S_D - Posted - 02/14/2026:  12:57:41

I’m thinking about picking up a second banjo specifically to leave in alternate tunings for clawhammer, and also to use as a casual “travel” banjo on the rare occasions I take it out and about. I’d prefer to keep it on the cheaper side, so I've been looking into beginner-ish options.

Right now I’m looking at:
- Deering Goodtime 5-String
- Gold Tone AC-5 (Acoustic Composite)
- Gold Tone CC-OT (Cripple Creek Open Back)
I’ve also heard good things about Recording King, but they are few and far between these days.

I’ve seen a wide range of opinions online, and since I don’t have the option to try these in person, I’m hoping to get a clearer sense of which ones genuinely feel and play like they justify their price. Doesn’t anyone have experience with these? Thanks!

Mickhammer - Posted - 02/14/2026:  13:04:30

I like to buy used (and where I live, it's difficult to find new banjos anyway).



I have a Goodtime Classic (few years older than the Artisan). It's a fine banjo, very lightweight, which is a plus. The neck is a bit wider than my other banjos, which is kind of nice.



I picked up a Gretsch Dixie Special a couple months ago... for 250 euros, it's hard to beat. The previous owner had put guitar style tuners on it, but I had a spare set of Gotohs on hand, so that took care of that. Surprisingly great banjo. Heavier than the Goodtime, of course, but I'm mostly playing seated these days.



I could never get comfortable with a composite banjo. I can see how that would make a decent starter banjo. I have three Gold Tones, all bought used. The one I play the most is the EB-5. Get yourself a small practice amp and you've got an excellent travel banjo.

Edited by - Mickhammer on 02/14/2026 13:05:48

Bill Rogers - Posted - 02/14/2026:  14:15:07

There are plenty of good used banjos from earlier eras available at attractive prices. I would not consider a new one until you are sure no used ones suit your needs,

The Old Timer - Posted - 02/15/2026:  12:16:37

I agree about exhausting the used market!

You can find a nice vintage 1960s Vega Wonder or Ranger. They come with resonator, or without (in that case they are called Folk Wonder and Folk Ranger). Cannot buy a better made new or Asian banjo for the money. And they are classic American-made.