Hi - just thought I would throw my two pence worth about Gold Tones in.
I started with one of their kit banjos about 10 years ago after playing all sorts of bits and peices. Although it has had several modifications, including tuners and a fibreskin head, it has always been an outstanding instrument which I use regularly both for individual and band performances.
I also own a Gold Tone "White Lady" long neck which again has been modified to suit me, and this is also a great player although it takes a bit of work to master the long neck properly.
I have also got a gold tone "travel Banjo" which I normally tune in !A". This gives a great sound and is handy to pop in the car when travelling.
Although I make most of my own banjos these days, I have always kept the Gold Tones as it was on these that I really learned how to put these instruments together.
I have always recomended them to others either beginners or advanced and look forward to playing them for many years yet
Keep pickin'