US
Gold Tone

Gold Tone AC-5: Beginner 5-String Banjo with Resonator

  • 5-string resonator banjo, right-handed
  • Composite body, maple and rosewood parts
  • Nickel strings, black polished finish
  • Gig bag included
  • 5.6 pounds, 14 x 4 x 38.5 inches
  • 1-year warranty

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

Our verdict

A resonator banjo aimed at beginners and bluegrass players, with a composite body and a gig bag. The listing has no description text and few construction details.

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ASIN: B009LL2X86Model: AC-5Category: Banjos

Overview

A beginner who wants a bluegrass-style banjo gets a five-string resonator model in a composite body, with maple and rosewood parts and a black polished finish. A gig bag is part of the package.

The sound is described as balanced, bright and resonant, and a bag is included for carrying. The listing is otherwise thin: it gives no head type, tone ring or setup information.

Who it's for

A first-time player wanting a resonator model with a carry bag can begin right away. Players seeking a traditional wood body or details on the head and tone ring should compare other listings.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Gig bag included
  • Balanced, bright sound
Cons
  • Head type not listed
  • Tone ring not described
  • No description text

Performance notes

A resonator reflects sound forward, which is why this design is linked with bluegrass playing. The listing describes the sound as balanced, bright and resonant, and the nickel strings add to that character. Setup and action are not described.

Where it stands among banjos

  • #5 most-searched brand and model of the 6 banjos lines we track (by search demand, not sales).

From the specs of the 15 banjos we list; not a test result.

Specifications

BrandGold Tone
ModelAC-5
Dimensions & fit
Hand orientationRight
Dimensions14 x 4 x 38.5 inches
Weight5.6 pounds
Construction & materials
BodyComposite
HeadMaple, rosewood
StringsNickel
Back materialMaple, rosewood, wood
FinishPolished
ColorBlack
Warranty & support
Warranty1 year
Other details
InstrumentResonator banjo
Strings5 strings
SoundBalanced, bright, and resonant
Connector1/4 inch jack (as listed)

Frequently asked questions

How do I get the Gold Tone AC-5 ready to play?

The listing gives no setup steps. It includes a gig bag and describes the banjo as a beginner model.

Does the Gold Tone AC-5 have a resonator?

Yes. The title lists it as a banjo with resonator.

Does the Gold Tone AC-5 come with a bag?

Yes. The title and specs list a gig bag.

Is the Gold Tone AC-5 left-handed?

No. The listing gives the hand orientation as right handed.