If there is one style of ukulele I don't have enough reviews of on Got A Ukulele, it's ukulele banjos. To help redress the balance this week I'm looking at the UBJ2 from Barnes and Mullins.
Showing posts with label banjo ukulele. Show all posts
Showing posts with label banjo ukulele. Show all posts
20 Jun 2021
16 Jun 2019
16 Jun 2019T11:12
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Bonanza Ukuleles Bonanzalele - REVIEW
Oh I do like a ukulele brand that pushes the boundaries. And so it has been so far with the Bonanza Ukuleles company from Big Falls, Minnesota. I'm therefore rather pleased to be looking at their latest development in the form of the Bonanzalele ukulele.
22 Sept 2018
22 Sept 2018T14:40
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Gold Tone Little Gem Banjo Ukulele - REVIEW
An interesting ukulele this week and one that has been creating quite a buzz around the world. This is the 'Little Gem' banjo ukulele from Gold Tone.
23 Sept 2017
23 Sept 2017T12:18
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Magic Fluke Firefly Tenor Banjo - REVIEW
It's many moons back in 2012 since I first looked at a Firefly Banjo Ukulele from Magic Fluke musical instruments. And I really rather liked it too. I'm therefore thrilled to be looking at their latest re-vamped tenor version.
13 May 2017
13 May 2017T15:04
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Duke 10 Tenor Banjo Ukulele - REVIEW
Here's a ukulele I've been looking forward to writing about. A follow up to a banjo ukulele that I really rather liked with a new, slightly larger model from Duke in the form of the new Duke 10 tenor.
24 Sept 2016
24 Sept 2016T14:08
The DUKE is a Banjolele that is the brainchild of Ed Ackman and Lorraine Mecca, all that way away in town called Russell in the northern part of New Zealand. Ed had originally come to be noticed in the ukulele world in developing the Sidekick banjo ukulele, a very light and good value home grown banjolele that proved rather popular. The DUKE represents a replacement to the Sidekick, and whilst it looks every much the same, it comes with a number of updates and improvements. Ed explains that these are made and assembled in New Zealand from parts sourced in USA, China, Canada, New Zealand and Italy. Nice.
Before getting into the meat of the review, it's fair to say that I haven't reviewed all that many banjo ukuleles on the website. One thing is also clear - whenever I do, they do tend to be scrutinised heavily by the traditional banjo ukulele fans out there (ie Formby style fans). And banjo ukuleles that don't meet their exacting standards do tend to receive scorn (such as the Deering and the Fluke Firefly I reviewed). For me though, I consider these things as musical instruments and if they decide to break from the norm in any way, to update the concept or just be a little bit different, then I really admire that. And the DUKE certainly does that for me as you will discover. Each to their own I guess.
The DUKE is a tenor scale banjo uke, which is to say it's a tenor scale neck on an 8" drum head. I personally think it looks proportioned well. A big driver for Ed in developing this one was getting the weight down, and he replaced the wooden tone pot of the Sidekick with a glossy black HDPE (plastic) pot on the DUKE. That meants the total weight of this is now 892 grams, which is certainly super light for a banjo ukulele. And you really do notice that when you hold it.
The head is synthetic and comes with the DUKE logo applied as a sticker. I think it looks bold yet classy. Holding the head in place is an aluminium tone ring held in place with seven drum tensioners. That's fewer than you would normally see on a banjolele, but they do the job and of course are adjustable.
The bridge is a standard looking three footed maple piece and the tail is what they describe as a 'precision smooth edge'. For that, read very plain! But to be fair, plain and simple works on a banjo and there is less to dig into the strings and break them. In fact the strings actually run around the tail and then pass through holes in the pot itself where they are tied off.
Another nice addition that you don't often see on banjo ukes other than as an add on, is the aluminium arm rest fitted to the upper side. These are a godsend on banjos with drum tensioners as they avoid those screws digging into the underside of your forearm when you strum. A welcome addition if a little industrial looking on the finish!
The neck is made from solid mahogany painted gloss black to match the drum. The length of the neck extends beyond the fingerboard and continues as a pole piece across the back of the drum. I couldn't see a way of adjusting the neck for action, so presume an action change would need to be done at the bridge piece itself. We shall see if that is an issue when we get to the setup.
Topping the neck is a rosewood fingerboard, which is nice and even in colour. It's fitted with 18 nickel silver frets that terminate at the top of the drum. They are all nicely finished on the ends. The fingerboard sits flush with the top of the drum head too. The edges of the fingerboard are not bound as such, but the gloss painting on the neck hides the fret edges neatly.
We also have pearloid position markers at the 5th, 7th, 10th and 12th spaces, but sadly no side facing fret markers.
Past the nut (which is made of plastic and 1.4" wide) we have a really interesting shaped asymmetrical headstock that I really rather like. I'm a fan of anything that is different and dares to move away from an easy choice like a three pointed Martin crown. This is certainly different! It's fitted with the Duke crown logo in silver. You will love it or hate it. Personally, I love it!
Flipping it over and we see another upgrade from the Sidekick with the inclusion of planetary geared tuners with silver collars and white buttons. They look great. The benefit of planetary gears is that they have the look of a friction peg (so the ukulele doesn't have ears sticking out!), but use a system of helical gears inside to work like geared pegs. These ones have a 4:1 ratio. They are unbranded and a little different in terms of turning ease, but they work well enough and more importantly, hold the strings just fine.
Completing the deal are quite a few extras worth noting. Firstly is the inclusion of a contact pickup as standard in the form of a Shatten Design LP15 pickup. I must say, most banjo uke players I know would prefer to play into a microphone than plug in and in fact I have had some trouble even finding a pickup that works well for a banjo. Nice therefore to see the inclusion of this, but I suspect many buyers will not be basing their purchase on it (or perhaps using it!).
Also included is a nice padded gig bag complete with Duke logo, a clip on strap with Duke logo, a set of Aquila strings, a felt pick and a spanner for adjusting the drum tension. Seems like they thought of everything really.
As for the price, these are currently in pre-production and on offer for an extremely reasonable $297 with shipping included anywhere in the world. I think that is a stellar price actually. Duke explain that when the initial offer is over, they are likely to be available with a street price of about $440. That is less glamourous as a price, but still fairly reasonable for what you are getting I suppose. I would like to think though that a price between the two could be achieved.
