I have 2.

Bob Carlin BC350 (12 inch head and very mellow tone) and a WL200 (Whyte Lady Tone Ring and a slightly more cutting sound).

I really like them and IMHO compare with other modern banjos that cost at least twice as much.

I mainly frail though the WL200 is also pretty good for picking (even with picks!).

I'm currently cosidering buying the OT800 Long Neck with Tubaphone Tone ring at the moment.

None of these are the cheaper under $500 models though so I don't know if this is at all helpful for you Wesley!