Best beginner resonator banjos

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Sep 18, 2022

In this article, we've compiled the best beginner resonator banjos one can find on the market today. We've analyzed about 75 of beginner resonator banjos and selected the 43 top options by D Z Strad, SM'SAI MUSICALS. We took the time to do a meticulous research and point out some advantages and disadvantages of each of the options we suggest below so that you don't have to dive deep into the topic and spend endless hours searching for the ideal model on your own.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

MIRIO 5-String Banjo 24 Brackets
#TOP 1
MIRIO 5-String Banjo 24 Brackets
ftb score rating icon 9
PBM Score
ARLIME 5 String Banjo
#TOP 2
ARLIME 5 String Banjo
ftb score rating icon 9
PBM Score
Deering Artisan Goodtime II 5-String Resonator Banjo
#TOP 3
Deering Artisan Goodtime II 5-String Resonator Banjo
ftb score rating icon 9
PBM Score

Top 43 Best beginner resonator banjos Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

MIRIO 5-String Banjo 24 Brackets

MIRIO

Features

  • [Coveted Remo Skin]The Remo head delivers bright sound and clarity, resting on the Remo head is a beautiful 5/8" maple bridge for superior string vibration transfer. The featured Remo head is famed for its performance as an effective skin among most popular banjos, ensuring our 5 string MIRIO banjos are reliable instruments with an excellent quality of sound.
  • [All-In One Kit] Comes with bag, digital tuner, strap, strings. you can get these accessories which is suited to beginner one-off at a cost-effective price.
  • [Easily Adjustable] It features an adjustable tailpiece, allowing you to adjust the downward pressure on the bridge, which changes the volume and tone. The rich sound is complimented by a quality poplar laminate fingerboard, providing a comfortable playing surface.
  • [Classic Folk Style] With Chrome hardware, gloss lacquered natural finish, and strap rings, this is the ideal banjo for any folk or bluegrass enthusiast.
  • [Geared 5th Tuner] Suited for folk and bluegrass playing. It features a drone string and is commonly tuned to G,D,G,B,D. Whether learning finger picking or clawhammer style, the 5 string is the ideal first banjo or addition to any guitarists collection.
  • [High Grade 5 String Banjo] MIRIO banjo combines a mahogany resonator and body secured with 24 chrome-plated brackets, for an authentic folk and bluegrass sound with great volume and sustain.
#TOP 2

ARLIME 5 String Banjo

ARLIME

Features

  • Mid-range Handle & Steel Wire: The handle is in perfect size for people of different ages to grasp. And the strings are made of mid-range steel wire which is not easy to break, contributing to long service time and easy operation.
  • 24 Brackets & Superior Remo Head: The mini banjo uses high-quality Remo drum head that can produce a sweet tone. You can also gently beat the head to fusion different timbres in your melodies. And 24 reinforced brackets around the drum can be adjusted to make the sound more enchanting.
  • Geared 5th Tuner: With geared 5th tuner, the banjo brings the classic tones. It’s perfect for country, folk, bluegrass and even some modern rock. And the chrome-plated closed tuning pegs are easy to tune and control, most players can easily learn.
  • Premium Plywood Frame: This panel of the travel banjo is made of high-quality wood, and the back and side is made of Sapele Wood, which are solid and not easy to deform. The whole plywood frame is durable for year of use.
  • Economical Kit: Coming with almost all accessories such as guitar Tuner, Strap, Strings, 3 Picks, the 39-inch banjo is suitable for beginners or kids to start their music road. And with a carrying bag, it is easy to take the banjo along with you while protecting it from corrosion and scratch.
#TOP 3

Deering Artisan Goodtime II 5-String Resonator Banjo

Deering

Features

  • Artisan Goodtime II 5-String Resonator Banjo
  • The Artisan Two is enhanced with a Rich Brown stain, white detailing and spikes at 7, 9, and 10
  • The use of spikes enables you to expand your playing from the key of G to easily play in the keys of A, B and C
  • With a Bluegrass resonator back for projection, the Artisan Goodtime Two banjo has a 3-ply violin grade maple rim and produces a bright and clear tone that projects well and is louder than its open back counterpart
  • Here is a banjo you can have right there by your easy chair or take out an play in a jam
#TOP 4

Ibanez B50 5-String Banjo Natural

Ibanez

Features

  • Mahogany neck
  • 24-lug configuration
  • 5-string banjo design
  • Remo 11inch coated weatherking banjo head
  • Mahogany back and sides
#TOP 5

Deering Goodtime 2 Resonator Banjo

Limxink

Features

  • 3-ply Violin Grade Goodtime Maple Rim
  • Blonde Slender Rock Maple Neck
  • Includes a Gig bag
  • 22 Pressed In Nickel Silver Frets
  • 11″ Frosted Top High Crown Head
#TOP 6

Gold Tone CC-100R Cripple Creek Banjo

Gold Tone

Features

  • Tailpiece Other Features: Neck binding, Curly maple headstock veneer, Low action
  • Body: MapleNeck: MapleResonator: MapleTone Ring: BrassTruss Rod: Two-way adjustableTailpiece: Straight Line
#TOP 7

Gold Tone CC-100R+ Cripple Creek Banjo

Gold Tone

Features

  • Curly maple headstock veneer
  • Double coordinator rods
  • Straight Line tailpiece
#TOP 8

