1990 Bob Rock RB-2 Resonator 5-String Banjo

Overview: Bob Rock made a number of banjos in the '90s from his Pennsylvania home. It looks like he tended to make bluegrass-style instruments and this one is definitely in the style of a Mastertone and has an archtop tonering that he apparently had cast specifically for his use. It has some folksy aspects to it -- the finish is not professionally-sprayed and some of the decorative cuts here and there are naive in their ways -- but, post-repairs, it's an excellent player and delivers a strong, punchy, bluegrass tone.

Interesting features: It's decorated profusely with hand-cut abalone inlays (I like the anvil in the middle of the neck a lot) and has marquetry-style inlay all around the resonator and rim's sides. There's Lange-like red trim throughout as well, giving it an unusual appearance, and the hardware and tuners are good-quality.

Repairs included: Tim gave it a level/dress of the frets, cleaning, and setup work. He also fixed a wide seam crack on the back of the resonator and did an excellent job of it. It's playing spot-on and ready to go.

• Weight: 11 lbs 3 oz
• Scale length: 26 3/8"
• Nut width: 1 1/4"
• Neck shape: medium-full C/D
• Board radius: flat
• Depth at first fret: 31/32"
• Depth at seventh fret: 1"
• Head diameter: 11”
• Resonator diameter: 13 3/4"
• Depth overall at rim: 4"
• Rim wood: ply maple
• Tonering: archtop Mastertone-style
• Bridge: mixed walnut/ebony
• Fretboard: ebony
• Neck wood: walnut
• Action height at 12th fret: 1/16" overall (fast, spot-on)
• String gauges: 10s
• Neck relief: straight
• Fret style: medium/narrow

Condition notes: The walnut resonator had an open center seam and it's been filled and tidied-up. The finish is original and in good shape but has a little "home-sprayed-ness" about it. It feels good to play, though, and doesn't detract from the instrument's vibe or joy. The hardware all has a little tarnish as it's getting older, now. There's some mild playwear here and there.

It comes with: It has a good, heavy-duty, flight-style hard case (as in, lightweight, foamy structure).

Consignor tag: ODY