Pricing and availability

Average Price: $650

Standard/Professional

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

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High-end

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Description

Discover the harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation with the Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 5-String Banjo. This banjo is a testament to craftsmanship, ensuring both amateur musicians and seasoned players can enjoy its rich, resonant sound. At its core, the special alloy steel tone ring is designed to produce a bright and clear tone that complements its stunning classic aesthetic.

The Goodtime Special 2 features a violin-grade three-ply rock maple rim and neck, offering durability and a responsive playing experience. The resonator amplifies the sound, making it ideal for both intimate settings and large performances. Equipped with planetary tuners and a geared fifth string peg, achieving and maintaining precise tuning is effortless. For those looking to experiment with different keys, capoing spikes are conveniently placed at frets #7, #9, and #10.

Whether you're strumming at a bluegrass festival, laying down tracks in the studio, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this banjo rises to the occasion. Its professional-grade features paired with an approachable price make it a staple choice for any banjo enthusiast. Handcrafted with pride in the USA, the Goodtime Special 2 embodies the spirit of American folk music with a touch of modern elegance.

Key Features:

  • Special alloy steel tone ring for bright, resonant sound
  • Violin-grade three-ply rock maple rim and neck
  • Planetary tuners with geared fifth string peg for easy tuning
  • Capoing spikes at frets #7, #9, and #10
  • Resonator for enhanced sound projection
  • Handcrafted in the USA

Product specs

Brand Deering
Model Classic Goodtime Special Two 5 String Banjo
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Banjos

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 5-String Banjo?

The Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 is crafted with a 3-ply violin-grade maple rim, which contributes to its superior sound quality and durability.

Is the Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 is an excellent choice for beginners due to its easy playability and high-quality construction, making it a reliable instrument for learning.

Does the Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 5-String Banjo come with a resonator?

Yes, this model includes a resonator, which enhances the banjo's volume and projection, making it ideal for bluegrass and other performance settings.

How does the Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 differ from other Goodtime models?

The Classic Goodtime Special 2 features a resonator and a tone ring, providing a brighter and more powerful sound compared to the open-back models in the Goodtime series.

Where is the Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 5-String Banjo manufactured?

The Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 is made in the United States, specifically in Deering's workshop in Spring Valley, California.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Deering Classic Goodtime Special 2 5-String Banjo.

Features and functionality

  • The Goodtime Special has a tone ring, contributing to a brighter and twangier sound compared to the standard Goodtimes.

    Source
  • The Goodtime's neck is made from a single piece of high-quality hardwood, offering a smooth playing experience but raising concerns about potential long-term warping without a truss rod.

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Comparisons

  • The Recording King Madison is recommended as a superior alternative in the $600-$800 price range, praised for its wood rim with tone ring and banjo-style tuners.

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  • The Gold Tone AC-1 is noted as having a truss rod and being cheaper, while the Goodtime is praised for superior wood quality and tone.

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Build quality

  • Some Goodtime Specials are noted for lacking bow-tie fret markers, potentially affecting resale value and contributing to price variation.

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  • The Deering Goodtime lacks a truss rod, which could lead to neck bowing over time, though some owners report no issues even after years of use.

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Value and pricing

  • At $350, the Goodtime Special is considered a good deal, especially if in excellent condition, as it offers something relatively rare compared to more common models.

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User experience

  • Owners note the Goodtime Special's mellow sound can be modified to be less twangy by adjusting head tension, making it versatile for different musical styles.

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  • Owners appreciate the Goodtime for its reliable tuning stability, even when compared to models like the Gold Tone AC-1.

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Mods and upgrades

  • A Deering Goodtime armrest is recommended for better comfort, as standard armrests may not fit properly.

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Use cases and applications

  • Open-back Goodtime models are preferred for solo play and folk music due to their mellow sound, while resonator models are suited for louder group settings.

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