In terms of overall construction, banjo ukuleles parallel
banjos, though on a smaller scale. They are always
fretted. Most are built of wood with metal accoutrements, although the mid-century "Dixie" brand featured banjo ukuleles made from solid metal. The banjo ukulele neck typically has sixteen frets, and is the same scale length as a soprano or, less commonly, concert or tenor-sized ukulele. Banjo ukuleles may be open-backed, or may incorporate a
resonator. Banjo ukulele heads were traditionally made of
calf skin, but most modern instruments are fitted with synthetic heads. Some players prefer the natural skin heads for a more traditional tone. Tightening or loosening the drum head, through adjusting the tension hooks fitted around the outside of the drum, results in a change in tone. The head typically has a firm tension. Tightening it so that it is rock hard to the touch gives a bright sound with good note distinction, but less bass response. Loosening it so it is softer, yet still tight enough to keep the bridge in place with the tension of the strings, results in a warmer, less bright sound. The bridge floats on the head and is held in place by the tension of the strings. Like standard ukuleles, banjo ukuleles were originally outfitted with
gut strings.
Nylon strings are now typically used, sometimes with a wound third string. The banjolele is commonly tuned G–C–E–A ("C Tuning") or A–D–F♯–B ("D Tuning"), with a
re-entrant 4th string. The A–D–F♯–B tuning often produces a more strident tone, and is used for this reason. Both of these tunings are known as "my dog has fleas" tunings (fifth, tonic, major third, major sixth).
Bass Banjo Ukeleles exist and are typically tuned E1–A1–D2–G2. ==Popular culture==