I agree Bonnie! There is something about banjos that sends me!

Anyway, I just saw a Goodtime for $180 in the BanjoL archives:

http://listproc.ucdavis.edu/archives/banjo-l/log0012/0279.html

I've also heard good things about the Criple Creek and other open backs made by Goldtone as good starter banjos.

I have three banjos, two that I bought through e-bay for about $100.00 each (an old kay student model, and a nameless one with a skin head), and one that I bought from a local banjo repairman for $250 (A Harmony open back). I would have been much better off buying 1 banjo that was better quality with better tone, action, etc. Those 12" Student models by Bart Ramsey look real real tempting!

JAB