Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
5.0 (3)
$799.99
Reverb
5.0 (13)
$679.99 New
$647.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (16)
$799.99

Average Price: $745

Standard/Professional

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Gold Tone CC-100R 5-String Cripple Creek Resonator Banjo". 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

Discover the Gold Tone CC-100R Cripple Creek Resonator Banjo, your gateway to an authentic bluegrass experience with a dash of modern innovation. Crafted from hard rock maple, this 5-string banjo delivers a resonant and assertive tone that’s perfect for both seasoned musicians and aspiring banjoists. The standout feature of the CC-100R is its convertible nature; the resonator can be detached to offer a mellower, open-back sound, making it a versatile choice for various playing styles, from bluegrass to clawhammer.

This banjo doesn’t just sound great; it’s engineered for superior playability. The smooth rosewood fingerboard and low action ensure comfort and ease while playing, while the dual coordinator rods and 2-way adjustable truss rod offer precise tuning and stability. The CC-100R is equipped with Gold Tone’s patented Zero Glide nut, which enhances sustain and tuning precision, allowing your music to flow effortlessly.

The inclusion of a high-mass Terminator tailpiece adds durability and allows for versatile string choices, whether you prefer loop or ball-end strings. Complemented by a rolled brass tone ring and premium GT Planetary tuners, the Cripple Creek Resonator Banjo ensures your sound is always rich and resonant. Each banjo receives a meticulous setup at Gold Tone’s Florida facility, guaranteeing that your instrument is ready to shine right out of the box.

Key Features:

  • 5-string resonator banjo with hard rock maple construction
  • Detachable resonator for versatile sound options
  • Patented Zero Glide nut for enhanced sustain and tuning
  • Terminator tailpiece for improved durability and string flexibility
  • Rolled brass tone ring and premium GT Planetary tuners
  • Dual coordinator rods and 2-way truss rod for precise adjustments
  • Full setup at Gold Tone’s Florida facility for optimal playability

Product specs

Type Acoustic
String Type Steel
Number of Strings 5
Body Style Resonator (removeable)
Finish Gloss
Top Material 11" Remo LC Coated Topside
Body Material Multi-ply Maple (rim), Maple (resonator)
Neck Material Maple
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 18
Scale Length 26.1875"
Nut Material ZeroGlide
Nut Width 1.19"
Bridge Material Maple
Tuners GT Planetary
Hardware Chrome
Strings .011, .024w, .016, .013, .011
Case Included Gig Bag

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the Gold Tone CC-100R banjo, and how does it affect the sound?

The Gold Tone CC-100R features a maple neck and resonator, which contribute to a bright, clear tone. The multi-ply maple rim enhances projection, making it suitable for bluegrass and other styles where volume and clarity are important.

Is the resonator on the Gold Tone CC-100R removable?

Yes, the Gold Tone CC-100R has a removable resonator, allowing players to switch between a louder, more projecting sound and a softer, open-back tone.

How many strings does the Gold Tone CC-100R have, and what is the string type?

The Gold Tone CC-100R is a 5-string banjo with steel strings, ideal for traditional bluegrass and folk music styles.

Does the Gold Tone CC-100R come with a case?

Yes, the Gold Tone CC-100R includes a gig bag, providing protection and easy transport for the instrument.

What kind of tuners does the Gold Tone CC-100R use?

The Gold Tone CC-100R is equipped with GT Planetary tuners, which offer precise tuning stability and are a popular choice for banjo players seeking traditional aesthetics and functionality.

Jamie Boss

Jamie Boss

Gold Tone CC-100R Cripple Creek 5-string Banjo

Video thumbnail for Gold Tone CC-100R Cripple Creek 5-string Banjo by Jamie Boss

Gold Tone CC-100R Cripple Creek 5-string Banjo

Jamie Boss

Jamie Boss

Video thumbnail for Banjo.com video: demo of a new Gold Tone Cripple Creek 100R 5-String Banjo by banjodotcom

Banjo.com video: demo of a new Gold Tone Cripple Creek 100R 5-String Banjo

banjodotcom

banjodotcom

Video thumbnail for Gold Tone CC 100R Resonator Banjo by Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Gold Tone CC 100R Resonator Banjo

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Video thumbnail for New Gold Tone CC100R 5 string Banjo w Geoff Hohwald @ Banjo Warehouse by geoffhohwald

New Gold Tone CC100R 5 string Banjo w Geoff Hohwald @ Banjo Warehouse

geoffhohwald

geoffhohwald

Reviews

PROS

  • Crisp, bell-like tone with no tin can noise

  • Beautifully crafted with snowflake inlays and a stunning color

  • Lightweight but sturdy construction

  • Slightly beefier neck and generous string spacing for comfortable play

  • Easy playability, suitable for beginners and intermediates

  • High-quality hardware with smooth, reliable tuners

  • Resonator easily removable for quieter practice sessions

  • Excellent intonation with no buzzing or unwanted noises

  • Warm tone compared to cheaper models

  • Equipped with ZerO Glide nut for enhanced performance

CONS

  • Lacks a "proper" tone ring, featuring a tone hoop instead

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gold Tone CC-100R 5-String Cripple Creek Resonator Banjo.

Features and functionality

  • The Gold Tone CC-100R has a rolled brass tone ring, offering a sound more associated with Old Time music but still versatile for bluegrass.

    Source
  • The CC-100R includes planetary tuners, which are considered higher-end and offer better tuning stability over the guitar tuners found on the AC-1.

    Source
  • The CC-100R is equipped with a tone ring and more tension hooks, enhancing its sound projection and durability compared to the AC-1.

    Source
  • It's noted that resonator banjos like the OB-3 Twanger excel in volume, providing a strong sound presence without intentional loud playing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some owners suggest the Gold Tone Twanger for a more typical bluegrass sound due to its 1-1/4" nut, though it is pricier.

    Source
  • The CC-100R is compared favorably to the Recording King R25 for beginners, though some might prefer the latter for a more specific bluegrass sound.

    Source
  • While the CC-100R is praised for its parts and build, some suggest the Recording King RK-OT25 as a slightly more expensive alternative worth considering.

    Source
  • The Recording King RK-R20 is cited as better specced than the Gold Tone CC series, offering an alternative with enhanced features for bluegrass players.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the CC-100R for staying in tune and being sturdy, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate players.

    Source
  • Switching from medium to light gauge strings on the OB-3 Twanger significantly brightens the sound, suggesting a potential setup tweak for personal preference.

    Source

Build quality

  • The CC-100R's newer models include planetary tuners and a truss rod, enhancing the instrument's reliability and ease of tuning.

    Source
  • The CC-100R features a multi-ply maple rim, providing a sturdier build compared to the composite (plastic) rim of the AC-1.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The detachable resonator amplifies tone, beneficial for both bluegrass settings and performance in Old Time music.

    Source
  • Open-back banjos are preferred for their rounder, laid-back sound, making them suitable for folk, old-time, and clawhammer styles, offering more configuration diversity.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • In Japan, the CC-100R with a resonator is surprisingly cheaper by over $200 than its open-back version, presenting an unexpected cost advantage.

    Source
  • The Deering Goodtime, though made in the USA, is described as lacking features like a truss rod, which some buyers might find essential despite its popularity.

    Source

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