Gold Tone AC-1, 5-String Open Back Banjo with Bag

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Gold Tone AC-1, 5-String Open Back Banjo with Bag

Lightweight, approachable and built for real banjo fun

The Gold Tone AC-1 is a brilliantly accessible 5-string open back banjo that makes getting into banjo playing genuinely enjoyable. Designed with beginners and folk players in mind, it delivers authentic banjo tone in a lightweight, comfortable instrument that’s easy to live with — whether you’re learning your first rolls or diving into clawhammer and old-time styles.

The open back design gives the AC-1 its bright, woody and percussive sound, perfect for traditional music, folk, Americana and acoustic sessions. It’s lively without being overpowering, making it ideal for home practice and playing alongside other acoustic instruments. The tone is clear and responsive, encouraging good technique and dynamic control as you develop your playing.

One of the AC-1’s biggest strengths is its lightweight construction. It’s far easier on the shoulder than many traditional banjos, which makes a huge difference during longer practice sessions. The comfortable neck profile feels welcoming in the hand, helping new players build confidence while still offering enough quality and playability to keep progressing.

Gold Tone are well known for making beginner-friendly instruments that don’t feel like toys, and the AC-1 is a perfect example. It arrives ready to play and includes a gig bag, so you’re covered for storage, transport and lessons straight out of the box. It’s a banjo that removes barriers and lets you focus on learning, rhythm and enjoyment.

The AC-1 often comes up when chatting with players at Musicmaker who want a dependable, great-value banjo without unnecessary weight or complication — a proper starting point that won’t hold you back as your skills grow.