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Average Price: $263

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$1300+

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Description

Unleash the nostalgic sounds of a bygone era with the Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Open Back Tenor Banjo. Inspired by the iconic instruments of the Prohibition era, this tenor banjo delivers a vintage-style tone that's as captivating as it is versatile. Whether you're strumming on the porch or performing in a lively speakeasy, the Dirty 30s Banjo promises an expressive musical experience. Its open-back design, paired with a premium Remo banjo head, offers an airy, resonant sound that captures the essence of traditional banjo music.

Designed with both beginners and seasoned players in mind, the Dirty 30s boasts a lightweight body and a comfortable maple neck, ensuring effortless playability. The 4-string tenor setup, tuned like a mandolin or violin, makes it a perfect crossover instrument for musicians eager to explore new sonic landscapes. The banjo's retro charm is complemented by its durable nickel hardware, providing both style and reliability for years to come.

Whether you’re delving into clawhammer, Celtic, or simply exploring new tunes, the Recording King RKT-05 is your ticket to authentic, time-honored sound without the cost of a museum piece.

Key Features:

  • 4-string tenor banjo with vintage-inspired design
  • Open-back resonator for airy, old-time tone
  • Comfortable maple neck with a satin finish
  • 16-brack rim and Remo RK FiberSkyn banjo head for rich resonance
  • Factory-tuned to CGDA, ideal for mandolin or violin players
  • Short-scale Revebond fingerboard with 19 frets
  • Maple and ebony bridge for enhanced sound
  • Closed-back nickel tuners with ivory buttons for tuning stability

Product specs

Brand Recording King
Model RKT-05 Dirty 30's Tenor Banjo
Year 2010s
Categories Banjos

FAQs

Is the Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo is a great choice for beginners due to its lightweight design and comfortable playability, making it easy to handle and learn on.

What type of music is the Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo best suited for?

The Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo is ideal for traditional folk and Celtic music, thanks to its open-back design which produces a warm, resonant tone.

What is the scale length of the Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo?

The scale length of the Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo is typically around 23 inches, which is standard for tenor banjos and contributes to its bright sound.

Does the Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo come with a case?

The Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo does not typically come with a case, so it's recommended to purchase a case separately to protect the instrument.

What materials are used in the construction of the Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo?

The Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo features a maple neck and rim, which contribute to its bright and crisp sound, characteristic of traditional tenor banjos.

Jake Wildwood & Co

Jake Wildwood & Co

2017 Recording King Dirty Thirties openback tenor banjo

Video thumbnail for 2017 Recording King Dirty Thirties openback tenor banjo by Jake Wildwood & Co

2017 Recording King Dirty Thirties openback tenor banjo

Jake Wildwood & Co

Jake Wildwood & Co

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Open Back Tenor Banjo.

Build quality

  • The Dirty 30s series is comparable to other Chinese import brands, with no unique construction advantages cited by owners.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Resonators can be removed by unscrewing four thumb screws, although some users note that the metal flange may dig into your lap when removed.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A common issue with Recording King banjos bought from Guitar Center is arriving with a very loose head, requiring initial setup adjustments.

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Comparisons

  • The RK Dirty 30s series is likened to Rogue, Vangoa, Mulucky, and ADM brands, with little difference in quality as they are all rebadged OEM products.

    Source
  • The Recording King RKT-05 is considered a better option than Savannah SB-070 and Rover RB-20 in build quality for under $250.

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Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for bluegrass, resonator models are preferred, and the resonator can be removed for a quieter practice option.

    Source
  • The RKT-05 is suggested as a suitable choice for beginners looking for a reliable banjo that will stay in tune and avoid common issues like neck buzz.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Jim Pankey's video offers guidance on adding armrests to the Dirty 30s, addressing common user concerns about fit and installation.

    Source
  • Zach Hoyt provides custom wooden armrests for approximately $30, which are favored for comfort and compatibility with the Dirty 30s.

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User experience

  • Owners often tie acoustic straps to j-hooks using shoelaces due to compatibility issues with standard banjo straps.

    Source
  • It's emphasized that a lower quality banjo can lead to frustration, suggesting prospective buyers should be patient and look for good deals on better models.

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Value and pricing

  • For a budget of $250, it's recommended to consider used options, such as a Deering Goodtime, which might occasionally be found at this price point.

    Source

Critic Reviews

2017 Recording King RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo

jakewildwood.blogspot.com

Recording King's RKT-05 Dirty 30s Tenor Banjo offers impressive value at $250, channeling vintage charm with a Gibson-inspired build and a comfortable neck. The FiberSkyn head provides a mellow tone, though swapping it could brighten the sound. While lacking a tonering, the banjo's geared pegs simplify tuning, and a few setup tweaks create excellent playability. Perfect for beginners or budget-conscious players, this banjo includes a Superior gigbag, making it a tidy, affordable option with room for tonal customization.

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