Old timey jam - buy Galax style or J. Edward Thomas style?

Hi all,

I'm squarely moving along the noter/drone track! Yeah! I have many friends who are old-time banjo and fiddle players and I'd like to eventually join their jam. Is there a pro/con of using a Galax style vs., say, a J. Edward Thomas style? I'm assuming the Thomas is quieter, but what other considerations are there? If being heard is not my #1 priority, than are the Galax and Thomas about equal in the ability to play fiddle tunes and other OT tunes?

Thanks!