Top-10 Bluegrass Banjos
Loved in the USA
Handpicked for quality & trusted by thousands of customers
Outstanding value—quality exceeds the price.
More great picks just for you
Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Resonator Nickel Hardware Bluegrass Banjo with Deluxe Padded Bag, Strings, Dunlop Finger and Thumb Picks, True Tune Rechargeable Tuner, Mute, Bundle Starter Package
Solid Value from a Trusted Brand
Deering Goodtime 5-String Openback Banjo with Instrument Alley Package with Bag, True Tune Tuner, Mute and Picks
Solid Value from a Trusted Brand
Solid Value from a Trusted Brand
Solid Value from a Trusted Brand
Our Top Picks
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Gold Tone OB-150: Orange Blossom Banjo with Case, 5-String Banjo
The Gold Tone OB-150 is a solid choice for bluegrass enthusiasts looking for a reliable 5-string banjo. One of its standout features is the 11" brass flat top tone ring, which contributes to a bright and clear sound—ideal for the fast-paced style of bluegrass music. The resonator is made from 14" maple, which helps project the sound, making it a great option for performances or jam sessions. Its construction includes a 3-ply maple rim and a rosewood fingerboard, both of which enhance playability and durability.
The banjo also comes with quality tuners (GT Planetary) that ensure good tuning stability, which is essential during long playing sessions. The engraved armrest adds a touch of elegance and comfort during use. Weighing in at 5.22 kg (11.48 lbs), it's fairly standard in weight for a banjo, making it manageable for most players.
Some users may find the satin finish less appealing compared to glossy options, although it does provide a sleek look. The manual operation may not be ideal for those looking for more advanced features found in higher-end models.
Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Maple Resonator Bluegrass Banjo 1920's Art Deco Inlay Bronze Powder Coat Hardware with Instrument Alley Hard Case Combo
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.
Deering Artisan Goodtime Special 5-String Bluegrass Banjo with Resonator and Tone Ring | Made In U.S.A.
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.