Gold Tone AC-1 Open-Back 5-String Banjo

Gold Tone AC-1 Series – Lightweight Openback Banjos for Beginners 

The Gold Tone AC-1 Series represents the perfect blend of craftsmanship, innovation, and playability — designed specifically for new players and traveling musicians. Named “Best in Show” at Summer NAMM 2016, each model in this series is built with a lightweight 11” composite rim, a slim nato neck, and a Zero Glide nut (Bone Nut on the AC-1FL). Finished in elegant black satin, these banjos are both durable and visually refined, offering a modern twist on traditional banjo design.

With its Remo LC Frosted head and chrome-plated hardware, the AC-1 Series delivers a bright, clear tone with strong projection and surprising warmth for its weight. Whether you’re strumming bluegrass rolls, clawhammer rhythms, or melodic patterns, you’ll enjoy the balanced response and smooth sustain. Over time, the tone matures beautifully, deepening in resonance while maintaining clarity across every register.

Perfect for beginners, teachers, and traveling professionals, the AC-1 Series offers unmatched value and comfort. Each model is incredibly light (just 3.75–4.3 lbs.) yet rugged enough for years of dependable performance. Whether you choose the standard AC-1, the fretless AC-1FL, or the long-neck AC-1LN, every instrument provides professional setup and precision craftsmanship that ensures effortless playing right out of the case.

Each banjo is professionally set up by Gold Tone’s Florida workshop for ideal tone, action, and playability, ensuring exceptional comfort and response from day one.

FREE GIFTS: Complimentary Deluxe Gig Bag.
Your instrument arrives protected, tuned, and ready for immediate performance, exactly as Gold Tone intends.

Key Features

• Handcrafted from composite rim and nato neck

• Finished with black satin coating and chrome hardware

• Fitted with rosewood fingerboard and maple bridge (with ebony cap)

• Equipped with 11" Remo LC Frosted head and adjustable or vintage-style tailpiece

• Lightweight design (3.75–4.3 lbs.) ideal for beginners or travel

• Professionally set up by Gold Tone USA

• Includes Deluxe Gig Bag 

Specifications

Models: AC-1 / AC-1FL / AC-1LN
Top: 11" Remo LC Frosted Head
Rim: 11" Composite
Finish: Black Satin
Neck: Nato (Slim Profile)
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Frets: 22 (25 on AC-1LN)
Bridge: Maple with Ebony Cap
Tailpiece: Adjustable (AC-1), No-Knot (AC-1FL), Vintage Style (AC-1LN)
Scale Length: 26-3/16" (32" for AC-1LN)
Weight: 3.75–4.3 lbs.
Strings: Standard .011–.024w set / Aquila Nylgut (AC-1FL)
Tuning: GDGBD (AC-1, AC-1FL) / EBEG#B (AC-1LN)
Setup: Professionally adjusted at Gold Tone’s Florida Workshop
Included Accessories: Complimentary Deluxe Gig Bag.