Gold Tone Mastertone™ ML-1: Missing Link Béla Fleck Baritone Banjo with Case
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The ML-1 “Missing Link” is a signature collaboration between banjo virtuoso Béla Fleck and Gold Tone, designed to bridge the tonal gap between a standard 5-string banjo and a cello banjo. Inspired by John Hartford’s use of low-tuned banjos, the ML-1 is tuned to open C (CGCEG)—an octave below the 5th fret of a standard five-string banjo.
Built with a 12" three-ply maple rim supporting a bronze tone ring, the ML-1 produces a deep, resonant voice with remarkable sustain. A custom Remo Black Suede head, paired with a 7/8" radiused maple/ebony bridge, ensures clarity and projection. The hard rock maple neck is topped with an ebony compound-radius fretboard (5"–9") and adorned with Béla Fleck’s own art nouveau inlay pattern.
Gold Tone’s Zero Glide nut, engraved armrest, dual coordinator rods, and Terminator tailpiece round out this professional-grade instrument. With its stunning looks, low tuning, and unmistakable tone, the ML-1 delivers a unique soundscape for bluegrass, clawhammer, or experimental players alike. Includes a hard-shell case.
Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Headstock | Buttons: Black |
| Nut Width: 1-3/8" Zero Glide Nut | |
| Tuners: GT Master Planetary | |
| Neck | Material: Hard Rock Maple |
| Fingerboard: Ebony (compound radiused 5"–10") | |
| Frets: 22 Jumbo | |
| Inlay: Custom Art Nouveau | |
| Truss Rod: Two-Way Adjustable | |
| Body | Rim: 12" 3-Ply Maple |
| Resonator: 14" Maple | |
| Armrest: Gold Tone Engraved | |
| Brackets: 26 | |
| Bridge: 10" Radiused Maple w/ Ebony Cap (7/8") | |
| Tailpiece: Terminator | |
| Tension Hoop: 12" Notched | |
| Tone Ring: 12" Rolled Brass | |
| Head: 12" Remo MC Black Suede | |
| Finish: Vintage Brown / High Gloss | |
| Hardware: Chrome Plated | |
| Dimensions | Scale Length: 26-1/4" |
| Weight: 9.2 lbs. | |
| Other | Case: Included |
| Bag: HPB (Available) | |
| String Gauge: .018w, .040w, .030w, .022w, .018w | |
| Tuning: CGCEG | |
| Highlights | Béla Fleck Signature, Folkternative Design, 12" Black Suede Head, Custom Art Nouveau Inlay, Compound-Radius Ebony Fingerboard |