1970s Iida Model 233 5-String "Masterclone" Resonator Banjo

I've worked on a fair amount of Iida (and related/rebadged) banjos in my time and, aside from the most basic models, they're quite good instruments. They're not styled exactly like Gibson Mastertone instruments but the heart of their construction is very similar to them and they tend to remain just as stable and functional as them, too.

This one has a flathead-style tonering sitting atop a thick, multi-ply rim fit with a flange and heavy-duty hardware just like the banjos it apes. It's built a few pounds lighter than a similar Gibson-style instrument, however, so it's a little easier on the shoulder at the end of a gig.

We've gone through this one -- it got a fret level/dress, take-apart, put-back-together, and setup work done -- and as a result, it plays spot-on and is ready to serve. It really does sound quite bluegrassy and has a nice, airy/hollow "pop" to its sound that cuts right into a mix.

Repairs included: a fret level/dress, cleaning, adjustments, and setup.

Weight: 9 lbs 15 oz

Scale length: 26 3/8"

Nut width: 1 1/8"

Neck shape: slim-medium C

Board radius: flat

Head diameter: 11”

Resonator diameter: 13 3/4"

Depth overall at rim: 4"

Rim wood: multi-ply maple

Tonering: flathead-style

Bridge: maple/ebony

Fretboard: rosewood

Neck wood: mahogany

Action height at 12th fret: 1/16" overall (fast)
String gauges: 9s

Truss rod: adjustable

Neck relief: straight

Fret style: medium

Condition notes: it's in excellent shape and all-original save the upgraded tailpiece and perhaps the geared 5th peg. There's minor signs of use but overall it's pretty clean.

It comes with: a hard case.

Consignor tag: B52