Pricing and availability

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

Guitar Center
4.0 (14)
$799.99
Amazon
4.2 (29)
$799.99
Reverb
5.0 (11)
$599.99 New
$600.00 Used

Average Price: $700

Standard/Professional

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Recording King RK-R20 Songster 5-String Tone Ring 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

Discover the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation with the Recording King RK-R20 Songster 5-String Tone Ring Banjo. This banjo is a testament to Recording King's dedication to crafting instruments that resonate with both history and modernity. With a rolled brass tone ring, the Songster delivers a vibrant sound with a crisp, punchy attack that’s perfect for cutting through any mix. The mahogany resonator and neck complement the laminated maple rim, bringing a warm yet articulate tone that embodies the essence of bluegrass.

The Songster is not just about sound; it's about style and playability too. Featuring a nickel-plated flange and a bound rosewood fretboard, it boasts a sophisticated aesthetic that appeals both on stage and in your music room. The mother-of-pearl seven peg head floral inlay adds a touch of elegance, making this banjo as visually striking as it is sonically impressive. Whether you're a beginner stepping into the world of folk music or a seasoned player looking for a reliable companion, the RK-R20 Songster is designed to offer a superb playing experience without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany resonator and neck
  • Laminated maple rim
  • Rolled brass tone ring for enhanced sound
  • Nickel-plated flange
  • Bound rosewood fretboard
  • Mother-of-pearl seven peg head floral inlay
  • Gloss finish for a classic look

Product specs

Brand Recording King
Model RK-R20 Songster Resonator Banjo
Year 2010s
Made In China
Categories Banjos

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the construction of the Recording King RK-R20 Songster Banjo?

The Recording King RK-R20 Songster Banjo features a mahogany resonator and neck, providing a warm and rich sound, complemented by a multi-ply rim for added durability.

Does the Recording King RK-R20 Songster Banjo come with a tone ring?

Yes, the RK-R20 Songster Banjo includes a rolled tone ring, which enhances the banjo's projection and tonal clarity, making it suitable for various playing styles.

What is the scale length of the Recording King RK-R20 Songster Banjo?

The Recording King RK-R20 Songster Banjo has a scale length of 26-1/4 inches, offering a comfortable playing experience for both beginners and experienced players.

Are the tuners on the Recording King RK-R20 Songster Banjo planetary?

Yes, the RK-R20 Songster Banjo is equipped with planetary tuners, which provide precise tuning stability and a traditional banjo appearance.

What is the inlay design on the Recording King RK-R20 Songster Banjo?

The Recording King RK-R20 Songster Banjo features a classic hearts and flowers inlay, adding a touch of elegance to its traditional design.

Banjo Ben Clark

Banjo Ben Clark

Recording King RK-R20 Songster Demo Video: Banjo Ben's General Store

Video thumbnail for Recording King RK-R20 Songster Demo Video: Banjo Ben's General Store by Banjo Ben Clark

Recording King RK-R20 Songster Demo Video: Banjo Ben's General Store

Banjo Ben Clark

Banjo Ben Clark

Video thumbnail for Which Recording King Banjo Should You Buy? Complete Buyer's Guide with Jim Pankey by The Acoustic Shoppe

Which Recording King Banjo Should You Buy? Complete Buyer's Guide with Jim Pankey

The Acoustic Shoppe

The Acoustic Shoppe

Video thumbnail for Recording King RK-R20 Review, Description and Demonstration - Ross Nickerson - Banjoteacher.com by banjoteacher

Recording King RK-R20 Review, Description and Demonstration - Ross Nickerson - Banjoteacher.com

banjoteacher

banjoteacher

Reviews

PROS

  • Beautiful inlay and overall aesthetics

  • Warm, rich, punchy sound

  • Holds tune well, even for beginners

  • Comfortable neck and good weight

  • Plays well across all frets, including high notes

  • Affordable upgrade from entry-level models

  • Highly recommended for beginners and intermediate players

  • Tone ring enhances sound quality

  • Great value for the price compared to higher-end brands

CONS

  • Some units have quality control issues (e.g., tuners, tailpiece)

  • Made in China, which may disappoint those preferring U.S. manufacturing

  • May require professional setup for optimal playability

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Recording King RK-R20 Songster 5-String Tone Ring Banjo.

Build quality

  • The RK-R20 is praised as the best entry-level resonator banjo, with a recent revamp enhancing its quality.

    Source
  • The RK-R20 features a brass tone ring, which differs from the flathead tone rings typically found in bluegrass banjos.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Purchasing from Banjo Teacher is advised for better initial setup compared to large retailers.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The RK-R20 is recommended over the Washburn Americana B-10 for its superior sound at a similar price point.

    Source
  • Compared to the Ibanez B200, the RK-R20 avoids issues like lightweight pot metal flathead tone rings and other quality concerns.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners suggest the RK-35 as a worthwhile step up, with an addictive playability that encourages extended practice.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A "Q stock" RK-R20 was successfully purchased for $400, significantly below its typical market price.

    Source
  • The Epiphone MB250 is a viable alternative for those seeking a solid banjo under $600 in the used market.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report substantial satisfaction with the RK-R20 over cheaper, lower-quality pawn shop banjos.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Recording King Banjos

Deering Goodtime

$499.00 - $599.00

# 1

Rank

Ryan Ross beaux Laura Brehm
4 artists using
Deering Sierra 5-String Banjo

$2,538.47 - $3,499.00

# 2

Rank

Paul McCartney Charley Crockett Scott Avett
6 artists using
Deering Goodtime Two

$689.00 - $849.00

# 3

Rank

Gordon Gano
1 artist using
Deering Goodtime Artisan Banjo

$649.95 - $1,111.00

# 4

Rank

Mauricio Durán Post Malone
2 artists using
Epiphone MB-100

$239.00 - $299.00

# 8

Rank

 
Gold Tone EBM-5 Electric Banjo

$1,299.99 - $1,399.99

# 11

Rank

Ryan Ross Julien Baker Winston Marshall
3 artists using
Jameson 6-string Banjo

$169.95 - $239.00

# 12

Rank

 
Gold Tone Banjo OB-250+

$1,499.00 - $2,199.99

# 16

Rank

Winston Marshall
1 artist using
Deering Eagle II Acoustic/Electric

$2,899.00 - $3,299.00

# 18

Rank

Winston Marshall Evan Westfall
2 artists using

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides