Gold Tone makes some of the best banjos for beginners, intermediate players, and professionals. This guide will help you find the right Gold Tone banjo for your playing style and budget.
Banjo Warehouse is an authorized Gold Tone dealer in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Owner Geoff Hohwald has known Gold Tone founder Wayne Rogers for decades and collaborated with him on the design of both the OB-12 Top Tension banjo and the OB-Standard. When you buy a Gold Tone from us, every instrument arrives professionally set up at the Gold Tone factory; showroom units get a second in-house setup from our banjo tech Tara.
A Brief History of Gold Tone Banjos
Gold Tone was founded in 1993 by Wayne and Robyn Rogers in Titusville, Florida. Their goal was to build quality banjos at prices working musicians could afford. Over thirty years later, Gold Tone has become one of the most respected banjo manufacturers in the country, with a lineup spanning beginner instruments to professional-grade Orange Blossom Mastertones.
Gold Tone has consistently pushed the boundaries of banjo design, introducing models like the OB-12 Top Tension, the Greg Rich series, and a wide range of specialty instruments including banjo-ukuleles, cello banjos, bass banjos, and long-neck models. Notable specialty models include the Gold Tone ResoUke, the GM-50+ Mandolin, and the M-BassFL MicroBass.
Types of Banjos Offered by Gold Tone
Gold Tone offers an extensive range covering open-back models, resonator banjos, banjo-ukuleles, and specialty instruments.
Open-Back Banjos
Open-back banjos have no resonator, resulting in a lighter, mellower instrument well-suited for old-time music and clawhammer playing. Notable models include the BC-350, the AC-1 (an affordable all-composite open-back ideal for beginners and travel), and the High Moon series (the HM-25 and HM-100), scooped-fingerboard open-backs with wood tone rims built for old-time playing.
Resonator Banjos
Resonator banjos have a closed back that projects sound forward, producing a louder, brighter tone suited for bluegrass and Scruggs-style picking. The lineup runs from beginner models like the CC-100R to professional Orange Blossom Mastertones like the OB-2, OB-3, and OB-3+.
Banjo-Ukuleles
Banjo-ukuleles combine a ukulele body with banjo tone and are tuned like a ukulele. Gold Tone offers several models including the BUS.
Specialty and Hybrid Banjos
Gold Tone’s specialty lineup includes the M-Bass (micro-scale bass banjo), the CEB-4 (cello banjo tuned an octave below standard), and the WR-7 Banjitar (7-string with doubled low E for a drone effect). Long-neck models like the OT-800 LN add extra frets for alternate tunings.
The Gold Tone Series Decoder
Gold Tone names tell you exactly what you’re buying once you know the code. Here’s the map.
| Series | Stands for | What it is | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC | Acoustic Composite | Composite-rim banjos: the lightest and most affordable legitimate instruments Gold Tone makes | $314.99 to $549.99 |
| CC | Cripple Creek | Wooden entry level: maple rims, rolled brass tone rings; includes the BG/OT beginner packages | $474.99 to $849.99 |
| BG | Bluegrass | Gibson-styled lookers with tone hoops rather than full-weight rings; exceptional cosmetics for the money | $799.99 to $999.99 |
| MC | Maple Classic | All-maple mid-tier resonator | around $999.99 |
| HM | High Moon | Premium old-time open-backs with scooped fingerboards and wood tone rims | $899.99 to $1,349.99 |
| OB | Orange Blossom | The Mastertone line: sand-cast bell brass rings, 3-ply maple rims, one-piece cast flanges, pre-war construction | $1,099.99 to $3,899.99 |
| OT | Old Time | Tubaphone-class open-backs in the Vega tradition | $1,679.99 to $1,999.99 |
A few suffixes worth knowing: R means a resonator on a normally open-back platform (CC-100R), RP adds planetary tuners to a resonator model (CC-50RP), L means left-handed (we stock one of the largest left-handed selections anywhere), LN is long neck, and a plus sign marks an upgraded configuration. On the Orange Blossom models, the + means the JLS sand-cast bell bronze tone ring, made by Jim Stull in the USA, and several of those + configurations (OB-150+, OB-2+, OB-3+, OB-Standard+) are Banjo Warehouse exclusives. On other series the + can mean a factory pickup or other upgrade; if a name puzzles you, call and we’ll decode it.
