February 19, 2024

The Deering Goodtime Banjo

I own a Goodtime 2. I bought it used back in 2012 or so and have forgotten the details and the price. Almost certainly I bought it at the "Folk shop" in Tucson.

There are now 3 variations of the Goodtime. 

Goodtime (open back) $579
Goodtime 2 (with resonator) $839
Goodtime special (with tone ring and resonator) $1219
Prices shown are full retail as of February, 2024.

They are very easy to tell apart. The "Special" has the word "Special" boldly printed on the peghead. The "plain" Goodtime does not have a resonator.

You can also look at the "pot". The special will have a second metal band (the tone ring).

The Goodtime is often recommended as a first banjo, and this is a solid recommendation. It has been said that the beginner will benefit greatly by owning a quality banjo rather than some bargain instrument. With a good instrument, you know that it is you and not the instrument that is causing any problems you might be having.