A fine example of the Yates Ron Stewart mahogany model, in excellent (some would say near-mint) condition. All original parts (except for the PF-135 strings) including the original bridge, Keith standard stainless tuners, and pristine AVS case.
With all the positive response to Warren's Ron Stewart models over the last couple of years, I looked forward to analyzing one and putting it through its paces. I wanted to acquire one of the original models in excellent condition, mahogany preferred. I have had this banjo for a month, and have thoroughly analyzed the sound, its components, and have tested it with a wide variety of head tensions and setup factors.
With respect to fit and finish, it is excellent; the distressed finish on both the mahogany and the nickel makes it appear similar to the classic prewar mahogany models, and reminds me very much of the character of Bill Sullivan's prewar RB-75. The nickel is deliberately factory-aged, and the mahogany finish is crafted to appear to have many years on it. It is not a speed neck, but is smoothed to look and feel as if many folks have spent many hours with it. The profile is quite slim.
The sound is interesting, and reminds me very much of some of the classic J.D. and Kenny Ingram recordings. It's quite easy to dial in a loose, metallic, hollow sound at head tensions around 85-87 on the drum dial. A head tension tighter than that coupled with a lower tailpiece angle give a nice crispness and pop, albeit with a slight loss of depth in the 4th string. I've had good success with responses up to 91, after which the sound quality becomes too tight for my tastes. Sustain is considerable, but resonant and not splashy. Melodic runs are very clean string-to-string and intonation is among the most accurate I've experienced. At any setting, the banjo has a decided chime and resonance high up the neck.
Playability is excellent; no cosmetic or structural issues.
I'm impressed with this banjo, and am very happy I've had a chance to play and analyze it. I've priced it reasonably, at or below what I've seen listed recently here and on eBay.
Interesting trades involving banjos and guitars always considered, with cash on either side.
Thanks for looking!
John
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