Best Alternative Design Guitars 2025

Top-rated alternative design guitars 2025 - expert picks for every budget and skill level

Last updated: October 22, 2025 • Next update: October 29, 2025

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Best Alternative Design Guitars

PRICE RANGES: Under $200 Under $300 Under $500 Under $800 Under $1,000 Under $2,000 Under $5,000

SKILL LEVELS: For Beginner For Intermediate For Professional For Advanced

GENRES & STYLES: For Modern Design For Unique Style For Progressive Music For Contemporary Players For Innovation For Distinctive Look

BRANDS: Fender Harley Benton Danelectro Reverend Squier Epiphone Rickenbacker Ibanez Evh Traveler Guitar Larry Carlton Duesenberg Suhr Guild Höfner Sterling by Music Man Steinberger Guitars DAngelico

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light TR - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.4/5 (42 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light TR

by Traveler Guitar

Innovation Contemporary Players Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Unique visual appeal
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• May sacrifice traditional tone
• Limited mainstream appeal

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light TRCompact Electric GuitarBody: Eastern American mapleNeck-thru-body: Eastern...

⭐ 4.4/5 (42 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 443056

$384

Buy at Thomann View Details

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold Metallic - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (25 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold Metallic

by Larry Carlton

Modern Design Distinctive Look Innovation

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• May sacrifice traditional tone
• May not suit traditional players

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold MetallicElectric GuitarBody: AlderBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: EbonyNeck Profile:...

⭐ 4.9/5 (25 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 584310

$494

Buy at Thomann View Details

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe HY - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe HY

by Steinberger Guitars

Distinctive Look Unique Style Innovation

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe HYHeadless Electric GuitarBody: Basswood3-Strip maple neckFingerboard: SatinwoodSlim...

⭐ 4.6/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 449531

$483

Buy at Thomann View Details

Rickenbacker 360/12 FG - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (43 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Rickenbacker 360/12 FG

by Rickenbacker

Distinctive Look Contemporary Players Modern Design

Key Feature:

• Often improved ergonomics

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• May sacrifice traditional tone
• Limited mainstream appeal

Rickenbacker 360/12 FG12-String Electric GuitarThinline Semi Acoustic GuitarBody: MapleSet-in maple neckFretboard:...

⭐ 4.9/5 (43 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 132976

$4,124

Buy at Thomann View Details

Rickenbacker 620 JG - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (40 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Rickenbacker 620 JG

by Rickenbacker

Modern Design Progressive Music Contemporary Players

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Unique visual appeal
• Innovative and modern design

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• Higher cost for unique design

Rickenbacker 620 JGElectric GuitarBody: MapleContinuous maple neck (neck thru body)Fretboard: Caribbean rosewood...

⭐ 4.7/5 (40 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 176513

$2,749

Buy at Thomann View Details

DAngelico DLX Bedford SH Matte Walnut - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (51 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

DAngelico DLX Bedford SH Matte Walnut

by DAngelico

Contemporary Players Innovation Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Higher cost for unique design
• May sacrifice traditional tone

DAngelico DLX Bedford SH Matte WalnutElectric Guitarback and sides: AlderNeck: Maple/walnut/mapleFingerboard:...

⭐ 4.6/5 (51 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 553322

$1,539

Buy at Thomann View Details

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst LH - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.5/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst LH

by Larry Carlton

Modern Design Distinctive Look Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Limited mainstream appeal

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst LHElectric GuitarLeft-handed modelBody: AlderNeck: Bolt-on mapleFingerboard:...

⭐ 4.5/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 584316

$604

Buy at Thomann View Details

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Trans Black - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Trans Black

by Sterling by Music Man

Unique Style Distinctive Look Innovation

Key Feature:

• Unique visual appeal

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• May not suit traditional players

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Trans BlackElectric GuitarBody: JabonTop: flamed maple veneerNeck: Bolt-on...

⭐ 4.7/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 585163

$582

Buy at Thomann View Details

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe WH - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe WH

by Steinberger Guitars

Innovation Progressive Music Contemporary Players

Key Feature:

• Often improved ergonomics

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• May not suit traditional players

Steinberger Guitars Gtpro Deluxe WhElectric GuitarDesign: HeadlessBody: Basswood3-Piece neck: MapleNeck attachment:...