So all in all I think it's a striking looking instrument, with all the features I think you would need, and yet different enough to stand out on it's own.
Taking a closer look at the build and I have no real complaints. The drum is perfectly functional and finished well. The neck is slightly less well finished with one or two thin patches and bubbles in the gloss finish. It's not bad by any sense of the word, but it isn't quite perfect.
To hold, it's incredibly comfortable. The weight is great and is nicely balanced. The arm rest is certainly noticeable and welcome too!
The setup at the nut is perfect on this one, and the first thing I noticed about the setup generally is just how low the action is. Some banjo ukes I have seen have ultra high strings, which personally I don't get on with. I was saying above that I couldn't see a way of lowering the action, and thankfully that isn't an issue as I can't see why you would want to. More importantly, whilst it is low there is no hint of fret buzz. And if you did want to raise the action, that would be as simple as buying a new, taller, saddle piece which are cheap and readily available.
Sound wise - it's very typically 'banjo'. Extremely punchy and strident though extremely easy to play. It's not the loudest banjo I have played, but then that is one of the things that actually puts me off the things! That isn't to say this one is quiet though. It's kind of just right for me.
Strummed, it's extremely satisying, picked a little less so for my ears, although that is more to do with the fact that I don't really pick anything that suits the banjo uke sound. There are some echoes and ghost notes, but that is something I have found with most banjo ukuleles I have played and is simply remedied by rolling up a cloth and wedging it between the head and the pole piece.
Plugged in and the pickup works fine. Like a banjo ukulele but louder (if you wanted such a thing!). It's extremely bright, but adding bass in your EQ on the amp soon remedies that. I suppose I would just prefer a version that was perhaps a touch cheaper if offered without a pickup?
But for me it's all about the style of it, the weight and the ease of playing that I really like. I like things that are bold enough to be a little different. And of course that would be completely pointless if the thing then didn't function as a musical instrument. Thankfully things are good on that score I think, and as such I am happy to give this a Got A Ukulele recommendation! If you are a traditionalist, it may not be for you, but please remember - it WILL be for many other people!
http://www.dukeuke.com
UKULELE PROS
Price of the package (at the offer price)
Striking style
Low weight
Super easy to play
Planetary tuners
UKULELE CONS
May not suit purists (actually that could also be a PRO!)
Some flaws on neck finish
No side fret markers
UKULELE SCORES
Looks - 9 out of 10
Fit and finish - 7.5 out of 10
Sound - 8 out of 10
Value for money - 9 out of 10
OVERALL UKULELE SCORE - 8.4 out of 10
UKULELE VIDEO REVIEW
© Barry Maz
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DUKE Banjouke Ukulele - REVIEW
Something a bit different on a number of counts for Got A Ukulele reviews this week
Not least because it's the first instrument I have reviewed from New Zealand. Say hello to the DUKE Banjouke!
The DUKE is a Banjolele that is the brainchild of Ed Ackman and Lorraine Mecca, all that way away in town called Russell in the northern part of New Zealand. Ed had originally come to be noticed in the ukulele world in developing the Sidekick banjo ukulele, a very light and good value home grown banjolele that proved rather popular. The DUKE represents a replacement to the Sidekick, and whilst it looks every much the same, it comes with a number of updates and improvements. Ed explains that these are made and assembled in New Zealand from parts sourced in USA, China, Canada, New Zealand and Italy. Nice.
Before getting into the meat of the review, it's fair to say that I haven't reviewed all that many banjo ukuleles on the website. One thing is also clear - whenever I do, they do tend to be scrutinised heavily by the traditional banjo ukulele fans out there (ie Formby style fans). And banjo ukuleles that don't meet their exacting standards do tend to receive scorn (such as the Deering and the Fluke Firefly I reviewed). For me though, I consider these things as musical instruments and if they decide to break from the norm in any way, to update the concept or just be a little bit different, then I really admire that. And the DUKE certainly does that for me as you will discover. Each to their own I guess.
The DUKE is a tenor scale banjo uke, which is to say it's a tenor scale neck on an 8" drum head. I personally think it looks proportioned well. A big driver for Ed in developing this one was getting the weight down, and he replaced the wooden tone pot of the Sidekick with a glossy black HDPE (plastic) pot on the DUKE. That meants the total weight of this is now 892 grams, which is certainly super light for a banjo ukulele. And you really do notice that when you hold it.
The head is synthetic and comes with the DUKE logo applied as a sticker. I think it looks bold yet classy. Holding the head in place is an aluminium tone ring held in place with seven drum tensioners. That's fewer than you would normally see on a banjolele, but they do the job and of course are adjustable.
The bridge is a standard looking three footed maple piece and the tail is what they describe as a 'precision smooth edge'. For that, read very plain! But to be fair, plain and simple works on a banjo and there is less to dig into the strings and break them. In fact the strings actually run around the tail and then pass through holes in the pot itself where they are tied off.
Another nice addition that you don't often see on banjo ukes other than as an add on, is the aluminium arm rest fitted to the upper side. These are a godsend on banjos with drum tensioners as they avoid those screws digging into the underside of your forearm when you strum. A welcome addition if a little industrial looking on the finish!
The neck is made from solid mahogany painted gloss black to match the drum. The length of the neck extends beyond the fingerboard and continues as a pole piece across the back of the drum. I couldn't see a way of adjusting the neck for action, so presume an action change would need to be done at the bridge piece itself. We shall see if that is an issue when we get to the setup.
Topping the neck is a rosewood fingerboard, which is nice and even in colour. It's fitted with 18 nickel silver frets that terminate at the top of the drum. They are all nicely finished on the ends. The fingerboard sits flush with the top of the drum head too. The edges of the fingerboard are not bound as such, but the gloss painting on the neck hides the fret edges neatly.
We also have pearloid position markers at the 5th, 7th, 10th and 12th spaces, but sadly no side facing fret markers.
Past the nut (which is made of plastic and 1.4" wide) we have a really interesting shaped asymmetrical headstock that I really rather like. I'm a fan of anything that is different and dares to move away from an easy choice like a three pointed Martin crown. This is certainly different! It's fitted with the Duke crown logo in silver. You will love it or hate it. Personally, I love it!
