Gold Tone LGLT-A Lightup Little Gem Amethyst See-Through Banjo Ukulele with Gig Bag

If you’ve ever wanted a banjo ukulele that genuinely stops people in their tracks, the Gold Tone LGLT-D Lightup Little Gem Amethyst is it. This instrument won Best in Show at Summer NAMM 2018 — and once you hold one, you understand why. The entire rim and resonator are made from crystal-clear acrylic, giving you a full view of the internal LED lighting system that rings the inside of the body. Three lighting modes — Always On, Sound Activated, and Pulse — let you set the mood for any performance, jam, or living room moment. But this isn’t just a novelty: the clear 8″ head and composite body produce a bright, cutting tone that holds its own in any ukulele circle, and the sealed guitar-style tuners keep things in tune without fuss. Rechargeable batteries and a USB charging cable are included, so you’re ready to light up right out of the box.

Underneath all the visual flair, the LGLT-D is a well-built concert-scale banjo ukulele. The maple neck is comfortable and stable, the maple fingerboard with dot-and-star inlays is easy to navigate across 18 frets, and the 15″ concert scale length sits right in that sweet spot that uke players love — familiar enough for anyone coming from a standard ukulele, with just enough banjo snap to add character. Standard GCEA tuning means any chord you already know on a ukulele transfers directly. The EZ-String tailpiece makes restringing a breeze, and at just 2 pounds, this instrument is genuinely travel-friendly. It’s a great choice for performers who play outdoor festivals or open mics, for educators who want to energize a classroom, or for anyone who simply wants a banjo ukulele that is unmistakably, joyfully different.

Each instrument receives a professional setup at Gold Tone’s factory in Titusville, Florida before it ships to you. You won’t have to fight your new instrument out of the box. It will be ready to play the moment you open the gig bag.

Why Buy From Banjo Warehouse

Banjo Warehouse is an authorized Gold Tone dealer, which means every instrument we sell is covered by Gold Tone’s manufacturer warranty and backed by our own commitment to making sure you get a great playing experience. Financing is available through PayPal Pay in 4 and 3, 6, 12, or 24-month plans — all with no late fees, plus Afterpay — so there’s no reason to wait on an instrument that makes you smile every time you pick it up.

Gold Tone LGLT-D Lightup Little Gem Amethyst Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the battery last on the LED lighting?

Battery life varies depending on which lighting mode you use — Always On will drain it faster than Pulse or Sound Activated. In practical terms, most players get several hours of use per charge, which is plenty for a full gig or a long jam session. Recharging is easy via the included USB cable, just like charging a phone.

Can I use standard ukulele strings on the Lightup Little Gem Amethyst?

Yes. The LGLT-D is tuned standard GCEA at a 15″ concert scale, so any set of concert ukulele strings will work. Gold Tone ships it with their own string set (.025, .036, .030, .023), which plays nicely on the instrument. If you have a preferred brand, you’re welcome to swap them out — the EZ-String tailpiece makes the process simple.

Is this a serious instrument or more of a novelty?

Honestly, it’s both — and that’s exactly what makes it special. The clear acrylic construction and LED lighting are genuinely eye-catching and fun, but Gold Tone didn’t cut corners on playability. The maple neck, sealed tuners, and proper concert scale give you a real instrument that plays in tune and holds up to regular use. It won Best in Show at NAMM 2018 because the people in that room — dealers and industry pros — recognized it as something genuinely innovative, not just a gimmick.

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