Jameson Guitars 5-String Banjo 24 Bracket

Jameson Guitars

Features

  • Geared 5th tuner: As a 5-string banjo, this model features a 5th geared tuner side peg. This is a beneficial enhancement over the more typical friction tuners, allowing for better control of your instrument’s sound.
  • Includes padded gig bag: Included with this 5-string banjo is a deluxe 15mm padded gig bag for secure carrying and storage. In addition, this guitar case is designed with a front pocket, backpack shoulder straps, and a carrying handle.
  • Premium craftsmanship: Crafted from the finest woods, with a 5-ply maple and mahogany shell, mahogany neck, closed back mahogany resonator, as well as a laurel fretboard, this beautiful 5-string banjo from Jameson is exceptional.
  • High-quality design: Jameson's banjo features a Remo Weatherking drum head, a 5/8-inch maple ebony bridge, a chrome plated armrest, an adjustable tailpiece, and truss rod. Also, designed with a removable resonator allowing you to play the banjo both open and closed back.
  • Beautiful tone: The design behind this banjo and the chosen materials enable it to produce an eloquent, rich tone. It offers distinctive and beautiful sound characteristics, perfect for playing bluegrass, clawhammer, folk, country, and rock tunes.
#TOP 9

5-String Geared Tunable Banjo

Pyle

Features

  • PREMIUM QUALITY - The rich wood and high-gloss finish are accented with white jade machine head tuner key pegs and chrome-plated hardware. Crafted with mahogany neck, back, and side, plus a rosewood fingerboard and Maple Wood bridge
  • LIGHTWEIGHT - Full scale & lightweight ideal for traveling, camping, hiking, taking to the beach. Whether you are pro, a weekend warrior, a hobbyist or a beginner: Start playing your favorite songs right away
  • GEARED 5TH TUNER - Important for both tuning and playability. A premium feature usually found only on more expensive banjos this geared 5th tuner is an important upgrade over the common friction tuner
  • CLASSIC TRADITIONAL STYLE - Styled after the innovative models of the early 20th century, these new/old banjos are true players that exude undeniably providing a vibrant singing banjo tone in any situation
  • FABULOUS TONE - Brings you all the classic tones of a traditional 5 string banjo. Perfect for country, folk, bluegrass, and even some modern rock. It's designed to sound as good as it looks
#TOP 10

Vangoa LEFT-HANDED Banjo 5 String Mahogany Open Back Banjo

Vangoa

Features

  • ️Professional TonePremium Africa Mahogany full-size banjo with arched resonator projects a more clear exciting sound and it is removable for a mellower and softer open-back tone
  • ️Gorgerous Classic LookGlossy finish clearly shows the beautiful natural wood grain, supports you with a comfortable touch and high protection. Sturdy fretboard, slender neck ensures a smooth, safe sliding up and down
  • ️Durable Construction]Adjustable truss rod helps easily adjust to enjoyable action and keep the neck straight for perfect intonation, geared closed 5th white jade peg is smoothy and precise to adjust
  • ️Save Your Time Vangoa prepares everything you need to start, beginner guide, tuners, back-up strings, fingerpicks, cleaning cloth, truss rod wrench, Allen key, even a pick-up for plugging into an amp to get louder sound on your performance while provides a better movability
  • ️Top Quality Remo Head]Weatherking frosted drum head ensures a stable tone, while clean bright, and less sustain. Chrome-plated 24 brackets precisely control the head for a more accurate sound
#TOP 11

Pyle, 5 String Resonator Banjo Size 24 Bracket

Pyle

Features

  • ADJUSTABLE TRUSS ROD: Features adjustable truss rod & pearl color tuner pegs w/ additional 5th geared tuner side-peg. Adjust the truss rod can balance the tension caused by strings/climate change, set up perfect string height to meet different needs
  • HEAVY DUTY HARDWARE: This complete all-in-one standard acoustic banjo starter kit is equipped with a geared 5th string tuner and high quality remo drum head. It is handcrafted from sapele hardwood
  • PROFESSIONAL FULL SIZE : 38.6” instrument features a tunable 5-string banjo with 24 brackets and 22 frets, equipped with a classic traditional style binding design. Features a coated and polished rich wood finish with chrome-plated hardware/accents
  • COMPLETE BANJO SET: Pyle brings you an all-in-one banjo set, everything you need to start playing. Comes w/ a gig bag, digital tuner, spare strings, 3 finger picks, cleaning cloth, detachable shoulder strap w/ hanger & wrench (to adjust the brackets)
  • SAPELE WOOD: Features a rich and polished Sapele wood resonator, high-density man-made wood fingerboard, and remo milky skin banjo top, it is designed to sound as good as it looks. Includes maplewood bridge stand and truss rod adjustment tool
#TOP 12

Vangoa Banjo 5 String

Vangoa

Features

  • [Complete Banjo Beginner Kit]] This banjo set is safely stored inside a 8mm premium fabric padded gig bag with front pocket, soft durable carry handle, and adjustable shoulder strap. Curved design neck rest hugs the back of the neck for the perfect fit for great protection. Well-prepared all you need to start, just run right out of the box.
  • [Exquisite craftsmanship, Specialized Design] Quality durable fingerboard on the C-shape neck with finely manicured, smooth seated frets ensure hours of playing comfort. The reliable 5-ply birch rim and mahogany shell, well match the 14:1 ratio geared, precise-tuning white jade tuning pegs
  • [Considerate Details]]This 5-string banjo also includes a geared 5th string tuner, which is an upgrade over the common friction tuner, providing more accurate tuning and less slippage, typically found on more expensive banjos. The adjustable truss rod allows you to adjust the neck, ensuring it remains straight for utmost playability.
  • [Weather King Remo Head] This banjo kit is produced sophisticatedly with a Remo head, provided by the world-renown Remo drum company. The crisp white, frosted head delivers a bright sound and great clarity. The head is secured with 24 chrome-plated brackets and resting on Remo's head is a beautiful 5/8" maple/ebony bridge for superior string vibration transfer
  • [Excelptional Tone] This premium mahogany banjo contributes to a sweet full sound, and the arched resonator offers an excellent vibration for a wonderful tone, bright and twangy. With its easily removable resonator, it is perfectly versatile as open or closed back banjo, whether you’re playing mellow country tunes, folk, bluegrass, clawhammer-style, even rock, you’ll get a great response and sound
#TOP 13

