The Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" Irish Tenor Banjo is a beautifully crafted instrument that pays homage to the rich tradition of folk music while offering modern versatility. Designed as part of the Gretsch Roots Collection, this banjo merges authentic materials with innovative design, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned players and those new to the world of banjos.

Featuring a three-piece maple/walnut/maple neck and a three-ply solid maple resonator, the Laydie Belle resonates with a warm, rich tone that’s perfect for traditional Irish music. The short 19" scale and GDAE tuning, standard for Irish tenor banjos, allow for a bright tonal range akin to a mandolin. However, this instrument's adaptability shines through with its capability for alternate tunings such as CGDA and DGBE, simply by changing the string gauges, thus appealing to both tenor and guitar players alike.

The 11" Remo High Crown Renaissance head, combined with a Whyte-Laydie tone ring, ensures a resonant and responsive sound. Meanwhile, the 24-tension brackets and notched hoop offer precise head tensioning, providing you with a consistently excellent performance. The classic "No Knot"-style tailpiece and geared die-cast machine heads ensure reliable tuning stability, while the Vega-style armrest and B&D inlays add a touch of vintage elegance to the banjo's appearance.

Key Features:

• Three-piece maple/walnut/maple neck
• 19" short-scale for ease of play
• GDAE tuning, with options for CGDA and DGBE
• 11" Remo High Crown Renaissance head with Whyte-Laydie tone ring
• 24 tension brackets with notched hoop
• "No Knot"-style tailpiece and geared die-cast machine heads
• Vega-style armrest and B&D inlays for vintage aesthetics

Product specs

FAQs

What is the scale length of the Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" Irish Tenor Banjo?

The Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" Irish Tenor Banjo features a 19-fret neck with a 22 5/8" scale length, which is typical for an Irish tenor banjo, providing a bright and punchy tone suitable for traditional Irish music.

What type of wood is used for the resonator of the Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle"?

The resonator of the Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" Irish Tenor Banjo is crafted from mahogany, which contributes to its warm and resonant sound, enhancing the instrument's tonal depth.

Is the Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable playability and quality construction, making it an excellent choice for those new to playing the Irish tenor banjo.

Does the Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" come with a case?

The Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" Irish Tenor Banjo typically comes with a padded gig bag, providing protection and portability for musicians on the go.

What type of bridge does the Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" use?

The Gretsch G9480 "Laydie Belle" Irish Tenor Banjo features a maple/ebony bridge, which helps deliver a clear and articulate sound, essential for traditional banjo playing styles.