Gold Tone Mastertone™ OB-2 JM: Joe Mullins Bowtie 5 string Banjo with Case

Since this is a high quality banjo , stock photos won’t do. The photos in this ad are actual photos of the one you will get. These are basically custom shop banjos so even though it is a production banjo, each one is slightly different. 

Serial Number – 22505187
 

The Gold Tone OB-2 JM banjo brings the legendary tone of the 1960s Mastertone bowtie to a new generation of players. Developed in collaboration with bluegrass master Joe Mullins, this exceptional instrument pairs vintage-inspired craftsmanship with modern innovation. The classic combination of mahogany neck and maple resonator, crowned with a rich golden sunburst finish, delivers the warm, powerful voice that defined bluegrass' golden age. True to its heritage, the OB-2 JM features the coveted rolled brass tone ring, while Gold Tone's advanced lightweight rim design ensures comfortable playability for today's performing artist. From the rolled brass tone ring to the premium Gotoh tuners, every component has been carefully selected to create an instrument that honors tradition while embracing the future. Whether in the studio or on stage, the OB-2 JM offers professional-grade tone, playability, and reliability at an exceptional value.

Featuring a classic bowtie aesthetic and golden sunburst finish, this banjo blends traditional styling with modern performance. The mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard and Gold Tone Bowtie inlays offers smooth playability across all 22 frets. A bone nut and Gotoh planetary tuners provide reliable tuning stability, while the gold-plated hardware and Prucha Presto-style tailpiece enhance its high-end appearance. The tone comes from an 11" brass-topped tone rim and rolled brass tone ring, delivering powerful projection and clarity. Other thoughtful touches include a custom Dotson bridge, dual coordinator rods, a 14" mahogany resonator, and a signature black Corian armrest. With a scale length of 26-1/4" and weighing just over 8 lbs, this banjo is a comfortable, professional-grade instrument ready for any stage. Comes complete with a hard case and is set up for traditional open G tuning (GDGBD).

About Joe Mullins

Joe Mullins embodies the soul of bluegrass – a virtuoso banjo player, celebrated bandleader, and tireless advocate for traditional music. From his early days with The Traditional Grass through his current success with The Radio Ramblers, Joe has earned his place among bluegrass royalty, including an IBMA Entertainer of the Year award and regular appearances on the Grand Ole Opry. Beyond the stage, his work as a broadcaster, festival organizer, and former IBMA Board Chair has helped shape the future of bluegrass while honoring its roots. The OB-2 JM reflects Joe's lifelong pursuit of excellence and his commitment to putting professional-grade instruments in the hands of the next generation of bluegrass musicians.

• OB-2JM Specifications
  All Gold Tone instruments setup in Titusville, FL. USA 
  Headstock
  ButtonsCustom Black Goto
  Nut Width1-1/4" Bone
  TunersGold Gotoh Planetary Tuners
  Neck
  FingerboardEbony
  Frets22
  InlayGold Tone Bowtie
  MaterialMahogany
  Truss RodTwo-Way Adjustable
  Body
  ArmrestBlack Corian Armest with Signature
  BindingCream ABS
  Brackets24
  Bridge5/8" Dotson
  Coordinator RodsDual 11"
  FinishGolden Sunburst
  FlangeOne Piece Cast
  HardwareGold Plated
  Head11" Remo HC Coated Topside
  Resonator14" Mahogany
  Rim11" Brass Topped Tone Rim
  TailpiecePrucha Presto Style
  Tension Hoop11" Notched
  Tone Ring11" Rolled Brass Tonering
  Dimensions
  Scale Length26-1/4"
  Weight8.12 lbs.
  Other
  BagHPB (Available)
  CaseIncluded
  String Gauge.009, .022w, .013, .011, .009
  TuningGDGBD