Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$1,049.99
Guitar Center
$1,049.99
Amazon
4.7 (21)
$19.99
Musician's Friend
4.0 (4)
$1,049.99
Thomann
4.9 (9)
$866.00 $859.00 $7.00 · All time low

Average Price: $806

Standard/Professional

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Irish Banjo". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Celtic music with the Irish Banjo, a masterfully crafted instrument that resonates with authenticity and tradition. This open-back tenor banjo is designed for musicians who seek a genuine folk sound with a modern twist. Constructed with a brass tone ring and a solid maple neck, this banjo delivers a robust and punchy tone that stands out in any ensemble, whether you're accompanying fiddles or leading the melody.

The 17-fret design, combined with a Blackwood fretboard, offers both comfort and versatility, making it an ideal choice for mandolin players transitioning to banjo. The neck's shorter scale and heavier strings, tuned to GDAE, provide a familiar yet distinct playing experience. The Whyte Laydie tone ring adds exceptional projection, allowing your music to carry with clarity and precision. High-quality components like the Gold Tone Cast Tailpiece and Master Planetary Tuners ensure durability and ease of maintenance, so you can focus on what truly matters: your music.

This banjo isn't just an instrument; it's your musical companion, encouraging you to explore new dimensions in your performance with ease and confidence. Whether you're on stage or in a cozy session, the Irish Banjo's harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation invites you to express your unique sound.

Key Features:

  • Brass tone ring for enhanced sound projection
  • Maple neck and rim for a rich, warm tone
  • 17-fret Blackwood fretboard for comfortable playability
  • Gold Tone Master Planets tuners for stable tuning
  • Whyte Laydie tone ring for extra punch and projection
  • Tuning: G-D-A-E, suitable for mandolin players
  • Includes a gigbag for easy transportation

Product specs

Type Acoustic
String Type Steel
Number of Strings 4
Body Style Open Back
Finish Gloss
Top Material 11" Remo HC Renaissance
Body Material 3-ply Maple (rim)
Neck Material Maple
Fingerboard Inlay Clouds
Number of Frets 17
Scale Length 19.75"
Nut Material ZeroGlide
Nut Width 1.06"
Bridge Material Maple
Tuners GT Master Planetary
Hardware Chrome
Strings .040w, .030w, .020w, .010
Case Included Hardshell Case

FAQs

What tuning is standard for the Gold Tone IT-250 Irish Tenor Banjo?

The standard tuning for the Gold Tone IT-250 Irish Tenor Banjo is G, D, A, E, which is the same as a violin or mandolin but an octave lower.

Is the Gold Tone IT-250 suitable for traditional Irish music?

Yes, the Gold Tone IT-250 is specifically designed for traditional Irish music, featuring a 4-string tenor setup ideal for playing Irish melodies.

What is the neck material of the Gold Tone IT-250 Irish Tenor Banjo?

The neck of the Gold Tone IT-250 is made from maple, providing durability and a smooth playing experience.

Does the Gold Tone IT-250 come with a case?

Yes, the Gold Tone IT-250 Irish Tenor Banjo includes a hardshell case for protection and easy transportation.

How many frets does the Gold Tone IT-250 Irish Tenor Banjo have?

The Gold Tone IT-250 Irish Tenor Banjo features 17 frets, allowing for a range of notes suitable for traditional Irish music.

Reviews

PROS

  • Attractive Celtic inlays with a stylized horse and shamrock position markers

  • Dark, plunky, and woody tone; perfect for traditional Irish music

  • Excellent volume suitable for most sessions

  • Comes with a high-quality carrying case

  • Zero fret enhances tone and intonation

  • Natural maple finish adds to aesthetic appeal

  • Immediate usability for mandolinists with easy tuning

  • Comfortable Vega-style armrest with a wooden finish

  • Great playability even for beginners

  • Offers outstanding value for its price

CONS

  • Armrest requires repositioning, which may involve removing tension hooks

  • Short scale affects sustain and resonance on the low G string

  • Bridge positioning requires adjustments from technical specifications

  • Requires stronger gauge strings for optimal sound performance

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Irish Banjo.

Features and functionality

  • The Gold Tone AC-4 IT 19-fret banjo is praised for its deeper notes, which suit Irish music better than a retuned standard banjo with a drone string.

    Source
  • Irish tenor banjo tuning, an octave below violin, allows it to double fiddle parts, offering a broader pitch range in first position compared to the 5-string.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A user reported assembling a beginner setup including the Gold Tone AC-4 IT, Dunlop .60 picks, a strap, stand, and capo for under $300, highlighting its affordability.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners suggest that overtones and sustain can be a concern initially, but satisfaction increases with playing experience on the Gold Tone AC-4 IT banjo.

    Source
  • Adapting a 5-string banjo for Irish music often requires playing up the neck more, especially for tunes needing notes on the low G string.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The McNeela Celt Banjo is noted for being made in Ireland and offers options with both 17 and 19 frets, catering to different stylistic preferences.

    Source
  • The 5-string banjo can be adapted for Irish music by avoiding the 5th string and using a capo, though it won't fully replicate a tenor's range or sound.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 5-string banjo, typically tuned gDGBD, significantly differs from the Irish tenor banjo's GDAE tuning, impacting playability and suitability for specific musical styles.

    Source

3.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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