CC-50 (Open Back)

A new range of entry level banjos from Gold Tone. Superficially, they resemble many other entry-level banjos - why choose a Gold Tone? The simple answer is that the CC50 range are much better designed and more carefully made than most other instruments in this price range. The CC50 banjos share many common features with the higher grade instruments in the Gold Tone range. Here’s a short list:-

The neck is made from maple instead of the usual mahogany - this means it is more comfortable to play, more stable and is likely to last a good deal longer than the necks on most entry-level banjos

The neck is attached with a precision joint and 2 bolts instead of the usual loose fit with one very large bolt - this means the neck to rim joint is much more accurate and considerably more stable

The rim is made to a precise 11” size and the metalwork is close-fitting instead of being a sloppy 11 1/16” or 11 1/8” - this also adds to stability & means that the tone is better. You will also a readily available choice of replacement heads if need them (or just wish to try a different head for a change of sound) - it’s often difficult to get replacement heads for “sloppy” size banjos

The rim is fitted with a small brass tone ring - not a wonderful item, to be sure, but it crisps up the tone considerably - and most entry-level banjos have no tone ring of any kind. A heavier and better quality tone ring is available and can be retro-fitted if required.

The tailpiece is a solid cast Straightline type instead of the usual fairly flimsy pressed steel type - this means the tuning is more stable and the tailpiece is likely to last a great deal longer

The CC50 is also fitted with a decent armrest (many entry-level banjos lack one), a good quality co-ordinator rod (most entry level banjos have a sloppy type which cannot be locked in position)