Where does Mastertone-level construction begin? At the OB-150. Below that, the BG series gives you the Gibson look with lighter hardware; above it, the + models and the Greg Rich designs (OB-100, BG-175F, OB-12 Top Tension) carry the line to its peak. For a head-to-head at the very top, see our OB-Grandee vs OB-300 comparison. For the cross-brand question, our Gold Tone vs Recording King comparison puts the closest rival side by side.
Components of a Gold Tone Banjo
Gold Tone banjos are built with carefully selected materials that affect tone, playability, and durability.
Tonewoods
Maple is dense and hard, offering excellent projection and a bright, crisp sound. Used on models like the OB-250+ TP and CC-100R. Mahogany produces a warmer, mellower tone and is featured on the OB-2JM and OB-3. Walnut sits between the two with a balanced, full tone, featured on the OT-800.
Banjo Heads
Fiberskyn heads replicate traditional calfskin and produce a warm, vintage tone. Found on old-time models like the OT-800. Clear Mylar heads provide bright, crisp tone with more projection. Found on most bluegrass resonator models. Frosted heads are common on professional models and reduce brightness slightly compared to clear heads.
Tone Rings
The tone ring is one of the most important factors in a banjo’s voice. The ladder runs from composite or no ring on the AC models, to rolled brass on the Cripple Creek line and the entry OB-100, tone hoops on the BG series, sand-cast bell brass on the Orange Blossom Mastertones, and the JLS bell bronze ring on the + models. The OB-3+ uses the JLS sand-cast bell-bronze flathead tone ring, one of the finest modern flathead rings available and the same ring found in the OME Ikon.
How to Choose a Gold Tone Banjo
Playing Style
For clawhammer and old-time playing, you want an open-back banjo with a mellower tone. The HM-25, BC-350, and OT-800 are well-suited for this style; our best clawhammer banjos guide has the full rundown. For bluegrass and Scruggs-style three-finger picking, you want a resonator banjo with a bright, cutting tone. The CC-100R is the right starting point for beginners. Serious players move up to the OB-250+ TP or the OB-3+.
The Bluegrass Ladder
If bluegrass is your music, here’s the cleanest way up the mountain: start on a CC-50RP or CC-100R ($699.99 to $799.99), step to a BG-150F or BG-175F ($999.99) when you want the Gibson look, reach the real Mastertone recipe at the OB-150 ($1,299.99), and when you’re ready for the banjo you’ll never outgrow, the OB-150+, OB-3+, or an OB-Grandee. Every rung is a genuine upgrade you’ll hear.
What Your Budget Buys
Under $500: the composite-rim AC-1 ($314.99) and AC-5 ($499.99), and the wooden CC-50 ($474.99). All legitimate, all set up before they reach you.
$500 to $1,000: the heart of the beginner-to-intermediate range. CC-50RP and the CC-BG package at $699.99, CC-100R at $799.99, the clawhammer HM-25 at $899.99, and the Gibson-styled BG-150F and BG-175F at $999.99.
$1,000 to $2,000: where professional construction begins. OB-100 ($1,099.99), OB-150 ($1,299.99) where the Mastertone recipe starts, the old-time HM-100 ($1,349.99) and OT-800 Tubaphone ($1,679.99), and the OB-150+ with the JLS ring ($1,799.99).
$2,000 and up: the professional Orange Blossoms: OB-2 and OB-3 ($2,099.99), the OB-3+ ($2,599.99, the best-sounding banjo Gold Tone makes in our opinion), OB-Standard+ ($2,999.99), and the showpieces: OB-300 and OB-Grandee ($3,199.99), OB-12 Top Tension ($3,499.99), and the Béla Fleck Bluegrass Heart ($3,899.99).
