I want to buy a banjo....

[6224321]

SSIA

Should I get a "5 string banjo" or a "plectrum banjo" -- which will let be play cooler stuff?

Thanks in advance.

Dave

[MattJ]

I'd go with a 5-string. I think (I might be wrong) that most common plectrum tuning is DGBD, which is like a five string without the fifth drone string. So there probably isnt a whole lot you can play on the 4 string that you cant play on a 5 stringer.

The 5 would be more versatile, and I kind of think it makes a better solo instrument.

[6224321]

Thanks very much. Banjos are so cool.

[MattJ]

Indeed.

I've got a Deering and I like it a lot. I really think it makes you a better guitar player too. I still suck at using the fingerpicks, but it gives me a goal.

Let me know what kind of banjo you get.

[the world]

start with a the regular five string.
Banjo's like every other stringed instrument, if you can't do it with the basic model, you won't be able to do it with a "cooler" one. Like with bass guitars, if you can't play something well on a 4string, a 5th and/or 6th string will only confuse you. Besides, you can go to a pawn shop and get a decently priced used banjo just to learn on.

[TheBigCaptain]

could always go with the six string