5-String Gold Tone Banjos

With roots that stretch across genres from country to folk to bluegrass and even traditional Irish music, the banjo is an instrument that's definitely earned its place in today's music community. It's even made cameos in genres like jazz and rock, and for musicians looking to show off their technical skill, there's no finer instrument. Five-string models like these Gold Tone 5-string banjos are fast-paced, challenging instruments that come into their own once you master the full range of techniques, including rolls, drones, arpeggios and Scrugg-style picking. With the wide variety in Gold Tone's lineup, you'll find lots of different ways to apply these techniques to create a personal sound that's all your own.

Choosing the best Gold Tone banjo for your needs will naturally come down to figuring out what those needs are. For a new player picking up the instrument for the first time, that usually means an affordable banjo with great playability - and to get that, you can start out with models like the Gold Tone CC-100 (O) Open Back Banjo, the Gold Tone CC-50RP Convertible 5-String Banjo or the Gold Tone CC-100R Resonator Banjo.

On the other hand, maybe you're an experienced picker looking to take things to the next level. In that case, you could go classic with something like the Gold Tone OB-250 Banjo, or maybe it's time to take things one step further and try the Gold Tone Dojo 5-String Resonator Banjo or the Gold Tone EBM Electric Banjo. These won't just turn heads with their looks; they'll also do it with their excellent sound. Plus, the EBM comes equipped to connect to an amplifier or even effects units if you want to boost and transform its tone.

Of course, it goes without saying that there is no single instrument and no one sound that's perfect for all players across the board. It's up to you to decide what sort of playing experience and tone you're looking for. Need a hand figuring that out? Take a look at some of the reviews attached to each of the Gold Tone 5-string banjos in this section: with actual feedback from other players, you'll be able to get a pretty good idea of which one could be the perfect instrument for you.