Old Dog Tray - Posted - 04/08/2026:  15:12:46

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some advice on choosing my first open-back banjo for old-time / clawhammer playing. I’m mainly after a warm, woody, “mountain” sound rather than something too bright.

I’m based in Europe, so availability is a bit limited. The three models I’ve been considering are:
• Recording King RK-OT25 (€492 new / €324 B-stock)
• Gold Star GE-1 Prospector
• Gold Tone CC-Carlin 12 (€743, currently out of stock until late July)

Initially, I was leaning toward the OT25 based on specs, although I really like the vintage aesthetic of the Gold Star. The Carlin 12 also seems like a great option for the tone I’m after (12” rim), but I’m not a huge fan of the lighter wood finish and the long wait time makes things harder.

Yesterday, Thomann discounted a B-stock OT25 from €455 to €324, which made it very tempting; I’ve already reserved it, but haven’t completed the purchase yet. At that price, it feels like a strong value compared to the other options. They’re also including a fresh set of D’Addario EJ61 strings, so I’m covered there for now.

My main questions are:
1. Given these options (and prices/availability), would you go ahead with the OT25, or still wait for the Carlin 12?
2. How does the Gold Star GE-1 compare to the Recording King in terms of tone and overall build quality?
3. If I do go with the OT25, should I also order a few upgrades to push it more toward that mellow old-time sound? things like Nylgut strings, a different head, or a new bridge. I was also thinking about a no-knot tailpiece, but I don’t think Thomann sells those. Maybe someone knows where I can get one inside Europe!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

pinenut - Posted - 04/08/2026:  15:40:32

quote:

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Originally posted by Old Dog Tray

I’m based in Europe, so availability is a bit limited. The three models I’ve been considering are:

• Recording King RK-OT25 (€492 new / €324 B-stock)

• Gold Star GE-1 Prospector

• Gold Tone CC-Carlin 12 (€743, currently out of stock until late July)



My main questions are:

1. Given these options (and prices/availability), would you go ahead with the OT25, or still wait for the Carlin 12?  Two coordinator rods on more flexible rims is very important for stability.

2. How does the Gold Star GE-1 compare to the Recording King in terms of tone and overall build quality?  Of the three brands, Gold Tone usually has the lower build quality.

3. If I do go with the OT25, should I also order a few upgrades to push it more toward that mellow old-time sound? things like Nylgut strings, a different head, or a new bridge. I was also thinking about a no-knot tailpiece, but I don’t think Thomann sells those. Maybe someone knows where I can get one inside Europe!  The no-knot usually allows swirling overtones with steel strings; not an upgrade.  Start with steel strings.  Amber or frosted top heads are both good with rolled tone rings (fiberskyn is a noticeable mute).  Bridges can be replaced or upgraded at any time.  Probably won't notice most upgrades until your skills and ears synchronize.

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I like a rolled ring banjo with a preference to 11" and dual coordinator rods, but, twelves are fine too.  Any of these are going to be fine; they are fairly equivalent to one another.  Get what suites your tastes and availability.

Setup can shift most any banjo to all sorts of tonal profiles;  don't mind the style of the banjo. 

Are there any "domestic" or better imports on the used market..?

Edited by - pinenut on 04/08/2026 15:57:11

CrazyCatLazy - Posted - 04/08/2026:  15:46:13

If you consider ever using nylon/ nyglut strings just buy a Rickard and import it from Canada. Buy once, cry once. Nothing in Europe is spaced to use nylon strings. Trust.

Bill Rogers - Posted - 04/08/2026:  20:35:56

As Kam noted, you can significantly vary the sound by altering the setup. Get the OT-25 and learn how to work with it. You’ll develop skills and learn stuff you’ll use for years.

RomanS - Posted - 04/09/2026:  01:37:06

I started my "banjo journey" with the RK OT25, perfectly fine banjo, very well made; no need to change the head, as this one already comes with a dark-sounding Fiberskyn head. At that price it is hard to find something equally well-made, even among used banjos, as you noticed, the next best thing is the GE1, which is almost twice as expensive (675€ at MartinsMusikkiste).
BTW, MartinsMusikkiste is also where you can find no-knot tailpieces:
martinsmusikkiste.eu/bau-ersat...15/217893

KCJones - Posted - 04/09/2026:  06:52:49

I'd take that B-stock but I'm a sucker for a dented can discount.