Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
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.
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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
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What is the tuning of the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck "Missing Link" 5-String Baritone Banjo?
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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.
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What materials are used in the construction of the Gold Tone ML-1 Banjo?
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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.
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Is the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo suitable for professional performances?
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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.
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Does the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo come with a case?
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Yes, the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo includes a hardshell case, offering protection for transport and storage.
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What is the scale length of the Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo?
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The Gold Tone ML-1 Bela Fleck Banjo has a scale length of 26.25 inches, contributing to its unique baritone sound and playability.
Videos
Gold Tone
Gold Tone ML-1 Baritone Banjo Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Unique low, tubby sound reminiscent of John Hartford
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Solves tuning limitations for songs in C, D, E, or F
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Provides an artsy and moody tone for simple tunes
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Rich and smooth tone adds a different flair to music
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Superb fit and finish with elegant fretboard and headstock inlays
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Designed with input from Béla Fleck and Wayne Rogers
CONS
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Not built to accommodate a capo without modifications
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Requires a radiused banjo capo for the convex fretboard
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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
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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.
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The ML-1's larger body differentiates it from standard banjos, impacting resonance without altering the scale length.
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The ML-1 now offers a left-handed option, expanding its accessibility to more players.
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Mods and upgrades
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Owners recommend installing a radiused banjo capo and a 5th string capo to enhance playability and tuning stability.
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Some users successfully use Gold Tone baritone strings on standard banjos without modifying the nut or bridge.
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Gold Tone passive pickups are noted for their finicky nature, suggesting a need for careful setup or alternative choices.
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User experience
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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.
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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.
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Setup and maintenance
Use cases and applications
Comparisons
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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.
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Users report minimal differences when restringing a regular banjo with baritone strings compared to the ML-1, emphasizing the role of string choice.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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