Charlie Cushman

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Gibson Mastertone

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For everyone who owns, or wants to own, a Mastertone, regardless of year.

208 Members, Created 2/28/2011 -

Administrators: Bohonkie (owner)

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From Porter Claxton on 7/1/2016 10:01:07 AM

I recently had my Gibson Style 5 Mastertone set up by Charlie Cushman of Cottontown, Tennessee. As most of you know, he is the banjo player for The Earls Of Leicester - the hottest bluegrass band now on the circuit. Charlie gave it a complete overhaul including new head, bridge, strings, etc. as well as making several repairs and adjustments.

Let me tell you, my banjo went from a difficult to play, mushy, dead sounding instrument to a bright crisp resonant "rocket" with about twice the volume! The action is just right; very easy to play and when I pluck a string - it pops! Finally, the shipping (from Seattle) cost more than the he charged me for the work. I highly recommend this guy, he really knows banjos.

5 Comments
The Gibson Man says: 7/1/2016 10:05:47 AM Yes he does!! Every penny you spent...was well worth it.
	johnney5 says: 7/23/2016 7:29:44 AM Porter, I appreciate this information. I have a deluxe (style) 5 and I can't seem to get the middle of the neck to play like I want it to. It is definitely mushy and dead sounding just like your description. According to this website gibson.com/News-Lifestyle/Feat...sons.aspx there was only 10 of this style made. I have #9 and I was wondering who else might have one. Mind you I am not a very good player, but I do find the radius neck better to play. Again, thanks for the indo. John
	Dustyman says: 4/15/2017 5:17:34 AM What gauge strings did he put on ?
	Porter Claxton says: 4/15/2017 10:14:47 AM To tell the truth I'm not sure. I believe he asked me if I used light gage and I replied that he should set it up like he would want it himself. I have been playing with lights and medium lights but am not sure which I like better yet. You'd have to ask Charlie what brand/ guage uses on his own banjo because he set mine up like his.
	Dustyman says: 4/16/2017 4:32:01 AM Thanks Porter I changed my strings on my 79 RB 250 , made a big change , Elixer lights , a little too light, I lost a little power from the 3rd and 4th strings.
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