Flipping it over and we see another upgrade from the Sidekick with the inclusion of planetary geared tuners with silver collars and white buttons. They look great. The benefit of planetary gears is that they have the look of a friction peg (so the ukulele doesn't have ears sticking out!), but use a system of helical gears inside to work like geared pegs. These ones have a 4:1 ratio. They are unbranded and a little different in terms of turning ease, but they work well enough and more importantly, hold the strings just fine.
Completing the deal are quite a few extras worth noting. Firstly is the inclusion of a contact pickup as standard in the form of a Shatten Design LP15 pickup. I must say, most banjo uke players I know would prefer to play into a microphone than plug in and in fact I have had some trouble even finding a pickup that works well for a banjo. Nice therefore to see the inclusion of this, but I suspect many buyers will not be basing their purchase on it (or perhaps using it!).
Also included is a nice padded gig bag complete with Duke logo, a clip on strap with Duke logo, a set of Aquila strings, a felt pick and a spanner for adjusting the drum tension. Seems like they thought of everything really.
As for the price, these are currently in pre-production and on offer for an extremely reasonable $297 with shipping included anywhere in the world. I think that is a stellar price actually. Duke explain that when the initial offer is over, they are likely to be available with a street price of about $440. That is less glamourous as a price, but still fairly reasonable for what you are getting I suppose. I would like to think though that a price between the two could be achieved.
So all in all I think it's a striking looking instrument, with all the features I think you would need, and yet different enough to stand out on it's own.
Taking a closer look at the build and I have no real complaints. The drum is perfectly functional and finished well. The neck is slightly less well finished with one or two thin patches and bubbles in the gloss finish. It's not bad by any sense of the word, but it isn't quite perfect.
To hold, it's incredibly comfortable. The weight is great and is nicely balanced. The arm rest is certainly noticeable and welcome too!
The setup at the nut is perfect on this one, and the first thing I noticed about the setup generally is just how low the action is. Some banjo ukes I have seen have ultra high strings, which personally I don't get on with. I was saying above that I couldn't see a way of lowering the action, and thankfully that isn't an issue as I can't see why you would want to. More importantly, whilst it is low there is no hint of fret buzz. And if you did want to raise the action, that would be as simple as buying a new, taller, saddle piece which are cheap and readily available.
Sound wise - it's very typically 'banjo'. Extremely punchy and strident though extremely easy to play. It's not the loudest banjo I have played, but then that is one of the things that actually puts me off the things! That isn't to say this one is quiet though. It's kind of just right for me.
Strummed, it's extremely satisying, picked a little less so for my ears, although that is more to do with the fact that I don't really pick anything that suits the banjo uke sound. There are some echoes and ghost notes, but that is something I have found with most banjo ukuleles I have played and is simply remedied by rolling up a cloth and wedging it between the head and the pole piece.
Plugged in and the pickup works fine. Like a banjo ukulele but louder (if you wanted such a thing!). It's extremely bright, but adding bass in your EQ on the amp soon remedies that. I suppose I would just prefer a version that was perhaps a touch cheaper if offered without a pickup?
But for me it's all about the style of it, the weight and the ease of playing that I really like. I like things that are bold enough to be a little different. And of course that would be completely pointless if the thing then didn't function as a musical instrument. Thankfully things are good on that score I think, and as such I am happy to give this a Got A Ukulele recommendation! If you are a traditionalist, it may not be for you, but please remember - it WILL be for many other people!
http://www.dukeuke.com
UKULELE PROS
Price of the package (at the offer price)
Striking style
Low weight
Super easy to play
Planetary tuners
UKULELE CONS
May not suit purists (actually that could also be a PRO!)
Some flaws on neck finish
No side fret markers
UKULELE SCORES
Looks - 9 out of 10
Fit and finish - 7.5 out of 10
Sound - 8 out of 10
Value for money - 9 out of 10
OVERALL UKULELE SCORE - 8.4 out of 10
UKULELE VIDEO REVIEW
© Barry Maz
23 Jan 2016
23 Jan 2016T21:10
For banjo aficionados, you will know what the Deering name means. For those who don't, Deering are a USA based manufacturer of a dizzying array of banjos. In fact a maker of some seriously well regarded banjos that can run into thousands of dollars in price. As part of their many ranges, they have an entry level line called 'Goodtime' and this new Ukulele Banjo forms part of that. Now, don't be mistaken to think that the term 'entry level' means cheap and nasty - it doesn't. They are still made in the US, they just don't cost thousands! This one has been on loan with me for a little while courtesy of Deering and Eagle Music in the UK.
The first thing you may notice about the Goodtime that sets it apart from most ukulele banjos is the diameter of the head. A lot of ukulele banjos can look to me like 'toy banjos' and have heads around the 8 or 9 inch size. The Deering uses a full size banjo head of 11 inches and puts a ukulele neck on to it. It kind of looks a little out of proportion but actually it's not much different to a banjo ukulele with a resonator on the back - just that pretty much all of the diameter of this one is the drum head and not the outer resonator plate.
The other thing you will notice is the pale colour. All of the instruments in the Goodtime series share this look, and it's down to the fact that they are predominantly made from maple. I think it looks really nice and certainly different in the banjo ukulele stakes. The rim of the pot is made from 3 ply maple and is finished in a satin which is really nice to touch.
We have a steel rim arrangement holding the 11 inch head in place. The head is branded by Deering, but I think they may be made for them by Remo. Holding it in place are 16 chrome hooks which are all adjustable.
The bridge is a standard ukulele banjo affair (⅝") with three feet, but it sits on a removable wooden bridge plate that is patented by Deering. It is said to help transfer vibrations down cleanly to the head, but it also serves to protect the head in the longer term from the feet that can often dig in to the top of the drum.
The tail piece is chrome and stamped with the Deering name and running through the back of the pot is the adjustable tension rod that also holds the neck in place.
Moving on to the neck, this is also made from rock maple and has a lovely feel to it in the hand. It is made from three pieces with a joint at the heel and one towards the headstock. What I really like about it is that the frets are set directly into the maple of the neck, and the fingerboard extends down over the top of the banjo head. It kinds of floats over it giving higher fret options than it just stopping at the edge of the head. The edge of the fingerboard has a nice wave to it too. Whilst the edges of the fingerboard are unbound, with the pale wood it doesn't look like it needs binding (in fact it would spoil the simple look of the thing). A minor thing that pleases me but I love the wavy grain in the maple showing through the finish both on the headstock and down the fingerboard itself. It's subtle but it reminds me of the maple necks on the Bruko Model 6 soprano.
