Gold Tone AC-1

^# 45

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$299.99 to $309.00 Price Tier: Budget

1 Critic Review

All time low price

1 wishlisted

2 saved

Page last updated Jun 23, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated June 22, 2026.

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5.0 (8)

$299.99

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5.0 (1)

$314.99 $299.99 $15.00 · All time low

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4.5 (124)

$299.99 New

$269.99 Used (Very Good)

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5.0 (5)

$299.99 20 available New

$251.99 1 available Used

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4.0 (3)

$299.99

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4.6 (21)

$311.00 $309.00 $2.00 · All time low

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Average Price: $294

Budget/Beginner

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

In the Banjos category, Gold Tone AC-1 is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Gold Tone AC-1". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Discover the Gold Tone AC-1, a 5-string banjo that strikes a perfect harmony between affordability and quality. This open-back banjo is designed for both burgeoning musicians and seasoned players eager to explore new sonic landscapes. Its composite rim and 11-inch Remo LC Frosted head produce a warm, resonant tone that's perfect for everything from clawhammer to traditional picking styles. The lightweight build, clocking in at under four pounds, makes it an ideal companion for travel or young players.

Crafted with a sleek nato neck and a smooth blackwood fingerboard, the AC-1 ensures comfort and ease of play whether you're just starting out or looking for a fast-paced instrument. The Zero Glide nut, a standout feature, enhances tuning stability and intonation, especially across the first few frets. Equipped with reliable closed tuners and a 2-way adjustable tension rod, this banjo offers the adjustability and durability needed for consistent performance.

Professionally set up in Gold Tone’s Florida shop, the AC-1 comes ready to play, with a gig bag included for easy transport. Its understated, matte black finish adds a touch of elegance, making it as visually appealing as it is versatile.

Key Features:

5-string open-back banjo
Mahogany neck with blackwood fingerboard
Composite rim with 11" Remo LC coated head
Zero Glide nut for improved playability
2-way adjustable tension rod
Maple bridge with ebony cap
22 frets and 16 clamping screws
Closed tuners and adjustable tailpiece
Includes gig bag

Product specs

Type	Acoustic
String Type	Steel
Number of Strings	5
Body Style	Open Back
Finish	Satin
Top Material	11" Remo LC Frosted
Body Material	Composite
Neck Material	Nato
Fingerboard Inlay	Dots
Number of Frets	22
Scale Length	26.19"
Nut Material	ZeroGlide
Nut Width	1.19"
Bridge Material	Maple
Tuners	Covered
Hardware	Chrome
Strings	.011, .024w, .016, .013, .011
Case Included	Gig Bag

FAQs

Is the Gold Tone AC-1 banjo suitable for beginners?: Yes, the Gold Tone AC-1 is designed as a beginner-friendly banjo, offering a lightweight and durable build with an open-back style, making it easy to handle and play.
What type of material is used for the body of the Gold Tone AC-1 banjo?: The Gold Tone AC-1 features a composite body material, which contributes to its lightweight design and durability while providing a balanced tone.
Does the Gold Tone AC-1 come with a case?: Yes, the Gold Tone AC-1 includes a gig bag, providing convenient protection and portability for the banjo.
What kind of strings does the Gold Tone AC-1 banjo use?: The Gold Tone AC-1 is equipped with steel strings, specifically gauged as .011, .024w, .016, .013, .011, which are suitable for bluegrass and clawhammer styles.
What is the scale length of the Gold Tone AC-1 banjo?: The Gold Tone AC-1 has a scale length of 26.19 inches, which is standard for 5-string banjos, offering comfortable playability and familiar fret spacing.

Videos

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Gold Tone

Geoff Hohwald playing the $269.99 AC-1 Banjo

Gold Tone

Tony Trischka Checks Out the $269.99 Banjo (AC-1) at 2016 NAMM

Gold Tone

Shop Tips: Installing a Resonator on the AC-1

Gold Tone

Gold Tone AC-1 Composite openback banjo

Penny Lane Music Emporium

Gold Tone AC-1

DC DC

Gold tone AC-1 banjo Wish i were a mole in the ground.

