2018 Deering White Oak 12″ 5-String Banjo-Used

We’ve often wondered why more American guitar and banjo makers don’t use white oak, as it’s an abundant domestic hardwood that makes fine sounding instruments. This Vega White Oak, made by Deering, uses its namesake wood for the neck and shell of this banjo. Because oak is so dense and sturdy, the top of the rim has tapered top edge, which makes a metal tone ring unnecessary. This results in a round, woody tone plenty of pop and projection, while the larger 12″ diameter head adds nice bottom end to the banjo tone. The Vega White Oak is ideal for clawhammer and folk music and it’s remarkably lightweight for a 12-inch banjo.

While this example is used, it hardly looks it. The frets show only the slightest hint of wear and the head has no scuffing from fingers or picks. Includes the original hardshell case.