Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$2,199.00
Guitar Center
$2,199.00
Reverb
5.0 (3)
$1,759.20 1 available Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$2,199.00
Thomann
4.5 (13)
$1,479.00 $1,466.00 $13.00 · All time low

Average Price: $1,964

High-end/Boutique

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Recording King RK-ELITE-75 The Elite Flying Eagle Resonator 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

The Recording King RK-ELITE-75 The Elite Flying Eagle Resonator Banjo is a harmonious blend of vintage charm and modern craftsmanship, designed for enthusiasts who appreciate the essence of the 1930s-era Mastertone banjos. This instrument captures the spirit of a bygone era with its Mastertone-style tone ring, reminiscent of the early 1900s gems. Its slim-profile mahogany neck and bound ebony fingerboard offer a smooth playing experience, complemented by a 27-3/8-inch scale that delivers an ultra-punchy sound.

Crafted for serious musicians and performers, the Elite Flying Eagle is equipped with a steam-bent, 3-ply maple rim and a Presto-style tailpiece, ensuring robust tonal quality. The resonator, carved from a single piece of mahogany, along with the top-quality Remo Frosted High Crown head, provides an exceptional acoustic projection, making it a favorite on stage. Historic-themed cosmetics, such as a vintage-style, double-cut peghead and custom Flying Eagle inlays, add to its aesthetic allure, appealing to both the eyes and ears.

Key Features:

  • Modeled after 1930s-era Mastertone banjos
  • Mastertone-style tone ring for classic sound
  • Slim-profile mahogany neck with bound ebony fingerboard
  • 27-3/8-inch scale for punchy sound
  • 1-piece mahogany resonator with 11-inch Remo Frosted High Crown head
  • Steam-bent, 3-ply maple rim and bone nut
  • Gotoh tuning machines for precise tuning
  • Vintage-style, double-cut peghead with custom Flying Eagle inlays

Product specs

Type Acoustic
String Type Steel
Number of Strings 5
Body Style Resonator
Top Material Remo Coated Head
Body Material Mahogany
Neck Material Mahogany
Neck Shape C
Fingerboard Material Ebony
Fingerboard Inlay Mother-of-pearl Flying Eagle
Number of Frets 22
Scale Length 27.37"
Nut Material Bone
Nut Width 1.25"
Bridge Material Maple/Ebony
Tuners Gotoh Planetary, Geared 5th Peg
Hardware Nickel
Strings D'Addario EJ60 Light
Case Included Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of music is the Recording King RK-ELITE-75 The Elite Flying Eagle Resonator Banjo best suited for?

The Recording King RK-ELITE-75 is ideal for bluegrass and folk music, thanks to its resonator body style which provides a bright and powerful sound projection.

What materials are used in the construction of the Recording King Elite Flying Eagle Banjo?

This banjo features a mahogany body and neck, an ebony fingerboard, and a Remo coated head, offering durability and a rich tonal quality.

Does the Recording King RK-Elite-75 come with a case?

Yes, the Recording King RK-Elite-75 includes a hardshell case for protection and easy transportation.

How many strings does the Recording King RK-ELITE-75 have?

The Recording King RK-ELITE-75 is a 5-string banjo, which is the standard for traditional bluegrass playing.

What kind of inlay does the fingerboard of the Recording King RK-ELITE-75 feature?

The fingerboard of the Recording King RK-ELITE-75 features a mother-of-pearl Flying Eagle inlay, adding to its aesthetic appeal.

What is the neck profile of the Recording King Elite Flying Eagle Banjo?

The neck of the Recording King Elite Flying Eagle Banjo has a C shape, providing a comfortable grip for most players.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Recording King RK-ELITE-75 Elite Flying Eagle Banjo Demo

Video thumbnail for Recording King RK-ELITE-75 Elite Flying Eagle Banjo Demo by Sweetwater

Recording King RK-ELITE-75 Elite Flying Eagle Banjo Demo

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound quality rivals banjos in much higher price ranges

  • Precision assembly with all parts true and solid

  • Easy to play neck profile enhances playability

  • Beautifully crafted inlays add visual appeal

  • Well-constructed, durable design ensures longevity

  • Offers excellent value for under $2K

  • Satisfies players seeking specific wood types like mahogany, burled walnut, and curly maple

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Recording King RK-ELITE-75 The Elite Flying Eagle Resonator Banjo.

Build quality

  • The RK-75 features a three-ply maple rim and a brass tone ring, contributing to a high-quality bluegrass sound.

    Source
  • The Gold Star JD Crowe model is noted for its no-hole tone ring, differentiating it from similar models.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • It has a longer scale length of 27-3/8", which can enhance low-end response and provide more finger room up the neck.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The RK-75 is compared to the Gold Tone OB-3 Twanger, with similar tonal quality but different inlays and tuners.

    Source
  • The Gold Star GF-100 and Deering Sierra Maple are popular alternatives, with the Sierra being notably more expensive.

    Source
  • Prucha and Capek are highlighted for superior build and sound quality compared to the RK-75, especially for those seeking a Gibson-like tone.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners suggest buying used to find better deals, with some finding high-quality used alternatives like the Huber Workhorse for similar prices.

    Source
  • The Gold Tone OB-3 is another alternative that satisfies users who initially considered the RK-75, praised for its quality and value.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • While great for bluegrass, it may not be suited for clawhammer styles, requiring different setup and preferences.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report significant delays in availability, especially in Europe, causing frustration and leading to consideration of alternative models.

    Source
  • Moloney Music in Ireland provides setup services, including a Scorpion bridge, which enhances playability and tone.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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