What is the Barnes & Mullins BJ400E Rathbone?

It is a 5-string electric banjo that features a distinctive black Remo head and built-in electronics. It is part of the Barnes & Mullins range that pays tribute to the brand's London heritage.

Where does the name 'Rathbone' come from?

The name refers to Rathbone Place in London. This is the street where the company's founders, Albert Mullins and Samuel Bowley Barnes, began producing banjos in the early 1900s.

Does this banjo require an external microphone for live use?

No, the BJ400E features an integrated electric pickup system. This allows the player to plug the instrument directly into an amplifier or audio interface using a standard cable.

What type of head is used on the BJ400E?

The instrument is fitted with a black Remo banjo head. This specific head is chosen for its visual impact and durable performance qualities.

How many strings does the Rathbone model have?

The BJ400E is a standard 5-string banjo. This makes it suitable for traditional bluegrass, folk, and modern fingerstyle playing techniques.

What is the typical price for this model?

The BJ400E Rathbone typically retails for approximately £399. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current stock availability.

Is the BJ400E suitable for professional stage use?

Yes, the inclusion of an electric pickup and the striking black Remo head make it specifically designed for live performance. It offers a combination of visual appeal and practical amplification.

Who were the founders of Barnes & Mullins?

The company was founded by Albert Mullins and Samuel Bowley Barnes. They established their reputation as high-quality banjo makers in London at the start of the 20th century.

Can the BJ400E be played acoustically?

Yes, like most electric banjos with a standard head and pot assembly, it can be played unplugged. However, its primary design advantage is its ability to be amplified via the internal pickup.

What style of music is this banjo best suited for?

While it can be used for any 5-string banjo style, its electric capabilities make it particularly useful for folk-rock, country, and experimental genres where stage volume is an issue.

How does the black Remo head affect the appearance?

The black head provides a modern, sleek aesthetic that differs from traditional white heads. The manufacturer describes it as a feature that ensures 'heads will be turned' during a performance.

Is Barnes & Mullins a historic brand?

Yes, the brand has roots dating back to the early 1900s in London. The BJ400E is part of a modern lineup that honors that long-standing history in the stringed instrument market.

Gear article

Barnes & Mullins BJ400E Rathbone 5-String Electric Banjo

The Barnes & Mullins BJ400E Rathbone is a 5-string electric banjo distinguished by its striking black Remo head and integrated electronics. Named after the historic London location where the company originated, it combines traditional banjo aesthetics with modern amplification capabilities for live performance.

See live prices

Historical Context

The BJ400E 'Rathbone' draws its name from Rathbone Place, London. This location is significant to the brand's heritage as it was the site where Albert Mullins and Samuel Bowley Barnes established their partnership at the turn of the 20th century. During this period, the pair began manufacturing banjos that earned a reputation for quality craftsmanship, a legacy that the modern Rathbone model seeks to emulate.

Design and Aesthetics

The primary visual feature of the BJ400E is its black Remo banjo head. This design choice provides a significant visual impact compared to the standard white or translucent heads found on traditional instruments. The contrast between the dark head and the hardware is intended to appeal to performers who require a modern look on stage while maintaining the classic 5-string configuration.

Larsen Strings Larsen Cello D String 1/8 Size Medium

Amplification and Electronics

As an electric model, the BJ400E is equipped with an internal pickup system. This allows the banjo to be plugged directly into an amplifier or a PA system. This functionality addresses the common challenges of mic-ing a banjo in loud live environments, providing a cleaner signal with reduced feedback compared to external microphones.

Comparison and Market Position

Positioned at a mid-range price point of approximately £399, the BJ400E is designed for players who need an stage-ready instrument without the premium cost of boutique electric banjos. While Barnes & Mullins offers various traditional models, the Rathbone is specifically catered toward the modern gigging musician who requires both visual flair and easy amplification.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the Barnes & Mullins BJ400E Rathbone?: It is a 5-string electric banjo that features a distinctive black Remo head and built-in electronics. It is part of the Barnes & Mullins range that pays tribute to the brand's London heritage.
Where does the name 'Rathbone' come from?: The name refers to Rathbone Place in London. This is the street where the company's founders, Albert Mullins and Samuel Bowley Barnes, began producing banjos in the early 1900s.
Does this banjo require an external microphone for live use?: No, the BJ400E features an integrated electric pickup system. This allows the player to plug the instrument directly into an amplifier or audio interface using a standard cable.
What type of head is used on the BJ400E?: The instrument is fitted with a black Remo banjo head. This specific head is chosen for its visual impact and durable performance qualities.
How many strings does the Rathbone model have?: The BJ400E is a standard 5-string banjo. This makes it suitable for traditional bluegrass, folk, and modern fingerstyle playing techniques.
What is the typical price for this model?: The BJ400E Rathbone typically retails for approximately £399. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current stock availability.
Is the BJ400E suitable for professional stage use?: Yes, the inclusion of an electric pickup and the striking black Remo head make it specifically designed for live performance. It offers a combination of visual appeal and practical amplification.
Who were the founders of Barnes & Mullins?: The company was founded by Albert Mullins and Samuel Bowley Barnes. They established their reputation as high-quality banjo makers in London at the start of the 20th century.
Can the BJ400E be played acoustically?: Yes, like most electric banjos with a standard head and pot assembly, it can be played unplugged. However, its primary design advantage is its ability to be amplified via the internal pickup.
What style of music is this banjo best suited for?: While it can be used for any 5-string banjo style, its electric capabilities make it particularly useful for folk-rock, country, and experimental genres where stage volume is an issue.
How does the black Remo head affect the appearance?: The black head provides a modern, sleek aesthetic that differs from traditional white heads. The manufacturer describes it as a feature that ensures 'heads will be turned' during a performance.
Is Barnes & Mullins a historic brand?: Yes, the brand has roots dating back to the early 1900s in London. The BJ400E is part of a modern lineup that honors that long-standing history in the stringed instrument market.