Ashthorpe 5-String Banjo

Ashthorpe

Features

  • Banjo bundle kit includes: This banjo is safely stored inside a 15mm premium fabric padded “gig bag” guitar case with pocket, carry handle, and shoulder strap. Extra strings, a polishing cloth, and three celluloid picks are also included.
  • High-quality craftsmanship: Ashthorpe's banjo features a mahogany neck and laurel fretboard with finely manicured, smooth seated frets. The body is crafted from mahogany with a high-gloss finish. The closed-back resonator can be easily removed, allowing this banjo to be played open back. Designed with a 5-ply maple and mahogany shell, a 5-ply maple rim, 15:1 ratio geared tuners with high-quality tuning pegs, an adjustable hinged tailpiece, and chrome-plated armrest.
  • Traditional style: This 5-string banjo is perfect for any style of play with its guitar-style headstock and neck combined with a tambourine shaped body. Whether you’re playing mellow country tunes, folk, bluegrass, clawhammer-style, even rock, you’ll get a great response and sound from this right-handed banjo.
  • Remo head: This banjo kit is flawlessly designed with a Remo head, made by the world-renown Remo drum company. The crisp white, frosted head delivers bright sound and clarity. The head is secured with 24 chrome-plated brackets and resting on the Remo head is a beautiful 5/8" maple/ebony bridge for superior string vibration transfer.
  • Geared 5th tuner and adjustable truss rod: This 5-string banjo also includes a geared 5th string tuner, typically found on more expensive banjos. The geared 5th tuner is an upgrade over the common friction tuner, providing more accurate tuning and less slippage. The adjustable truss rod allows you to adjust the neck, ensuring it remains straight.
#TOP 14

Vangoa Banjo 5 String Beginner Full Size Kit

Vangoa

Features

  • [Considerate Design] Built-in 2-way adjust truss rod makes adjusting string height easily, ensures a comfortable playing experience with a durable neck. 24 brackets pre-tuned the Remo head, making it stable and giving a great sound to the banjo throughout its optimal tension range
  • [Best Matching REMO Head] Quality Remo top frosted head has crisp, bright with a good snap which ensures a fast and stable bridge sitting for starters, and stifle some unwanted sustain for more clarity and good note distinction when fast fingerpicking
  • [Fabulous Tone] Premium Mahogany banjo contributes for a sweet full sound, perfect for any style of music. The high standard arched resonator offers an excellent vibration for a wonderful tone, bright and twangy, while it's removable to be an open back banjo for a mellower, more intimate tone, versatile for undecided beginners
  • [Precise Accurate Tuning] Sealed geared chrome-plated 5th pegs get that perfect sound with excellent protection from corrosion and dirt. White jade pegs are smooth and durable, making it easier to tune and stay tuned after settling down
  • [Sincere Service] All you need to start is well-prepared, comes with a starter manual and useful kits: bridge setting guide, clip-on tuner, fingerpicks, backup string set, audio cable, Allen key, tuning key, strap, cleaning cloth. We aim to provide customers with quality products, sincere service. For any problems, feel free to contact us via buyer-seller message, you could rest assured that you'll receive the best of care
#TOP 15

Washburn Banjo Starter Kit (Gig bag

Washburn

Features

  • Pack Includes: Gig Bag, Strap, Picks, Pitch Pipe, Instructional Booklet
  • Remo Head
  • Remo Head,Washburn B8 Banjo
  • Washburn B8 Banjo
  • Mahogany resonator,Stained light-brown/buffed gloss neck
  • Pack Includes: Gig Bag, Strap, Picks, Pitch Pipe, Instructional Booklet
  • Mahogany Sides/Back,Rosewood fingerboard,
  • Maple bass with Rosewood tip bridge
  • Mahogany Sides/Back
#TOP 16

Vangoa 5 String Banjo Remo Head Closed Solid Back

Vangoa

Features

  • 5. ECONOMICAL KIT Coming with bag, guitar Tuner, Strap, Pick up, Strings, Picks, you can get these accessories which is suited to beginner one-off at a cost-effective price.
  • 3. DURABLE MATERIAL Mahogany neck, sides and back have beautiful wood grain, hard and not liable to warp or corrode, making the banjo durable.
  • 1. REMO DRUM HEAD It uses high-quality Remo drum head as Banjo panel that can produce a sweet tone. You can also gently beat the head to fusion different timbres in your melodies.
  • 2. ADJUSTABLE STRING HEIGHT It equips a truss rod that can adjust the string height, so that you will feel comfortable and perform fluently.
  • 4. SMOOTH DECENT TOUCH It has a fine bright paint, glossy and smooth, giving you a comfortable playing experience.
#TOP 17

Kmise 5 String Resonator Banjo

Kmise

Features

  • The lacquered removable back cover makes the entire banjo more advanced and beautiful. Just open the gorgeous sapele back cover to get a cleaner sound; with the resonator the sound is fuller.
  • Comes with storage bag, banjo shoulder strap, extra strings, digital clip-on tuner, polishing cloth,allen wrench to adjust truss rod if needed,and quality metal finger picks.If you have any question about your banjo,please contact kmise for a quick resolution.
  • The okoume wood neck and sapele wood back combine to produce a beautiful and very distinct tone characteristic as well as looking great.
  • This banjo has a polished chrome installed armrest to provide comfort while playing.The sturdy, padded nylon gig bag holds the instrument security, allowing you to take your beloved banjo with you on trips
  • The Kmise 5 string banjo uses a high-quality drumhead that can produce a pleasant sound. The player can beat the drumhead panel when plucking the string to come percussion with a beautiful melody
#TOP 18

Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Banjo

Deering

Features

  • Sealed geared tuners
  • Slender rock maple neck
  • Three-ply maple rim
  • Single Bound Maple Resonator
  • Adjustable tailpiece
#TOP 19

