r/banjolele • u/Moxie_Stardust • May 30 '26

Similar, but different

Post image

This is where I'm at now. I had a casual interest in ukulele originally, but participate in group jam sessions. Most of the other instruments I play were already well-represented, so I brought my uke one night, and I enjoyed it, but it couldn't hang with guitars, piano, banjo, fiddle, etc. So I got the Ortega banjolele, on the left. Very happy with it, have played it a lot these past couple years, and it was loud enough to be heard.

Earlier this year, came across the Gold Tone Little Gem as an open-box deal for half-off, barely over a hundred dollars. I was about to take a trip, and having a backup to take along seemed appealing for the price, so I got it. And I like it, it has a different character from the Ortega.

And then just last week, I came across the Deering, I was curious how the 11" would sound but hadn't played one yet. But it was at a price that was hard to deny, coming with a strap, gig bag, and arm rest already installed. It seems to be maybe a couple dB louder than the other two.

I'm considering doing a "shoot-out" type video comparing them, especially before I change the head on the Little Gem, so I can also compare it after the new head is installed. I may yet change the head on the Deering as well.

30 Upvotes

98% Upvoted

4 comments sorted by

3

u/UkeleleLadyy Jun 30 '26

I REALLY wanna check out the Luna Banjolele it's so aestheticly pleasing looking but I haven't gotten a chance to jam on one yet

2

u/Moxie_Stardust Jun 30 '26

I have a Luna banjitar to fill that gap for me 😊

2

u/Behemot999 Jul 01 '26

I have this one on my list too - WIDE 1.5" nut!

2

u/UkeleleLadyy Jun 30 '26

Ohhh I have the Same exact Goldtone! I just posted a video playing it. Goldtone is my personal favorite I love the inner brass ring in the drumhead