Custom Deering Goodtime Americana 5-String Banjo with Scoop, Planetary Tuners, Fiberskin Head, and Spikes

Custom Deering Goodtime Americana: Get that  Old-Time Sound

At Banjo Studio, we believe that even a "beginner" banjo should play and sound like a serious instrument. As a Preferred Online Deering Dealer, we’ve taken the Deering Goodtime Americana and added the specific upgrades that old-time players actually want.

The result? A custom-configured powerhouse that is ready for the jam circle the moment it leaves our shop.

Why the 12” Americana?

The foundation of this build is the 12” rim. Most entry level standard banjos feature an 11” rim, but the extra inch of the Americana provides a naturally deeper, warmer, and more resonant bass response. 

The Banjo Studio Custom Treatment

We didn't just stop at the rim size. We’ve added well thought out upgrades to maximize the "old-time" vibe:

• Fiberskin Head Conversion: We’ve swapped the standard head for a Fiberskin head. This adds a beautiful, warm fundamental tone and provides that sought-after "thumpy" and "plunky" sound that defines clawhammer music.

• Integrated Frailing Scoop: To help develop the clawhammer technique, you need room to play over the neck. This banjo features an expertly scooped fretboard, allowing your thumb to comfortably strike the strings over the neck-to-rim connection for a mellower, richer tone.

• Professional Planetary Tuners: No more wrestling with guitar-style tuners. We’ve upgraded this model to traditional Planetary Tuners for a classic look and smooth, precise tuning stability.

• Factory-Installed Railroad Spikes: We’ve had Deering install spikes at the 7th and 9th frets, so you can change keys instantly without fumbling for a 5th-string capo.

Build Quality & Aesthetics

Proudly Made in the U.S.A., the Americana features a rock maple neck and a 3-ply violin-grade maple rim. The hardware is finished in a durable US Bronze powder coat, which looks stunning and is hypoallergenic and resistant to fingerprints.

Whether you are looking for your first "real" openback or a lightweight, high-performance banjo for travel and jams, this Banjo Studio custom build offers a professional feel at an accessible price point.

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