4 String Banjolele Magic Gold Concert 23 Inch Banjo Ukulele

Magic Gold

Features

  • The Banjolele is equipped with comfortable armrests, so you no longer feel the pain or discomfort of metal armrests when playing for a long time. Play comfortably and fully concentrate on practice. Very comfortable for beginners
  • Beginner Kit, tuner, spare strings, bracket wrench, strap, picks, stage pickups, cleaning cloth, gigbag
  • The high-quality Sapele back and side panels bring a sweet, loud, and clean tone. The walnut fingerboard is smooth and resistant to daily practice, and the copper edges are carefully polished to avoid scratches
  • The 23" concert banjo ukulele has a unique and wide tone, which can be easily mastered by most musicians. The 15:1 ratio chrome-plated closed tuning nails are easy to tune and hold. The Italian Aquila strings are stronger and more durable. Stable sounds better
  • It can be a resonator banjo or an open banjo. The traditional resonator style produces a softer and softer sound, while the open-back style produces a brighter sound
#TOP 20

COSTWAY 5-string Banjo

COSTWAY

Features

  • ?Premium Material & Fine Craftsmanship: This premium banjo is mainly composed of plywood frame, Sapele back, Nato wood panel, rosewood fingerboard and bridge, and steel string. Selected materials and exquisite workmanship ensure the banjo’s quality timbre and long-lasting durability.
  • ?Come with Strap & Carrying Bag: You can attach the strap to the lightweight banjo (only 6.6 lbs) and carry it to play. The bonus gig bag is waterproof and can protect the banjo during your trip. Thus, you are able to take the instrument anywhere and enjoy the melody anytime!
  • ?Complete Beginner Kit: It comes with a digital tuner, a set of spare string, a gig bag, a strap, 2 wrenches, 3 picks and a wiper for users to get start right away! String height can be adjusted by wrench, to enable a comfortable action and straight neck for you. And the banjo is equipped with a geared 5th tuner side peg to keep it in tone better.
  • ?Superior Frosted Remo Head with 24 Brackets:The 5-string banjo features a superior frosted Remo head, which can produce a warm, bright and sweet sound. And 24 steel brackets hold the head in place, with which you can adjust the drum head to get a desired resonating sound effect. Besides, the drum head is also fitted with armrest to facilitate playing.
  • ?Open-back or Resonator Banjo: The solid back board is detachable so as to get different sound effect to meet your needs. You can play the closed-back banjo for a brighter resonator tone. Or you can also play an open-back one with mellower and softer sound. Just use the wrench (included) to remove the back board.
#TOP 21

Mulucky 5 String Banjo

MuLucky

Features

  • Remo Head: This resonator banjo kit is flawlessly designed with a Remo head, made by the world-renown Remo drum company. The professional retro imitation animal skin; warm and retro tone, delicate, transparent, with moderate overtones. The head is secured with 24 chrome-plated brackets
  • Adjustable Bracket - 24 brackets ensure even head panel tension to fusion melodious percussion timbres by gently beating on the head, It can be adjusted according to the sound you want
  • Traditional style: This 5-string banjo is perfect for any style of play with its guitar-style headstock and neck combined with a tambourine-shaped body. Whether you’re playing mellow country tunes, folk, bluegrass, clawhammer-style, even rock, you’ll get a great response and sound from this right-handed banjo
  • Geared 5th tuner and adjustable truss rod: This 5-string banjo also includes a geared 5th string tuner, typically found on more expensive banjos. The geared 5th tuner is an upgrade over the common friction tuner, providing more accurate tuning and less slippage. The adjustable truss rod allows you to adjust the neck, ensuring it remains straightd
  • Mulucky Banjo Kit: The 5 string banjo kit comes with a full-size banjo x1, spare strings set x1, tuner x1, tuning wrench x2, fingerpick x4, strap x1, cleaning cloth x1, and gig bag x1, ruler x 1. We are a professional banjo supplier, If you have any questions about this banjo, please contact us
#TOP 22

Vangoa Banjo Uke, 4 String Banjolele

Vangoa

Features

  • Superior MaterialQuality Sapele Back & Sides contributes to a sweet, resonant and clean tone. Walnut fretboard is smooth and resistance to daily practice, copper fret edges are carefully sanded to avoid scratches
  • Practical AccessoriesIt comes with accessories for beginners, user manual, tuner, extra strings, bracket wrench, strap, picks and pick-up for stage performing. Ready to pick it up and start playing. [The Strap will come in random colors]
  • Comfortable ArmrestNo longer feel the pain or discomfort with the metal armrest during long playing sessions. Play comfortably and entirely concentrate on practice.
  • Have It Both WaysIt is designed to be a convertible banjo, being a resonator banjo as well as an open back banjo. No need to choose which one you prefer, you can have them at one purchase. Depends on your preferred music styles, you can have louder, twangier or more mellow, softer sound
  • Carefully Matched23" concert banjo ukulele offers a distinctive wide sound, is easy for most players to grasp. Chrome-geared closed tuning pegs with 15:1 ratios are easy to tune and hold tunes. Italy Aquila Strings are sturdier, more stable, sound better
#TOP 23

Donner Banjo Full Size 5 String Tenor Banjolele Guitar

Donner

Features

  • 24 Bracket Banjo- Donner Banjo's 24 high-quality Brackets stabilize the drumhead, resulting in a crisp sound.
  • Full size Banjo Kit for Beginners Kids -All accessories,including banjo picks, gig bag,tunner, ruler and truss rod,are suitable for banjo Beginner.
  • Remo Drumhead 5 String Banjo- the drumhead of Donner banjo is from the professional drumhead supplier - Remo, contributing to a warm, full and clear tone. You can tap the head lightly to create different melodies while playing.
  • Quality Material Banjolele- Mahogany neck, sides and back have beautiful wood grain, hard and not liable to warp or corrode, making the banjo durable.
  • High Gloss Finish - Donner banjo uses a fine bright paint for a shiny texture and a smooth touch, giving you a comfortable playing experience.
#TOP 24

