How to Set Up Your Banjo

Banjos are unique instruments in that the bridge sits loose on the head cover.  This is what give it the twangy sound of the deep south.  Because all of our guitars are shipped, we can't set up the bridge in the factory as it may get damaged in transit.  

Check out this great instructional video below on how to set up your banjo out of the box.  The video starts with only 2 strings on the banjo, so we suggest removing the 3 strings alrtady on your banjo so that you can easily set the bridge position and get your intonation right from the get go.

Enjoy!

What about the Tuning?

And the Banjo Head?

The Banjo head usually has a firm tension.  The bridge should be sitting flat across the surface of the head, not sunken into a valley.  This gives it the bright sparkly sound you've come to know and love. Tighter = Brighter!

If the bridge does start to create a divet in the head, it's time to tighten the head.  If you prefer a warmer sound to your banjo, then a divet or valley is what you want.  This means that less energy is transmitted to the edges and the banjo will not resonate as much as a tight head.

To tighten your head:

• Pick a starting point (closest to the logo on the head is a good spot)
• Using the tool provided turn each nut in small increments (1/8 turn) an move clockwise around the banjo in a 6 O'clock/12 o'clock fashion
• Keep moving around the head until you reach your desired sound.