As an elderly self-taught player of around intermediate level, I have loved the distinctive sound of traditional clawhammer music for ever, but have struggled to produce it on my own instrument. After much searching on the internet I decided to purchase a Deering Vega Vintage Star, which is designed to produce that ‘old time’ sound. I have had the instrument for a couple of weeks now and can honestly say it exceeds my expectations. I am delighted by its beautiful rich tone, having just the right brightness combined with the ‘plunky’ sound and, at last, that clear and distinctive ‘pop’ of the 5th string. Built to the usual Deering high quality, this banjo boasts a fibreskin head, 12-inch violin grade maple rim and a Dobson brass tone ring which all combine to make this such a good instrument. The medium weight makes it easy to hold and the overall playability is excellent. Anyone who loves clawhammer will certainly love the Vintage Star which I highly recommend.