Epiphone Mastertone Classic Banjo Natural Ibgcs

A Classic Revisited in the "Inspired by Gibson" Spirit

Epiphone has been one of the historic banjo brands since the early 20th century. With the Mastertone Classic, the brand pays tribute to the aesthetics and DNA of banjos from the golden age of bluegrass, adopting the "Style 3" codes and resonator silhouette. The goal is clear: to recapture the "Mastertone" character (projection, attack, presence) while maintaining modern playability suited for rehearsals, stage, and sessions.

For Whom and Which Styles

This 5-string banjo is primarily aimed at intermediate to advanced players seeking an expressive instrument for bluegrass, country, and acoustic repertoires where the banjo needs to "cut through" the mix. A highly motivated beginner can also find a serious and durable foundation here: the C-profile neck, long scale length, and planetary tuners provide a stable feel to work on intonation, speed, and rolls.

Sound Characteristics

The combination of a mahogany resonator and 3-ply rim promotes warm mids and solid foundation, while the frosted Remo 11" / 279 mm head delivers the crisp attack and typical bluegrass "crack." The one-piece flange stiffens the assembly, helping maintain a clear response and controlled sustain. The maple bridge with ebony cap enhances note definition and harmonic balance, and the straight tailpiece contributes to even tension for consistent dynamics across the neck.

Recommended Compatible Accessories

To get the most out of this 5-string, a set of standard 5-string banjo strings (light to medium gauges) is ideal, along with a clip-on chromatic tuner for quick tuning adjustments. A spare frosted 11" / 279 mm head can be useful for maintenance, and a banjo strap designed for resonator models improves comfort when playing standing. The included hard case already secures transportation.

Technical specifications

Format	11" / 279 mm resonator banjo; one-piece flange; "Mastertone" construction	Scale length	26.4" / 670.6 mm
Rim	3-ply mahogany, turned and laminated	Nut width	30 mm / 1.18"
Head	Remo 11" / 279 mm, frosted finish	Nut material	Bone
Back	Mahogany resonator, two 3-ply inlaid strips	Inlays	Pearl Style 3 with "Mastertone" block
Binding	Top, back (resonator), and fingerboard, single ply	Bridge	5-string, maple with ebony cap
Wood	Mahogany	Tailpiece	Straight (inline)
Profile	C	Tuners	Planetary, pearl imitation buttons
Fingerboard	Laurel	Hardware finish	Nickel
Frets	22, medium/large	Case	Hard case included