The Montaya 5-ST is a vintage 5-string banjo from the 1980s, built during an era when Japanese import instruments offered solid craftsmanship at accessible prices. You receive a traditional resonator-style banjo featuring a mahogany neck and resonator body, designed for clear projection and balanced tone. Its construction includes a geared 5th-string tuner mounted on the neck for precise tuning of the drone string, along with a full set of planetary-gear tuning machines. The fretboard typically features pearloid dot inlays, and the headstock carries the Montaya brand logo common on instruments distributed during this period.
Playing this banjo delivers the bright, crisp attack associated with bluegrass and folk styles. The resonator projects sound forward effectively, while the floating bridge transfers string vibration cleanly to the head. Setup follows traditional 5-string specs with a comfortable neck profile suitable for frailing, clawhammer, and Scruggs-style picking. This instrument offers a vintage-made banjo from an era when Japanese factories were producing reliable instruments for students and working musicians.
This item is used, and it needs a new head, but otherwise it is in good condition. Please see pictures for condition. This item is being sold as-is. All other items seen pictured that are not mentioned in the title of this listing are being sold separately. Thank you for your interest! Be sure to send us a message for shipping quotes.
