Bart Reiter Tubaphone (1997)

Description

Bart Reiter's name carries a lot of weight in the world of old-time banjo, so we felt pretty lucky when this 1997 Tubaphone model made its way in through our door. As the name implies, this gorgeous open-back features a tubaphone-style brass tone ring under the head, and is paired with all-maple construction for an impeccably balanced tone with clear highs and thumpy lows perfectly suited for solo progressive clawhammer. Mr Reiter used period-correct inlay patterns on the neck and headstock for timeless frailing banjo aesthetics, including a beautiful flowerpot inlay on the headstock under the finish that seems to lend this instrument old-time street cred beyond its years. As Bart is now retired from banjo building, the prices on his instruments are set to only go up. Come get this one before it disappears!

Cosmetic wear on this instrument is relatively average, with most of it centering on the headstock, which sports a few dents and divots and some missing finish. Bare wood on the headstock has been sealed over with a very minimal French polish, preserving the natural look of the ebony. There is a small hole on the bottom of the pot where a pickup had previously been installed and has since been removed, but which does not compromise the structural integrity of the banjo. The Tubaphone has recently seen a full professional set up with an extensive fret dress and re-crown, and sports medium-low action in all positions that strikes a great balance between volume and playability. Included in the price is a tweed hard-shell case, of which it is unclear as to whether it was included with the banjo at the time of its initial purchase. 

*Please note, per our return policy, all sales on used and consignment instruments are final.*