Submitted by Unknown on 6/21/2003

Where Purchased: From Chris Bozung/luthier

Year Purchased: 2003
Price Paid: 2,810 ($US)

Sound

I play primarily Scruggs style. The CB Rosine has just the sound I was seeking. It is a powerful banjo that rings crisp and clear and it has an exceptionally strong bass response. I have not played or heard a banjo that sounds better than this banjo. There is not one thing that I dislike about this banjo!!!

Sound Rating: 10

Setup

The only

Setup Rating: 10

Appearance

This is a custom made banjo. The neck and resonator are made of figured walnut, which is a very beautiful wood. The inlay on the neck is a pattern of roses with one large rose on the headstock. All metal parts are gold plated. The craftsmanship is absolutely flawless. I've looked it over with a fine tooth comb. If I could give a 10 Plus, plus for the craftsmanship and appearance, I would!

Appearance Rating: 10

Reliability

Only time will tell as far as reliability is concerned, but this banjo is made from the best components available and was built by what I consider to be one of the finest craftsman around. I would be extremely surprised if I had any problems down the road

Reliability Rating: 10

Customer Service

Chris Bozung is an independent luthier. He built me a guitar last year and also did some work on an old Martin D-28 that I have. He is as reputable as they come.....none finer than Chris. There is a 5 year warranty on his instruments, but I have no doubt that he would stand by anything he does for a lot longer than that if necessary.

Customer Service: 10

Components

My banjo is his Gold Plated Rosine model. It can be seen on his website at www.cbguitars.com. Specs on the banjo:
Gold Plated Huber Tone Ring
Cox Premium Hard Maple 3 ply rim (from 30 year old maple)
Gold Plated Price Tailpiece
Snuffy Smith Bridge

This is a top end banjo.....really no way to upgrade any of the components that I'm aware of.

Components Rating: 10

Overall Comments

I played several top end banjos at Gruhns and at the Gibson Showcase when I was in Nashville last year. I also own an old Gibson Mastertone (built in the 1950's). This banjo is better than anything I've ever played...hands down, no contest. If it were stolen, I'd have Chris build me another one exactly like it. I'm not sure what my favorite feature is......I guess it would have to be the sound, but it's just a gorgeous instrument and the playability is just wonderful also. I did a lot of research before placing my order with Chris....all questions and concerns I had were answered before he started on it. This banjo is a steal for $2,810......it's better than banjos I played that had price tags over $6,000! And by the way, I am not a salesman for Chris! I get nothing for talking up his banjo. I do it because I am just thrilled with this banjo......when someone finds a great instrument like this I think they should share that information with others who might benefit from it.

Overall Rating: 10