Frets are nickel silver, and we have 17 in total with 12 to the top of the pot. They are all finished well and have no sharp edges. Scale wise, this is a concert model, though I always tend to find scale descriptors kind of go out of the window with banjo ukes.
Fret markers are not provided on the side but the outward facing markers are inlaid in darker wood and in a bow tie shape. They look superb and are placed at the third, fifth, seventh, tenth and twelfth spaces.
The nut seems to be synthetic and is black, and then we move on to the sublimely shaped headstock which is typical of all Goodtime series instruments. The Goodtime logo and the statement that it is 'proudly made in the USA' is engraved into the wood. And this is solid engraving too - not a mere scratch.
Tuning is provided by unbranded sealed chrome geared tuners. They kind of don't sit with the vintage / country vibe of the instrument for me, but they do work well I guess. From memory, the full scale Goodtime banjos use these tuners, so I suppose it is consistent. Still, I just think that friction pegs would look killer on this instrument. I don't like the way manufacturers tend toward geared tuners because they figure that they will get less complaints from buyers. For me, the sort of person likely to buy one of these will know the difference between good and bad friction pegs. As such Deering - fit friction pegs, but choose good ones!
Completing the deal are Aquila Super Nylgut strings and they can be picked up for an RRP of about £330 (although they are available for under £300 in many places). I think that is pretty good value for a banjolele, particularly a banjo ukulele that is made in the US and not in China. In fact I actually had to double check the price...
It doesn't come with a case which is a bit disappointing, particularly because of the size and shape of it means that it may not fit in many banjo uke cases. Deering offer one specifically for it but it will cost another £50 for a soft bag - a price I think is a bit steep for something that isn't a hard case. I understand it is also available with a rear resonator and there are rumours of Deering making a tenor scale version later this year.
So on to playing the thing. Firstly, I have no great skills in banjo ukulele style playing, triple strums and the like so bear with me. I do know, however what sounds and plays good and I know good workmanship when I see it.
First off - it feels great and solid in the hand. It's really well put together with no issues I could spot at all. Weight wise, it's certainly heavier than most wooden ukuleles, but as banjo ukes go it's pretty reasonable really. If found it comfortable to stand and hold without a strap and it didn't feel cumbersome at all. You could of course easily add a strap by attaching to the hooks around the pot but you may offend banjo ukulele traditionalists. I believe Deering also make an arm rest that can be added if you find the hooks start digging in to your forearm.
Setup was spot on at the nut for me and of course with a banjo ukulele you can easily adjust the action or position of the bridge for fine tuning intonation if you need to. I didn't fiddle with it (which probably shows in the video) but it is only with me on test.
The neck is particularly comfortable with that satin finished maple - really nice on both the fingertips and the back of the hand.
And what of the 11 inch head? Well of course with a banjo, that is where the sound is generated, and in the case of this instrument it really doesn't disappoint. It's got a bark that is frighteningly loud and snappy if you really hammer the strings. A real punch that surprised me. It sounds sweet too though and is just as clear across notes when played softly or fingerpicked. Unlike many cheaper ukulele banjos I have played this didn't have echoey ghost notes coming from the pot no matter how hard or soft I played it - notes are crystal clear. No complaints really!
Sure - it sounds like a banjo - it IS A banjo, but for me it had more nuances to the sound than many other banjo ukuleles I had played that seemed to be only about bite and not so much about character of tone. This has a nice mix, and sure - a ton of volume if you need it too. I suppose where I have suggested I am not a fan of the banjo ukulele it's been down to one dimensional overly loud tones that many of them can (to my ears) create - this one just seems more rounded and has more warmth to it. Perhaps it's down to the increased head size. Experts will be sure to enlighten me.
I think if you like your old time music, this would be a great addition to your collection. In fact, if you just like banjo ukuleles or even just banjos, this would suit you as well also. For a wooden ukulele player considering a first step into the world of banjo ukuleles this would be recommended by me due to the quality and tone. I know some ukulele clubs that don't allow banjo ukuleles as they are too loud (yes, seriously, those sort of clubs actually exist). If I lived near one, I'd be tempted to buy one of these just to take to those clubs and wake the dead...
Highly recommended, great quality, great punch. A great buy!
http://www.deeringbanjos.com
http://www.eaglemusicshop.com
Be sure to read all my other ukulele reviews here
Great looks and detailing
The large head!
Extended fingerboard
Great punchy tone but equally nice played soft
Good price for a US made banjo
No side fret markers
No gig bag as standard
Fit and finish - 8.5 out of 10
Sound - 9 out of 10
Value for money - 9 out 10
© Barry Maz
Read More »
Deering Goodtime Banjo Ukulele - REVIEW
Another review on Got A Ukulele that I have been really looking forward to publishing. Some readers think I have a something against the banjo ukulele - I don't. I don't have anything against banjos either. In fact I used to own one made by the company behind this model - the Deering Goodtime Banjo Ukulele.
For banjo aficionados, you will know what the Deering name means. For those who don't, Deering are a USA based manufacturer of a dizzying array of banjos. In fact a maker of some seriously well regarded banjos that can run into thousands of dollars in price. As part of their many ranges, they have an entry level line called 'Goodtime' and this new Ukulele Banjo forms part of that. Now, don't be mistaken to think that the term 'entry level' means cheap and nasty - it doesn't. They are still made in the US, they just don't cost thousands! This one has been on loan with me for a little while courtesy of Deering and Eagle Music in the UK.
The first thing you may notice about the Goodtime that sets it apart from most ukulele banjos is the diameter of the head. A lot of ukulele banjos can look to me like 'toy banjos' and have heads around the 8 or 9 inch size. The Deering uses a full size banjo head of 11 inches and puts a ukulele neck on to it. It kind of looks a little out of proportion but actually it's not much different to a banjo ukulele with a resonator on the back - just that pretty much all of the diameter of this one is the drum head and not the outer resonator plate.