Vangoa Banjo 5 String Acoustic Electric Full Size Open Back Set

Vangoa

Features

  • Acoustic electric BanjoVersatile to plug into an amplifier to control the volume to your liking while maintaining its acoustic tone for practice. It is tailored for intermediates, experienced player for party, stage performance, ensure the freedom to move around on stage with easier volume control without feedback, way more practical for both personal and professional or commercial use
  • Fabulous TonePremium Mahogany body contributes for a sweet full sound, closed-back projects a louder and more ringing sound. The high standard arched back design offers an excellent vibration for a wonderful tone, the acoustic-electric feature helps in creating your perfect style and tone of the music, resonator removable to be an open back banjo, perfect for country, folk, bluegrass, and even some modern rock
  • Considerate DesignGeared 5th tuner with white jade pegs is smooth and durable to tune while built-in truss rod makes adjusting string height easily for a comfortable playing experience and more durable for keeping the neck easy to play, 24 brackets pre-tuned Remo head is stable for unboxing performance
  • Best Matching REMO Head] Quality Remo top frosted head has crisp, bright with a good snap. It ensures a stable bridge sitting to stifle some unwanted sustain, has more clarity and good note distinction when fast fingerpicking. Hidden piezo under the head, pick up the clear and smoother music that is soothing for the ears
  • Sincere ServiceAll you need to start is well-prepared, comes with a starter manual and useful kits, clip-on tuner, fingerpicks, backup string set, audio cable, Allen key, tuning key, strap, cleaning cloth. We aim to provide customers with quality products, sincere service. For any problems, feel free to contact us via buyer-seller message, you could rest assured that you'll receive the best of care
#TOP 25

Ibanez B300 5-String Banjo

Ibanez

Features

  • Basswood Rim
  • 11" Coated Remo Weatherking Head
  • Rosewood Resonator with Abalone Inlays
  • Stell Tension Hoop with 24 Piece Bracket
  • Rolled Brass Tone Ring
#TOP 26

Banjo Ukulele 4 String Banjos lele Ukelele Uke Concert 23 Inch Size (Type 4)

Kmise

Features

  • Lower Action: Press easily,no buzzing,best for beginner to banjo ukulele practicing
  • Advanced Tuner: Closed gear tuning pegs,contains oil, so it would not rust so easy.Finer and more stable tuning also ensures the banjo ukulele has the best intonation and stays in tune longer.
  • Two Styles Available:it can not only be a resonator type but also an open back type by detaching its back. Resonator type produces a mellower, softer sound while the open back type more bright
  • Bone Nut & Saddle: Well wear-resistance,perfectly vibration transmission,make the banjo ukulele has a full sound
  • No Hand Scratching: Neatly fret wire + smoothly fingerboard , comfortably to play with the banjo ukulele
#TOP 27

Banjo Case Black,Kmise Carrying Gig Bag Velvet Interior Padded Protective Hardshell For 5/6 String Full Size Resonator Banjos 41"

Kmise

Features

  • High-quality Materials:With 22cm thick Padding,this Banjo bags are made from four materials (Leather,Board,Sponge and velvet) ,Which are waterproof ,wearable ,dustproof , moisture and prevent scratches.
  • APPLICABLE SIZE:This Banjo gig bag fits for 5/6 -Strings Banjo. Height:41" (104cm );Length: 15"(38cm);Width:6.3"(16cm)
  • Safer Banjo Bag: This Banjo case has 3 locks with buckle and one lock with key,you can put your expensive banjo inside trustingly.
  • Best After-Sale ----30 days of free change and one-year quality guarantee. If you encounter any problems, just contact us for a swift and helpful solution.
  • Equipped Compartment ---- This banjo carrying case featuring a secure slot for holding your 5/6 string banjo's neck, keeping it safe. In addition, the interior compartment will safely hold your accessories, like a tuner, picks, capo and so on.
#TOP 28

Mulucky 5 String Banjo MINI

MuLucky

Features

  • Superior Wood - Nato wood body with beautiful wood grain is hard and not liable to warp or corrode, making the banjo durable. Anti-corrosion chrome-plated Pegs stand the test of time and keep the strings in tune
  • Easy to Learn - The banjo with 5 strings offers a distinctive sound that most players can easily grasp. And the chrome-plated closed tuning pegs are easy to tune and hold
  • Remo Head - A unique shiny black reflective look that brings out the lower frequency response of a banjo. This head has a very mellow tone with long sustain.
  • Beautiful Sound - The 5 string banjo with geared 5th tuner brings the classic tones, 12 brackets ensure even head panel tension to fusion melodious percussion timbres by gently beating on the head
  • Warranty Service - We offer warranty after-sales service, if you have any questions about the item, you can contact us via email, we guarantee you a perfect solution
#TOP 29

ADM 5 String Full Size Banjo Guitar Kit

adm

Features

  • HIGH-QUALITY REMO DRUM HEADSelected banjo panel will produce a sweet tone, ensuring clarity sound. Proper bridge setting can stay stable when fast fingerpicking
  • ECONOMICAL KIT WITH FREE LESSONSOur pack is constucted with bag, digital tuner, strap, strings, picks, hanger and clearing cloth. You can get these accessories which is suited to beginner one-off at a cost-effective price. Meanwhile, you will also enjoy extra one-month lesson by contactng us when the item arrive
  • GEARED 5TH TUNERIt is important for both tuning and playability, bringing you the classic tones and perfect for country, folk, bluegrass and even some modern rock. And it is an important upgrade over the common friction tuner
  • THICKENED BAG for BETTER PROTECTINGAn thicker bag will protect the banjo better, making it a great idea to take for traveling, camping, hiking, going to the beach. And also perfect for anyone who has always wanted to learn to play this iconic instrument
  • SUPERIOR MATERIALBlack walnut fingerboard and bridge, sturdy and stable, make the sound more layered. Sapele sides and back have beautiful wood grain, hard and not liable to warp or corrode, making the banjo durable
#TOP 30

