Dobson
Dobson Banjo
Patented in 1881 the Dobson Silver Bell tone ring was designed by New York instrument maker, teacher and performer Henry C Dobson and today is one of the most sought after styles of tone rings amongst old time players.
My Dobsons are 12" rims, built with a second rolled brass tone ring which the Dobson sits upon. This configuration is sometimes called a Dobson Special and mimics the way the ring contacts an overspun rim which they were originally designed for.
This model has a well balanced tone with a sweet rich high end, a funky low end and a characteristic sustain and decay to the notes.
Specifications
Available in three choices of wood combination
ViewNeck | Hand cut and engraved mother of pearl Song Thrush inlay on headstock | |
25.4" scale length | ||
Enoch scoop | ||
Three piece neck | ||
Two way adjustable truss rod | ||
Matching headstock veneers and fingerboards | ||
Under veneers on neck and headstock | ||
Medium size, hard nickel silver fretwire | ||
Buffalo horn nut (corian available on request) | ||
Gotoh raw brass tuners with brass hardware | ||
Three band tuners with nickel hardware | ||
Rim | 12” rim | |
Dobson special tonering | ||
20 shoes | ||
3” three ply rim | ||
Rim cap to match neck | ||
Bridge - Moon, straight capped or plain Cherry depending on desired setup | ||
Head | Renaissance head as standard, others available on request | |
Goat skin + £75 | ||
Finish | Hand rubbed oil finish | |
Hardcase | Hiscox Artist Pro II Hardcase - Choice of black or ivory | |
Price | Nickel hardware | £1,950 |
Brass hardware | £2,100 | |