A Driving Signature 5-string Loaded with Alternative Attitude
Crafted to serve as Scott’s go-to resonator banjo, the Deering Scott Avett “Truth” signature banjo encapsulates the Avett Brothers’ cavalier blend of traditional Americana and alternative ethos into a single spotlight-stealing 5-string. A premium 3-ply violin-grade maple ring kicks Scott’s banjo off, paired with a 3-ply poplar/walnut resonator that delivers a bright and authoritative projection. However, Scott’s choice of a lightweight grenadillo tone ring supplies a warmer, mellower, and more complex tonality when compared to the metal tone ring found on most bluegrass-style banjos, well-suited to Scott’s driving, rhythm-focused technique. Next, the 1-piece quarter-sawn walnut neck features a comfortable D-shaped profile, while the ebony fingerboard showcases alluring custom inlays designed by Scott himself. You also get a top-shelf arrangement of performance-ready hardware, including Gotoh planetary tuners, a Deering True Tone tailpiece, and a Deering armrest with a walnut cap. Whether you're a die-hard Avett Brothers devotee or you're simply after a 5-string that stands out from the crowd, the Deering Scott Avett "Truth" is a collector-worthy banjo that boasts a style and sound all its own.
Related Videos: Scott Avett "Truth" Signature Banjo - Walnut
Intricate inlays designed by Scott Avett
As the co-founder and lead vocalist of the Avett Brothers, Scott Avett has spent more than two decades reinvigorating the sound of classic American folk and country music with a healthy dose of rebellion and attitude. Though also an accomplished guitarist, drummer, and pianist, Scott’s main musical muse throughout his tenure with the Avett Brothers has undoubtedly been the banjo, with his unique blend of 3-finger technique and frenetic strumming bringing the 5-string to a new generation of listeners.
The Deering Scott Avett “Truth” draws from countless recording sessions and world tours, resulting in Scott's idealized resonator banjo. From the moment you open the case, the most striking element of Scott’s signature banjo is undeniably its collection of custom fingerboard inlays, designed by Scott himself. Atop the walnut neck’s ebony fingerboard, you'll find a gleaming arrangement of flowers, hearts, skulls, diamonds, and more, with the end of the fingerboard wearing this banjo’s titular “Truth” inlay. It all adds up to a banjo that’s sure to draw eyes, whether lit up by stage lights or leading the band in a bluegrass circle.


Grenadillo tone ring supplies a rich and rounded-over voice
In lieu of the metal tone ring you’ll find on most traditional resonator banjos, the Scott Avett "Truth" banjo boasts a tone ring crafted from high-grade grenadillo wood. This distinctive deviation results in a warmer, more complex voice than the bright, brilliant sound of a classic bluegrass banjo. And while resonator banjos rank just under the bass as the heaviest instrument in an acoustic ensemble, the Scott Avett "Truth" banjo’s grenadillo tone ring shaves off the instrument's overall weight for a more comfortable feel on your shoulders.
Deering: decades of banjo excellence
From professional-grade parts and exciting accessories to an impressive range of banjo series befitting players of all calibers, Deering is heralded as “The Great American Banjo Company” — and for good reason! Since 1975, Deering has shown an unrivaled dedication to top-tier American-made quality and innovation in the banjo domain. Today, Sweetwater is proud to walk alongside Deering — but we aren’t alone! Numerous bluegrass, folk, and country stars spanning the past and present, including Scott Avett, Keith Urban, and Jeff DaRosa, have engaged in the Deering banjo revelry. Are you ready to join the ranks?


Deering Scott Avett “Truth” Signature Banjo Features:
- Scott Avett's go-to resonator banjo, the flagship model of his Deering signature series
- Grenadillo tone ring warms up the bright, metallic twang of this resonator banjo with a rounded-over voice
- 3-ply violin-grade maple 11-in. rim and a 3-ply poplar/walnut resonator provide a powerful, ensemble-leading projection
- 1-piece quarter-sawn walnut neck shaped into a comfortable D-shaped profile
- Ebony fingerboard inlaid with custom artwork designed by Scott himself, including the model’s signature “Truth” inlay
- Premium build includes 24 round J-hooks, a notched brass tension hoop, and a 1-piece cast zinc flange
- Top-of-the-line hardware includes Deering’s own True Tone tailpiece, a mellow-sounding ebony nut, rock-solid Gotoh planetary tuners, and a sleek armrest with a walnut cap
