Banjo Buyer’s Guide
Ready to start your banjo lessons in the Boise, Idaho area and need an instrument?
Or maybe you are looking to add a new instrument to your music corner, or give a banjo as a gift.
No matter the reason, we think adding more music into your life is always a good thing, and we’re happy to help you find the perfect instrument! Read on for our curated list of mandolin recommendations.*
The Basics
Banjo Playability and Longevity
Ease of playability is of utmost importance when buying a banjo. To find a banjo that is easy to play, look for an adjustable neck with a “truss rod.” All of our recommendations* below should have an adjustable neck (with the exception of the Deering Goodtime which uses violin-grade maple for a straight and strong neck).
Playing Style
Next, what style of music would you like to play? If you’re a diehard bluegrass fan, then a resonator banjo will give you the bright sound you’re looking for. If you prefer a more mellow sound then an open-back is the banjo for you! Check out the banjos below to get an idea of reputable brands and models. Please note, all of our suggestions will be for 5-string banjos. Four string (plectrum or tenor) banjos and six string banjos (basically a guitar with extra twang) also exist but are not as common as the classic 5-string.
Shopping Locally
Your local music shop will have a variety of awesome instruments for you to choose from. If you decide to purchase an instrument online or used, please have it looked over by a luthier to make sure it is in tip-top playing condition. If you’re in the Boise area, we love Eagle Guitar for instrument shopping and The Better Fret for set-ups, tune-ups, and repairs.
Banjos We Recommend
Open-Back Banjos
WE RECOMMEND
Resonator Banjos
WE RECOMMEND
Accessories
Now that you’ve found your perfect banjo, outfit it with all the necessities.
Case
Go for either a hard shell or at least a padded soft case to protect your beloved banjo.
WE RECOMMEND
Tuner
Your phone app will work in a pinch, but a dedicated tuner will be more accurate. The clip-on kind will only pick up the vibrations from your instrument, which makes playing in a group even easier!
WE RECOMMEND
Strap
Pick up a strap in a fun color so you can play securely sitting, as well as standing up onstage.
WE RECOMMEND
Picks
Playing finger pickin’ bluegrass? Be sure to grab some finger picks!
WE RECOMMEND
Still have questions about buying a banjo?
Next Read:
Create a safe and comfortable space to leave your instrument out and get into your practice groove!
Ready to play some music?
*Campfire Music Collective is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon offers a small commission on any products purchased through affiliate links at no additional cost to you. Your purchases help support our work in bringing you quality music resources beyond in-person instruction.