5-String Resonator Banjos: The Sound of Bluegrass
The 5-string resonator banjo is the standard choice for players seeking a powerful, driving sound. While openback banjos are known for a mellow, "plunky" tone, resonator models are designed for maximum projection and clarity.
What is a Resonator?
A resonator is a bowl-shaped wooden plate attached to the back of the banjo pot. Its primary job is to reflect the sound waves produced by the banjo head outward toward the audience, rather than letting them be absorbed by the player's body. This design makes the instrument significantly louder and brighter than an openback counterpart.
Common Musical Styles
While versatile, the 5-string resonator banjo is the definitive voice of several specific genres:
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Bluegrass: This is the preferred banjo for bluegrass, specifically for the three-finger "Scruggs-style" picking that requires speed and sharp note separation.
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Country and Folk: Its ability to cut through a full band makes it a favorite for modern country arrangements and high-energy folk music.
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Gospel: The bright, ringing tone is a staple in traditional Southern gospel music.
Why Buy a 5-String Resonator Banjo?
There are several reasons to choose a resonator model for your next instrument:
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Volume and Projection: If you plan on playing in a jam session or with a full band including fiddles and guitars, the resonator ensures your lead lines and rolls are heard clearly.
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Bright, Crisp Tone: The reflection of sound off the hardwood resonator creates a "shimmer" and sustain that is essential for the authentic bluegrass sound.
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Versatility in Technique: While designed for picking, these banjos can handle various styles, and the added weight of the resonator often provides better balance for players who perform while standing.
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Professional Quality: Many of our top-tier models, such as the Starr Limited Edition Bluegrass Banjo, Deering Sierra, and the Deering Eagle II, are built with high-grade tone rings and resonators to provide a professional-grade touring sound.
