Stromberg Deluxe 19 fret tenor banjo in beautiful Brazilian rosewood. Built in Boston around 1930 this is the top of the range in their fleet of tenor banjos 

In 1926, Elmer Stromberg applied for a patent for his novel banjo tone ring, which was comprised of a hollow tube with 42 short tubes perpendicularly soldered to it, to enhance the volume. The patent was awarded in 1928, and the tone ring became a signature feature of Stromberg banjos made during this time. The 1930 census lists Elmer as a “mechanic” at the music store, which suggests that he was responsible for the fabrication of the tone rings and metal parts for the Stromberg banjos.

The banjo features the fancy mother of pearl floral/birds inlay on the fretboard and the carved detail at the neck heel that are traditional on the finest Boston banjos since the nineteenth century. The beautifully constructed metalwork is nickel plated and stamped with decorative flowers. The 7 piece rosewood neck consists of centre maple and red stained possibly pearwood laminates for strength and stability & ivoroid side binding with position markers. Under the ivoroid bindings is fine wood marquetry strips.

The headstock has beautiful MOP inlay patterns bearing the name Stromberg and quality Grover geared tuners. The neck is straight with good frets and fast playing action with 29mm nut width. The flange & tension band are tastefully engraved, kershner tailpiece & Stromberg armrest. Currently fitted with a Elite fibre head but can be changed over to a white, clear or black head if preferred.

The rosewood resonator is beautifully finished with a centre triple walled wood marquetry and similar matching double concentric strips. The side walls match the decorations of the neck profile.

The heart of the banjo features Stromberg’s patented tone ring named the Cuppophone (or Cupperphone) tone ring, an arched-top design consisting of a hollow tube with multiple smaller vertical tubes soldered to it to enhance volume and projection.

I realise many Irish/world tenor banjo players may not have heard of the stromberg brand but I assure you this banjo shares the same stage as the well known brands Epiphone concert, Gibson TB3, Paramount Style F etc. It has an amazing tone with great cut and projection when needed. Not too many tenor banjos around these days made from the rare Brazilian rosewood. Seriously worth trying out this banjo to settle your curiosity! Comes with vintage case.