Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$1,679.99
Amazon
4.4 (8)
$1,679.99 New
$1,599.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
$1,599.00 New
$1,299.99 Used

Average Price: $1,565

High-end/Boutique

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Gold Tone OT-800 Old Time Openback 5-String Banjo". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the spirit of classic Americana with the Gold Tone OT-800 Old Time Openback 5-String Banjo, a masterfully crafted instrument that captures the essence of the golden era of banjo making. With its prewar-style tubaphone tone ring, this banjo channels the rich, resonant sound that defined the late 19th and early 20th centuries, making it a must-have for traditional folk music enthusiasts and modern musicians alike.

The OT-800 is built with an 11-inch, 3-ply maple rim, providing not only robust durability but also a delightful tonal quality that resonates with clarity and warmth. The Remo Renaissance head and notched tension hoop ensure consistent performance, complemented by a scoop at the pot, perfect for the clawhammer playing style. The Zero Glide nut and GT Master Planetary tuners offer rock-solid tuning stability, while the ebony-capped maple bridge and no-knot tailpiece complete this instrument's premium setup.

Aesthetically, the banjo is a showstopper, featuring old-time fingerboard inlays and a vintage-style armrest, all framed in attention-grabbing white ABS binding and light-catching chrome-plated hardware. The high-gloss finish adds a final touch of elegance, visually matching the grandeur of its sound. Embrace your musical journey with an instrument that doesn't just play music; it tells a story.

Key Features:

  • 5-string open-back banjo with classic-period design
  • Prewar-style tubaphone tone ring for rich overtones
  • 11-inch, 3-ply maple rim with dual coordinator rods
  • Remo Renaissance head and notched tension hoop
  • Scoop for clawhammer action
  • Zero Glide nut and GT Master Planetary tuners
  • Ebony-capped maple bridge and no-knot tailpiece
  • Vintage-style armrest, fingerboard inlays, and ABS binding
  • Chrome-plated hardware and high-gloss finish

Product specs

Type Acoustic
String Type Steel
Number of Strings 5
Body Style Open Back
Top Material 11" Remo HC Renaissance
Body Material 3-Ply Maple Tubaphone-style
Neck Material Maple
Fingerboard Material Ebony
Fingerboard Inlay Old Time
Number of Frets 18
Scale Length 26.19"
Nut Material ZeroGlide
Nut Width 1.19"
Bridge Material Maple
Tuners GT Master Planetary
Hardware Chrome
Strings .011, .024w, .016, .013, .011
Case Included Hardshell Case

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Gold Tone OT-800 Old Time Openback 5-String Banjo?

The Gold Tone OT-800 delivers a rich, warm tone characteristic of its vintage mahogany construction and Tubaphone-style body. The open-back design offers a more mellow sound, ideal for old-time music styles.

Is the Gold Tone OT-800 suitable for beginner banjo players?

While the Gold Tone OT-800 is designed with quality materials suitable for intermediate to advanced players, beginners with a serious interest in old-time music will appreciate its craftsmanship and sound quality.

What materials are used in the construction of the Gold Tone OT-800 banjo?

The Gold Tone OT-800 features a 3-ply maple Tubaphone-style body, a maple neck, and an ebony fingerboard, providing durability and excellent tonal qualities.

How does the 11" Remo HC Renaissance top affect the sound of the Gold Tone OT-800?

The 11" Remo HC Renaissance top contributes to the banjo's warm and resonant sound, enhancing the overall tonal richness and projection.

Does the Gold Tone OT-800 come with a case?

Yes, the Gold Tone OT-800 includes a hardshell case for protection and easy transport.

