Korena
Product detailSKU #1500000394080

Gold ToneAC-12 12" A-Scale 5-String Openback Banjo Matte Black

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Gold Tone AC-12 12" A-Scale 5-String Openback Banjo Matte Black
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Independent shopping perspective

The Korena take

The AC-12 A-Scale is a compact five-string openback banjo built around a 23-inch scale, 17 frets, and AEAC#E tuning. Its short, scooped neck uses the same pot assembly as the AC-12, with a 12-inch composite rim and Renaissance head. At a listed weight of 5, it is positioned for travel and extended sessions of A or D tunes. The satin black model includes a gig bag, making the travel-oriented setup ready to carry.

Gold Tone AC-12 12" A-Scale 5-String Openback Banjo Matte Black product detail
Product studyGold Tone AC-12 12" A-Scale 5-String Openback Banjo Matte Black
Gold Tone AC-12 12" A-Scale 5-String Openback Banjo Matte Black alternate view
Alternate view

Strong match

Who this is for

  • Travel with a small, lightweight banjo and the included gig bag.
  • Long sessions devoted to A or D tunes using the AEAC#E setup.

Consider the trade-offs

When to look elsewhere

  • Players wanting the longer sibling’s scale length or fret count.

What matters in use

The specifications, translated

Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.

Gold Tone AC-12 12" A-Scale 5-String Openback Banjo Matte Black construction detail

Detail 01

23-inch scale length; 17 frets

This is the short-scale A-scale configuration.

Detail 02

AEAC#E tuning

It is tuned to A, a whole step above a standard banjo.

Detail 03

Listed weight: 5

The model is described as small and lightweight for travel.

Final check

Know before you order

  1. 01It is tuned AEAC#E, a whole step higher than a standard banjo.
  2. 02The A-scale model has a 23-inch scale and 17 frets.
Gold Tone AC-12 12" A-Scale 5-String Openback Banjo Matte Black close-up

Product questions

Before you decide

Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.

01What tuning does the AC-12 A-Scale use?

AEAC#E, tuned to A.

02Is it intended for travel?

Yes. It is described as small and lightweight for travel.

03Does it include a gig bag?

Yes, a gig bag is included.

Reference

Full specifications

The complete catalog record, organized around the decisions musicians make when comparing gear.

1 detailsPickups & controls
Bridge
Maple w/ Ebony Cap
5 detailsPlayability
String Gauge
.010, .024w, .014, .012, .010
Frets
17
Nut Width
1
Number of Frets
17
Scale Length
23
9 detailsBody & build
Color
Black
Binding
Black ABS
Body Finish
Black / Satin
Finish
Black / Satin
Hardware
Chrome Plated
Fingerboard Material
Rosewood 
Fingerboard
Rosewood
Material
Nato
Tailpiece
Vintage No-Knot
1 detailsSize & weight
Weight
5
1 detailsIn the box
Case or Gig Bag
Gig bag
9 detailsOther
Head
12 inch Remo LC Renaissance
Rim
12 inch Composite
Truss Rod
Two-Way Adjustable
Tension Hoop
12 inch Flat Bar
Tuning
AEAC#E
Buttons
Black
Coordinator Rods
Single 12 inch
Tuners
Covered Guitar-Style
Brackets
16

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