Thanks Bonnie, the tone ring is a component we had not mentioned. I know that the mastertone flathead is pretty much the standard for bluegrass but what about the old time stuff? Am I right in thinking that something like a Vega White Laydie would be popular? Also, am I right in thinking that the Goodtime, which judging by the sound samples I have heard sounds great to me, uses a wooden rim and no tone ring?

Jon