Costzon 5-String Banjo 24 Bracket

Costzon

Features

  • ?With Useful Accessories: The digital tuner with button cell has the ability to precisely adjust the sound level. Ideal for beginners and kids.With a strap and a carrying bag, it is easy to take the banjo along with you while protecting it from corrosion and scratch.
  • ?With Geared 5th Tuner: Our 5 string banjo brings you the classic tones and it is perfect for country, folk, bluegrass and even some modern rock. It features additional 5th geared tuner side-peg which is important upgrade over the common friction tuner.
  • ?Mid-Range Closed Handle and Steel Wire: Mid-range closed handle is suitable for various ranges of people to hold and control. And the strings are made of mid-range steel wire which is solid but flexible to pluck, contributing to long service time and easy operation.
  • ?Solid and Durable Plywood Frame: The panel is wood, and the back and side is Sapele Wood, and the fingerboard is made of Ma qiao Rosewood, which are solid and resistant to corrosion. The durable plywood frame is of high quality that has a long service time.
  • ?24 Adjustable Brackets and Remo Drum: There is 24 consolidation brackets around the drum which is adjustable to make the sound meet the design requirements. It is needed to adjust the drum for several times in order to make a sound.
#TOP 31

Donner Banjolele 4 String Banjo Ukulele kit Stringed Musical Instruments

Donner

Features

  • 4 Sting Banjo Uke---Donner banjolele is a four-stringed musical instrument with a small banjo-type body and a fretted ukulele neck. Combining banjo's distinctive tone with ukulele's standard tuning of G-C-E-A and playing style.
  • Quality Material Banjolele - the body of Donner banjo uke is made of sapele, enabling it to produce a mellow, and soft sound. Made by maple and hardwood, the bridge is hard enough to prevent the strings cut into the bridge.
  • Full size Banjo Kit for Beginners Kids -All accessories,including banjo picks, gig bag,tunner, ruler and truss rod,are suitable for banjo Beginner.
  • Resonator Guitar Banjolele - Donner banjo is resonator banjo with the great drumhead which is from the professional drumhead supplier - Remo, contributing to a warm, full and clear tone.
  • Best Beginner Guitar Banjo - innovative use of finger plates inlaid with muscovite to help beginners quickly find the appropriate position and the board points are very clear, and there will be no reflection under the light.
#TOP 32

Ashthorpe 6-String Banjo

Ashthorpe

Features

  • Traditional style: This 6-string banjo is perfect for any style of play with its guitar-style headstock and neck combined with a tambourine shaped body. Whether you’re playing mellow country tunes, folk, bluegrass, clawhammer-style, even rock, you’ll get a great response and sound from this right-handed banjo.
  • High-quality craftsmanship: Ashthorpe's banjo features a mahogany neck and laurel fretboard with finely manicured, smooth seated frets. The body is crafted from mahogany with a high-gloss finish. The closed-back resonator can be easily removed, allowing this banjo to be played open back. Designed with a 5-ply maple and mahogany shell, a 5-ply maple rim, closed geared tuners with high-quality chromed tuning pegs, an adjustable hinged tailpiece, and chrome-plated armrest.
  • Remo head: This banjo kit is flawlessly designed with a Remo head, made by the world-renown Remo drum company. The crisp white, frosted head delivers bright sound and clarity. The head is secured with 24 chrome-plated brackets and resting on the Remo head is a beautiful 5/8" maple/ebony bridge for superior string vibration transfer.
  • 6-String banjo: With strings tuned similar to that of a guitar, this 6-string banjo is perfect for all player levels, from beginner to advanced. Guitar players looking to pickup playing the banjo will handle this stringed instrument with ease.
  • Banjo bundle kit includes: This banjo is safely stored inside a 15mm premium fabric padded “gig bag” guitar case with pocket, carry handle, and shoulder strap. Extra strings, a polishing cloth, and three celluloid picks are also included.
#TOP 33

Costzon 6-String Full Size Banjo

Costzon

Features

  • ?Precise Tuning to Maintain Accuracy: There is an adjustable truss rod to balance the tension caused by strings or climate change. An Allen Key & wrench are also available to manually keep the desired sound. And it also has a digital tuner to easily tune the instruments for playing blues, hillbilly music, and more.
  • ?Full Size with Beginner’s Kit: The full-size banjo measures 39 inches long for both juniors and senior players. It includes a gig bag for portability, a tuning wrench & Allen Key, a strap, polishing cloth, extra strings, picks, and a digital tuner. Our banjo is suitable for both beginners and seasoned players.
  • ?Premium Remo Drumhead: Our banjo has a Remo skin drumhead and a solid Sapele back, which build up a premium resonator for quality and professional sound. The head has 24 steel brackets to fix the drum skin, in order to make the banjo sound stable and also to be able to tune easily.
  • ?Exceptional Quality for Comfortable Play: The maple bridge with precut snaps provides a stable string sitting for a quick response with less unwanted sustains. Inlaid with cupronickel frets and steel strings, this banjo has clear board points. Besides, the closed chrome-steel tuner on the solid nato wood neck guarantees a stable tone.
  • ?Open Back Satisfies Different Needs: Featuring an open back design, this banjo offers 2 ways of play to meet varying demands. The close resonator makes a warm and soft sound compared to the open back play’s bright plucked sound. And it sounds like a banjo, but plays like the guitar of standard tuning of EADGBE.
#TOP 34

