Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (9)
$449.00 $369.00 $80.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (1)
$449.00
Reverb
5.0 (4)
$369.00 New
$503.99 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (2)
$449.00
zZounds
5.0 (8)
$449.00

Average Price: $434

Budget/Beginner

$499

$1300+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Washburn B9 5-String Banjo". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step onto the stage or into a cozy room with the Washburn B9 5-String Banjo, a perfect blend of timeless craftsmanship and modern playability. This Americana Series marvel captures the essence of traditional banjo sound, thanks to its mahogany resonator and raised aluminum tone ring. Whether you're a beginner eager to strum your first tune or a seasoned player looking for an affordable addition to your collection, the Washburn B9 offers both the crisp articulation and the throaty depth that banjo players crave. Its closed chrome tuning machines not only ensure stable tuning but also add a touch of elegance to its overall aesthetic. Let the Washburn B9 be your companion in your musical journey, offering unmatched sound quality and aesthetics without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

  • Mahogany resonator for a rich, warm tone
  • Raised aluminum tone ring provides crisp articulation
  • Closed chrome tuning machines for stable tuning
  • Ideal for both beginners and seasoned players
  • Affordable without compromising on quality

Product specs

Brand Washburn
Model B9 Americana Series 5-String Banjo
Finish Natural
Year 2010s
Categories Banjos

FAQs

What type of music is the Washburn B9 5-String Banjo best suited for?

The Washburn B9 5-String Banjo is ideal for bluegrass, folk, and country music, thanks to its resonator design which provides a bright and punchy tone typical of these genres.

Does the Washburn B9 5-String Banjo come with a case?

The Washburn B9 5-String Banjo does not typically include a case, so it's advisable to purchase a compatible banjo case separately to protect your instrument.

What is the neck profile of the Washburn B9 5-String Banjo?

The Washburn B9 5-String Banjo features a comfortable neck profile that is well-suited for both beginners and experienced players, offering ease of playability across its fretboard.

Is the Washburn B9 5-String Banjo suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Washburn B9 5-String Banjo is a great choice for beginners due to its affordability, quality construction, and ease of play, providing a solid foundation for learning the banjo.

What materials are used in the construction of the Washburn B9 5-String Banjo?

The Washburn B9 5-String Banjo typically features a mahogany resonator and a maple neck, which contribute to its bright and resonant sound.

Nature Junkie TV

Nature Junkie TV

Best Beginner Banjo - Washburn B9 Banjo Review

Video thumbnail for Best Beginner Banjo - Washburn B9 Banjo Review by Nature Junkie TV

Best Beginner Banjo - Washburn B9 Banjo Review

Nature Junkie TV

Nature Junkie TV

Video thumbnail for Washburn B9 Banjo Demonstration Banjo Lesson Bluegrass Old Time Folk Americana Music Lessons by JFMusicOnline

Washburn B9 Banjo Demonstration Banjo Lesson Bluegrass Old Time Folk Americana Music Lessons

JFMusicOnline

JFMusicOnline

Video thumbnail for Washburn B9 Banjo Sunburst by Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Washburn B9 Banjo Sunburst

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Video thumbnail for 2012 Washburn B9 resonator 5-string banjo by Jake Wildwood & Co

2012 Washburn B9 resonator 5-string banjo

Jake Wildwood & Co

Jake Wildwood & Co

Video thumbnail for P66293 - Washburn B9 5-String Banjo Bluegrass Dixieland Banjo Remo Head Cast Tone Ring by Paul Jolly

P66293 - Washburn B9 5-String Banjo Bluegrass Dixieland Banjo Remo Head Cast Tone Ring

Paul Jolly

Paul Jolly

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent value for beginners seeking a quality banjo at a reasonable price

  • Bright, loud, and "old-timey" sound, ideal for various music styles

  • Stays in tune well even with frequent playing

  • Easy to set up and tune, suitable for novice players

  • Attractive satin tobacco sunburst finish with good construction quality

  • Versatile sound, compatible with genres beyond traditional bluegrass

  • Provides a satisfying learning experience, easier than expected for guitarists

  • Allows for custom modifications like adding a pickup for amplified play

CONS

  • Factory strings may need replacement early on

  • Action becomes less optimal above the third position

  • Requires initial setup work for best intonation and tone

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Washburn B9 5-String Banjo.

Setup and maintenance

  • The neck on the Washburn B9 is narrower, with 13/16" between the 1st and 4th strings at the first fret, which affects chord playability for those with larger hands.

    Source
  • Owners suggest checking for structural issues before purchase, as returns can be tricky and shipping refunds are often not covered.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Deering Goodtime Classic has a wider neck compared to the B9, offering easier chord and string muting for some players.

    Source
  • The Ibanez B300 is often compared to the Washburn B9, with some preferring Ibanez for its wooden pot, which is believed to offer better sound quality.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note that initial setup can be challenging, with strings taking time to settle and stay in tune.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The B9 is considered suitable for those using it as a secondary instrument, particularly if the primary focus is not on banjo playing.

    Source
  • The Washburn B9 is often considered for its fretboard inlay and aesthetic appeal at a lower price point, catering to those prioritizing looks.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Although priced affordably at around $250, the B9 is deemed a decent quality starter banjo, especially for those not planning to upgrade soon.

    Source

Build quality

  • It's noted that the Washburn B9 may have a more metallic sound compared to wooden pots, which some owners liken to a "tin can" tone.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It's recommended to swap factory hooks with standard steel ones due to the original parts being prone to snapping.

    Source

Critic Reviews

2012 Washburn B9 Resonator 5-String Banjo

jakewildwood.blogspot.com

The Washburn B9 5-String Banjo is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, affordable instrument with a warm, mellow tone. While it won't deliver the classic bluegrass sound some crave, its upgrades like a geared 5th peg and fast neck profile make it a competent player. Ideal for folk and bluegrass fusion, it's not a standout but certainly gets the job done with decent sound quality. A practical choice for beginners or those on a budget, but seasoned players might find it lacking in traditional bluegrass punch.

Washburn Americana Series B9 5-String Resonator Banjo

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

The Washburn B9 5-String Banjo offers impressive value with its well-built design and surprisingly good sound for the price. Its mahogany neck and adjustable truss-rod provide easy playability, while the aluminum pot and mahogany resonator enhance its tonal quality. The banjo's setup is commendable straight out of the box, though a professional tweak could optimize performance. The guitar-style tuners, however, don't mesh well with the traditional design, and its Bluegrass sound attempts fall slightly short. Yet, it excels in old-timey frailing and fingerpicking styles. A worthwhile purchase for beginners needing a budget-friendly, robust banjo.

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Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Washburn B9 5-String Banjo, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
davidlachlanlewis

davidlachlanlewis

Gear IQ 430

yann_b_good

yann_b_good

Gear IQ 177

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