US
Gold Tone

Gold Tone CC-50RP Cripple Creek Banjo with Resonator

  • Five-string, right-handed, full size
  • Full walled resonator, convertible mahogany
  • Planetary geared tuners, geared fifth string tuner
  • Maple neck and rim, rosewood fingerboard
  • Brass tone ring, straight-line tailpiece
  • 5-year warranty via authorized dealers

Updated 2 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A resonator banjo aimed at beginners who want a bluegrass setup from the start, with geared tuners and a factory setup. Case contents are contradictory in the listing, so verify the gig bag.

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ASIN: B002RARBEYModel: CC-50RPCategory: Banjos

Overview

Not a bare-bones starter banjo, the Cripple Creek CC-50RP adds a full walled resonator and geared planetary tuners to the standard CC-50 design. A maple neck and rim, rosewood fingerboard and brass tone ring give it the parts bluegrass players look for.

Geared tuners make it easier to hold pitch, and the factory setup in Florida means it arrives ready to play. The limitation is the entry-level positioning: this is a learner model, not a professional instrument. The listing also gives conflicting information about whether a gig bag is included.

Who it's for

A first banjo for someone committed to bluegrass playing in a right-handed setup suits this model. Players who want an open-back clawhammer sound or an advanced instrument should check other banjos.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Resonator for bluegrass projection
  • Geared planetary tuners
  • Geared fifth string tuner
  • Factory setup in Florida
Cons
  • Gig bag status is contradictory
  • Head type and brand not listed

Performance notes

The enclosed back reflects sound forward, which is what bluegrass banjo playing leans on. The brass tone ring adds definition, and the geared tuners let a beginner tune precisely. The instrument also gets a complete setup at the Gold Tone factory before it ships.

Specifications

BrandGold Tone
ModelCC-50RP
Dimensions & fit
SizeFull size
Hand orientationRight
Dimensions38.5 x 3.75 x 13 inches
Weight6.5 pounds
Construction & materials
BodyRosewood
HeadMahogany, maple, rosewood
StringsNickel
Back materialMaple
ColorBrown
Warranty & support
Warranty5 years from an authorized dealer
Other details
Strings5 strings
StyleResonator banjo

Frequently asked questions

Does the Gold Tone CC-50RP come with a gig bag?

The description says it includes a light-duty gig bag, but the specs list included components as not included. Check with the seller before relying on a bag.

Is the Gold Tone CC-50RP left-handed?

No. The listing gives the hand orientation as right.

Is the Gold Tone Cripple Creek CC-50RP good for beginners?

It is described as a model designed for easy learning, with a resonator and geared planetary tuners to suit the beginning bluegrass banjo player.

How long is the Gold Tone CC-50RP warranty?

The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for 5 years under normal use, provided the instrument was purchased from an authorized dealer.