Banjo 5 String, MIRIO 41Inch Full Size Banjo Beginner Kit

MIRIO

Features

  • 100%Good Service-We provide a 3-year warranty,We aim to provide customers with high-quality products and sincere service. If you have any problems, just feel free to contact us. We will definitely give you a satisfactory solution
  • Classic Traditional Style - -Styled after the innovative models of the early 20th century, these new/old banjos are true players that exude unden, Full scale & lightweight ideal for traveling, camping, hiking, taking to the beach. Whether you are pro, a weekend warrior, a hobbyist or a beginner: Start playing your favorite songs right away
  • 24 Adjustable Brackets and Geared 5th Tuner - Important for both tuning and playability. A premium feature usually found only on more expensive banjos this geared 5th tuner is an important upgrade over the common friction tuner
  • Superior Remo Banjo Head - Brings you all the classic tones of a traditional 5 string banjo. Perfect for country, folk, bluegrass, and even some modern rock. It's designed to sound as good as it looks
  • Premiun Quality- The rich wood and high-gloss finish are accented with white jade machine head tuner key pegs and chrome-plated hardware. Crafted with mahogany neck, back, and side, plus a rosewood fingerboard and Maple Wood bridge
#TOP 35

Rover RB-20T Resonator Tenor Banjo

Rover

Features

  • Standard 11-Inch composite rim, Slim, comfortable mahogany neck with adjustable truss rod
  • 24 brackets, Guitar-style tuners with 14:1 ratio gear, P-101 Deluxe Vega-type armrest
  • Paddle shaped peghead, Standard 26 5⁄8-Inch scale length, Notched brass tension hoop with nickel plating
  • P-115 No-Knot tailpiece, Vintage-style white bound mahogany resonator, Nickel-plated 2 piece flanges
  • East Indian Rosewood fingerboard with M.O.P. dot markers with white binding
#TOP 36

Superior C-269 Trailpak II 5-String Resonator Banjo Gig Bag

SUPERIOR

Features

  • Luggage-grade 600-denier black ballistic nylon exterior with 12mm padding gives a lifetime of protection against wear and tear
  • No-scratch soft red flannel interior lining ensures a safe, protective fit
  • Padded webbed nylon handles and adjustable, padded backpack straps for extra portability
  • Multi-stacked exterior pockets with zippered and Velcro closures to hold all your essential accessories
  • To learn more, please see our Product Description below
#TOP 37

Washburn Americana B9

Washburn

Features

  • Geared 5th string planetary Tuner, and die cast tuners with Pearloid buttons for smooth tuning
  • Ebony-tipped Maple Bridge for pristine articulation
  • Chrome armrest adds to playing comfort
  • 11" Grooved tension hoop with authentic Remo head
  • 5-String banjo with Mahogany resonator and aluminum rim
#TOP 38

Vangoa Mini Banjo 5 String Small Travel 26 Inch Set

Vangoa

Features

  • [Quality Sweet Tone] AAA mahogany body with a 5-ply climate-resistant 8-inch rim produces a rich, vibrant, sweet sound, perfect for any music style. 12 solid chrome-plated brackets properly tight the drum head to put out a satisfactory tone and playability
  • [Closed Open Back Switchable] It has great plunk for old-time clawhammer and the considerate resonator design provides enough punch for bluegrass while maintaining its light and portable. With the pickup, you could easily plug into an amp to spread out your music with more friends and families
  • [Easy to Start Support] Provide a 90-Day Warranty and lifelong aftersales service. Well-prepared everything you need to start: gig bag, beginner guide book, bridge installation ruler, extra string set, digital tuner, strap, picks, pickup, cleaning cloth, tuning key. Easier to begin, just unbox and play
  • [Mini Banjo Beginner Kit] 26 Inch banjo, lightweight design is perfect for children, youth, travelers, or anyone who's looking for a small portable banjo. Travel size easily fits in a regular suitcase while is still fully functional for professional learning
  • [Enhanced Playing Experience] Durable chrome-plated armrest enables comfort on the wrist of the picking hand, keep you more concentrated on banjo uke performance and practicing smoothly without getting weary and losing balance in hand placement, greatly speeding up your learning progress
#TOP 39

Jameson Guitars Left Handed 6-String Left Handed Banjo Guitar

Jameson Guitars

Features

  • High-quality design: Jameson's banjo features a Remo Weatherking drum head, a 5/8-inch maple ebony bridge, a chrome plated armrest, an adjustable tailpiece and truss rod. Also, designed with a removable resonator allowing you to play the banjo both open and closed back.
  • Beautiful tone: The design behind this banjo and the chosen materials enable it to produce an eloquent, rich tone. It offers distinctive and beautiful sound characteristics, perfect for playing bluegrass, clawhammer, folk, country, and rock tunes.
  • Sold as a package: Included with this 6-string left-handed banjo is a deluxe 15mm padded gig bag for secure carrying and storage. In addition, this guitar case is designed with a front pocket, backpack shoulder straps, and a carrying handle.
  • 6-String left-handed banjo: This 6-string banjo is tuned similarly to a standard guitar and is perfect for those who want to cross over from playing the guitar to the banjo. Guitar players will enjoy the rich sounds the banjo creates while playing chords that are familiar to them. This banjo features six chrome plated closed geared tuners.
  • Premium craftsmanship: Crafted from the finest woods, with a 5-ply maple and mahogany shell, mahogany neck, closed back mahogany resonator, as well as a laurel fretboard, this beautiful left-handed 6-string banjo from Jameson is exceptional.
#TOP 40

Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Resonator Banjo

Artist Unknown

Features

  • Comes with padded gig bag, True Tune tuner, Kyser capo and Gold Tone banjo mute
  • 6 Year Warranty
  • Blonde Slender Rock Maple Neck, 22 Pressed In Nickel Silver Frets, Hardwood Bow Tie Inlays, Sealed Geared Tuners, Geared 5th String Tuner, Durable Satin Finish, Deering Fiddle Shaped Peghead
  • Neck Width at the Nut 1 1/4″, Scale Length Nut to Bridge 26 1/4″, Rim Diameter 11″, Resonator Diameter 13 7/8″, Overall Instrument Length 38″, Weight Approx. 6 lbs
  • 11" Blonde 3-ply Violin Grade Maple Rim, Steel Tension Hoop, 11″ Frosted Top High Crown Head, 5/8″ Maple/Ebony Goodtime Bridge, 16 Flat Hooks with 9/32″ Nuts, 16 Bracket Shoes with Screw Attachments, Deering Patented Goodtime Tailpiece, Steel Coordinator Rod for Adjustments, Durable Satin Finish
#TOP 41

