I can personally recommend the GoldTone having acquired one about six weeks ago, third hand from Carl Baron (mentioned above-- it may be this banjo that Dale heard and saw!) This one came as a kit, I was told; I bought it assembled and have had to adjust the necy up and down and try different bridges to get the sound I want. I use it for playing "country ragtime" -- fingerpicked guitar and for playing Uncle Dave Macon tunes-- he recorded a couple with I believe Sam McGee with bj and bj-guitar Of limited utility-- but wonderful in the right place!