“It’s an awesome banjo!” says well-known old-time banjoist Dan Levenson of Deering’s new Vega Dragon Star banjo introduced at the 2004 Anaheim NAMM trade show. Continuing the Vega tradition of banjos that some players refer to as “playable sculpture” and created to meet the demands of today’s vintage Vega fans, the peghead of the new Deering Vega Dragon Star is exquisitely inlayed in mother of pearl and abalone shell with a many scaled, fire-breathing dragon whose tail and claws are entwined around a bold Vega star. At the base of the scooped ebony fingerboard is a delicate princess colorfully inlayed with hand-engraved detailing on not only this lovely Vega Lady but also the accented stars that are used as position markers. There are bright sterling silver beams of light at the end of her hand-held staff that is pointed in the direction of the dragon on the peghead. Deering’s latest Vega carries all the much sought after features of their other Vega #2 models and is retail priced at only $5820.
Built around the classic tubaphone tonering by Deering, the tone of this elegantly inlayed, high gloss finished, curly rock maple banjo is “clean across the entire range”, according to Dan, giving the professional player a clean bass with a clear treble and everything in between. Though bearing the traditional frailing scoop favored by clawhammer players, Dan Levenson says “You can use this banjo for anything!” It is richly dynamic, accurate all the way up the neck, with the full, complete range of tone that is favored by discerning professionals and collectors of fine instruments. The no-knot tailpiece and fiberskyn head are standard features on this latest Deering Vega model and are in keeping with the tonal elements favored by the traditional old timey players.
For more information on the Vega Dragon Star call the Deering Banjo Factory at 800-845-7791 and visit their web site www.Deeringbanjos.com to see the other Vega Banjos by Deering.