Select the number of strings. Banjos are a versatile instrument that comes in a variety of styles. String choices for banjos include a 4-string, 5-string, and 6-string. Choose the one that best suits you based on the type of music you want to perform and how advanced you feel yourself to be. Of all the string instruments, the banjo is by far the cheapest to buy because it's made from wood instead of metal. However, banjos are also by far the most expensive to repair because there are no spare parts available apart from the occasional replacement of the nut. The number of strings required depends on which style of banjo you get. If you get a four-string banjo, you will need to buy more strings than if you get a five-string banjo. Six-string banjos are extremely rare because they are difficult to play due to the fact that there are too many strings involved. Generally, a four-string banjo has a low E string, a high E string, a bass string and a treble string. These strings are labeled with letter names instead of numbers so that even beginners can understand which string they should press down on when playing. A five-string banjo has an extra low D string that is used for bending notes. The other strings are the same as on a four-string banjo.