14 Comments |
 | OCEAN BANJO says:
2/5/2011 5:16:44 PM
It's basically a cosmetic difference. The only thing different that might change the sound some is the different tailpiece...the standard has the no-knot and the special has the down-pressing waverly. I then to think haveing some downward pressure on the strings makes the bart reiter banjos sound better. Both sport the rolled brass tone ring so both have a similar sound. I think both are made of all maple wood...although some standards have mahogany necks...but that will not change the sound much. Like i said it's mainly a cosmetic choice...and I must say that if you have the extra money the special makes for a fine playing and looking banjo...but truthfully the standard is just as good.
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 | ponty says:
2/5/2011 7:20:42 PM
Hi Christine,
I was quite sure that I had left my comments on the Reiter group about my thoughts on the special and the Standard.
I dont see them now! Any how Mike Hansen's answer is essentially the same as mine.
You ask which I prefer, ????? Close call indeed, but I think under my current set ups - the Special.
Andrew
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| ponty says:
2/5/2011 7:22:24 PM
Hi Christine,
I was quite sure that I had left my comments on the Reiter group about my thoughts on the special and the Standard.
I dont see them now! Any how Mike Hansen's answer is essentially the same as mine.
You ask which I prefer, ????? Close call indeed, but I think under my current set ups - the Special.
Andrew
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 | jbalch says:
2/5/2011 8:40:24 PM
According to Bart's website...the key differences are these:
Standard rim - 2 ply maple ... 1/2" thick ... stained edge
Special rim - 3-ply maple ... 5/8" thick ... rosewood rim cap
Standard neck - mahogany
Special neck - maple
Standard tailpiece - no-knot
Special tailpiece - Waverly adjustable
Standard - dark brown mahogany stain
Special - natural maple color
In theory, the thicker rim, maple neck, and adjustable tailpiece of the Special should make it capable of an overall brighter tone. On the other hand, the Standard model's thinner rim, no-knot tailpiece and mahogany neck should tend toward warmer and more open, tone. The Standard might be capable of a more tubby sound (depending on set-up).
I don't think you will notice a huge difference in the sound between the two. I bet you would be pleased with either. But... As always...the best option is to play one of each and decide for yourself.
best wishes!
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| jbalch says:
2/6/2011 5:32:45 AM
copied form the other blog:
posted by Ponty:
Hi Christine,
I have both the Standard and the Special - you absolutely cannot go wrong with either. Still, whats the difference? Since the 2008 upgrade on the Standard, there is no difference in build style. The rim, neck, and hardware are the same. The key difference is the standard has a mahogany neck and the Special has Michigan maple. In addition, the Standard has a dark stain where as the Special is blonde.
I believe the difference in the sound of mine, lay only in different set ups. I have a 5 Star head on one and a Renaissance head on the other. If they were set up identical, I believe the sound would be identical or very close. One other thing I remember, I think the Standard comes with a scoop and the Special does not. My special was made without a scoop at my request. Hope this helps - for me, save $100 and get the Standard!
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| jbalch says:
2/6/2011 5:34:55 AM
I copied Ponty's comments fom the other blog post. His information is more current than mine (above).
One thing to consider...if you are looking at used banjos (made prior to 2008), the differences I described might come in to play.
Best wishes!
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| jbalch says:
2/6/2011 5:44:20 AM
copied from the other blog post:
NickC says:
2/6/2011 4:11:47 AM - delete
My Standard arrived yesterday. It's a beautiful, simple, well made instrument and just what i was looking for in an open back banjo. I can't take my eyes off it!
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 | INFP47 says:
2/6/2011 6:45:27 AM
I really enjoy my Special, made in 1996. Mine has the no-knot tailpiece which I guess Bart was using on the Special back then. I would describe the tone of mine as somewhat bright. My Special has a star at the fifth fret. Great sound, great playability and I really like the simplicity.
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| INFP47 says:
2/6/2011 7:27:46 AM
I really enjoy my Special, made in 1996. Mine has the no-knot tailpiece which I guess Bart was using on the Special back then. I would describe the tone of mine as somewhat bright. My Special has a star at the fifth fret. Great sound, great playability and I really like the simplicity.
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| ponty says:
2/6/2011 10:17:04 AM
Thanks John, I seem to have lost those post. In the wrong place I guess!
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 | ChristineS612 says:
2/6/2011 10:26:56 AM
Thank you all for your comments! This has been so helpful! I actually think I'd prefer a standard after all... my resonator banjo gives me the bright tone and I was looking for something mellower, warmer. Thanks guys! Happy frailing
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NickC says:
2/7/2011 4:13:44 AM
They're beautiful instruments Christine!
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chrisherrin says:
2/17/2011 8:03:58 PM
I have a new Standard comin in the mail. Should be here on Monday. I looked at Specials as well. I went for the Standard because of the 1/2 rim. I also prefer the beautiful mahogany neck. I'm so excited to get it. It feels like Christmas!
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 | lone ivy says:
3/27/2011 6:35:36 AM
i have a standard made in 2009. it has a 5/8" rim with a walnut cap.
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