Tom will

2022 Gold Tone AC-1 5-string banjo

Jake Wildwood & Co

AC1GoldTone banjo at Guitar House Workshop

Guitar House Workshop

Red Rocking Chair on a Gold Tone AC-1

Mark Weems

Reviews

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PROS

Excellent setup out of the box; no adjustments needed
Lightweight design ideal for travel and long practice sessions
Bright and clear sound, good for both clawhammer and Scruggs-style
Durable composite rim less susceptible to environmental changes
Affordable price for the quality offered
Holds tuning very well, reducing frequent adjustments
Includes useful tools and maintenance guide
Visually appealing matte black finish mimics classic piano look
Suitable for both beginners and as a secondary travel banjo
High playability with low action, especially suitable for bluegrass

CONS

Delicate finish prone to scratches and marks
Imbalanced weight requires a strap for comfortable playing
Gig bag offers minimal protection, akin to a dust cover
Lack of armrest can cause discomfort during extended use
Composite rim produces a slightly different, less resonant sound than wood
Lack of resonator limits audibility in a band setting
Packaging issues during shipping can lead to potential damage

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gold Tone AC-1.

Comparisons

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The Gold Tone AC-1 is often chosen over the Deering Goodtime as a starter banjo, with owners praising its value and suitability for beginners.
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The AC-12, for $20 more, is praised for its larger pot and improved sound, making it a strong alternative to the AC-1 for those focused on clawhammer style.
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Owners note that the AC-1's nut width of 1 3/16" can feel cramped compared to the AC-12's wider 1-7/16" nut, which facilitates easier chord fretting.
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The AC-1 is considered a better long-term investment compared to the AC-Traveler unless the shorter scale is specifically needed for travel or ease of play.
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The AC-12 is praised for avoiding mid-range muddiness while offering a deeper tone with its larger pot and renaissance head compared to the AC-1's thinner sound.
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Features and functionality

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The AC-1 offers the option to add a resonator with an $80 kit, providing versatility for those interested in both open-back and resonator styles.
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The AC-1LN long neck version is noted as an affordable option for those needing a longer neck to match vocal range, offering versatility with a capo for standard tuning.
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Use cases and applications

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The AC-1 is appreciated as a lightweight travel banjo, with its durable plastic body making it suitable for various environments, including inclement weather.
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The AC-1 is praised for its versatility with different string types, including steel and nylgut, offering varied tonal experiences for different playing styles.
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The AC-12 is recommended for those specifically interested in clawhammer playing due to its deeper, sweeter sound associated with 12-inch pots.
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Build quality

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The AC-12's design includes a rim edge mold that acts like a tone ring, enhancing sustain and providing a richer sound compared to the AC-1.
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Despite its plastic body, the AC-1 is likened to older banjos in style, offering a nostalgic feel for seasoned players.
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Mods and upgrades

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Owners have customized the AC-1 by adding a Dobson tone ring and a no knot tailpiece, enhancing its tonal qualities and playability.
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User experience

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The AC-1's shorter neck can make it easier for older players or those with smaller hands to play fast passages with less finger movement.
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Owners report the AC-1 has served well in outdoor environments like camping and canoeing, though its tone is described as thin but serviceable for beginners.
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Critic Reviews

Banjo Newsletter

banjonews.com

The Gold Tone AC-1 is a surprisingly impressive lightweight banjo, perfectly tailored for portability without sacrificing playability. Weighing just 3.75 lbs, its user-friendly neck and low action make it accessible for beginners and enjoyable for seasoned players. The innovative composite rim enhances its tonal quality, delivering a bright, ringing sound that belies its budget-friendly price of $199. However, the lack of a metal tone ring may raise concerns for traditionalists seeking a more classic sound. Additionally, while the build quality is commendable, the plastic components may not satisfy those who prefer more premium materials. Overall, the AC-1 stands out as a versatile and affordable option for musicians on the go, though purists might find it lacking in some respects.

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