The Falcon OBJ550W-SNT is a beautiful light weight walnut banjo sold by Ortega Guitars of Germany. This is not your typical rebranded banjo made in Asia. It has unique design features not found in other imports. You will be impressed by the tone and volume of this banjo given its weight of only eight pounds!
The light weight is largely achieved by use of a flat bar rolled brass ring rather than a heavy cast bell bronze flathead tone ring. The exceptional volume and poppy bluegrass sound of this banjo is owing to the fact that it uses a special hybrid rim design that incorporates a raised wooden bead encircled by the rolled brass ring.
Purchased new in April 2025, this banjo also has a slightly thinner neck and closer string spacing at the nut making it especially suitable for players with smaller hands.
After purchasing the Ortega I took it to Rufus Guitars, in Parksville, BC for an expert setup that included: a custom nut, PIP resizing, precise fret work and the installation of 5th string spikes at the 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th frets.
I also replaced the original head and bridge with a Deering top frosted head and Stelling Old Wood bridge to bring out the full tone and volume of this banjo! An Ortega Guitars gig bag is also included.
The banjo is available for pick-up only in Victoria, BC. Price is firm. Sale is final. Sorry, no trade-ins or third parties. Please write with any questions. Thank you!