Financing is available on everything: PayPal Pay in 4 and Afterpay on our site, Affirm on Reverb. For picks by player type, start with Geoff’s best beginner banjos guide or his price-by-price breakdown of how much to spend on your first banjo.
Getting Personal Advice
Not sure which Gold Tone is right for you? Call Geoff directly at (404) 218-8580. He has known Gold Tone founder Wayne Rogers for decades and can point you to exactly the right instrument for your needs and budget.
Popular Gold Tone Banjo Models
Gold Tone CC-100R — The best entry-level bluegrass banjo available. Maple neck with two-way adjustable truss rod, separate rosewood fretboard, maple rim with twin coordinator rods, and a removable resonator for open-back playing. Our most recommended starting point for new players.
Gold Tone OB-150+ — Prewar-style construction with a three-ply maple rim, one-piece flange, upgraded JLS tone ring, and Gold Tone’s lifetime transferable warranty. Professional construction at an intermediate price.
Gold Tone OB-3 — Gold Tone’s recreation of JD Crowe’s original Gibson RB-3. Mahogany neck and resonator, prewar-style headstock and measurements. The platform Bela Fleck used as the starting point for his Bluegrass Heart signature model.
Gold Tone OB-3+ — The OB-3 upgraded with the JLS sand-cast bell-bronze flathead tone ring. A Banjo Warehouse exclusive configuration at $2,599.99. One of the best values in professional bluegrass banjos.
Gold Tone OB-Standard — Double-cut headstock with Hearts-and-Flowers inlay, a nod to Earl Scruggs’ playing style. Professional instrument at a mid-range price.
Gold Tone AC-1 and CC-50 — the beginner anchors: the all-composite AC-1 at $314.99 (under 4 pounds, NAMM Best in Show) and the wooden CC-50 at $474.99, the best open-back under $500.
Gold Tone HM-25 — the newest High Moon: a scooped-fingerboard old-time open-back with a wood tone rim at $899.99. The best dedicated clawhammer value in the line.
Lowest price guaranteed. We won’t be undersold.
Free shipping on all orders within the United States.
Accessories for Your Gold Tone Banjo
Cases and Gig Bags: Most Gold Tone banjos include a case or gig bag. Call to confirm what’s included with your specific model before ordering.
Straps, Picks, and Capos: Finger picks, thumb picks, banjo straps, and capos are all worth having. Call Geoff at 404-218-8580 for recommendations specific to your instrument.
Bridges and Strings: Every banjo we set up ships with a Huber maple and ebony bridge and Huber strings. If you want to upgrade the bridge on a banjo you already own, order one directly from Steve Huber at huberbanjos.com for $30.
Instructional Materials:
Gold Tone endorses The Banjo Primer by Geoff Hohwald as the starting point for new players. Over 200,000 copies sold. Geoff also offers in-person and virtual lessons. Call him at 404-218-8580.
Want to know when new Gold Tone banjos arrive? Join our email list and be the first to know.
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Why Buy a Gold Tone from Banjo Warehouse?
Banjo Warehouse is an authorized Gold Tone dealer in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Geoff Hohwald has known Gold Tone founder Wayne Rogers for decades, collaborated with Wayne and Greg Rich on the design of the Gold Tone OB-12 Top Tension banjo, and collaborated with Wayne on the OB-Standard. Every Gold Tone we sell ships with a professional factory setup, free US shipping, and Gold Tone’s lifetime transferable warranty.
Call Geoff directly at (404) 218-8580 for help choosing the right Gold Tone for your playing style, skill level, and budget.
Gold Tone FAQs
Where are Gold Tone banjos made?
Components are sourced internationally and every instrument is assembled, set up, and quality-checked at Gold Tone’s headquarters in Titusville, Florida. The professional Orange Blossom models use the same construction methods as pre-war Gibson Mastertones.
