Vega IV Tenor 1971, Painted

in 1970, Martin acquired the Vega Co.—a Boston-based banjo maker—and began producing banjos at the Martin factory in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. Ultimately, Martin sold Vega to an Asian manufacturer in 1979, so it's no surprise that Martin-made Vegas are rare instruments. But as you'd expect, these Nazareth-made banjos were made with the same uncompromising commitment to quality we expect from C.F. Martin & Co.

The VegaVox model goes back to the '20s. It is a highly-appointed, top-of-the-line plectrum banjo, and over the years, there have been many different iterations of the VegaVox model, indicated by roman numerals. 

This 1970s VegaVox De-Luxe IV is a top-tensioned resonator banjo with a heavy-duty brass tone ring. It produces a chimey Dixieland sound that cuts, and it has more sustain and richness than you expect—a perfect tone for the plectrum vibe. Like most Vegas made since the '50s, the VegaVox De-Luxe IV has a coordinator-rod system like a Gibson, which makes it easy to get the setup dialed. In keeping with the Vega tradition, Martin built these as upscale banjos with high-end details. The resonator is carved and hand-painted with an elaborate design, and the peghead matches. It has gold hardware, and the flange is adorned with rhinestones. 

This 1970s VegaVox De-Luxe IV is in excellent cosmetic condition. The setup is nice and playable,