Well folks I just returned from a visit with Bill Hayes (Bill-in-me) in Shapleigh, ME along with a 1930 style 4 conversion. OMG! This banjo is everything Bill said it was and more .It far exceeded my expectations. It is as close to Bill's prewar flathead as can be. In Bill's ad for this banjo he said it would have to be pried from his hands and he wasn't kidding. At the last moment he called me and said he didn't want to release this this banjo. With great anxiety Bill was true to his word and said he would release this style 4 to me. Bill is a great craftsman and his work is second to none. Also a great person.
P.S. I think I have the inside track of the magic taking place in Shapleigh or should I say Salem. I may divulge latter if I get permission.
Terry