What kind of banjo should I buy? Tenor or 5-string?

Question

I'm interested in playing music by The Pogues, Flogging Molly, Dropkick Murphys and all that sort of bands. Can anyone help me out on the choice?
I heard I could tune a 5-string banjo to a tenor tuning as well so that you kind of ''transform'' the 5-string in a tenor.
In that way, a 5 string looks better but I honestly don't have an idea on which one to buy!
Please help me guys!

Answer 1

The tenor banjo is rarely used any more. A five string is a much wiser choice.



You should check out Bela Fleck.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6v6j_JbOlpA&feature=related



xx

Answer 2

It really just depends on what you want to play - a 5 string banjo is generally finger-picked, a tenor generally played with a plectrum. It is often used as a mandolin would be and is often tuned the same way too (GDAE).

Answer 3

5 string!!