Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (1)
$1,899.99
Guitar Center
$1,899.99
Amazon
5.0 (2)
$1,899.99
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$1,899.99 New
$1,699.99 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (12)
$1,899.99
Thomann
$1,829.00

Average Price: $1,861

High-end/Boutique

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck "Missing Link" 5-String Baritone 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

For musicians yearning to explore new sonic territories, the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck "Missing Link" 5-String Baritone Banjo offers an exceptional blend of innovation and tradition. Conceived through the creative synergy of banjo maestro Béla Fleck and Gold Tone's Wayne Rogers, the ML-1 stands as a unique bridge between cello banjos and standard 5-string instruments. Its 12-inch, rolled-brass tone ring and 3-ply Canadian maple rim deliver a resonant, low-tuned voice that beautifully fills the gap in any folk or world music ensemble.

The ML-1 is built for both comfort and performance, featuring a sleek hard-rock Canadian maple neck paired with a fast-playing, compound-radius ebony fingerboard. Musicians will relish the precision and playability provided by the Zero Glide nut and GT Planetary tuners. The baritone's aesthetics are equally compelling, with art nouveau fingerboard inlays, black binding, and chrome-plated hardware that add a touch of elegance to its robust construction. Whether you're performing on stage or jamming in the studio, the ML-1 offers a sound and style that's as captivating as its lineage.

Key Features:

  • 5-string baritone banjo designed in collaboration with Béla Fleck
  • 12-inch, rolled-brass tone ring for deep, resonant tones
  • 3-ply Canadian maple rim and 14-inch maple resonator
  • Remo Black Suede head with a custom radiused bridge
  • Hard-rock Canadian maple neck with compound-radius ebony fingerboard
  • Zero Glide nut and GT Planetary tuners for precise tuning stability
  • Art nouveau fingerboard inlays and high-gloss finish
  • Terminator tailpiece and jumbo frets ensuring optimal performance

Product specs

Type Acoustic
String Type Steel
Number of Strings 5
Body Style Resonator
Top Material 12" Remo MC Black Suede
Body Material 3-ply Maple (rim), Maple (resonator)
Neck Material Maple
Fingerboard Material Ebony
Fingerboard Inlay Nouveau Custom
Number of Frets 22
Scale Length 26.25"
Nut Material ZeroGlide
Nut Width 1.38"
Bridge Material Maple
Tuners GT Planetary
Hardware Chrome
Strings .018w, .040w, .030w, .022w, .018w
Case Included Hardshell Case

FAQs

What is the tuning of the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck "Missing Link" 5-String Baritone Banjo?

The Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck "Missing Link" 5-String Baritone Banjo is typically tuned to CGCEG, which is lower than standard banjo tuning, offering a deeper tonal range suitable for various musical styles.

What materials are used in the construction of the Gold Tone ML-1 Banjo?

The Gold Tone ML-1 features a 3-ply Canadian maple rim and a maple resonator, with an ebony fingerboard and a maple neck, providing a robust and resonant sound.

Is the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo suitable for professional performances?

Yes, the Gold Tone ML-1 is designed with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, including a bronze bar style tone ring and Master Planetary Tuners, making it suitable for professional performances.

Does the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo come with a case?

Yes, the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo includes a hardshell case, offering protection for transport and storage.

What is the scale length of the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo?

The Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo has a scale length of 26.25 inches, contributing to its unique baritone sound and playability.

Gold Tone

Gold Tone

Gold Tone ML-1 Baritone Banjo Demo

Video thumbnail for Gold Tone ML-1 Baritone Banjo Demo by Gold Tone

Gold Tone ML-1 Baritone Banjo Demo

Gold Tone

Gold Tone

Video thumbnail for Cold Frosty Morning on Gold Tone ML-1 Missing Link Banjo by JDS Music

Cold Frosty Morning on Gold Tone ML-1 Missing Link Banjo

JDS Music

JDS Music

Video thumbnail for Gold Tone ML-1 Missing Link Bela Fleck Model - Ross Nickerson Video by banjoteacher

Gold Tone ML-1 Missing Link Bela Fleck Model - Ross Nickerson Video

banjoteacher

banjoteacher

Video thumbnail for Missing Link Béla Fleck Baritone Banjo with Colton Powers | ML-1 by Gold Tone

Missing Link Béla Fleck Baritone Banjo with Colton Powers | ML-1

Gold Tone

Gold Tone

Video thumbnail for Gold Tone ML-1 Video - Ross Nickerson - Missing Link - Bela Fleck Baritone Banjo Model by banjoteacher

