Vintage 1980 OME Single X 5-String Resonator Banjo — Excellent vintage condition, Original, Pro Setup, OHSC

This is a vintage 1980 OME Single X 5-string resonator banjo in excellent vintage condition. It has excellent craftsmanship, a comfortable neck, strong projection, and a clear, full tone that works beautifully for Scruggs-style picking, melodic playing, dixieland jazz .... whatever you want to throw at it.

This Single X features nickel-plated hardware, decorative flange, truss rod, dual coordinator rods, a grooved tension hoop, and the great early OME build quality. The fingerboard, peghead overlay, and heel cap are Brazilian rosewood, with a hand-carved solid South American mahogany neck. The resonator is finished with simulated tortoise shell binding.

The banjo is all original (except for the strings and bridge) and is in excellent playing condition. Original frets as well, with little wear. Straight neck, original tuners, original everything! It has a few small dings in the finish, small ding in the fretboard between the first and second fret on the treble side and the hardware needs polishing, which are shown in the photos, but overall it is beautiful and has been well cared for by one owner since 1980. It was recently set up by Willie’s American Guitars in St. Paul, MN by their resonator expert, Kari Larson (trained by National Reso-phonic). The set-up has easy-playing action, so it is ready to play right out of the case.

OME banjos are known for their tone, stability, and high-end construction.

It is a vintage instrument that has already stood the test of time and, with proper care, should easily be making music for another 46 years!

Please review all pictures and let me know if you have any questions.

Includes original hardshell case, strap and various picks (some picks from original 1980 purchase).

Details:

Model: OME Single X
Year: 1980
Type: 5-string resonator banjo
Condition: Excellent vintage condition
Hardware: Nickel plated
Serial Number: #2315
Era: Boulder, Colorado OME / Chuck Ogsbury period
Production range: 1980 OME serial range #2210–2390
Nut Width: 1-3/16"
Frets: 22
Scale Length: 26-1/4"
Setup: Recently set up by Willie’s American Guitars, St. Paul, MN
Originality: All original parts except strings and bridge
Case: Original near mint hardshell case is included
Weight: ~11lbs

For more information, see the archive section of the OME website.

NOTE: Shipping cost includes freight, shipping material and insurance. This is a used instrument, please see all photos. It has been set-up by Willie's American Guitar in St. Paul, MN as of 6/29/2026, however it may need to be set-up to your playing style / regional temperature / humidity. No returns, please ask all questions upfront.