Cello Banjos
Cello banjos sit an octave below a standard 5-string and produce a deep, woody tone that fills out string bands and acoustic ensembles where a traditional banjo would feel too bright. We carry the Gold Tone Marcy Marxer signature line, including the 4-string CEB-4 and 5-string CEB-5, both in right and left-handed configurations. These are full-scale banjos built on larger rims and tuned low, developed in collaboration with multi-instrumentalist Marcy Marxer for accompaniment work and old-time playing. Each ships with a hardshell case, free US shipping, a professional setup by our banjo tech Tara, and our 7-day satisfaction guarantee. Call (404) 218-8580 with questions about tuning, scale, or setup.
The Gold Tone CEB-4 is a piece of banjo history brought back to life. Cello banjos were once a staple of early twentieth century banjo orchestras and clubs, but they had essentially disappeared by 1930. Gold Tone partnered with the legendary Marcy Marxer to revive this fascinating instrument, and the result is something truly special. [...]
The Gold Tone CEB-4/L is the left-handed version of Marcy Marxer's signature cello banjo — a beautifully voiced instrument tuned in fifths (CGDA) that brings the warmth of a forgotten era back to modern players. Its 14-inch rolled brass flat bar tone ring, ebony fingerboard, and high-tension nylon strings deliver punchy, articulate low-register tone that works equally well for lead playing and accompaniment. Comes with a case and professionally set up at Gold Tone's factory in Titusville, FL.
The Gold Tone CEB-5 Marcy Marxer Signature Cello Banjo revives a lost voice from the early twentieth century banjo orchestra tradition, tuned in fifths (CGDA) with a 14-inch rolled brass flat bar tone ring that delivers rich, punchy low-end clarity. With its shortened 24-3/4" scale, high-tension nylon strings, and ebony fingerboard, it welcomes mandolin, mandola, viola, and cello players instantly while opening up entirely new sonic territory for any musician. Every CEB-5 is professionally set up at Gold Tone's factory in Titusville, FL and includes a hardshell case.
This is the left-handed version of the Gold Tone CEB-5/L Marcy Marxer Signature Cello Banjo — a beautifully crafted instrument that revives the nearly forgotten cello banjo tradition with modern playability and serious low-end voice. Tuned in fifths (CGDA) with a 14-inch pot, rolled brass flat bar tone ring, and high-tension nylon strings, it delivers punchy, articulate lows that sit beautifully in any ensemble. Comes with a hardshell case and a professional factory setup from Gold Tone in Titusville, Florida before it ships.