⭐ 4.7/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 261835

$483

Buy at Thomann View Details

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#10

⭐ 4.8/5 (56 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst

by Larry Carlton

Innovation Modern Design Distinctive Look

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Innovative and modern design

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Higher cost for unique design

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone SunburstElectric GuitarBody: AlderBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: EbonyWhite stripes...

⭐ 4.8/5 (56 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 584301

$472

Buy at Thomann View Details

Rickenbacker 330/12 FG - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#11

⭐ 4.7/5 (10 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Rickenbacker 330/12 FG

by Rickenbacker

Modern Design Contemporary Players Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Unique visual appeal

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Innovative and modern design

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• Limited mainstream appeal

Rickenbacker 330/12 FG12-String Electric GuitarStyle: Thinline Semi AcousticBody: MapleSet-in neck: MapleFingerboard:...

⭐ 4.7/5 (10 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 157681

$3,464

Buy at Thomann View Details

Danelectro 67 Aqua - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#12

⭐ 4.9/5 (25 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Danelectro 67 Aqua

by Danelectro

Modern Design Distinctive Look Contemporary Players

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Limited mainstream appeal

Danelectro 67 AquaElectric GuitarBody: Offset body shapePoplar frame and middle blockMasonite top and backMaple neckPau...

⭐ 4.9/5 (25 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 547393

$659

Buy at Thomann View Details

Reverend Double Agent W CB - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#13

⭐ 5.0/5 (23 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Reverend Double Agent W CB

by Reverend

Progressive Music Innovation Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Contemporary aesthetics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Resale value uncertainty

Reverend Double Agent W CBElectric GuitarBody: KorinaBolt-on neck: Roasted mapleFingerboard: RosewoodWhite dot...

⭐ 5.0/5 (23 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 592238

$1,077

Buy at Thomann View Details

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC GGB - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#14

⭐ 4.9/5 (47 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC GGB

by Danelectro

Distinctive Look Modern Design Innovation

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May not suit traditional players

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC GGBElectric GuitarImproved remake of the cult guitarBody: Frame and centre block made of poplar...

⭐ 4.9/5 (47 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 351111

$637

Buy at Thomann View Details

Valiant Guitars Jupiter Distressed Yellow - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#15

⭐ 4.4/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Valiant Guitars Jupiter Distressed Yellow

by Valiant Guitars

Progressive Music Unique Style Contemporary Players

Key Feature:

• Often improved ergonomics

✓ PROS

• Unique visual appeal
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• May sacrifice traditional tone
• Higher cost for unique design

Valiant Guitars Jupiter Distressed YellowElectric GuitarBody: AlderBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: Roasted...

⭐ 4.4/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 557883

$3,299

Buy at Thomann View Details

How to Choose the Best Alternative Design Guitars

Budget Planning

• Under $200: Entry-level
• $200-$500: Intermediate
• $500-$1000: Advanced
• $1000+: Professional

Quality Check

• Sound clarity & tone
• Build materials & finish
• Hardware durability
• Overall craftsmanship

Key Features

• Your musical style
• Skill level match
• Intended use case
• Brand reputation

Frequently Asked Questions

Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.

Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.

Higher-priced alternative design guitars typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.

Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.

Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.

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Best Alternative Design Guitars 2025

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light TR

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold Metallic

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe HY

Rickenbacker 360/12 FG

Rickenbacker 620 JG

DAngelico DLX Bedford SH Matte Walnut

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst LH

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Trans Black

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe WH

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst

Rickenbacker 330/12 FG

Danelectro 67 Aqua

Reverend Double Agent W CB

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC GGB

Valiant Guitars Jupiter Distressed Yellow

How to Choose the Best Alternative Design Guitars

Budget Planning

Quality Check

Key Features

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when buying alternative design guitars?

How much should I spend on alternative design guitars?

Are expensive alternative design guitars worth the investment?

What are the best brands for alternative design guitars?

Should I buy alternative design guitars online or in-store?

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