Gold Tone

Gold Tone

Gold Tone OT-800 Banjo

Video thumbnail for Gold Tone OT-800 Banjo by Gold Tone

Gold Tone OT-800 Banjo

Gold Tone

Gold Tone

Video thumbnail for Little Billy Wilson: Gold Tone OT-800 by Chuck Levy

Little Billy Wilson: Gold Tone OT-800

Chuck Levy

Chuck Levy

Video thumbnail for Gold Tone OT 800 Demo - Brad Kolodner - New Five Cent Piece by Brad Kolodner

Gold Tone OT 800 Demo - Brad Kolodner - New Five Cent Piece

Brad Kolodner

Brad Kolodner

Video thumbnail for Libby DeCamp Plays & Reviews Her GoldTone OT-800 Tubaphone-Style Banjo | Let's Hear It by Let's Hear It!

Libby DeCamp Plays & Reviews Her GoldTone OT-800 Tubaphone-Style Banjo | Let's Hear It

Let's Hear It!

Let's Hear It!

Reviews

PROS

  • Wonderful sound with tubaphone ring, great for quiet and loud play

  • Scooped neck adds to playability and comfort

  • Solid tuners that hold tune well

  • Beautiful, classic detailing with dark stain maple wood

  • Lack of screws in the pot gives a clean look

  • Strong tone with a huge sound range, from growl to mountain banjo ring

  • Excellent fit and finish, with pearl tuner knobs and MOP inlays

  • Comes with a well-constructed, detailed case with key lock

  • Offers significant value, comparable to high-end banjos

  • Excellent workmanship and setup right out of the box

CONS

  • Armrest quality can be inconsistent, potentially arriving beat up

  • Heavier than entry-level models, might not suit everyone

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gold Tone OT-800 Old Time Openback 5-String Banjo.

Comparisons

  • The OT-800's Tubaphone sound is more akin to bluegrass banjos, whereas the BC-350 and HM-100 offer a mellower, folk-like tone with a 12" pot.

    Source
  • The BC-350's 12" pot and rolled-brass tone ring contribute to a bassier, plunkier tone, preferred for more melodic songs over the OT-800's brighter sound.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The HM-100 has a distinctive V-shaped neck, contrasting with the wider, thinner neck of the BC-350.

    Source
  • The OT-800 is noted for its Tubaphone tone ring, contributing to its clarity and high-end presence, suitable for both clawhammer and bluegrass styles.

    Source
  • The OT-800 includes a bracket band, avoiding holes in the rim, which may be preferred by some players for structural integrity.

    Source
  • The Gold Tone OT-800 long neck can be played in G without railroad spikes, but it's advisable to use them if planning to capo past A often.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The OT-800's tonal character includes a dark, metallic growl, making it suitable for those seeking a distinctive bluegrass timbre.

    Source
  • The OT-800's versatility is highlighted for players who might want to explore both clawhammer and bluegrass styles without needing multiple banjos.

    Source
  • The OT-800's Tubaphone sound is likened to a classic Vega Pete Seeger, making it ideal for folk enthusiasts looking for a bright, beautiful tone.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Adjusting head tension on the BC-350 or HM-100 can achieve similar volume levels to the OT-800.

    Source

User experience

  • Nylgut red series strings are favored by some HM-100 players for their unique sound quality without pre or post recording processing.

    Source
  • Players transitioning from basic models, like the Grestch G9450 without a tone ring, find the BC-350 significantly enhances their playing experience.

    Source
  • An owner with over a decade of experience praises the OT-800 as one of the most underrated open-back banjos, highlighting its enduring appeal and enjoyment.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The OT-800 is priced around $1500 new but frequently appears used for $1000-1200, maintaining its value due to its Tubaphone tone ring.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Banjo Newsletter

banjonews.com

The Gold Tone OT-800 Banjo hits some right notes with its solid construction and appealing design, but needs a few tweaks to truly shine. The initial setup left much to be desired, with a flimsy tailpiece and a sharp-cornered bridge that needed replacing for better playability. Sonically, it starts off a bit thin, but with some adjustments, it reveals its potential as a reliable instrument for everyday use. While it's not a Vega #9, it offers enough charm for those seeking a dependable frailer without risking a pricier antique. Ideal for players ready to invest a bit of extra effort to unlock its capabilities.

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