Is the Epiphone Mastertone Bowtie a five-string or four-string banjo?

It is a standard 5-string banjo, making it suitable for three-finger Scruggs style, clawhammer, and folk techniques.

What is the significance of the 'Bowtie' name?

The name refers to the specific shape of the mother-of-pearl fretboard inlays, which were a signature design element of Gibson Mastertone banjos from the 1950s and 1960s.

Does this banjo come with a case?

Yes, it includes a premium gig bag as standard, providing protection against the elements and making it easier for musicians to transport.

What kind of head is used on this model?

It features an 11-inch Remo Fiberskyn head, which is designed to provide a warmer, more traditional 'calfskin' style sound compared to clear or frosted heads.

What is the finish on the neck?

The mahogany neck features a satin finish, which reduces friction for the player's hand and allows for faster movement during play.

Can I install a pickup on this banjo?

Yes, it is compatible with standard aftermarket banjo pickups such as the Fishman Banjo Pickup or the L.R. Baggs 5-String model.

How does an open-back banjo differ from a resonator banjo?

Open-back banjos lack the wooden back plate (resonator) found on bluegrass models, resulting in a mellower, softer tone that is preferred for old-time and folk music.

Is this instrument suitable for professional use?

Yes, as part of the 'Inspired by Gibson Custom' range, it features high-quality hardware and craftsmanship intended for both stage and studio work.

What materials are used for the hardware?

The banjo is equipped with a notched nickel tension hoop, providing a vintage appearance and durable tensioning for the Remo head.

What is the typical price for this model?

The Epiphone Mastertone Bowtie Open Back Banjo is typically priced around £599 in the UK market.

Where is the inspiration for this design drawn from?

The design is heavily inspired by the mid-century Mastertone banjos produced by Gibson, specifically focusing on the aesthetics of the 1950s and 60s.

Is this banjo good for traveling?

Yes, the open-back design is generally lighter than resonator models, and the included premium gig bag makes it well-suited for musicians on the move.

Gear article

Epiphone Mastertone Bowtie Open Back Banjo

The Epiphone Mastertone Bowtie Open Back Banjo is a professional-grade five-string instrument inspired by the classic Gibson Mastertone designs of the 1950s and 1960s. It features a satin-finished mahogany neck, mother-of-pearl 'bowtie' inlays, and an 11-inch Remo Fiberskyn head to deliver a warm, resonant acoustic character.

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History and Inspiration

The Epiphone Mastertone Bowtie is part of the 'Inspired by Gibson Custom' collection, designed to bring the heritage of 20th-century American banjo manufacturing to a modern price point. It specifically references the aesthetic and construction of the Gibson Mastertone models popularised during the 1950s and 1960s. While those original instruments are now highly sought-after vintage items, this Epiphone recreation focuses on providing the same vintage styling and 'bowtie' mother-of-pearl fretboard inlays with contemporary reliability.

Design and Construction

Built for durability and tonal clarity, the instrument features an open-back design, which is traditionally lighter and more portable than resonator-backed models. The neck is crafted from mahogany with a satin finish to facilitate smooth movement across the fretboard. The 11-inch pot is fitted with a notched nickel tension hoop and a Remo Fiberskyn head, a combination that balances structural integrity with traditional aesthetics. The craftsmanship extends to the headstock, which reflects the classic Gibson-inspired silhouette.

Sound Character

The use of an open-back configuration and a Remo Fiberskyn head results in a tone that is noticeably warmer and more resonant than the sharp, piercing 'snap' of a bluegrass resonator banjo. This mellow frequency response makes it highly versatile across several musical genres, including folk, old-time, and modern acoustic styles. The mahogany neck contributes a punchy midrange, while the open-back design allows for a softer volume profile that is ideal for solo practice or intimate ensemble playing.

Suitability and Applications

This instrument is positioned as an 'accessible luxury' banjo, making it suitable for serious beginners who want an instrument to grow into, as well as intermediate players seeking a high-quality open-back for specific stylistic needs. Its portability is enhanced by the inclusion of a premium gig bag, making it a viable choice for touring musicians. It serves as a reliable platform for amplification; while it does not come with electronics, it is compatible with aftermarket solutions such as the Fishman Banjo Pickup or L.R. Baggs 5-String Banjo Pickup.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to entry-level models like the Tanglewood TUB4 or TUB5, the Epiphone Mastertone Bowtie offers superior materials and more intricate decorative work, such as the mother-of-pearl inlays. While instruments like the Barnes & Mullins Irish Gaelic Tenor focus on specific four-string traditions, the Mastertone Bowtie remains a standard five-string choice. It occupies a middle ground between budget student instruments and the high-end custom shop models it is inspired by, offering similar aesthetics to professional Gibson units at a significantly lower price point.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Epiphone Mastertone Bowtie a five-string or four-string banjo?: It is a standard 5-string banjo, making it suitable for three-finger Scruggs style, clawhammer, and folk techniques.
What is the significance of the 'Bowtie' name?: The name refers to the specific shape of the mother-of-pearl fretboard inlays, which were a signature design element of Gibson Mastertone banjos from the 1950s and 1960s.
Does this banjo come with a case?: Yes, it includes a premium gig bag as standard, providing protection against the elements and making it easier for musicians to transport.
What kind of head is used on this model?: It features an 11-inch Remo Fiberskyn head, which is designed to provide a warmer, more traditional 'calfskin' style sound compared to clear or frosted heads.
What is the finish on the neck?: The mahogany neck features a satin finish, which reduces friction for the player's hand and allows for faster movement during play.
Can I install a pickup on this banjo?: Yes, it is compatible with standard aftermarket banjo pickups such as the Fishman Banjo Pickup or the L.R. Baggs 5-String model.
How does an open-back banjo differ from a resonator banjo?: Open-back banjos lack the wooden back plate (resonator) found on bluegrass models, resulting in a mellower, softer tone that is preferred for old-time and folk music.
Is this instrument suitable for professional use?: Yes, as part of the 'Inspired by Gibson Custom' range, it features high-quality hardware and craftsmanship intended for both stage and studio work.
What materials are used for the hardware?: The banjo is equipped with a notched nickel tension hoop, providing a vintage appearance and durable tensioning for the Remo head.
What is the typical price for this model?: The Epiphone Mastertone Bowtie Open Back Banjo is typically priced around £599 in the UK market.
Where is the inspiration for this design drawn from?: The design is heavily inspired by the mid-century Mastertone banjos produced by Gibson, specifically focusing on the aesthetics of the 1950s and 60s.
Is this banjo good for traveling?: Yes, the open-back design is generally lighter than resonator models, and the included premium gig bag makes it well-suited for musicians on the move.