Deering Goodtime 2 Resonator 5-String Banjo
This is the standout beginner-to-serious 5-string because it is made in the USA and ships properly set up, so a new player.
View on Amazon →The Best Banjo for Beginners
Researched by Johnny Alto · Updated October 12, 2026
Research pick: Based on product documentation and owner discussions. How we research →
Short answer: Our top pick is the Deering Goodtime 2 Resonator 5-String Banjo. This is the standout beginner-to-serious 5-string because it is made in the USA and ships properly set up, so a new player is not fighting high.
Top pickDeering Goodtime 2 Resonator 5-String BanjoView offer →
Top pick
Deering Goodtime 2 Resonator 5-String Banjo
This is the standout beginner-to-serious 5-string because it is made in the USA and ships properly set up, so a new player is not fighting high action or a warped neck out of the box.
5-stringResonatorSetup
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Product image.
A beginner bluegrass banjo means a true 5-string with a closed-back resonator for volume and a bright, punchy tone (the resonator can usually come off later for a mellower clawhammer sound). A genuine Remo drumhead and a geared 5th-string tuner are signs of a real instrument rather than a wall-hanger. The single biggest playability factor at this price is setup: budget import banjos benefit enormously from bridge placement, action adjustment, and tightening the head, while a USA-made banjo tends to ship ready to play.
Top picks at a glance
Jameson 5-String Banjo (Closed Solid Back)
A long-running budget favorite with a closed resonator, Remo head, and geared 5th tuner at a fraction of the Deering price.
View on Amazon →Pyle PBJ60 5-String Banjo
A full-size 24-bracket 5-string with a Remo head, truss rod, and an included bridge and adjustment tool at an entry price.
View on Amazon →What should you look for in banjo for beginners?
A few things separate a good banjo for beginners from a frustrating one: 5-string, resonator, setup, and head. Weigh these before you buy.
- 5-string: a true 5-string bluegrass banjo, not a 4 or 6-string.
- Resonator: closed-back for volume and bright tone, removable for open-back feel.
- Setup: budget models need a bridge and action setup, the Deering ships play-ready.
- Head: a genuine Remo drumhead for consistent tone.
How the picks compare on specs
| Spec | Deering Goodtime 2 (pick) | Jameson | Pyle PBJ60 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | USA-made | Import | Import |
| Resonator | Maple closed-back, removable | Closed solid back, removable | Closed back |
| 5th-string tuner | Geared | Geared | Geared |
| Setup needed | Minimal | Recommended | Recommended |
What are the best alternatives?
Best budget
Jameson 5-String Banjo (Closed Solid Back)
A long-running budget favorite with a closed resonator, Remo head, and geared 5th tuner at a fraction of the Deering price. Like most inexpensive import banjos it benefits from a setup (bridge placement, action, tightening the head) to play its best. A low-risk way to test whether the instrument sticks.
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Best starter kit
Pyle PBJ60 5-String Banjo
A full-size 24-bracket 5-string with a Remo head, truss rod, and an included bridge and adjustment tool at an entry price. Expect the same caveat as any budget banjo: plan on a basic setup for comfortable action. A reasonable middle option for a cautious first buyer.
View on AmazonBottom line: the Deering Goodtime 2 is the best first real banjo, USA-made and play-ready with resale value; the Jameson is the budget favorite, and the Pyle PBJ60 is a starter kit. Budget models play best after a basic setup.
Our top pickDeering Goodtime 2 Resonator 5-String Banjo
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best banjo for beginners?
Deering Goodtime 2 Resonator 5-String Banjo. This is the standout beginner-to-serious 5-string because it is made in the USA and ships properly set up, so a new player is not fighting high action or a warped neck out of the box.
What should you look for in banjo for beginners?
Focus on 5-string, resonator, setup, and head.
What is a good alternative to the Deering Goodtime 2 Resonator 5-String Banjo?
The Jameson 5-String Banjo (Closed Solid Back). A long-running budget favorite with a closed resonator, Remo head, and geared 5th tuner at a fraction of the Deering price. Like most inexpensive import banjos it benefits from a setup (bridge placement, action, tightening the head) to play its best. A low-risk way to test whether the instrument sticks.
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This is a research-based buying guide, not a personal hands-on review. Product details, prices, and availability can change; confirm the current listing on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.
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