Can it be played without the resonator and is the resonator easily removed?
1238744
Yes it can. The resonator simply adds volume to the banjo by projecting the sound forward. It just takes a minute or two to remove it. All that is needed is a phillips head screwdriver.
1238745
Hi yes it can, But you should probably just purchase one made for open back play.
1238746
As others have said, the resonator can be easily removed. If you are going to switch back and forth, I'd recommend switching from the screws that normally hold the resonator on to thumbscrews. And if you don't want the resonator, just buy the Goodtime (instead of the Goodtime 2). The only difference between the two is the resonator (which affects primarily the volume, but does make the tone a bit brighter) and the price. In fact, Deering makes a resonator kit to turn the Goodtime into a Goodtime 2. So you could go with the Goodtime and upgrade later if you want.
1238747
I haven't removed the resonator but my books indicate that removing a resonator is a common and easily done process for tonal variation.
2200486
Yes, the noisemaker part can come out entirely. The hook and loop strap at the back of the head can be trimmed off, if not needed.
918512
You can use it without headphones or with them. The sound can be set very loud if you like.
1833984
Yes, actually. It's very similar to an electric guitar, where you can still play without an amp, but it's just really quiet. You can't really perform on one without something, but you can still play without one.
1661327
Yes. It plays like a traditional acoustic, it just doesn't have a resonating chamber which allows it to be much, much smaller in circumference.
1727123
Yes, you can take off the part with the music, lights, and vibration. I kept mine in, as my baby liked the music and vibration.
1328673
honestly I don't know I'm reluctant to open case, I've kind of gotten used to it and I don't hear it anymore. but I'm sure if you locate the noisemaker in it you can probably disconnect it.
572485
Elisa, they do work without any music playing but you do hear a not more of the surrounding noise. The more expensive models I have tried do a little better job without music. But not considerably better.
380549
Yes the 4play is not very sensitive. It needs to be set up near the bass or else run it through a light board.
1380593
It is plenty loud enough to play without an amp over headphones or without... We have them in stock.
2008771
Good question! I have no musical instruments so can't say. The reasonable price in my opinion makes it worth the try.
1072462
Yes. It is not too low and not too high; another words, it is good and playable does not require too much pressure to sound notes. It also has a great sound.
166237
It sounds fine without being plugged in. I suggest you change the strings. That will improve the sound immensely. I prefer D'Addario, but you could use any brand you prefer. It does not have the same sound as a better quality wood uke, however it is great for travel, very durable, and you don't have to worry about humidifying it.
1071131
Yes, It was extremely easy to take off, just has 4 thumb screws holding the resonator on.
1246531
Yes it is quite sensitive and you can play with your fingers. I just bought one 2-3 months back and since then have played it only once. I am planning to sell mine for $95 + shipping.would you be interested ?
959548
No it won't. Body will still resonate. My friend has never taken it out since I gave it to him, and it has not reduced its 'unplugged' sound significantly; I suppose that is the reason he doesn't bother removing it whether or not he is using the amp.
1583472
Absolutely. Most of the time I play it unplugged and it has a very rich sound for an instrument in this price range. I'm very happy with mine.