This ‘Gibson' banjo was originally produced as an ‘RB' model known primarily for being less expensive due to using a rolled brass ‘tone hoop' instead of a full flathead 'tone ring' (typically installed on the more expensive models referred to as Gibson ‘Mastertones'). However, this all maple ‘RB' was upgraded to the equivalency of the ‘RB Deluxe' version by retrofitting a tone ring.

Not only are Gibson banjos out of production since 2010, but it is rare to find any ‘Gibson' banjo - in excellent condition - with a tone ring - priced under $3,000. The ‘RB' and ‘RB Deluxe' models were very quietly marketed as ‘entry level' banjos but the ‘Deluxe' tone ring version was discontinued in 2005 since it competed against higher-end ‘Gibson Mastertones' that used the same materials and tone ring - including the (maple) ‘Earl Scruggs Standard' and (maple) ‘Granada' models.

The ‘Gibson RB' model lacks fancy cosmetic details but this 'Gibson reissue' is similar in design, quality and materials of all Gibson maple 5-string flathead tone ring models produced over the past 50 years – and, it's built with the ‘Gibson' standard tapered-sidewall maple resonator.

The expert fitting of the heel to the rim and tone ring - and detailed professional set-up - allows this banjo to produce an amazing quality and volume of the ‘Gibson sound' making it entirely suited for intermediate banjo players - but without any doubt, this banjo is entirely stage-worthy for professional level performing. For some folks this banjo is all they'll ever need in sound, playability and parts quality if a ‘Gibson' is what they're looking for - or, is a very attractive option for players wanting to leap forward from their starter banjo.

The ‘Gibson' name is a plus when it's time to resell in the future. Contact me to drop by to play and hear it for yourself. (A video and chat thread are at links below.)

(‘Vincent Black Lightening') https://youtu.be/fQK2xFOAxrI
(chat thread) https://www.banjohangout.org/archive/401996

• Overall condition – excellent (rarely played).
• Headstock – ‘Gibson' logo and RB style ‘fleur-de-lis' inlay design, unbound.
• Neck – highly flamed/curly maple, unbound.
• Neck heel – as perfect as when originally made.
• Fretboard – full black ebony with ‘'snowflake'' fret inlay.
• Fret condition – excellent/near-mint.
• Bridge – ‘Gibson' original.
• Capo spikes @ 7 - 8 - 9 - 10 -12.
• Head – Remo (over-sprayed to improve overall response).
• Resonator – curly maple with contrasting black purfling – no buckle rash.
• Tailpiece – ‘Presto' imprinted but may not be ‘Gibson' original.
• Tuning machines – 5-Star planetary with pearloid buttons.
• Finish – gloss/semi-gloss blonde/natural (unstained) neck, rim and resonator.
• Rim – Gibson, SN 780, tight 3-ply maple rim machined to fit tone ring (see ‘Tone Ring').
• Co-ordinator rods – double – just like a ‘Mastertone' should have.
• Flange – original ‘Gibson' – see marking in close-up photo.
• Tone ring – SN184 – 20-hole (most likely supplied to ‘Gibson' by FQ/Sullivan but unmarked).
• Hardware – chrome plated.
• Case – ‘Gibson' standard hard shell plush-lined case with ‘Gibson' logotype – the case is sound, no
damage, not scuffed up, but shows handle and latch wear and tear – appears
not original to banjo.
• Strap – not included.
• PHOTOS limited to ten but additional detailed photos kindly provided.

Price: $2,900 total – private sale - GST taxes are not applicable. I would prefer it to be picked up or meet at a mutually suitable location. Will ship at cost. Buyer responsible for insurance if shipped. Not shipped out of Canada. I accurately describe all relevant information in OKz.ca ads and encourage those folks who are interested (who live some distance away) to further chat and ask questions via ‘Facetime' or through a Zoom call. I am liberating and thinning my banjo collection I've enjoyed for 25 years and am not interested in trades or returns, therefore study photos and ask questions beforehand. I would be happy to provide any additional details or close-up photos as requested. West of St. Albert Alberta approx. 15 minutes.
When you call please mention you found this ad listing on OKz.ca