Used Deering Goodtime Openback Banjo with Pickup

The Deering Goodtime Openback Banjo with a pickup is a popular and respected instrument, particularly for players who need the convenience of amplification without sacrificing tone. The Deering Goodtime series is famous for being a high-quality, American-made banjo at a very accessible price point.

Here is a detailed breakdown of its key features, with a focus on what the pickup adds to the classic model:

Core Concept & Construction

• Openback Design: This style of banjo is often associated with old-time, clawhammer, and folk music. The open back allows the sound to project backward and create a softer, more mellow tone compared to a banjo with a resonator. This makes it perfect for playing in a room or for an un-amplified setting.

• Made in the USA: Deering is known for its commitment to American craftsmanship. All Goodtime banjos are made in their Spring Valley, California shop, which is a significant factor in their consistent quality and playability.

• All-Maple Construction: The banjo features a slender, rock maple neck and a three-ply, violin-grade maple rim. This construction is key to the Goodtime's bright, crisp, and vibrant tone. The neck is also known for being very stable and easy to play.

• Lightweight: The Goodtime banjo is very light, typically weighing around 4.5 pounds, which makes it comfortable to play for long periods and easy to travel with.

The Pickup System

• Kavanjo Pickup: The pickup on this model is a Kavanjo banjo head pickup system. This is a factory-installed, passive humbucking pickup that is built into the banjo's head.

• Plug-and-Play Amplification: The addition of the Kavanjo pickup allows the banjo to be plugged directly into a guitar amplifier, PA system, or recording interface. This is a game-changer for gigging musicians, as it allows them to be heard in a full band or loud setting.

• Feedback Resistance: One of the main benefits of the Kavanjo system is its ability to be played at high volumes without the feedback issues that are common when trying to mic a banjo acoustically. It is specifically designed to maintain the banjo's acoustic tone while being played at amplified levels.

Other Components

• Tuners: The banjo is fitted with high-quality sealed geared tuners and a geared 5th string tuner, which makes it easy to tune and ensures tuning stability.

• Bridge & Tailpiece: It features a maple/ebony "Goodtime Smile" bridge and a patented Deering Goodtime tailpiece, both of which are designed to enhance the instrument's tone and playability.

• Hardware: The hardware has a US Bronze powder finish, which is durable and gives the instrument a unique aesthetic.

Overall Impression

A used Deering Goodtime Openback Banjo with a pickup is an excellent choice for:

• Gigging Musicians: The built-in pickup makes it a versatile instrument for playing in a band, at open mics, or in any amplified setting.

• Studio Recording: The direct signal from the pickup is great for recording, as it provides a clean, clear signal that can be easily manipulated and mixed.

• Advancing Students: It offers the high-quality craftsmanship of a Deering instrument at a more accessible price point than their professional models, with the added benefit of being ready for amplified performance.