These are great mandolins. I always wondered why they didn't generate more interest. Here is my F4 #64 from 05'. Funny thing, I found it really found it's voice with lighter gauge...
Type: Posts; User: QCS
These are great mandolins. I always wondered why they didn't generate more interest. Here is my F4 #64 from 05'. Funny thing, I found it really found it's voice with lighter gauge...
I have had an FT-MS (#76) from Sept. 07’ for about eight years or so. It’s a black top F-5 with a two piece book matched back. I always thought that was a lucky day for me. I regard this one as a...
I think the best advice here is to take your time, and try as many different instruments as you can. Your description of tonal qualities sounds like an oval hole might fit the bill. A nice two point,...
Maybe you could look at it like getting a tattoo. You have decided what you want, set a date of 6 or 12 months to think about it. If at the end of that time you still want a black top, make it...
I find that most people are glad to listen to whatever you want to give em’. “ Long Black Veil” always works, “Goodnight Irene” if there are singers in the crowd. “This Train is Bound for Glory” can...
If the early builds are anything like the later ones, I don’t think you will be disappointed. I have an F5 #76 and I am totally satisfied with its quality and tone. I am not a “catch and release”...
I think Denny filled up your plate pretty good. I think it’s important to become familiar and learn the “standards”. These are the songs you are going to hear the most in jams. I started out playing...
One thing you did not mention is, to what degree it goes out of tune. Are we talking about a little adjustment before playing or is it totally whacked out on a daily basis. Do a close inspection of...
Anytime is the right time to pick banjo, just don’t ask my wife. The banjo was my first instrument and speaks directly to my soul. As for the movie “Deliverence”, I just thought it was a good film....
How about a used Pomeroy F-4? The OP did not mention a budget so this might be a bit much. I found one a few years back, think I gave 1,800. Real quality and great tone.
I have used one for over 25yrs, the best in my opinion. In fact, I bought it at Gryphon too. Seems to work the best for me. Handles guitars, banjo’s and mandolins.
Been playing five string most of my adult life. Scruggs and Stanley style for the most part. Bluegrass,OT, Folk, Americana, or whatever the group wants to play. Came to Mandolin ten years ago, more...
I would take it along. I have traveled with both mandolins and banjos, no problems yet. Mandolins are so easy, even banjos are carryons. Do it! I got to join the mile high club a couple of years ago....
I love having Gryphon within driving distance, but what a temptation! This is a great shop with real good people to help you. Anytime I am down that way I will stop by for strings and picks. Always...
I’m with Al, depends on which builder you are interested in. I have a Pomeroy F4 that has a carved top, and a beautiful one piece back. Good look with the search.
Sblock, thanks for the information. Sounds like a road trip is in order. Will have to do a comparison with what’s available. I liked the ones that are on it, good feel. They just started to show wear...
I have a BRW F5 in need of a re fret. Not sure what materials were used initially , but they are worn and grooved now. Being a Banjo player first, I prefer larger gauge frets for the feel. The frets...
I think we need to mention Frank Wakefield, traditional with an ability to explore the dark corners. Jody Stecher and Don Julin too. And if you sometimes feel the blues, Rich Del Grosso.
I guess anything is possible, but I doubt it. I play a few different banjos and a couple of different mandolins with no ill effects. Not to forget the different mechanics of playing the two different...
I was picking banjo in a string band. The guy playing mandolin stuck around just long enough to make sure we all knew we needed mandolin on certain tunes. One day he informed us he was going to be...
Have not missed Fathers Day for over thirty years! I know you will have a good time. CBA does a great job with this event. Safe travels.
You might be right with Austin. There is a strong music culture there. New York City and Lansing also come to mind. I also live near S.F. I have used both Gryphon and Sylvan. Schoenberg I am not...
I have one of each. My F5 is a BRW blacktop. My F4 is a Pomeroy. While i really like the sound I get out of the F5, the Pomeroy has become my daily player. I just prefer the full, balanced tone I get...
Hello all- so I am stuck here removing two layers of sixty year old wall paper, listening to WPAQ Mt. Airy N.C. on the net. Great programing today,as always. Thought I might mention this to all the...
I was in the same boat as you, years back. Been a banjo picker for decades. You can try making adjustments as NW Steve described, careful not to go too low. Check for string buzz one fret at a time...