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Gold Tone Mastertone OB-3/L Left-Handed Twanger Pre-War-Style Resonator Banjo - Restock Natural

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Overview

A left-handed resonator banjo with tight, focused sustain.

In the hands of JD Crowe, a pre-war RB-3 banjo set a new standard for bluegrass sound—snappy, resonant, and unmistakably direct. Gold Tone’s Mastertone OB-3/L left-handed Twanger Pre-War-Style Resonator Banjo is a focused tribute to that legacy, capturing the exacting details that define the original’s voice. From the mahogany neck and resonator to the signature no-hole tone ring and vintage inlays, every part is chosen with care and intent. The result is an instrument that feels both historic and immediate, ready to inspire left-handed players on stage, in the studio, or during long practice nights. Consistency, clarity, and feel come together here, letting musicians shape their sound with confidence.

Gold Tone No-Hole Tone Ring and Resonator Shape the Voice

The no-hole flat-top brass tone ring, matched to slanted mahogany sidewalls and a three-ply maple rim, creates a distinct attack and controlled sustain. Each note pops with definition, and the focused resonance keeps the sound present without becoming harsh, even in fast Scruggs rolls or melodic passages. The combination enhances projection and clarity in group settings, allowing the banjo to cut through upright bass and guitar without losing its expressive nuance.

Gold Tone Playability and Setup Details

Playability starts with a Slim mahogany neck, smooth ebony fingerboard, and vintage pearloid inlays that support clean position shifts and right-hand accuracy. The two-way truss rod, Gotoh planetary tuners, and precise nut width all work together to keep the setup dialed in across changing conditions. Add-ons like capo spikes and a Zero Glide nut are available for players needing extra options. These features encourage left-handed musicians to focus on their playing, not constant adjustments.

Gold Tone Durability and Real-World Readiness

Nickel-plated hardware, a one-piece cast flange, and dual coordinator rods anchor the OB-3/L’s structure, resisting wear and environmental changes over time. The included archtop hardshell case protects the banjo during transport, making it ready for regular travel between lessons, rehearsals, or shows. For players seeking a reliable, consistent bluegrass partner, the left-handed OB-3/L resonator banjo stands out as a dependable choice built on proven engineering and thoughtful design.

Features

  • Pre-war style resonator banjo delivers vintage drive and punch
  • No hole tone ring tightens sustain for crisp note separation
  • Slanted resonator walls push projection for stage and jam sessions
  • Gotoh planetary tuners keep tuning stable through fast picking
  • Ebony fingerboard with leaves and bows inlay tracks smooth hand movement
  • Two-way adjustable truss rod lets you fine-tune neck relief
  • 5/8” Snuffy Smith bridge balances attack and clarity for bluegrass
  • Presto tailpiece increases string response and snap
  • Archtop hardshell case protects during gigs and travel
  • Left-handed build supports authentic technique for southpaw players

Unleash your musical vision with the Gold Tone Mastertone OB-3/L Left-Handed Twanger Pre-War Style Resonator Banjo and rediscover the authentic inspiration behind every note you play.

Specs

Mastertone OB-3/L Left-Handed Twanger Pre-War-Style Resonator Banjo - Specifications:

General
  • Product type: Resonator banjo
  • Model: OB-3/L Left-Handed Twanger
Body
  • Top wood: Mahogany
  • Back wood: Mahogany
  • Resonator: 14" mahogany with angled sidewall
  • Rim: 11" 3-ply maple
  • Flange: One piece cast
  • Brackets: 24
  • Armrest: Plain
  • Binding: Cream ABS
  • Concentric rings: Yes
  • Finish: Natural high gloss
Neck
  • Neck wood: Mahogany
  • Fingerboard wood: Ebony
  • Scale length: 26-1/4"
  • Number of frets: 22
  • Inlays: Pearloid leaves and bows
  • Truss rod: Two-way adjustable
  • Nut width: 1-1/4" bone
Hardware
  • Tuners: Gotoh planetary
  • Tailpiece: Presto style
  • Bridge: 5/8" Snuffy Smith
  • Tension hoop: 11" notched
  • Coordinator rods: Dual 11"
  • Tone ring: 11" flat top no hole brass
  • Hardware finish: Nickel plated
Head
  • Head type: Remo HC coated topside
  • Head diameter: 11"
Dimensions
  • Scale length: 26-1/4"
  • Resonator diameter: 14"
  • Rim diameter: 11"
  • Weight: 13 lb.
Other
  • Strings: .009, .011, .013, .020, .009
  • Tuning: GDGBD
  • Case: Archtop hardshell case included
  • Bag: Sold separately
  • Orientation: Left handed
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