Re: Anyone know anything about this banjolin?
"Rally" is apparently a brand of Daewon, major Korean musical instrument producer. They have an extensive line of banjo models, including three models of mandolin-banjos: DMB-1, DMB-2, DMB-8. The DMB-8 has a "full-size" 11-inch head, the other two models are smaller. From the eBay writeup, I gather the offering is for a DMB-1.
I can find quite a few reviews of Rally guitars, not many of their banjos. For $150 for a DMB-1, I don't think you're risking much. If you search the Cafe you'll find some extensive discussions of mandolin-banjos, both vintage and modern. Some enjoy 'em, others find them raucous and annoying. You can find quite a few vintage mandolin-banjos for the same price you'll pay for the Rally, since many were built 60-80 years ago, but the instrument's no longer popular.
Here's a link to the DMB-1 page on the Daewon website. Again, the price is pretty low, and the instrument appears serviceable, at least in terms of its construction. Doubt you'll find many who have purchased one and reviewed it on-line, though.
Allen Hopkins
Gibsn: '54 F5 3pt F2 A-N Custm K1 m'cello
Natl Triolian Dobro mando
Victoria b-back Merrill alumnm b-back
H-O mandolinetto
Stradolin Vega banjolin
Sobell'dola Washburn b-back'dola
Eastmn: 615'dola 805 m'cello
Flatiron 3K OM
Bookmarks