Here’s a piece of Canadiana – a Deering Jens Kruger Tenbrooks banjo with Kavanjo pickup head, used in Whiskey Jack, the band that backed up Stompin’ Tom Connors.

The Deering Jens Kruger models are the top of the Deering Tenbrooks line. As the name suggests, Jens Kruger was closely involved in the design of this banjo, in particular the tone ring which emulates prized pre-war Gibson models. This example is dated to January of 2007, based on the serial number and as an older model, is a bit different from the newest production. In particular, the metal parts are nickel plated rather than gold plated.

The Kavanjo banjo head pickup system was installed a few years ago. Here’s the Kavanjo description:

“The Kavanjo Banjo Pickup System is a magnetic humbucking pickup suspended from a customized mylar head. This is the newest and we believe the most effective way to amplify the banjo, while maintaining the instruments authentic characteristics.”

Made in the USA, it installs to your own banjo, does not require a pre-amp, has a number of output and head options, and still sounds like a banjo!

This Deering Jens Kruger is in good condition and plays well. It has been used as intended but well cared for, so there’s a reasonable amount of honest play wear to the finish. Fret wear is light to moderate.

Here’s the builder on the Deering Jens Kruger model:

“The Deering Jens Kruger model has significant resonance and clarity, elevating it to the caliber of orchestral instruments. The Jens Kruger banjo is designed to unlock the creativity for the dedicated musician.

This banjo represents an achievement in banjo tone, having removed all the unwanted overtones, resulting in a banjo that is orchestral grade, with enough sustain for slow songs and clarity of note separation when it is played hard and fast. It has consistent clarity and volume up and down the neck and string to string. It fully resonates deep bass notes and sweet clear highs such that no note is suppressed and music flows freely from this alive and vibrant instrument.”

The original hard shell case is included.

You may also find interesting Duncan Fremlin’s book ‘My Good Times With Stompin’ Tom’, available at this link.    This entertaining volume remembers cross-country tours with Stompin’ Tom and Whiskey Jack.