Gold Tone: Bluegrass Special Custom Lefty BG-250

Submitted by doc house on 1/3/2002

Where Purchased: Titusville at the Factory

Year Purchased: 2001
Price Paid: 539 ($US)

Sound

Sound is bright, but not too loud as it has standard resonator and no flange. I do like the convertible feature as resonator removes easily for clawhammer. Like the intonation and finish.

Sound Rating: 10

Setup

Banjo was well setup and in tune with low action for ease of learning.

Setup Rating: 10

Appearance

white ladye neck used (lefty) since BG250 does not normally come in a lefty version. Lacquer done well with no checking.Finish was as professional as you would find anywhere. Unit feels exceptionally solid and tight.

Appearance Rating: 10

Reliability

I purchased the unit from Goldtone because they have a reputation for producing a durable, affordable unit which should remain service free for many moons. I have yet to develop and hardcore relationship with her as I am just beginning to learn.

Reliability Rating: 9

Customer Service

I personally feel, that, wayne rogers, the owner sells pride of accomplishment as well as an affordable quality product and that the lifetime warranty will probably never have to be exercised, but I'm sure that If it did, it would be honored to the
letter.

Customer Service: 10

Components

The only modification that I would ever have considered would be a larger resonator and flange, which I believe is available as a aftermarket conversion, but until I graduate from novice to learned, that is not a viable option.

Components Rating: 10

Overall Comments

You get your money's worth with Goldtone. God forbid it should ever be stolen, since I feel that once played, your banjo becomes an artful extension of the personality of the player. I looked at several other banjo makes before making what I consider the wisest choice. My favorite feature now is the beauty of the piece, but later hope it to be the quality of sound I can draw out of her.

Overall Rating: 9