Tanglewood TWB18M6 Union 6 String Maple Resonator Banjo, Natural Gloss

A six string banjo for guitarists

Guitarists often want a banjo sound without starting from scratch, and the TWB18M6 is built for that. This six string banjo from the Union series is played like a guitar, but the sound is all banjo. It is a good fit for anyone who wants a new voice in their music without relearning chord shapes.

Where it fits

A six string banjo is handy for songwriters who want a fresh texture on a demo, and for guitarists in folk or country bands who want to switch colour mid-set. Fingerpicking patterns transfer directly, so you can focus on the sound rather than the technique. Because the neck feels familiar, you can be playing real music on the first evening.

Guitar feel, banjo voice

With six strings, the chords and scales you already know work straight away. That makes the TWB18M6 a quick way to add a banjo to a recording or a live set. Maple resonator and sides give a bright, clear tone with good projection, and the Remo Mate Ivory head adds some warmth to keep the attack from being too sharp.

Construction

The neck is maple, and the fingerboard is engineered wood with a smooth surface for easy movement along the frets. The bridge is maple with an ebony tip. The whole instrument feels sturdy and ready for regular playing.

Finish

Natural gloss shows the maple grain and keeps the surface protected. It gives the banjo a clean, bright look.

• Six strings, guitar-style playing
• Maple resonator and neck
• Remo Mate Ivory head
• Engineered wood fingerboard

This is the dearest banjo in this group at £449, partly because of the six string layout. If you want to learn proper banjo tuning, the TWB18M4 has four strings and the TWB18M5 has five, both at £399. If you are a guitarist looking to widen your sound, the TWB18M6 is the one to pick. Free UK delivery is included.