ADM 5-String Banjo Review: Best Budget Banjo for Beginners

Pro Music Vault Home Reviews Banjo Reviews ADM 5-String Banjo Review: Best Budget Banjo for Beginners

Looking for an affordable, beginner-friendly banjo that doesn’t compromise on quality? The ADM 5-String Banjo is a top pick for aspiring bluegrass, folk, or country players. With its solid build, rich tone, and complete starter kit, it offers exceptional value for under $200.

Table of Contents

Why the ADM 5-String Banjo Stands Out

The ADM 5-String Banjo is designed with beginners in mind, offering features typically found in higher-end models:

  • Full-size 38″ body with a mahogany resonator for warm, rich tones.
  • 24-bracket Remo drum head ensures crisp sound and durability.
  • Geared 5th tuner provides precise tuning stability.
  • Maple neck with 22 frets and a rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability.
  • Chrome-plated armrest adds comfort during extended sessions.

Each banjo undergoes quality checks before shipping, ensuring a reliable instrument right out of the box.

ADM Banjo 5 String Full Size Banjoes Set, 38 Inch Beginner Banjo Kit with Resonator, Remo Drum Head, Open or Closed Back, Gift Package Free Lessons Starter Accessories for Adults Teenager, Black
  • ♫【HIGH-QUALITY REMO DRUM HEAD】Selected banjo panel will produce a sweet tone, ensuring clarity of sound. Proper bridge setting can stay stable when fast fingerpicking
  • ♫【SUPERIOR MATERIAL】Black walnut fingerboard and bridge, sturdy and stable, make the sound more layered. Sapele sides and back have beautiful wood grain, hard and not liable to warp or corrode, making the banjo durable
  • ♫【ECONOMICAL KIT WITH FREE LESSONS】Our pack is constucted with bag, digital tuner(battery not included), strap, strings, picks, hanger and clearing cloth. You can get these accessories which is suited to beginner one-off at a cost-effective price. Meanwhile, you will also enjoy extra one-month lesson by contactng us when the item arrive
  • ♫【GEARED 5TH TUNER】It is important for both tuning and playability, bringing you the classic tones and perfect for country, folk, bluegrass and even some modern rock. And it is an important upgrade over the common friction tuner

What’s Included in the Starter Kit

The ADM banjo comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, making it ideal for beginners:

  • Gig bag for easy transport.
  • Digital tuner to keep your banjo in perfect pitch.
  • Shoulder strap for comfortable playing.
  • Extra set of strings for replacements.
  • Three finger picks to get you started.
  • Cleaning cloth to maintain your instrument.

This all-in-one package ensures you have everything needed to begin your banjo journey.

Customer Feedback

Users praise the ADM 5-String Banjo for its value and beginner-friendly features:

“The banjo itself is a great beginner’s banjo. Other than unboxing it, you are 100% ready to start pickin’ the second it arrives!”

“Super awesome banjo, it sounds great.”

“It was reasonably priced for a beginning instrument and it came with a bunch of extras.”

While some users mention minor issues like small finger picks or missing bridge pieces, the overall consensus is that it’s a solid starter instrument.

Top Alternatives to Consider

If you’re exploring other beginner banjo options, here are some popular choices:

1. Deering Goodtime 5-String Banjo

A high-quality open-back banjo known for its excellent craftsmanship and playability. Ideal for those willing to invest a bit more for superior sound.

Deering Goodtime 5-String Openback Banjo USA Made Nickel Hardware Open Back with Instrument Alley Padded Gig Bag, Tuner, Mute and Picks Starter Package
  • Comes with a padded gig bag, banjo mute, thumb pick and 2 finger picks
  • Blonde Slender Rock Maple Neck, 22 Pressed In Nickel Silver Frets, Hardwood Bow Tie Inlays, Sealed Geared Tuners, Geared 5th String Tuner, Durable Satin Finish, Deering Fiddle Shaped Peghead

2. Ibanez B200 5-String Banjo

Features a beautiful inlay design and delivers a bright, articulate tone. Great for intermediate players looking to upgrade.

Ibanez B200 Banjo – Natural
  • 5-string Banjo with Mahogany Bowl and Neck
  • Remo Weatherking Head – Natural
  • Rolled-brass Tone Ring
  • Rosewood Fingerboard
  • Basswood Rim

3. Oscar Schmidt OB5 5-String Banjo

A resonator banjo offering a full-bodied sound, perfect for bluegrass enthusiasts seeking an affordable yet quality instrument.

Oscar Schmidt OB5 5-String 30-Bracket Cast Tonering Bluegrass Banjo Package with Deluxe Padded Gig Bag, Strap, Tuner, Stings, Picks
  • Comes with 12mm padded gig bag, True Tune tuner, strap, picks and strings
  • Mahogany wood back, Nato wood neck, Gloss finish
  • 30 Bracket cast aluminum tone ring
  • 22 Frets, Mutli-Inlay, Chrome hardware
  • Die-Cast w/Geared 5th string tuner

Final Verdict

The ADM 5-String Banjo stands out as an excellent choice for beginners. Its combination of quality construction, rich sound, and comprehensive starter kit makes it a top contender in the budget banjo market.

FAQs

What makes the ADM 5-String Banjo suitable for beginners?

Its full-size design, quality materials, and included accessories provide a comprehensive package for new players.​

Does the ADM banjo come with everything needed to start playing?

Yes, it includes a gig bag, tuner, strap, extra strings, picks, and a cleaning cloth.​

How does the sound quality of the ADM banjo compare to higher-end models?

While it’s designed for beginners, many users find its sound quality impressive for its price range.​

Are there any common issues reported by users?

Some mention minor concerns like small finger picks or missing bridge pieces, but overall satisfaction is high.​

What are some alternatives to the ADM 5-String Banjo?

Consider the Deering Goodtime, Ibanez B200, or Oscar Schmidt OB5 for different features and price points.​

See also  Best Banjo For Beginners (2023) - Buyer's Guide & Reviews

Leave a Comment