.Unfindable]

some awesome tips and advice there. I think cos i have a little history with instruments - not the banjo, but in general - actually i could hear a definite tone difference between the two, i would say the more "advanced" experience banjo had a richer tone, the cheaper one sounded tinnier, if you get what i mean! marvellous video.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thank you! That's my opinion as well, the more expensive one has a fuller tone.

[@cavecookie1]

My first "real" banjo is an early 70s Epiphone. It has a fantastic tone, and it really cracks! Wouldn't trade my $300 Japanese Epi for almost anything else. From what I have heard, those Japanese Epis are either really good, or really bad. Don't know if that's true or not, but I'm not complaining!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That can be the case

[@aubreyragsdale8163]

Awesome video. Thanks for the tips!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks for watching!

[@aubreyragsdale8163]

@@MasonCroneMusic Always🙂

[@SquirrelsForAll]

Great video, thank you for creating and posting.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks for watching!

[@desdill]

Do you have any recommendations for first banjo? Might get one for myself for Christmas!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

The two I mentioned in this video. Recording King Dirty 30s and if you don't want to spend quite that much you could try the Rogue B30.

[@GtrMan863]

Hello Mason, can you tell me , is Gold tone a good banjo? im looking at the OB_150

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Yes, they're good banjos

[@unsurprisingly]

I'm thinking about getting one Mason ... 👍🏼❤️

[@MasonCroneMusic]

You should, it's super fun!

[@unsurprisingly]

@@MasonCroneMusic I'll let you know I'm working on trying to get a banjo right now it's aFENDER I BELIEVE.

[@sesa2984]

Yeah through headphones over KZbin tge Rogue actually sounded more pleasurable but I know thats not the case. I've got three cheapest but older used banjos. A Madeira from tge 70s, a Lida from 70s or 80s and a Hondo from tge 90s. The Madeira has the fancy inlay etc. and sounds far and away tge best but it has a wiggly neck. Haven't figured out how to fix it yet cause its in storage since tge Lida plays just fine.

[@mikefinley4367]

Stopped in while morning coffee brews. Well said. A top of the line instrument won't make you sound or play better, it comes with experience over time. The flip side is a well experienced and proficient player can make a cheeper banjo sound better than the beginner but it's the experience your hearing not the sound difference which as you stated, is more noticable with time. There are many instruments collecting dust because it turned out to be a passing phase, someone thought it was easy and instant and it requires effort and consistency daily. Starting out I strongly suggest the purchase of a banjo mute, it may save a 🏥 bill, broken banjo, marriage, parental mental breakdown. In a apartment, pick a time the closest neighbor is out to play or go for a drive with it. Speed comes with time, don't be the guitar player who thinks they are going to learn to shred in a week and it ends up wall art. There are good slower picking tunes to start with like Irish Washer Woman, a few older gospel like Leaning on the everlasting arms, etc. It's my opinion many beginners are picking or given tunes that require more experience, end up frustrating them and they quit. Clinch Mt. Backstep , was my fourth tune and Fireball Mail, next. Pick 12 tunes that go from easy to progressively harder. Can't make 12 don't buy that banjo it may be a phase.

[@mikefinley4367]

@@fergyspoolshots Your missing the point. It went over your head.

[@dinodasbunce6224]

For an accurate tone comparison you should have put new heads on both banjos and new strings. I have a Gibson Mastertone tenor banjo.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

That's not necessary, it won't change tone as much as what's actually different between them

[@johanp162]

While I partly agree with cheap:ish as a beginner banjo that may not sound that good is perfectly fine there is another really important aspect even as a beginner: Playability and ability to stay in tune A cheap banjo, today they are almost exclusively made in Asia, might be forced to have a very high (relatively speaking) distance between the fret and the strings due to poor manufacturing tolerances which makes it hard to play. Some problems might be fixable with a better setup and a new bridge, but not all. I had a very, very cheap Asian banjo for my first two:ish years (didn't even have geared tuners) and I was convinced after those two years to almost stop playing as I hadn't at all progressed as far I I thought I would have compared with others and concluded I wasn't cut out to play banjo. Fortunately, I could afford to buy a medium-expensive banjo. I couldn't believe the difference. It was both easier and more fun (better sound and it stayed in tune!) to play which made me look forward to picking up the banjo (a feeling I hadn't had before - it was just a chore to get through) and try to get through a perfect Jerusalem Ridge (trying for the 50:th time .. and finally succeeding). So I would actually recommend, I you have the financial circumstances to be able to, to go for a low mid-quality (no need to go crazy ..) used banjo. In my area this means ~$400-500+ If possible try it out first or have some more experienced player help you as it can be a bargain for $400 but you could also end up with a sour apple for $700 in need of serious touch up/repair for another couple of $100's (that might not be visible on the outside)

[@MasonCroneMusic]

I agree. A lot of the cheapest Asian made banjos are very hard to fret. I always recommend a more mid range entry level banjo for starting out. Some people’s budgets don’t allow it and in that case I recommend the Rogue b30, because it is at least playable.

[@thomassciurba5323]

+1 on the Recording King, it will keep you happy for a long time.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

I agree

[@1911customz]

Have you tried the new gold tone grandee gold plated? Im trying to compare the 250+ to the grandee

[@papadz]

Good time II my first. Love the sound.

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Cool! 😁

[@ac158]

Great advice once again!!! Keep it up young man❤

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Thanks!

[@12Tundra]

just bought a used Gold Tone CC-100R for $250, here we go!

[@MasonCroneMusic]

Have fun!