Gold Tone ML-1 Video - Ross Nickerson - Missing Link - Bela Fleck Baritone Banjo Model

banjoteacher

banjoteacher

Video thumbnail for Ross Nickerson Plays and Describes Gold Tone ML-1 Missing Link Bela Fleck Model: BanjoTeacher.com by banjoteacher

Ross Nickerson Plays and Describes Gold Tone ML-1 Missing Link Bela Fleck Model: BanjoTeacher.com

banjoteacher

banjoteacher

Video thumbnail for Ross Nickerson Live Banjo - Charge It Up - Gold Tone ML-1 Banjo - "Missing Link" Bela Fleck Model by banjoteacher

Ross Nickerson Live Banjo - Charge It Up - Gold Tone ML-1 Banjo - "Missing Link" Bela Fleck Model

banjoteacher

banjoteacher

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique low, tubby sound reminiscent of John Hartford

  • Solves tuning limitations for songs in C, D, E, or F

  • Provides an artsy and moody tone for simple tunes

  • Rich and smooth tone adds a different flair to music

  • Superb fit and finish with elegant fretboard and headstock inlays

  • Designed with input from Béla Fleck and Wayne Rogers

CONS

  • Not built to accommodate a capo without modifications

  • Requires a radiused banjo capo for the convex fretboard

  • String spacing may be too narrow for players with large hands

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck "Missing Link" 5-String Baritone Banjo.

Features and functionality

  • The Gold Tone ML-1 is tuned to an open C chord (CFCEF), offering more versatility in playing keys like C, D, E, and F with ease.

    Source
  • The ML-1's larger body differentiates it from standard banjos, impacting resonance without altering the scale length.

    Source
  • The ML-1 now offers a left-handed option, expanding its accessibility to more players.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend installing a radiused banjo capo and a 5th string capo to enhance playability and tuning stability.

    Source
  • Some users successfully use Gold Tone baritone strings on standard banjos without modifying the nut or bridge.

    Source
  • Gold Tone passive pickups are noted for their finicky nature, suggesting a need for careful setup or alternative choices.

    Source

User experience

  • Users have noted that the ML-1 allows for easier open fingering when playing tunes like "St. Anne's Reel" or "Whiskey Before Breakfast," compared to standard tuning.

    Source
  • Average-sized players report mixed experiences with the ML-1's size; some find it manageable, while others recommend extensive pre-purchase testing without a capo.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Tuning and capo reliance can present challenges, highlighting the importance of proper setup for optimal performance and minimal tuning issues.

    Source
  • Some users note the ML-1 requires more left-hand strength due to string tension similar to a 12-string guitar with heavy strings tuned sharp.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The ML-1 facilitates playing along with low-tuned recordings, such as those by John Hartford, that are otherwise difficult to match with standard banjo tuning.

    Source
  • Downtuned banjo enthusiasts often utilize John Hartford D strings for achieving lower tunings on spare banjos.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The ML-1 isn't a long-scale banjo but features a large pot; this design provides a deeper tone compared to standard banjos even when capoed at the 3rd fret.

    Source
  • Users report minimal differences when restringing a regular banjo with baritone strings compared to the ML-1, emphasizing the role of string choice.

    Source

Build quality

  • The ML-1 likely incorporates structural reinforcements, such as thicker hanger bolts and a differently cut neck, to accommodate its heavy strings.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Banjo Newsletter

banjonews.com

The Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck "Missing Link" banjo is a creative collaboration between Béla Fleck and Gold Tone, offering a unique baritone voice that fills a niche in the banjo world. With its 12-inch pot and bronze tone ring, it provides rich mids and lows, making it a versatile instrument for bluegrass and beyond. The wide neck and all-wound strings enhance playability and sound projection. While the Missing Link caters well to Fleck's artistic needs, it may not suit traditionalists who prefer standard banjo tones. However, its affordability and unique sound make it an excellent choice for adventurous players seeking new musical landscapes.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Gold Tone Banjos

Gold Tone EBM-5 Electric Banjo

$1,299.99 - $1,399.99

# 11

Rank

Ryan Ross Julien Baker Winston Marshall
3 artists using
Gold Tone Banjo OB-250+

$1,499.00 - $2,199.99

# 16

Rank

Winston Marshall
1 artist using
Gold Tone AC-1

$299.99 - $314.99

# 43

Rank

 
Gold Tone CC-100

$489.00 - $777.00

# 72

Rank

Jack Steadman Alynda Segarra
2 artists using
Gold Tone Banjo CC-100

$489.00 - $629.99

# 73

Rank

Sufjan Stevens Julian Koster
2 artists using
Gold Tone CB-100

$899.99 - $929.99

# 89

Rank

Valerie June
1 artist using

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides