Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
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.
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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
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What type of wood is used in the Gold Tone CC-100R banjo, and how does it affect the sound?
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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.
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Is the resonator on the Gold Tone CC-100R removable?
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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.
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How many strings does the Gold Tone CC-100R have, and what is the string type?
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The Gold Tone CC-100R is a 5-string banjo with steel strings, ideal for traditional bluegrass and folk music styles.
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Does the Gold Tone CC-100R come with a case?
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Yes, the Gold Tone CC-100R includes a gig bag, providing protection and easy transport for the instrument.
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What kind of tuners does the Gold Tone CC-100R use?
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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.
Videos
Jamie Boss
Gold Tone CC-100R Cripple Creek 5-string Banjo
Reviews
PROS
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Crisp, bell-like tone with no tin can noise
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Beautifully crafted with snowflake inlays and a stunning color
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Lightweight but sturdy construction
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Slightly beefier neck and generous string spacing for comfortable play
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Easy playability, suitable for beginners and intermediates
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High-quality hardware with smooth, reliable tuners
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Resonator easily removable for quieter practice sessions
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Excellent intonation with no buzzing or unwanted noises
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Warm tone compared to cheaper models
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Equipped with ZerO Glide nut for enhanced performance
CONS
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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
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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.
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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.
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The CC-100R is equipped with a tone ring and more tension hooks, enhancing its sound projection and durability compared to the AC-1.
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It's noted that resonator banjos like the OB-3 Twanger excel in volume, providing a strong sound presence without intentional loud playing.
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Comparisons
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Some owners suggest the Gold Tone Twanger for a more typical bluegrass sound due to its 1-1/4" nut, though it is pricier.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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User experience
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Owners appreciate the CC-100R for staying in tune and being sturdy, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate players.
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Switching from medium to light gauge strings on the OB-3 Twanger significantly brightens the sound, suggesting a potential setup tweak for personal preference.
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Build quality
Use cases and applications
Value and pricing
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In Japan, the CC-100R with a resonator is surprisingly cheaper by over $200 than its open-back version, presenting an unexpected cost advantage.
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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.
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