Gold Tone AC-5 Acoustic Composite 5-String Resonator Banjo
$499.99
The Gold Tone AC-5 is the lightest resonator banjo we carry. Composite rim and resonator deliver full bluegrass volume at just 5.5 lbs. Maple neck, ZeroGlide nut, two-way adjustable truss rod, Terminator tailpiece, Remo head. Professionally set up at Banjo Warehouse in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Includes gig bag.
In stock
Questions? Call or text us at 404-218-8580Read customer reviews
Questions about this banjo? Call or text 404-218-8580
Watch the demoHear this model played Gold Tone AC-5 Banjo Review | Expert Analysis by Geoff Hohwald | Banjo Warehouse, opens a video playerAt a Glance
- Handedness
- Right-Handed
- Style
- Resonator Banjo
- Strings
- 5
- Scale Length
- 26-3/16"
- Pickup
- No
- Made In
- China
- Weight
- 5.5 lbs
The Gold Tone AC-5 is the lightest resonator banjo we carry. At 5.5 lbs it is the same weight as the open-back CC-50, but with a composite resonator that gives you the volume and projection you need for bluegrass playing. If you want resonator banjo sound without the extra weight, this is where to start.
The composite rim and resonator are strong, resonant, and impervious to humidity changes that affect wooden instruments. Gold Tone calls it a “punchy fourth-string bark and clear ringing high notes.” It is also the most travel-friendly resonator banjo in our inventory — lightweight enough to take anywhere.
Every AC-5 is inspected and set up at Gold Tone’s factory in Titusville, Florida before it ships. Our banjo tech Tara then sets this one up a second time at Banjo Warehouse in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Two professional setups before it reaches you.
Why Buy From Banjo Warehouse
Banjo Warehouse in Yellow Springs, Ohio is an authorized Gold Tone dealer. Every AC-5 is inspected and set up at Gold Tone’s factory in Titusville, Florida before it ships. You will not receive an unplayable instrument from us.
Gold Tone AC-5 Specifications
| Strings | 5-string |
| Style | Resonator |
| Neck material | Maple |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Frets | 22 |
| Inlay | Dot |
| Nut | 1-3/16″ ZeroGlide Nut |
| Truss rod | Two-way adjustable |
| Tuners | Covered guitar-style |
| Rim | 11″ composite |
| Resonator | 13″ composite |
| Tension hoop | 11″ flat bar |
| Head | 11″ Remo LC Coated Topside |
| Brackets | 16 |
| Coordinator rods | Single 11″ |
| Tailpiece | Terminator |
| Bridge | Maple with ebony cap |
| Armrest | Fits all GT engraved |
| Binding | Black ABS |
| Finish | Natural / Satin |
| Hardware | Chrome plated |
| Scale length | 26-3/16″ |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
| Tuning | GDGBD |
| String gauges | .011, .024w, .016, .013, .011 |
| Includes | Gig bag |
| Optional case | HD15-M hardshell case (sold separately) |
| Made in | China, set up in Titusville FL and Yellow Springs OH |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the AC-5 and the AC-1?
The AC-1 is an open-back composite banjo — no resonator, lighter, ideal for old-time and folk. The AC-5 adds a 13″ composite resonator for bluegrass volume and projection. Same weight at 5.5 lbs, same composite construction, but the AC-5 gives you significantly more volume. If you want to play bluegrass or play with other musicians, the AC-5 is the right step up.
What is the difference between the AC-5 and the CC-50RP?
Both are entry-level resonator banjos. The AC-5 has a composite rim and resonator making it lighter and more travel-friendly, with guitar-style tuners. The CC-50RP has a traditional wooden maple rim with GT planetary tuners and a removable resonator. If weight is a priority or you travel frequently, the AC-5 is the better choice. If you want a more traditional wooden construction and better tuning stability, step up to the CC-50RP.
Is the AC-5 good for beginners?
Yes. It is lightweight, easy to play, and built to handle travel and humidity without the care a wooden instrument requires. Composite instruments are also more resistant to the bumps and knocks of being a beginner. It is a strong choice for anyone who wants resonator volume at an accessible price.
Does the AC-5 come set up?
Yes. Gold Tone sets up every AC-5 at their factory in Titusville, Florida. You will receive a ready-to-play instrument.
Is the AC-5 good for travel?
Yes. At 5.5 lbs it is one of the lightest resonator banjos available. The composite construction is impervious to humidity changes that affect wooden instruments on the road. It is an excellent travel or second banjo.
Is the AC-5 available left-handed?
Yes. We stock the left-handed AC-5, built the same way with everything reversed for left-handed players. If you are not sure which hand you should be playing on, call or text us at 404-218-8580 and we will talk it through before you order.
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1 review for Gold Tone AC-5 Acoustic Composite 5-String Resonator Banjo
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This is the left-handed version of the Gold Tone AC-5 — a genuinely impressive beginner bluegrass banjo that punches well above its price point. The composite rim and resonator deliver a punchy low end and clear, ringing highs that surprised me the first time I picked one up. It ships with a padded gig bag and is professionally set up at the Gold Tone factory in Titusville, Florida before shipping.
The Gold Tone CC-50 Cripple Creek is a 5-string open-back banjo built for old-time and folk playing. Multi-ply maple rim, rolled brass tone ring, two-way adjustable truss rod, and Terminator tailpiece. Lightweight at 5.5 lbs. Includes gig bag.
The Gold Tone CC-100R is the best beginner banjo at this price. Maple neck and rim, rolled brass tone ring, two-way adjustable truss rod, and a convertible resonator that comes off for true openback playing. Part of Gold Tone’s Cripple Creek line, in stock in Yellow Springs, and set up twice before it ships. Choose the build pictured here or Gold Tone’s current one at the same price, just say which in your order notes. Gig bag included.
The Gold Tone AC-1 is an award-winning beginner banjo that weighs under four pounds, thanks to its composite rim and slim, playable neck. Named “Best in Show / MUST Stock” at the 2016 Summer NAMM Show in Nashville, it delivers real banjo tone in a durable, travel-friendly package. Openback, with a resonator available separately. Ships with a gig bag and a professional setup from the Gold Tone factory, plus free insured US shipping.
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Terry (verified owner) –
Got the banjo with no damage, ready to play! I love this thing! Such an upgrade from the old 1960s Chicago model that I was trying to use. Couldn’t even make clean chords on that one. This one is so much easier to play!