The other thing you will notice is the pale colour. All of the instruments in the Goodtime series share this look, and it's down to the fact that they are predominantly made from maple. I think it looks really nice and certainly different in the banjo ukulele stakes. The rim of the pot is made from 3 ply maple and is finished in a satin which is really nice to touch.
We have a steel rim arrangement holding the 11 inch head in place. The head is branded by Deering, but I think they may be made for them by Remo. Holding it in place are 16 chrome hooks which are all adjustable.
The bridge is a standard ukulele banjo affair (⅝") with three feet, but it sits on a removable wooden bridge plate that is patented by Deering. It is said to help transfer vibrations down cleanly to the head, but it also serves to protect the head in the longer term from the feet that can often dig in to the top of the drum.
The tail piece is chrome and stamped with the Deering name and running through the back of the pot is the adjustable tension rod that also holds the neck in place.
Moving on to the neck, this is also made from rock maple and has a lovely feel to it in the hand. It is made from three pieces with a joint at the heel and one towards the headstock. What I really like about it is that the frets are set directly into the maple of the neck, and the fingerboard extends down over the top of the banjo head. It kinds of floats over it giving higher fret options than it just stopping at the edge of the head. The edge of the fingerboard has a nice wave to it too. Whilst the edges of the fingerboard are unbound, with the pale wood it doesn't look like it needs binding (in fact it would spoil the simple look of the thing). A minor thing that pleases me but I love the wavy grain in the maple showing through the finish both on the headstock and down the fingerboard itself. It's subtle but it reminds me of the maple necks on the Bruko Model 6 soprano.
Frets are nickel silver, and we have 17 in total with 12 to the top of the pot. They are all finished well and have no sharp edges. Scale wise, this is a concert model, though I always tend to find scale descriptors kind of go out of the window with banjo ukes.
Fret markers are not provided on the side but the outward facing markers are inlaid in darker wood and in a bow tie shape. They look superb and are placed at the third, fifth, seventh, tenth and twelfth spaces.
The nut seems to be synthetic and is black, and then we move on to the sublimely shaped headstock which is typical of all Goodtime series instruments. The Goodtime logo and the statement that it is 'proudly made in the USA' is engraved into the wood. And this is solid engraving too - not a mere scratch.
Tuning is provided by unbranded sealed chrome geared tuners. They kind of don't sit with the vintage / country vibe of the instrument for me, but they do work well I guess. From memory, the full scale Goodtime banjos use these tuners, so I suppose it is consistent. Still, I just think that friction pegs would look killer on this instrument. I don't like the way manufacturers tend toward geared tuners because they figure that they will get less complaints from buyers. For me, the sort of person likely to buy one of these will know the difference between good and bad friction pegs. As such Deering - fit friction pegs, but choose good ones!
Completing the deal are Aquila Super Nylgut strings and they can be picked up for an RRP of about £330 (although they are available for under £300 in many places). I think that is pretty good value for a banjolele, particularly a banjo ukulele that is made in the US and not in China. In fact I actually had to double check the price...
It doesn't come with a case which is a bit disappointing, particularly because of the size and shape of it means that it may not fit in many banjo uke cases. Deering offer one specifically for it but it will cost another £50 for a soft bag - a price I think is a bit steep for something that isn't a hard case. I understand it is also available with a rear resonator and there are rumours of Deering making a tenor scale version later this year.
So on to playing the thing. Firstly, I have no great skills in banjo ukulele style playing, triple strums and the like so bear with me. I do know, however what sounds and plays good and I know good workmanship when I see it.
First off - it feels great and solid in the hand. It's really well put together with no issues I could spot at all. Weight wise, it's certainly heavier than most wooden ukuleles, but as banjo ukes go it's pretty reasonable really. If found it comfortable to stand and hold without a strap and it didn't feel cumbersome at all. You could of course easily add a strap by attaching to the hooks around the pot but you may offend banjo ukulele traditionalists. I believe Deering also make an arm rest that can be added if you find the hooks start digging in to your forearm.
Setup was spot on at the nut for me and of course with a banjo ukulele you can easily adjust the action or position of the bridge for fine tuning intonation if you need to. I didn't fiddle with it (which probably shows in the video) but it is only with me on test.
The neck is particularly comfortable with that satin finished maple - really nice on both the fingertips and the back of the hand.
And what of the 11 inch head? Well of course with a banjo, that is where the sound is generated, and in the case of this instrument it really doesn't disappoint. It's got a bark that is frighteningly loud and snappy if you really hammer the strings. A real punch that surprised me. It sounds sweet too though and is just as clear across notes when played softly or fingerpicked. Unlike many cheaper ukulele banjos I have played this didn't have echoey ghost notes coming from the pot no matter how hard or soft I played it - notes are crystal clear. No complaints really!
Sure - it sounds like a banjo - it IS A banjo, but for me it had more nuances to the sound than many other banjo ukuleles I had played that seemed to be only about bite and not so much about character of tone. This has a nice mix, and sure - a ton of volume if you need it too. I suppose where I have suggested I am not a fan of the banjo ukulele it's been down to one dimensional overly loud tones that many of them can (to my ears) create - this one just seems more rounded and has more warmth to it. Perhaps it's down to the increased head size. Experts will be sure to enlighten me.
I think if you like your old time music, this would be a great addition to your collection. In fact, if you just like banjo ukuleles or even just banjos, this would suit you as well also. For a wooden ukulele player considering a first step into the world of banjo ukuleles this would be recommended by me due to the quality and tone. I know some ukulele clubs that don't allow banjo ukuleles as they are too loud (yes, seriously, those sort of clubs actually exist). If I lived near one, I'd be tempted to buy one of these just to take to those clubs and wake the dead...
Highly recommended, great quality, great punch. A great buy!
http://www.deeringbanjos.com
http://www.eaglemusicshop.com
Be sure to read all my other ukulele reviews here
UKULELE PROS
Build qualityGreat looks and detailing
The large head!
Extended fingerboard
Great punchy tone but equally nice played soft
Good price for a US made banjo
UKULELE CONS
Would have preferred friction pegsNo side fret markers
No gig bag as standard
UKULELE SCORES
Looks - 9 out of 10Fit and finish - 8.5 out of 10
Sound - 9 out of 10
Value for money - 9 out 10
OVERALL UKULELE SCORE - 8.9 out of 10
UKULELE VIDEO REVIEW
© Barry Maz
3 Apr 2012
3 Apr 2012T14:22
New Family Member
Well, the replacement arrived, and I am rather pleased with it. Say hello to the Firefly Banjo Uke, from the folks at the Magic Fluke Company.
