elderly Instruments

Submitted by Blackpete on 1/10/2012

Overall Comments

I bought a set of picks and a tuner from Elderly. The tuner did not work properly, turned out it was the battery, and there was a sizing problem with the picks also not caused by the store (see review for Fred Kelly Freedom picks). It was too expensive to post these items back to the USA as I live in NZ, but get this - Elderly accepted me at my word and sent two new picks and a tuner at their expense.
When I need a new banjo or anything else, this is the store for me. Good old-fashioned service, fast. Can't ask for more than that.

Overall Rating: 10

Picks: Fred Kelly Freedom Pick (Derlin)

Submitted by Blackpete on 1/10/2012

Where Purchased: Janet Davis and Elderly

Overall Comments

Nice looking picks that produce a clear but not harsh or metallic sound. Unfortunately, the large size and mediums are exactly the same, and I've been advised by the manufacturer to put the the picks labelled "large" in hot water, stretch them, and dip in cold water to re-size them! Not an elegant solution and they still need to be larger overall. Why label them as different sizes then, you might ask.

Overall Rating: 5

Tranjo: 8.1

Submitted by Blackpete on 10/4/2011

Where Purchased: Farris Travel Banjo Co.

Year Purchased: 2011
Price Paid: 900± ($US)

Sound

I play clawhammer and this is obviously set up with 3-finger style in mind. I wanted something small and light as my job involves moving around and a lot of unproductive waiting time. I'm happy with the sound out of the box, but tinkering with it is part of banjo fun.

Sound Rating: 8

Setup

Well set up, nice low action without buzzing, adjustments very easy. I couldn't sound the 5th string consistently when frailing around the upper frets, so I've had a scoop put in it. A Tranjo first?

Setup Rating: 10

Appearance

An unusual but handsome little beast. Gets lots of WTF comments. I opted for the walnut model with ebony fingerboard. Good choice. No flaws- everything is top quality and well finished.

Appearance Rating: 10

Reliability

Came fitted with Steinberger tuners - a simple and elegant tuning solution. Makes you wonder, like wheels on suitcases, why they weren't invented 100 years ago. Neck has a low lustre finish that plays fast and smooth. Not designed as a performance instrument, but it's loud enough for jamming.

Reliability Rating: 10

Customer Service

Banjo arrived within promised time even with a long flight time to NZ and Customs delay. Have not needed to contact company, but Sam Farris has a reputation for friendliness and efficiency.

Customer Service: 10

Components

Top quality 3-piece neck with beautiful walnut - blind fret groves.

Components Rating: 10

Overall Comments

I wanted a light knockabout banjo with full-scale neck for daily practice and the Tranjo has exceeded my expectations.

Overall Rating: 10