I just don't understand this instrument snobbery - I teach Bluegrass Banjo and MOST of my students turn up with a Korean or Chinese made instrument.

Usually 'cos they're skint!

After the first lesson I will lend him/her one of my Banjos to practice on while I set their instrument up and replace the usual "friction" 5th string tuner with a geared one.

If it's set up properly there isn't really that much difference in sound between an Ozark and a Gibson Granada -

Other than irritating smugness.