The Gold Star GE-1 Prospector is inspired by the banjos of the late 1800s as made by builders like Dobson and Buckbee. It has a 1⁄2 inch rim made of two 1⁄4 inch plies of rock maple and a mahogany neck with the rounded bulb heel that was common in the 1880s. The end of the fretboard has a “frailing-scoop” which allows the player to access the warmer tone found further away from the bridge. The square, guitar-style headstock is another callback to the late 19th century. The GE-1 Prospector is a well-made, easy playing clawhammer banjo with a clear, ringing tone that won’t break the bank.