Dobson, H. C.
Silver Chime 1881 patent
submitted 2/10/2004
|
Submitter |
jbalch (see all reviews from this person) |
Where Purchased |
Ebay |
Year Purchased |
2004 |
Price Paid |
Don't Remember (bought USED)
historic exchange rates / currency converter
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Sound
|
This antique banjo sounds awesome. The Silver Bell tone ring is unique and really nice. It has a deep, rich old-time sound.
Revision: I've recently learned that silver "bell" is the correct description for this tone ring...not silver "chime" which refers to an entirely different design. |
Sound Rating |
10 |
Setup
|
This banjo is designed for gut strings. I added a Cole style 5-footed bridge and equipped it with Aquila NylGut nylon strings. The old head is dirty but sound. |
Setup Rating |
8 |
Appearance
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Incredible vintage styling. Not fancy but really cool. Special features: very steep headstock pitch, big round Dobson heel, simple ivory inlays, the nicest ebony fretboard I've ever seen. |
Appearance Rating |
10 |
Reliability
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Original 1887 patent (marked) Grover Champion style tuners. All original hooks & nuts. All are fantastic! Still working well after 120+/- years. Nonetheless, I'm a bit cautious due to the age. |
Reliability Rating |
7 |
Customer Service
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NA HC Dobson is dead and gone...but he left a few great banjos behind. Give him a 10 becase the best service is to build a banjo that stands the test of time. |
Customer Service |
10 |
Components
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The Silver Chime tone ring is unique & very special. |
Components Rating |
10 |
Overall Comments
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I love this banjo for old-time or Classical playing! |
Overall Rating |
10 |