1970s Aria RB-250 Style 5-String Banjo – MIJ – Upgraded w/ Vintage Gibson Tailpiece – OHSC

Very cool 1970s Aria 5-string banjo, made in Japan during the golden era of MIJ production.

This model follows the classic Gibson RB-250 styling, with the distinctive inlay pattern and traditional resonator look. It started life as a solid Japanese-built banjo, but at some point a serious player upgraded it with higher-end components and had it professionally set up — and it absolutely shows.

Upgrades include:

• Vintage Gibson tailpiece (60s/70s era)
• Gibson tuning machines
• Compensated bridge
• 5th string capo installed

The Gibson tailpiece alone is a desirable piece of hardware and typically sells in the $150–$250 range on its own. Combined with the upgraded tuners and proper setup, this banjo performs well above most stock 70s MIJ examples.

Tone is strong, articulate, and lively with great note separation. Neck is straight, frets are clean, and it plays comfortably up and down the board. It feels like a player’s instrument, not a wall hanger.

Cosmetically, it shows normal vintage wear consistent with age but remains very clean overall. Nothing structural or concerning.

Includes hard shell case.

If you're looking for an RB-250 style banjo without RB-250 pricing — but with some real Gibson hardware already installed — this is a great option.

Case: Hard

Scale Length: 26 3/8“

Nut Width: 1.182“

Fret Wear: 7.9/10

Action at 12F (5th): 3/64“

Action at 12F (4th): 5/64“

Action at 12F (1st): 5/64“

Weight: 10lbs 3.5oz

Overall Condition: 8/10

Internal Use (Bin) - U2