Gold Tone BB-400+ Bass Banjo with Hard Case – Right Handed

After decades in the banjo business, I can tell you that the Gold Tone BB-400+ Bass Banjo represents something truly special – a perfect fusion of banjo tradition and bass innovation that opens up entirely new musical possibilities.

What makes the BB-400+ so remarkable is Gold Tone’s brilliant approach to bass banjo design. The 14-inch maple rim provides the substantial body size needed for proper bass response, while the rolled brass tone ring adds that distinctive banjo brightness and attack that cuts through any mix. It’s not trying to sound like an electric bass – it’s creating its own unique voice.

The SMP (Sliding Magnetic Pickup) system is where this instrument really shines. Gold Tone’s internal pickup design captures both the percussive attack of the banjo head and the rich fundamental tones of the bass strings. The result is a sound that’s both familiar and completely fresh – perfect for everything from folk and bluegrass to rock and experimental music.

Construction quality is outstanding throughout. The three-ply maple rim provides excellent sustain and projection, while the Custom Remo Renaissance head offers the perfect balance of responsiveness and durability. The convenient thumb rest makes playing comfortable, even during long sessions. The straight-pull tailpiece isn’t just about looks – it makes string changes much easier than traditional tailpiece designs.

The maple neck features a rosewood fretboard with beautiful snowflake inlays and houses a two-way adjustable truss rod. At 32″ scale length, it provides proper string tension for bass tuning (EADG) while maintaining comfortable playability. The sealed bass-style tuning machines keep everything stable and precise.

At 9.6 pounds, the BB-400+ has substantial feel without being unwieldy. The included hard shell case means you’re ready for gigs and sessions right out of the box, with excellent protection for your investment.

What really excites me about this instrument is its versatility. Whether you’re a bassist looking to add unique textures to your sound palette, a banjo player wanting to explore lower registers, or a composer seeking new sonic possibilities, the BB-400+ delivers sounds you simply can’t get anywhere else.

The “Folkternative Design” designation isn’t just marketing speak – this instrument genuinely opens up new musical territories. I’ve seen players use it in bluegrass, indie rock, world music, and experimental settings, always with stunning results.

At $1199.99, the BB-400+ represents exceptional value for such a specialized and well-built instrument. Gold Tone’s setup work in Titusville, Florida ensures this bass banjo arrives ready to play, with proper intonation and optimal action.

This is one of those instruments that changes how you think about music. The Gold Tone BB-400+ Bass Banjo isn’t just another bass guitar alternative – it’s a completely new voice waiting to be explored.

Contact Banjo Warehouse | Expert Banjo Sales & Lessons

For detailed descriptions or to chat about banjos, call Geoff Hohwald at 404-218-8580 — your go-to expert for vintage and new banjos.
Email us anytime at thebanjowarehouse@gmail.com.

Follow Banjo Warehouse on social media and marketplaces:

• Facebook – Join our community and get updates

• Reverb – Shop our latest banjo listings

• eBay – Find rare and vintage instruments

• YouTube – Watch demos, reviews, and lessons

Want to visit? Call Geoff to schedule an appointment at our Atlanta, GA, or Yellow Springs, OH locations (serving Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, and beyond). Serious inquiries only, please.

Banjo Lessons & Instruction

Geoff Hohwald, author of the bestselling The Banjo Primer, offers in-person and virtual banjo lessons for all skill levels. Explore his full catalog of instructional banjo books and digital modules.

Call today to book your session and start mastering the 5-string banjo with a top instructor.

About Banjo Warehouse

Banjo Warehouse is a family-owned business backed by over 50 years of musical experience and 40 years of instrument retail and education expertise. We specialize in 5-string flathead banjos, with occasional selections of guitars, mandolins, and other folk instruments.

Founder Geoff Hohwald has been an active member of the bluegrass and acoustic music community since the 1960s. A professional banjo and guitar player, Geoff co-founded Watch and Learn Publishing and has owned multiple music stores in Atlanta. Today, Banjo Warehouse is your trusted source for vintage and new banjos, expert advice, and quality instruments.