Recording King RKO-3S Dirty 30's Open-Back Banjo - Satin Natural

Recording King RKO-3S Dirty 30's Open-Back Banjo - Satin Natural

Step back in time to the golden era of mail-order instruments with the Recording King RKO-3S! This 5-string open-back banjo is part of the "Dirty 30's" series, capturing the vintage vibe of the historic, Depression-era instruments but with rock-solid modern playability and construction. The open-back design is key to its authentic, traditional sound, producing a softer, more mellow, and "plunky" tone that is the authentic voice of old-time and clawhammer playing styles.

The banjo features a multi-ply rim and a Maple neck, a very hard and stable wood that contributes to the instrument's clear and bright tone. While the back and sides are Mahogany—a classic choice often associated with a rich, focused sound in guitars—the sound is primarily driven by the Remo Recording King head and the open-back construction, delivering a clear, vibrant, and resonant traditional tone that is surprising for its price point.

This banjo is the ideal companion for traveling troubadours, folk stylists, and singer-songwriters who appreciate a light, road-ready instrument with historic charm. Its comfortable neck profile and geared tuners make it an excellent and affordable choice for beginners, while its traditional voice will appeal to seasoned clawhammer and old-time players.

Why Buy A Guitar From Palen Music Center?

Palen Music Center has a wide range of unique guitars to enhance the sound of your music! We have been trusted by musicians across the country since 1963 and are constantly working to provide the best value for our customers. With the addition of our new PLEK machine and our longtime veteran luthiers, we are pleased to provide top-quality guitar repair.

Highlights

• Get that authentic, "plunky" old-time and clawhammer tone thanks to the open-back design.

• The Maple neck contributes to a clear, bright, and stable playing experience.

• Captures the classic vintage aesthetic of Depression-era mail-order instruments.

• An incredibly lightweight and affordable companion for travel and jams.

• Geared tuners and a comfy "C" neck profile offer reliable playability, perfect for beginners.

Specifications

• Body Type: Open-back Banjo

• Rim: Multi-Ply

• Back & Sides: Mahogany (Back is open)

• Neck Wood: Maple

• Left/Right Handed: Right-Handed

• Fretboard Wood: Revebond or Rosewood/Composite Rosewood

• Scale Length: 26-1/4"

• Number of Frets: 22

• Fretboard Inlay/Material: Inlaid Dot

• Neck Profile: C

• Finish: Satin

• Head: Remo Recording King Head

• Bridge Material: Maple with Ebony Cap

• Nut Material: Plastic

• Tailpiece: Presto-style / No-Knot

• Tuners: Geared Tuners with Ivory Button

• Manufacturer Part Number: RKO-3S

All fretted instruments receive a free complimentary professional setup. Please feel free to reach out to our knowledgeable sales staff with any additional questions!