After owning it for several months now, I thought I'd give you my impression of it. Simply put, Wow! The more I play it the more I want to play it, it's one of my favorites if not THE favorite. Still holds its tune, still staying in one piece ( the construction quality's been great from the git-go), and still sounds and plays great. If you're ever looking for a banjo in the $150 range, you'd be well advised to give the Epiphone a try. Maybe mine's unique, I can't say, but it's the best banjo money I ever spent.
As you might expect from the price range, it's a straightforward, no-frills banjo. Wood pot, looks like 3 ply, probably mahogony, but it's stained, and I'm no wood expert. Ditto for the neck. The tuners are individual and enclosed. The top of the rim is strongly tapered, I suppose to simulate a tone ring, but I don't know. I do know it's loud. Setup was good, I did have to adjust the action a little to suit my own preference.
By the way, I get no payoff at all for this, I just know there are probably at least a few beginners and others out there who might be interested in buying an inexpensive banjo. Based on my personal experience, I'd recommend the Epiphone open back in a heartbeat. Try one for yourself, and see if you don't agree.
