2002 Gibson RB-3

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2002 Gibson RB-3 Mastertone

The Gibson Mastertone remains the benchmark for resonator banjo design. Since setting the standard in the late 1920s, the Mastertone has been widely emulated by both independent luthiers and commercial makers. For many bluegrass banjo players, the Mastertone isn't just an instrument—it's the instrument. Some players won’t touch anything else; for others, the Mastertone sound is so iconic that playing a different banjo feels like stepping outside the tradition.

In Gibson’s 1930 catalog, the RB-3 was praised for its “tone of recording quality” and “volume more than ample for all playing conditions.” It was described as “unusually responsive” and “beautifully finished.” It cuts through clearly at lower frets and retains remarkable clarity higher up the neck.

This particular RB-3 was built in Nashville, TN, in 2002. Gibson no longer manufactures banjos, so instruments like this one represent some of the most recent examples of true factory-built Mastertones. While this banjo shows signs of honest wear—most notably tarnishing on the nickel-plated hardware—it plays beautifully and delivers the kind of punchy, articulate tone expected from a top-tier Mastertone.

The frets are original and still have plenty of life left. No repairs, no structural issues—just a solid, great-sounding banjo. It comes upgraded with a Snuffy Smith bridge and has 5th-string spikes installed at frets 7, 8, 9, and 10. The original Gibson hardshell case is included. Speed neck, fresh setup with Turtle Hill Head and Strings.

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