This second hand banjo is in great condition

The Tanglewood TWB18 M5 is part of Tanglewood’s long‑running Union line, an affordable, accessible 5‑string banjo aimed at beginners, casual players, and guitarists crossing over into the world of bluegrass. It’s a budget instrument, but it’s one of those rare entry‑level banjos that feels more thoughtfully built than the price suggests

Build & Construction

Key Specs:

• Maple resonator
• Maple neck
• Rosewood fingerboard
• 11" coated head
• Chrome hardware
• Geared 5th‑string tuner
• Traditional resonator design

The maple resonator gives the TWB18 M5 a bright, projecting voice. The overall construction is solid for the price: joints are clean, the finish is tidy, and the hardware feels sturdier than many sub‑£300 competitors.

The neck is comfortable, with a profile that’s friendly to guitarists transitioning to banjo. Fretwork is generally good, though you may find the occasional sharp edge depending on humidity and setup.

Playability

Once dialled in, the action is smooth and the instrument feels responsive. The geared 5th‑string tuner is a welcome inclusion; many cheap banjos still use friction pegs, which are a nightmare to keep in tune.

Tone & Projection

This is where the TWB18 M5 punches above its weight.

Tone Character:

• Bright and lively
• Good projection thanks to the resonator
• Crisp attack
• Clear note separation
  

It’s not going to compete with a Deering or Recording King above the £600 mark, but for its price bracket, the TWB18 M5 delivers a genuinely satisfying bluegrass voice. Rolls sound articulate, and the maple construction gives it that classic “snap” you want for Scruggs‑style playing.

Hardware & Reliability

• Chrome hardware is decent and holds up well
• Tuners are stable and smooth
• Tailpiece is basic but functional
• Bridge is serviceable but worth upgrading later

Strengths

• Excellent value for money
• Bright, punchy tone with good projection
• Solid maple construction
• Geared 5th‑string tuner (a big plus)
• Comfortable neck for beginners and crossover players
  

The TWB18 M5 is ideal for:

• Beginners wanting a “real” banjo rather than a toy
• Guitarists exploring 5‑string banjo
• Bluegrass learners who want a resonator model
  

The Tanglewood TWB18 M5 is one of the better entry‑level resonator banjos on the market. It’s well‑built, comfortable to play, and capable of producing a bright, lively tone once properly set up. While it won’t rival high‑end models, it offers tremendous value and a solid foundation for beginners or hobbyists.