Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (12)
$249.00
Guitar Center
4.5 (11)
$249.00
Amazon
4.8 (11)
Reverb
4.0 (3)
$266.04 New
$230.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (18)
$249.00
zZounds
5.0 (2)
$299.00
Thomann
4.3 (27)
$245.00 $243.00 $2.00 · All time low

Average Price: $254

Budget/Beginner

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Epiphone MB-100". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step into the world of folk with the Epiphone MB-100, where tradition meets affordability in a seamless blend. Crafted for the budding musician and the seasoned player alike, this banjo resonates with a warmth only mahogany can offer. Its open-back design not only pays homage to the classic banjo form but also projects a rich, full-bodied sound that's as authentic as it gets. Whether you're strumming through the hills or practicing in your room, the MB-100's robust build and glossy finish ensure you're holding not just an instrument, but a piece of musical heritage. Dive into the roots of music without breaking the bank, and let the Epiphone MB-100 be your guide on this melodious journey.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany body and neck for a resonant, warm tone
  • Open-back design for authentic banjo sound
  • High gloss finish showcasing the rich mahogany color
  • Ideal for beginners and experienced players alike

Product specs

Type Acoustic
String Type Steel
Number of Strings 5
Body Style Open Back
Finish Satin
Top Material Remo Banjo head
Body Material Mahogany
Neck Material Mahogany
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 22
Scale Length 26.25"
Nut Material Plastic
Nut Width 1.25"
Bridge Material Maple with Ebony tip
Tuners Closed Gear with Pearloid buttons
Hardware Nickel
Strings .011, .025, .020, .014, .012
Case Included Sold Separately

FAQs

Is the Epiphone MB-100 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Epiphone MB-100 is an excellent choice for beginners due to its lightweight open-back design and comfortable playability. It offers a warm, balanced tone, making it easy for new players to learn and enjoy.

What is the body material of the Epiphone MB-100?

The body of the Epiphone MB-100 is made from mahogany, which contributes to its warm and balanced sound characteristics.

Does the Epiphone MB-100 come with a case?

No, the Epiphone MB-100 does not include a case. A case must be purchased separately to protect the instrument during transport and storage.

What type of strings does the Epiphone MB-100 use?

The Epiphone MB-100 uses steel strings, which are known for their bright tone and durability, ideal for traditional banjo playing styles.

How many frets does the Epiphone MB-100 have?

The Epiphone MB-100 features 22 frets, providing a standard range for playing various banjo styles and techniques.

MrDanoconnor

MrDanoconnor

Epiphone MB100 Banjo VS. Deering Goodtime Banjo

Video thumbnail for Epiphone MB100 Banjo  VS.  Deering Goodtime Banjo by MrDanoconnor

Epiphone MB100 Banjo VS. Deering Goodtime Banjo

MrDanoconnor

MrDanoconnor

Video thumbnail for Epiphone MB-100 Banjo demo by mudsailor

Epiphone MB-100 Banjo demo

mudsailor

mudsailor

Video thumbnail for Epiphone mb-100 review by astormtocalm

Epiphone mb-100 review

astormtocalm

astormtocalm

Video thumbnail for Best Beginner Banjo : You Should Choose Once! by Musical Instrument

Best Beginner Banjo : You Should Choose Once!

Musical Instrument

Musical Instrument

Video thumbnail for Epiphone MB100 demo by shademonger13

Epiphone MB100 demo

shademonger13

shademonger13

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Mb-100 banjo by Jammers B

Epiphone Mb-100 banjo

Jammers B

Jammers B

Video thumbnail for NEW/Epiphone MB-100 Banjo@guitarshoptantan by Guitar & UkuleleShop TANTAN (タンタン)

NEW/Epiphone MB-100 Banjo@guitarshoptantan

Guitar & UkuleleShop TANTAN (タンタン)

Guitar & UkuleleShop TANTAN (タンタン)

Video thumbnail for Epiphone MB-100 Banjo Natural | Bonners Guitar Store by Bonners Guitar Store

Epiphone MB-100 Banjo Natural | Bonners Guitar Store

Bonners Guitar Store

Bonners Guitar Store

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone MB-100.

Build quality

  • The MB-100 has a pencil-thin neck and misaligned tailpiece bracket, affecting playability and setup.

    Source
  • The Harley Benton banjo, often compared to the MB-100, uses a single rod neck connection, unlike the Epiphone's two-point connection, which affects its structural integrity.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report needing to replace the tuning machines after about 6 months due to poor quality.

    Source
  • It's noted that the Harley Benton banjo's head may require tightening upon purchase and the strings should be replaced immediately for optimal playability.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Installing a Pisgah Hawktail tailpiece may require wedging due to a thin tension hoop.

    Source
  • Some players recommend instruments with brass tone rings for superior sound performance compared to models like Ibanez or Washburn.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Gold Tone's entry-level banjos are often favored over the MB-100 for better build quality and reputation.

    Source
  • The Grafton banjo, compared to the Gold Tone CC-100, reportedly offers superior components like planetary tuners, making it a desirable alternative to the MB-100.

    Source
  • Recording King banjos, despite their entry-level pricing, are praised for their sound quality, rivaling more expensive models.

    Source
  • Gold Star's newer GF-100JD model is considered high quality, though it features a thick neck profile.

    Source
  • Pisgah, Bart Reiter, and Rickard are recommended as domestic alternatives for high-quality open-back banjos.

    Source

User experience

  • One user played the MB-100 non-stop for a year but eventually upgraded due to its limitations.

    Source
  • An owner mentioned that the lightweight construction of the Harley Benton banjo results in neck flex, causing tuning instability.

    Source
  • Elderly Instruments in Lansing, MI, is noted as a valuable destination for trying a wide variety of open-back banjos.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Harley Benton banjo has a nut width of 32mm, wider than typical banjos, which may benefit players preferring more string spacing.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Nylgut strings are preferred by some users for achieving a plunky sound, especially in clawhammer playing.

    Source

3.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
sun_sarasa

Banjo for beginners

quality,sound,and operability. I overlook those bad points. I don't give a damn.

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