Are Gold Tone banjos good quality?
Yes. Gold Tone has built banjos for over thirty years, backs every instrument with a lifetime transferable warranty, and sets up every banjo at its Titusville, Florida factory before it ships. Professional players including Béla Fleck have put their names on Gold Tone signature models.
What’s the difference between the OB and BG series?
The OB (Orange Blossom) series uses full-weight sand-cast tone rings and Mastertone-grade construction; the BG series delivers the Gibson look with lighter tone hoops at half the price. The decoder table above maps the full lineup, and our OB-Grandee vs OB-300 comparison shows the top of the OB line head to head.
Glossary of Banjo Terms
Archtop: A tone ring design with a crowned profile, producing a brighter, more focused sound. Think Ralph Stanley instead of Earl Scruggs.
Armrest: A metal component attached to the tension hoop providing a comfortable resting place for the player’s arm.
Banjo head: The drum-like surface of the banjo, typically made from plastic or Fiberskyn, which vibrates to produce sound.
Bracket: A metal component used to secure and tension the banjo head to the rim.
Bridge: A wooden piece that supports the strings and transfers their vibrations to the banjo head. Bridge quality significantly affects tone. Banjo Warehouse uses Huber bridges on every setup.
Capo: A device that clamps onto the banjo neck to raise string pitch, allowing play in different keys without retuning.
Clawhammer: A traditional playing style using a down-picking motion, typically used for old-time music.
Coordinator rod: A metal rod through the pot assembly providing structural support and enabling neck angle and action adjustments.
D-tuners: Special tuning pegs allowing quick pitch changes on a string, commonly used in bluegrass.
Fingerboard: The flat wooden surface on the neck where the player presses strings to create notes.
Fingerpicks: Small curved picks worn on the player’s fingers, used in bluegrass and fingerpicking styles.
Flange: A metal component connecting the resonator to the rim, providing structural support and aiding projection.
Flathead: A tone ring design where the ring sits flat against the rim, producing the warm, sustained tone Earl Scruggs made famous.
Frets: Metal bars embedded in the fingerboard that allow the player to produce different notes.
Headstock: The top of the banjo neck, housing the tuning pegs.
Hooks: Metal pieces that attach the tension hoop to the brackets, allowing head tension adjustment.
Inlays: Decorative designs in the fingerboard or headstock, usually mother-of-pearl or abalone.
JLS tone ring: A sand-cast bell-bronze flathead tone ring made by Jim Stull in the USA, known for deep low-end response and prewar bark. Found in the OB-3+, OB-150+, and OME Ikon.
Nut: A small grooved piece at the junction of neck and headstock maintaining proper string spacing and height.
Open-back: A banjo without a resonator, producing a mellower, more open sound.
Planetary tuners: High-quality tuning pegs with a gear system for smooth, precise tuning.
Pot: The round body of the banjo, consisting of rim, tone ring, head, tension hoop, and hardware.
Resonator: A wooden attachment on the back of a banjo that reflects sound forward, increasing volume and projection.
Rim: The circular wooden component forming the core of the banjo’s pot.
Scruggs style: A three-finger picking style popularized by Earl Scruggs, the foundation of bluegrass banjo playing.
Tailpiece: A metal component anchoring the strings at the end of the banjo.
Tension hoop: A metal ring atop the banjo head, securing it to the rim.
Tone ring: A metal component atop the rim that is one of the primary factors in a banjo’s voice.
Truss rod: A metal rod inside the neck allowing adjustment of the neck’s curvature.
Tuning pegs: Devices on the headstock used to adjust string tension and pitch.
Banjo Warehouse is an authorized Gold Tone dealer. Every Gold Tone banjo we sell includes free US shipping, a professional factory setup, and Gold Tone’s lifetime transferable warranty. Financing available: PayPal Pay in 4 or Afterpay on our website, Affirm on Reverb.
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