A full review on Got A Ukulele shortly.
Read More »
A full review on Got A Ukulele shortly.
31 Mar 2011
31 Mar 2011T22:01
Putting a Flea in One's Ear: Zither Heaven Banjo Ukulele Review
I thought I would share this post on my friend Mandolinbabe's ukulele blog "Putting A Flea In One's Ear". What a wacky but fabulous looking instrument! Want one!
I really like eclectic stuff like this and am sincerely hoping they deliver to the UK (though I suspect that is a very big ask!)
Putting a Flea in One's Ear: Zither Heaven Banjo Ukulele Review: " I've been wanting two things for awhile now-a ukulele maker that will supply me with ukuleles for Mandolin Babe's Picking Parlour"
Read More »
I really like eclectic stuff like this and am sincerely hoping they deliver to the UK (though I suspect that is a very big ask!)
Putting a Flea in One's Ear: Zither Heaven Banjo Ukulele Review: " I've been wanting two things for awhile now-a ukulele maker that will supply me with ukuleles for Mandolin Babe's Picking Parlour"
28 Apr 2010
28 Apr 2010T20:42
Ozark Banjo Uke - update
Since last post, fitting the arm rest - I am happy - this is now super comfortable to play.
Slight issue arose though - the arm rest moved my stupid playing style back to something more normal, which meant I struggled to mute the head with my palm as before, so I am back to that boomy sound that wasnt too nice.
Easily fixed with old banjo trick - some banjo players tone down that sound with a rolled up towel lodged loosely, but securely inside banjo between tension rod and the underside of the head.
This uke is much smaller, so a quick fold up of a guitar polishing cloth tucked in there and hey presto - the sound is cleaned up - in fact better than it was before.
An easy fix - but worth me mentioning, as if you bought one and didnt think you could remove back plate as I have, you might not have thought this possible. Take the back off and experiment!!
Read More »
Slight issue arose though - the arm rest moved my stupid playing style back to something more normal, which meant I struggled to mute the head with my palm as before, so I am back to that boomy sound that wasnt too nice.
Easily fixed with old banjo trick - some banjo players tone down that sound with a rolled up towel lodged loosely, but securely inside banjo between tension rod and the underside of the head.
This uke is much smaller, so a quick fold up of a guitar polishing cloth tucked in there and hey presto - the sound is cleaned up - in fact better than it was before.
An easy fix - but worth me mentioning, as if you bought one and didnt think you could remove back plate as I have, you might not have thought this possible. Take the back off and experiment!!
T10:31
Highly Strung, Wantage, had them in stock ( Click Here ) and I ordered - arrived today - in red burst finish (red with some sort of black smudgy bits that I do quite like). Also available on Amazon most of the time too if you prefer. Before I go on any further, please note - this is a £25 instrument. That's right a £25 instrument - half the price of some video games. Really really cheap. You have seen me rally on before about how cheap instruments can be more of a hindrance to the beginner than anything else. I play instruments in the £150+ bracket - so why would I want one of these? Well I read good things about the Makala, so thought I'd give it a go - if it was playable, it will become by beater, travel uke to sling in the car!
It arrived in lovely condition - no real finish flaws - few marks on the side of the neck, but again, this is a £25 instrument (I am gonna keep repeating that!!!). The finish is very glossy and looks quite deep. Frets are finished in brass colour. Bridge (in a dolphin shape) is a dark rosewood type of wood, as is the fingerboard (which I think is just wood, stained). The top is laminate wood, and has a simple white painted rosette around soundhole. Cant see the join between wood top and plastic sides at all. Neck joint is similarly clean. Really like the look of the back of the uke - the plastic body is slightly bowed out - I like different things like that. Have tried to take a pic (but not too easy to show). Makala logo is on headstock in silver.
Fret markers in faux mother of pearl at the 5th, 7th, and 10th (why oh why, not the 12th, please?) with white painted versions on the top side of the neck (if you are right handed!!)
The tuners are open backed, cheap geared tuners. Note though, they have nice small tuner buttons - something you don't always get on cheap instruments where makers raid the parts bin - they put on guitar tuners which are heavy, and make the uke look like Mickey Mouse. Nice plus that. Tuners are tight and work OK. Nut and bridge appear plastic.
Arrived strung with cheap black nylon strings. These were immediately changed to standard soprano strings from Aquila - the word on the street is that the aquilas really drive the wood top on these ukes well. Why change them? Well, this is a £25 instrument - don't expect miracles on the string provision!!
All strung up, and strings stretched, and away we go. To hold, the uke is nice and balanced, and light. The intonation really is spot on - all over the neck, and I have checked it with a digital tuner - for £25, that is pretty amazing. Really nice harmonic chime if I strum a barre across the 12th and 7th frets - cor! For £25??
Bridge saddle height seems fine, and action is just how I like it. Finish at the nut was a bit scruffy, and I may think about ever so slightly (ever ever so slightly) lowering the nut slots. But honestly - the action is fine, as is the tuning. Cant complain.
Sound is bright and fun - given a more vigorous strum, it really projects quite a bit of volume - not as loud as my Flea, but louder than any other cheap uke I have played. It actually sounds quite sweet too with the aquilas. Very easy to play, fret, hold etc.
Final point - comes with a cloth gig bag - not sure they can really call it a "bag" - more just a bit of cloth. Least said about that the better....
So do I recommend it, and what for?
Well, yes I do - its a well made, accurate good looking instrument that would be perfect for a beginner - the set up and finish on this is not going to work against you if you are starting out. It will never be loud enough to compete with a band, but for a beginner, I think it is just perfect (just be prepared to change strings - it really isn't that hard!)
I would also recommend it to more seasoned players like me as a beater uke for taking places I wouldn't take my expensive instruments (camping for example) - it seems perfect for that.
So give them a look - For £25 (there, I said it again) I really don't think you can afford NOT to buy one!!
