Gold Tone GM-50+/L A-Style Mandolin with Pickup and Bag (Left-Handed)

If you’re a left-handed player searching for a serious A-style mandolin that won’t break the bank, the Gold Tone GM-50+/L is one of the most thoughtfully built instruments at this price point. This is the left-handed version of the GM-50+, and everything about it — the carved solid spruce top, the curly maple back and sides, the tobacco sunburst high-gloss finish — speaks to the classic Midwestern mandolin tradition that flourished in clubs and orchestras throughout the early 1900s. That era produced some of the most loved mandolin sounds in American music history, and Gold Tone has captured that spirit beautifully here. The ZeroGlide nut helps keep the instrument in tune with minimal friction, and the adjustable bridge lets you dial in action to your preference. Whether you’re a beginner making your first serious mandolin purchase or an acoustic player adding a quality instrument to your collection, the GM-50+/L delivers a warm, focused tone that punches well above its price.

What really sets this instrument apart for working musicians is the included Chop Saddle transducer pickup. You’re not paying extra for an afterthought add-on — Gold Tone designed this in from the start. The ebony fingerboard with cream ABS binding gives it a refined feel under the fingers, and the 20-fret layout with dot inlays keeps things clean and functional. The chrome-plated hardware, mandolin cast tailpiece, and metal tuning buttons all hold up well to regular playing. At 2.4 lbs, it’s lightweight enough to play for long stretches without fatigue. The tobacco sunburst finish on that curly maple gives it real visual character — this doesn’t look like a beginner instrument even if it’s priced for one. Tuned GDAE with doubled strings (.011/.011, .016/.016, .026w/.026w, .040w/.040w), it’s ready to play straight out of the box.

Each instrument receives a professional setup at Gold Tone’s factory in Titusville, Florida before it ships to you. At this price point that kind of hands-on attention makes a real difference in how the instrument plays and feels the moment it arrives in your hands.

Why Buy From Banjo Warehouse

Banjo Warehouse is an authorized Gold Tone dealer, which means you’re buying a genuine instrument backed by Gold Tone’s warranty and support. I’ve been working with fretted instruments for over 45 years — I co-own Watch & Learn in Atlanta, I wrote Banjo Primer, and I’ve spent decades helping players at every level find the right instrument. I know what makes a good mandolin at every price point, and the GM-50+/L genuinely earns its place in the Gold Tone lineup. Financing is available through PayPal Pay in 4, Afterpay, and 3, 6, 12, and 24-month plans — no late fees. If you have questions before you buy, reach out. I’m happy to talk mandolins.

Gold Tone GM-50+/L Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this truly a left-handed mandolin, or just a regular model flipped?

Yes — this is a purpose-built left-handed instrument (model GM-50+/L). The body, neck, and all hardware are configured for left-handed playing. It is not simply a right-handed instrument with the strings reversed.

Does the pickup require any modification to install, or is it already built in?

The Chop Saddle transducer pickup is installed at the factory by Gold Tone — there’s nothing to add or modify. You simply plug in to an amp or PA and you’re ready to go. It’s a passive system, so no battery is required.

What kind of music is this mandolin suited for?

The GM-50+/L is a versatile A-style mandolin that works well across bluegrass, folk, old-time, and acoustic Americana. The built-in pickup also makes it practical for players who need to perform amplified. The solid spruce top gives it a warm, projecting tone that opens up more as the instrument is played in over time.

Want to know when new banjos arrive? Join our email list: Sign up here.