Brands of Banjos

Handcrafted Excellence: Our North American Banjo Brands

At Banjo Studio, we are proud to curate a selection of instruments from the finest builders in North America. We have chosen to carry these specific brands because they share our passion for high-quality builds, exceptional tone, and a commitment to the evolution of the banjo. Whether you are looking for a professional bluegrass powerhouse or a soulful old-time openback, these makers represent the pinnacle of modern banjo construction.

Our Featured Brands

  • Deering Banjos: Often called "The Great American Banjo Company," Deering creates a massive range of instruments in their California workshop. From the iconic Sierra to the innovative Eagle II, Deering is known for precision engineering and a clean, modern sound that fits any genre.

  • Ome Banjos: Based in Boulder, Colorado, Ome has been crafting world-class banjos since 1960. They are celebrated for their stunning aesthetics, Victorian-style engravings, and a tonal richness that is highly sought after by professional musicians.

  • Vega Banjos: A legendary name in banjo history, Vega is now meticulously crafted by the Deering family. These instruments are favorites among old-time and folk players for their light weight and classic, woody "tubaphone" or "whyte laydie" tone.

  • Pisgah Banjos: Coming from the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, Pisgah focuses on sustainable, 100% solar-powered manufacturing. Using native Appalachian hardwoods, they produce openback banjos with a warm, earthy "plunk" that is perfect for clawhammer styles.

  • Starr Banjos: Known for their small-batch, artisanal approach, Starr Banjos offers incredible attention to detail. These North American-made instruments are built with high-quality components and provide a distinct, punchy voice that stands out in any ensemble.

  • Rickard Banjos: Handcrafted in Aurora, Ontario, Rickard Banjos is a leader in old-time banjo innovation. They are world-renowned for their high-quality hardware—including the ultra-smooth Cyclone 10:1 tuners—and their ability to perfectly replicate the rich, complex "Dobson" tone. With meticulous attention to detail and a focus on premium North American hardwoods, every Rickard instrument offers a professional-grade feel and a warm, authoritative sound that is a favorite among clawhammer players.

Why Choose a North American Made Banjo?

When you invest in one of these brands, you aren't just buying an instrument; you are supporting a legacy of craftsmanship. These builders use premium materials—such as locally sourced maple, walnut, and cherry—and employ master luthiers who understand the nuances of setup and playability. The result is an instrument that doesn't just sound better out of the box, but one that will settle in and improve in tone for decades to come.