Hey everyone!
I'm a long time drummer looking to expand my horizons to stringed instruments! I started playing around on a friend's old guitar a couple months ago and have been enjoying it, but I've always loved banjos and want to teach myself to play. I've been lurking around these forums trying to gather as much knowledge as possible before buying my first banjo, but I'd really appreciate some input before I drop the cash.
Here's what I'm looking at:
Mitchell MBJ200: $200
Mastercraft Bluegrass Maple: $225
Deering Goodtime: $350
Gold Tone Cripple Creek CC-OTA (that's what it says on the Ebay listing, I didn't see that model in any reviews): $350
It seems that the Deering Goodtime is highly recommended for new players. That banjo definitely sets the upper limit on my price range at $350. Is it preferable over the Cripple Creek for the same price? I'm also looking at a Mastercraft Bluegrass Maple or a Mitchell MBJ200. Money is a fairly large obstacle for me; for the buyer on a limited budget, is the price difference between the cheaper banjos (Mitchell and Mastercraft) worth it for the Goodtime or Cripple Creek?
Thanks for your help!