SCORES
Looks - 6
Fit and finish - 7
Sound - 8.5
Value for money - 10
OVERALL - 7.9
Read More »
The Red Special arrives - Makala Dolphin ukulele review
Well, as I earlier mentioned, have been waiting and waiting for the plastic bodied Makala Dolphins to make their way into UK stock. These are highly regarded cheap as chips instruments, that many report got that little bit better since Kala decided to mould the back and sides in one piece polycarbonate.
Highly Strung, Wantage, had them in stock ( Click Here ) and I ordered - arrived today - in red burst finish (red with some sort of black smudgy bits that I do quite like). Also available on Amazon most of the time too if you prefer. Before I go on any further, please note - this is a £25 instrument. That's right a £25 instrument - half the price of some video games. Really really cheap. You have seen me rally on before about how cheap instruments can be more of a hindrance to the beginner than anything else. I play instruments in the £150+ bracket - so why would I want one of these? Well I read good things about the Makala, so thought I'd give it a go - if it was playable, it will become by beater, travel uke to sling in the car!
It arrived in lovely condition - no real finish flaws - few marks on the side of the neck, but again, this is a £25 instrument (I am gonna keep repeating that!!!). The finish is very glossy and looks quite deep. Frets are finished in brass colour. Bridge (in a dolphin shape) is a dark rosewood type of wood, as is the fingerboard (which I think is just wood, stained). The top is laminate wood, and has a simple white painted rosette around soundhole. Cant see the join between wood top and plastic sides at all. Neck joint is similarly clean. Really like the look of the back of the uke - the plastic body is slightly bowed out - I like different things like that. Have tried to take a pic (but not too easy to show). Makala logo is on headstock in silver.
Fret markers in faux mother of pearl at the 5th, 7th, and 10th (why oh why, not the 12th, please?) with white painted versions on the top side of the neck (if you are right handed!!)
The tuners are open backed, cheap geared tuners. Note though, they have nice small tuner buttons - something you don't always get on cheap instruments where makers raid the parts bin - they put on guitar tuners which are heavy, and make the uke look like Mickey Mouse. Nice plus that. Tuners are tight and work OK. Nut and bridge appear plastic.
Arrived strung with cheap black nylon strings. These were immediately changed to standard soprano strings from Aquila - the word on the street is that the aquilas really drive the wood top on these ukes well. Why change them? Well, this is a £25 instrument - don't expect miracles on the string provision!!
All strung up, and strings stretched, and away we go. To hold, the uke is nice and balanced, and light. The intonation really is spot on - all over the neck, and I have checked it with a digital tuner - for £25, that is pretty amazing. Really nice harmonic chime if I strum a barre across the 12th and 7th frets - cor! For £25??
Bridge saddle height seems fine, and action is just how I like it. Finish at the nut was a bit scruffy, and I may think about ever so slightly (ever ever so slightly) lowering the nut slots. But honestly - the action is fine, as is the tuning. Cant complain.
Sound is bright and fun - given a more vigorous strum, it really projects quite a bit of volume - not as loud as my Flea, but louder than any other cheap uke I have played. It actually sounds quite sweet too with the aquilas. Very easy to play, fret, hold etc.
Final point - comes with a cloth gig bag - not sure they can really call it a "bag" - more just a bit of cloth. Least said about that the better....
So do I recommend it, and what for?
Well, yes I do - its a well made, accurate good looking instrument that would be perfect for a beginner - the set up and finish on this is not going to work against you if you are starting out. It will never be loud enough to compete with a band, but for a beginner, I think it is just perfect (just be prepared to change strings - it really isn't that hard!)
I would also recommend it to more seasoned players like me as a beater uke for taking places I wouldn't take my expensive instruments (camping for example) - it seems perfect for that.
So give them a look - For £25 (there, I said it again) I really don't think you can afford NOT to buy one!!
SCORES
Looks - 6
Fit and finish - 7
Sound - 8.5
Value for money - 10
OVERALL - 7.9
27 Apr 2010
27 Apr 2010T19:50
Ozark banjo uke - modification
Further to last post, the sore arm continued.
I have a rather odd playing style, and tend to let my inner forearm rest on the top edge of my ukes while strumming. That works fine on standard ukes, but when I bought this banjolele, I was finding the tension rods were cutting into my arm.
This wouldnt be a problem with a conventional strum, so I am not having a dig at the Ozark! Did need sorting though.
Thanks to Andybanjo at the Banjo Workshop, I sourced a used arm rest from an 8" head banjo.
Arrived today, but sadly the holes dont quite line up with my tension rods - I therefore have it clamped somewhat unconventionally as you will see. When I say unconventional, I mean the tensioners are now angled inwards slightly, not perpendicular to the head. Maybe that isnt unconventional - i dont know!
No matter - the banjolele is now comfortable!!
Read More »
I have a rather odd playing style, and tend to let my inner forearm rest on the top edge of my ukes while strumming. That works fine on standard ukes, but when I bought this banjolele, I was finding the tension rods were cutting into my arm.
This wouldnt be a problem with a conventional strum, so I am not having a dig at the Ozark! Did need sorting though.
Thanks to Andybanjo at the Banjo Workshop, I sourced a used arm rest from an 8" head banjo.
Arrived today, but sadly the holes dont quite line up with my tension rods - I therefore have it clamped somewhat unconventionally as you will see. When I say unconventional, I mean the tensioners are now angled inwards slightly, not perpendicular to the head. Maybe that isnt unconventional - i dont know!
No matter - the banjolele is now comfortable!!
22 Apr 2010
22 Apr 2010T18:32
Great music shop
I've already given a run down of shops I like - and as you will see, I refuse to pull punches.
Where a shop is decent though, I think it is only fair that they get support. I seriously dislike the large music shop websites - you know the sort - where you call an 0800 number, speak to somebody who cant play a paper and comb, let alone the guitar you are buying for several hundred pounds... they are booking your instrument on a computer screen, and despatching it from a warehouse... ugh!
if you are buying stringed instruments, you really want to try and get a personal service - a shop that will give the instrument a once over - a shop where you can speak to somebody who UNDERSTANDS instruments!
Anyway, getting to the point - I was delighted with my service from Highly Strung in Wantage when getting my new uke - they have kindly namechecked my blog and me on the listing for that same instrument - so its only fair that I name check them back!
