I'll admit, I am a guitar play who slipped into the hangout unnoticed, but I'm here on a mission! I'm trying to find an upgrade banjo for my sister who currently plays a lower end Alvarez, not sure on the model. Anyway, any suggestions would be welcome, our price range is around the $1500 mark. However, the immediate question is, does any one know anything about Allen banjos particularly the Abilene model? I came across one in the classifieds in my erea and it peaked my interest. I think the price is $1650. I've searched the forum and found very little on them. Any info on playability, sound, concerns? Also, is it possible to make a comparison to a banjo that may be similar, or at least in its class, where I could get a point of reference?
Although its in the same state its probably going to be a 4.5 hour drive to go check it out, so anything I can learn previous would be fantastic. Thank you so much!