Gold Tone OB-12 Top Tension Banjo Mastertone™
OB-12 inspired by the Vintage 1930's Gibson RB-12 Top Tension Banjo
Call Ross for best price and extras - 866-322-6567
The Legend Returns. The Pre-War Sound Achieved.
The man who defined the "Golden Era" of modern banjos is back at the drawing board. Introducing the Gold Tone OB-12 Top Tension—collaboratively designed with Greg Rich to deliver the authentic, aggressive pre-war punch you’ve been chasing.
A faithful tribute to the legendary Mastertone Top Tension models of the late 1930s, the OB-12 utilizes massive sustain and uncompromising volume to deliver a depth of tone standard builds simply cannot replicate.
Why the OB-12 Stands Out:
The Walnut Sweet Spot: A hand-selected walnut neck and matching resonator offer a unique sonic signature right between mahogany and maple—delivering rich warmth without sacrificing crisp clarity.
Maximum Projection: The carved, original-style resonator provides the precise internal air chamber geometry needed to cut through any jam.
Historically Accurate Appointments: Dressed to impress with a New Vintage Script Logo and a premium Prucha Presto tailpiece for optimal string energy transfer and classic snap.
Player-First Comfort: Features a custom top-tension armrest, specifically contoured to cover the tension bolts for a flawlessly smooth playing experience.
Option 2: Premium & Story-Driven (Best for a Brand Landing Page)
This version leans into the heritage and craftsmanship, creating a compelling narrative for high-end buyers.
Gold Tone OB-12 Top Tension: Heritage Meets High Output
When Greg Rich—the man who defined the modern "Golden Era" of banjos—returns to the drawing board, players listen. The Gold Tone OB-12 Top Tension is a masterclass in historical recreation, built to deliver the uncompromising volume, massive sustain, and authentic pre-war sound of the late 1930s.
Famous for their weight and mass, original Top Tension Mastertones possessed a distinct, aggressive cut. The OB-12 captures that exact DNA. At its core is a premium walnut neck and matching carved resonator. This choice of wood bridges the gap between mahogany and maple, yielding a warm yet brilliantly clear tone.
Every detail has been historically vetted. From the vintage script logo on the headstock to the classic snap of the Prucha Presto tailpiece, the OB-12 looks as timeless as it sounds. And because power shouldn't sacrifice comfort, we’ve included a custom-contoured armrest that covers the tension bolts, giving you a smooth, effortless playing experience.
List of FREE Items Included with this Banjo
FREE Professional Banjo Set up
FREE Official Gold Tone TKL Hard Shell Case
FREE 5th String Capo Spikes
Dotson High Quality Premium Banjo Bridge FREE ($35 value)
5 Free Ross Nickerson Banjo Instruction DVDs
FREE LIFETIME PLATINUM Banjo Lesson Site Access
FREE Shipping - Lower 48 US States
$30 Shipping Credit for International, AK, HI
Price Matching or Questions 1-866-322-6567
FREE ITEMS don't add to our normal discount price which is the lowest price we are allowed to advertise by the Manufacturer.
5 Free Ross Nickerson Banjo Instruction DVDs with this model
Banjos comes professionally set up and ready to play
The Gold Tone OB-12 is specially set up. The set up includes a custom professional neck fit to the rim. The proper professionally done custom neck fit is huge on banjos. We also can install 5th string capo spikes at no charge. Just specify which ones in checkout.
Call us with questions anytime!
10AM to 6PM at 1-866-322-6567 or contact-us
Call Ross for best price and extras - 866-322-6567
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Gold Tone OB-12 Specifications
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