Deering Scott Avett Signature Banjos

Two New Deering Signature Banjos, Built With Scott Avett

Scott Avett didn't just put his name on a stock banjo — he spent years working with Deering to build an instrument that matches his own high-energy, folk-rock playing style. The result is two distinct models: an Open Back built for the low, old-time growl of frailing and clawhammer playing, and a Resonator built to cut through a full band mix with the drive the Avett Brothers are known for.

Both models carry Scott's own design choices — from neck feel to tone ring to hidden inlay details — and both ship from The Acoustic Shoppe with our 23-Point Professional Setup and Dread-Not Guarantee.

Open Back vs. Resonator: Which Scott Avett Model Fits Your Playing?

Both models share design DNA, but they're built for different players.

Open Back: A 12-inch head with a non-metal, grenadier-wood tone ring gives this model a warm, low-end growl built for frailing and clawhammer players, with more projection than a typical open-back.
Resonator: Built on the same tone ring lineage as Deering's John Hartford model, the Resonator adds richer overtones and stage-ready volume for players who lean into the Avett Brothers' high-energy drive.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Scott Avett Signature banjos gig-ready instruments, or just collector's pieces?

Both are built to play, not just display — Scott spent years shaping the neck feel, weight, and tone to match his own touring style, not just the artwork.

What's the difference between the Open Back and Resonator models?

The Open Back is lighter with a warmer, old-time tone suited to frailing; the Resonator projects more volume for stage and bluegrass-adjacent playing.

Does the Scott Avett Signature banjo come with a professional setup?

Yes — every instrument ships with The Acoustic Shoppe's 23-Point Professional Setup and Dread-Not Guarantee.

Four people sit around a wooden table with microphones, laughing and talking in a cozy, rustic studio. Musical instruments and vintage decor are visible in the background, including a large sign that reads TAS.