Banjo & Mandolin

Banjos and mandolins for bluegrass, old-time and folk players.

9 products

Banjos and Mandolins for Bluegrass and Folk

Banjo and mandolin are the two voices that make a bluegrass band sound like one. We carry 5-string banjos from Deering, Gold Tone and Recording King, and A-style mandolins from Kentucky and Eastman. Every one is taken out of its box and set up by hand on our bench in Athens, Tennessee before it ships: fresh strings, action and neck relief, intonation, frets and hardware, tuned to pitch.

Both instruments reward a careful setup more than a guitar does. A banjo bridge sits loose on the head and must be placed exactly. A mandolin runs eight strings at high tension over a short scale.

Not sure where to start? Read our banjo and mandolin buying guides, or call the shop and we will talk it through.

Questions We Get

Which is easier to learn, banjo or mandolin?

Both are friendly to beginners. Mandolin chords are small and compact. Banjo rolls take practice but sound like music quickly.

What strings do I need?

For 5-string banjo, a light set such as D'Addario EJ60. For mandolin, a medium set such as D'Addario EJ74.

Do you set up banjos and mandolins before shipping?

Yes. Every one is set up by hand on our bench in Athens, Tennessee.

Are you an authorized dealer?

Yes. New instruments carry the manufacturer's warranty.

How much is shipping?

Shipping is free on every order within the United States, with no minimum.

Need Help Choosing?

We're a real shop with real people. Call us and we'll help you find the right instrument.

(423) 462-1894
121 N Jackson St
Athens, TN 37303
Contact us