Both are great. Personally I like the smoothness and melody of the dobro more than the twang of the banjo, but mastering either will be a great addition to a bluegrass band. Another thing to consider is price – my gut instinct is that you can find a better quality cheap banjo versus a cheap dobro, and it’s also worth looking around in classifieds or on Craigslist, or even at the instrument shop itself (they often have a wall for classifieds) to see if anyone’s selling a used one.

Both are great! My most recent was a mandolin and I love it.

I miss playthebanjo.

last visit: September 22nd, 2008

:’(

I had an urge a while back that made me want to buy and learn to play banjo. I figured it would pass with time, but it didn’t. I eventually gave in and bought one – one of the best decisions I have made. I love playing the banjo! One of the things that has helped me the most – talk to someone who knows how to set up a banjo. I was completely new to playing stringed instruments when I got it, so you might already know this. Find out how high your action should be and see if the floating bridge needs to be adjusted (or replaced with a bridge to compensate for the 3rd string). Having the proper setup will greatly improve the quality of your sound.

@petethepothead he was on February 3rd. Sorry I misssed him.

@mij My co-worker plays both. I’m waiting for him to come back from the men’s room so I can ask his opinion for you.

Here he is now:

For a more blues sound I would definetly go with the dobro.