Does anyone have an opinion of the Gabbanelli Cajun King?

I know they don't have Binci reeds, and the reeds are aluminum.

They sell for about 800.00 dollars, and I wonder if they are better than a hohner for a beginner who doesn't have two thousand dollars for an accordion?

thanks so much.

Geno

The reeds "frames" are aluminum.. the reeds are steel.. like most accordions

I believe they may use a middle grade of Cagnoni reeds.. not bad at all

The "Cajun" King is ok for $800

Find a used Hohner HA 114 for around $400
that would be my preference

With a little work they sound and play well.

After owning a Cajun King for a while and talking to a number of people who also have experience with them, I think you are better off with a Hohner 114 at first and saving your money for a real hand-made LA box. If you just want a Cajun like box for occasional use or as a back-up the King is fine. The sound is good (not great, but good) but the springs are too strong, takes too much pressure. I also had trouble with the pivot blocks sticking. Twice I had to send it back to Gabbanelli to have one repaired. My Le Capitaine was a revelation!!! Save for a good box.

I think the Cajun King represents the best bang for your buck at around $700. Like I said before, you are getting 75% quality & craftmanship at 50% price compared to a hand-made LA box.
For someone who can't afford the LA-made, it represents the best compromise between a cheapo made-in-China $400 or an HA-114, which doesn't look and feel Cajun made.
I believe they use Salpa reeds, which is not as good as Binci, but close.

I agree ...

There are many Cajun built boxes with Salpas

But I believe Gab Kings are Cagnoni..
I think they use whatever was delivered today..
cheapest and fastest...