1953 Vega VOX Plectrum Banjo Renee Karnes 1928 De Luxe Conversion Vegavox Vegaphone Deluxe

It’s well known that the Vega VOX plectrum banjo is the king of the hill in the Trad. Jazz and Dixieland worlds. This is in large part due to Banjo virtuoso Eddie Peabody’s legacy. In fact he was directly involved in its development. High end deluxe versions of the Vega Vox banjo seldom come up for sale and are highly desirable.

We’ve shown this banjo to many experts in that world and concluded the following. It appears to have begun its life as a Vega Tubaphone Deluxe, stamped 98810 (circa 1953, but could be leftover prewar parts). It has been made to look cosmetically like the first generation of the VOX banjos from the late 1920s. Based on the finish coloring and engraving style, it would be very surprising if the custom work had been done by anyone other than master banjo builder Renee Karnes, although it is not marked.

The rim, dowel stick, and neck appear to be from the original banjo. The resonator (also stamped 98810) was likely created or modified by Karnes. The tension hoop, flanges, tailpiece, armrest, and tuners are all newer (perhaps from the Martin, Galaxy Trading, or Deering eras) and were crafted around the original Vegaphone parts. 

Overall length: 38 in. (96.52 cm.)
Head Diameter: 10 7/8 in. (27.62 cm.)
Body Depth: 3 1/2 in. (8.89 cm.)
Scale length: 27 in. (685.8 mm.)
Nut Width: 1 1/8 in. (28.5 mm.)
Serial Number: 98810

This banjo is in very nice condition and is set up well for easy playability up and down the neck! There is some light fretwear from normal use, but it sounds great all the way up its long 27” plectrum scale.  It has light wear to the gold plating at contact points.  It comes in a very sturdy(yet slightly musty) Superior brand professional hard shell case.

Wonderful sounding and great looking Vox plectrum jazz banjos seldomly, if ever, come up for sale. And Renee's work is still highly desired long after her passing. Don't miss out on this gem!

Excellent (E) Condition