Recording King RKH-05 Dirty Thirties Resonator Banjo

Recording King

Features

  • Plate Flange with 24 American Threaded Hooks and Nuts
  • Multi-Ply Rim
  • Maple Neck with Adjustable 2-Way Truss Rod
  • Maple Resonator
  • Adjustable Coordinator Rod
#TOP 42

Vangoa 6 String Banjo Guitar Mini

Vangoa

Features

  • [Beginner Kit] Comes with beginner kits like strings, strap, wrench, picks, tuner, and carrying bag. An economical choice for beginners & intermedium players. 1-year warranty & fast-respond service provided, buy it with confidence
  • [Open-back & Resonator] It is a convertible banjo from which the resonator can be quickly removed and put on. No matter you want a mellower, softer or brighter sound, it can adapt to your needs
  • [Portable Size] Tenor banjo guitar with 20 frets, has a relatively wider range while portable, lightweight for long-time practice. It can go anywhere with you
  • [Adjustable Neck] A truss rod compensates for the tension in strings, weather changes, fret wear, and different playing styles. Proper use of the truss rod can set the guitar in optimal playability and comfort
  • [Good Sound] Made of quality sapele wood with beautiful wood grain. It produces a warm and soft sound. 6 steel strings deliver a more punchy & brighter sound. Chrome-plated sealed pegs are easy to adjust & durable for anti-dust
#TOP 43

Pyle, 5 String Resonator Banjo Size 24 Bracket & National NP1-7B Thumb & Finger Pick Pack

Pyle

Features

  • Product 1: PROFESSIONAL FULL SIZE : 38.6” instrument features a tunable 5-string banjo with 24 brackets and 22 frets, equipped with a classic traditional style binding design. Features a coated and polished rich wood finish with chrome-plated hardware/accents
  • Product 2: Ergonomically designed for player comfort
  • Product 2: 4 long-wearing NP-1 stainless steel finger picks
  • Product 2: Suitable for guitars, resos, banjos, and other instruments
  • Product 1: HEAVY DUTY HARDWARE: This complete all-in-one standard acoustic banjo starter kit is equipped with a geared 5th string tuner and high quality remo drum head. It is handcrafted from sapele hardwood
  • Product 1: COMPLETE BANJO SET: Pyle brings you an all-in-one banjo set, everything you need to start playing! Comes w/ a gig bag, digital tuner, spare strings, 3 finger picks, cleaning cloth, detachable shoulder strap w/ hanger & wrench (to adjust the brackets)
  • Product 2: 2 black NP-7B medium sized thumb picks
  • Product 1: ADJUSTABLE TRUSS ROD: Features adjustable truss rod & pearl color tuner pegs w/ additional 5th geared tuner side-peg. Adjust the truss rod can balance the tension caused by strings/climate change, set up perfect string height to meet different needs

Essential Things to Keep in Mind When Looking for the Perfect beginner resonator banjos

Is banjo or guitar easier to learn?

Summing up, the banjo is just as versatile an instrument as the guitar, but for beginning players, it is by far much easier to get started playing.

How long should you practice banjo a day?

Put it on your calendar and stick to it – at least 30 to 60 minutes per day. Practice Properly Getting faster isn't about just playing more – it's about playing right. When you're practicing songs that are new to you, pick with a metronome and slow the tempo. Accuracy is far more important than speed.

Are banjo resonators removable?

And because the resonator is removable, it can work as both an open and closed back banjo. Pros: Comes with all necessary accessories and adjustable neck.

Is it easier to learn banjo or guitar?

Summing up, the banjo is just as versatile an instrument as the guitar, but for beginning players, it is by far much easier to get started playing.

Are resonators worth it?

In most cases, yes. You need a resonator to help control the sounds coming from your vehicle's exhaust system to prevent it from being too loud or obnoxious. Your vehicle will work without a resonator, but you may end up with a check engine light or other issues.

Do resonators cause drone?

Mufflers or resonators in track exhaust systems won't be as effective at preventing drone compared to stock. The resonator and muffler reduce exhaust drone. Not every aftermarket exhaust system is going to have drone.

How much does a res delete cost?

The average cost of professional resonator delete is between $100 and $200, if using aftermarket parts. If welding is required, you might need to spend a little more.

Why do people delete the resonator?

What is this? Resonator delete helps optimize the frequencies of the pulses generated by your car, thereby achieving a certain level of improved power production. It could make your car's exhaust sound loud and aggressive. However, it helps in maintaining optimum fuel mileage, high performance, and efficiency.

Is banjo harder than guitar?

If you compare how easy it is to move fingers over fingerboard or frets, you will realize it is harder to work on guitar than banjo since banjo has fewer strings. The fact that guitar has more strings that are closer to each other makes it hard, especially for beginners, to pluck or strum a precise chord.

Is it OK to strum a 5-string banjo?

Many people have pre-conceived notions that you have to do some fancy fingerpicking to play the 5-string banjo, but this is completely untrue. This type of banjo is traditionally tuned to open G tuning sounds great when strummed as well. Who doesn't like to strum? It is so relaxing and easy.

Editor's Notes

To make this list of the top beginner resonator banjos we spent 79 hours to analyze over 1430 customer reviews carefully. As a result, our editors selected the 43 options most people truly liked. They boast of the rating of 378, on average, and cost around $10684.

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.