Highly Strung website
I've had a few people telling me they fancy one of these - you could do a lot worse than going to Highly Strung
Cheers Nigel!
Read More »
Where a shop is decent though, I think it is only fair that they get support. I seriously dislike the large music shop websites - you know the sort - where you call an 0800 number, speak to somebody who cant play a paper and comb, let alone the guitar you are buying for several hundred pounds... they are booking your instrument on a computer screen, and despatching it from a warehouse... ugh!
if you are buying stringed instruments, you really want to try and get a personal service - a shop that will give the instrument a once over - a shop where you can speak to somebody who UNDERSTANDS instruments!
Anyway, getting to the point - I was delighted with my service from Highly Strung in Wantage when getting my new uke - they have kindly namechecked my blog and me on the listing for that same instrument - so its only fair that I name check them back!
Highly Strung website
I've had a few people telling me they fancy one of these - you could do a lot worse than going to Highly Strung
Cheers Nigel!
20 Apr 2010
20 Apr 2010T14:20
Ozark banjo uke - sound sample
Few people have asked for sound sample of the new banjo uke - here we go - ignore the nonsense at the end - should give you an idea though! I like it!
Read More »
18 Apr 2010
18 Apr 2010T11:49
Ouch! Got a really sore arm
Really liking my ozark banjo uke. So much fun to play. I have a gripe though...
Perhaps it is my playing style, but as my arm rests on the edge of the pot and the tensioners, after a single song I've got red sore marks on my arm where edge is digging in to my skin.
As I say, it's down to my strum style, so am now on the hunt for a banjo arm rest that fits an 8" head
Ouch!
Read More »
Perhaps it is my playing style, but as my arm rests on the edge of the pot and the tensioners, after a single song I've got red sore marks on my arm where edge is digging in to my skin.
As I say, it's down to my strum style, so am now on the hunt for a banjo arm rest that fits an 8" head
Ouch!
-----------------------------------------
STOP PRESS - BIG THANKS! to Andy Banjo (Andy Perkins) who seems to be sorting me out - looks like a great bloke if you are in to banjos. Visit him here! http://www.andybanjo.com/
-------------------------------------------
17 Apr 2010
17 Apr 2010T11:25
Ozark banjo uke - initial review
Having now had time to have a play and a fiddle (and given the new aquilas time to settle in), I am able to give my initial impressions of my new instrument. As I said, got this from Highly Strung in Wantage via mail order - great store i've not shopped with for a while, but did buy some guitar bits a while ago - brilliant customer service on the phone, did a deal to get quicker shipping, nice communications (all good!)
On the whole - I think its great - I just love the way it looks - kind of unusual colour for a banjo, and I think that makes it look different enough,
Sound is clearly banjo like, and just the sound I was looking for. It isn't a rich sound though. I took the resonator off the back as I prefer to be able to adjust muting with the position of the uke against my body.
Strumming the uke in similar spot to a wooden uke (ie across the bottom of the fingerboard) tends to make the sound "boom" and resonate a little too much. I therefore get a better sound playing this by lightly placing my palm on the head just at the top to provide a bit of muting - doesn't affect volume, but cleans up the sound completely. Its a flaw with the uke, but one that is easy to overcome. I think you can get banjo mutes that fit behind the bridge, so may look into that also.
It also feels very very good to play - action is superbly low without a single buzz, and having now "tuned" the bridge position with an accurate tuner, the intonation is spot on all over the neck - not something that you can ever guarantee on an instrument of this price.
Read More »
On the whole - I think its great - I just love the way it looks - kind of unusual colour for a banjo, and I think that makes it look different enough,
Build quality is pretty high across the board - frets are finished nicely, and the hardware all seems solid. I think the wood used is probably not the best quality and it is obviously painted, as opposed to stained and polished - that looks a bit cheap. Headstock shows this off the worst, and the Ozark logo looks particularly cheap.
Fingerboard was a touch dry on arrival, so it has been given a treatment with some bore oil and now looks beautiful and dark (i think the fingerboard is the best finished "wood" element of this uke)
Few of the tensioners on the pot needed a tighten, but otherwise all looks good. The hole for that top A string hasn't snapped another string yet, so maybe its ok
Its fairly heavy to hold (compared to a wood uke anyway), but it is nicely balanced, and my playing style allows me to cradle it comfortably.
Sound is clearly banjo like, and just the sound I was looking for. It isn't a rich sound though. I took the resonator off the back as I prefer to be able to adjust muting with the position of the uke against my body.
Strumming the uke in similar spot to a wooden uke (ie across the bottom of the fingerboard) tends to make the sound "boom" and resonate a little too much. I therefore get a better sound playing this by lightly placing my palm on the head just at the top to provide a bit of muting - doesn't affect volume, but cleans up the sound completely. Its a flaw with the uke, but one that is easy to overcome. I think you can get banjo mutes that fit behind the bridge, so may look into that also.
It also feels very very good to play - action is superbly low without a single buzz, and having now "tuned" the bridge position with an accurate tuner, the intonation is spot on all over the neck - not something that you can ever guarantee on an instrument of this price.
So all in all - initially - I think this is a great instrument - sure it has some flaws and signs of its lower price, but they are not significant. Its playable, different and fun. Highly recommended!
SCORES
Looks - 7
Fit and finish - 8.5
Sound - 7.5
Value for money - 9
OVERALL - 8
SCORES
Looks - 7
Fit and finish - 8.5
Sound - 7.5
Value for money - 9
OVERALL - 8
14 Apr 2010
14 Apr 2010T14:05
following my trials and tribulations in trying to track down a Fluke Uke, I have decided to put that purchase off for another day, and changed tack.
Have ordered myself one of these Banjo Ukes from the great guys at Eagle Music!
Read More »
Change of Plan
following my trials and tribulations in trying to track down a Fluke Uke, I have decided to put that purchase off for another day, and changed tack.
Have ordered myself one of these Banjo Ukes from the great guys at Eagle Music!
Its an Ozark, entry level uke banjo - model 2035 i believe. Banjo ukes get very very expensive, and i just wanted an entry model and this seems to be among the best reputation wise.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARRRRGGHH STOP PRESS!!!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Another change of plan - Eagle out of stock too.... found another source though, so one is "PROMISED" with me on Friday!
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