AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Alternative Design Guitars for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Squier Sonic Mustang ($193). Harley Benton RB-612BK Classic Series leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 156 models across 26 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale610 mm (24.02")
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This guitar feels light thanks to the poplar body and easy 24-inch scale. The two bright ceramic pickups give you a clean, cutting sound perfect for pop or rock. While it lacks a third pickup and locking bridge, it stays simple and affordable for players who want a fast, responsive instrument.
Pros
- Affordable poplar body adds light weight for easy playability
- Maple bolt-on neck provides solid connection and sustain
- Two ceramic single coils deliver a crisp, bright tone
Cons
- Hardtail bridge lacks the locking stability of modern systems
- Only two pickups limit chord voicing options significantly
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$193 now$193€172 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyBasswood body
This JA-60CC is a seriously impressive package for the money. It nails that vintage aesthetic and delivers a surprisingly good sound thanks to the Roswell pickups and nicely finished neck. Perfect for players wanting a classic, versatile guitar without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Basswood body delivers surprisingly resonant and warm low-mids.
- Roswell JM pickups offer authentic vintage-style bite and clarity.
- Caramelized maple neck provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
Cons
- Basswood, while resonant, lacks the sustain of mahogany or ash.
- Fixed bridge limits tremolo/vibrato options and string changing.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets21 frets
- BodyBasswood body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Harley Benton is a fantastic entry point into vintage-inspired guitars. The 'C' neck profile and snappy feel make it comfortable, while the Roswell pickups nail that classic JM vibe. It's a great choice for players wanting a vintage aesthetic and feel without the premium price tag, especially those drawn to blues, indie, or lighter rock styles.
Pros
- Roswell JM pickups deliver surprisingly authentic vintage single-coil tone.
- Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel common in vintage guitars.
- Laurel fretboard offers a smooth playing experience and distinct character.
Cons
- Basswood body can lack sustain compared to mahogany or ash alternatives.
- Bolt-on neck construction isn't favored by players seeking a more resonant, glued-in feel.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyPoplar body
This Harley Benton JA-20HH is a seriously fun, budget-friendly shred machine. The active pickups bring the high-gain fury, and the bolt-on neck makes it easy to wail. It's perfect for beginners or players wanting a no-fuss, metal-ready guitar without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Active pickups deliver high-output, aggressive tones ideal for metal and hard rock.
- Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel and easy playability.
- Roseacer fingerboard offers a comfortable playing surface with good note definition.
Cons
- Poplar body, while functional, lacks the tonal complexity of mahogany or alder.
- Active pickups require a power source (battery), adding a maintenance element.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$167 now$167€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Jackson JS Series Surfcaster JS22 HT
JS22 Surfcaster HT SN WHT · Jackson
53 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyPoplar body
The JS22 Surfcaster HT is a seriously fun guitar for the money. It’s got that classic Jackson aggression and a surprisingly playable neck. Ideal for beginner to intermediate players or anyone wanting a reliable, hard-hitting instrument for rock and metal without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Poplar body delivers surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and easy playability.
- High-output Jackson pickups offer a thick, aggressive rock sound.
Cons
- Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and may benefit from upgrades.
- Poplar body can be prone to finish checking with heavy use and humidity changes.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$294 now$294€262 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets24 frets
- BodyBasswood body
This guitar feels like a classic from the eighties. The maple neck locks in tight, and the humbucker makes a big, warm sound. It is perfect for players who want a chunky tone without the size of a standard guitar.
Pros
- Classic bolt-on maple neck for solid stability
- Humbucker pickup delivers thick, full sound
- Compact 628 mm scale fits smaller hands
Cons
- Single pickup limits tone variety
- Fixed bridge offers no tremolo action
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$190 now$190€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This Harley Benton RB-612BK is a fun, quirky 12-string offering a surprising amount of character for the money. It’s a great option for players wanting a semi-hollow vibe and that shimmering 12-string sound without a huge investment – ideal for rhythm guitarists or those exploring alternative tunings.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- Artec Classic mini-humbuckers offer a decent approximation of vintage PAF tones.
- The Laurel fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience, a step up from standard maple.
Cons
- The semi-hollow construction may introduce unwanted feedback at higher volumes.
- Neck profile, while described as a 'C', might be slightly thicker than some prefer.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$302 now$302€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale610 mm (24.02")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyBasswood body
This MS-60 is a seriously impressive budget-friendly option for players chasing a vintage-inspired vibe. The bolt-on neck provides a snappy feel, and those Roswell pickups genuinely nail that classic single-coil chime. It's a fantastic starting point or a great grab-and-go for gigging musicians who need a reliable, affordable workhorse.
Pros
- Roswell STA Alnico-5 pickups deliver surprisingly authentic vintage tones
- Graphite nut minimizes tuning instability and offers smooth playability
- DLX tremolo system allows for expressive vibrato without excessive tuning issues
Cons
- Basswood body, while lightweight, lacks the sustain of mahogany or ash
- Master Volume/Tone control setup limits tonal shaping flexibility
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$179 now$179€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets24 frets
- BodyBasswood body
The Höfner Shorty Deluxe BK is a quirky, fun instrument that punches way above its weight class. It’s a great option for players seeking a compact, vintage-voiced guitar—particularly those influenced by '80s alternative or looking for a unique travel companion. Don't expect shredding tones, but it's a solid, affordable option for rhythm work and a cool, different vibe.
Pros
- Basswood body delivers surprisingly warm, resonant low-mids.
- Höfner humbuckers offer a thick, vintage-inspired tone.
- Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel.
Cons
- Fixed bridge limits tremolo or more complex bridge adjustments.
- Basswood body can feel a little soft and prone to dents.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyBasswood body
The ResoKing BK is a seriously cool and surprisingly capable instrument. It's a great option for players wanting a unique resonator sound, especially those drawn to bluegrass, folk, or blues with a touch of grit. The build quality is solid for the price, making it a fun and affordable project guitar or a reliable stage companion.
Pros
- Basswood body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- Maple neck with laurel fingerboard offers a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
- Mini-humbucker delivers a warm, articulate sound suitable for various genres.
Cons
- Basswood, while resonant, lacks the long-term sustain of mahogany or ash.
- Piezo system, while present, likely won't rival dedicated acoustic pickups.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$280 now$280€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 156 alternative design guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Jackson JS Series Surfcaster JS22 HTJS Series Surfcaster JS22 PPM · Jackson53↓ 1.3%$343€305$343€305Check ↗
- 12
Höfner Shorty Cadillac GreenHöfner37Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 4 finishes50Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 14
Vox Mark V mini Phantom BKVox · 2 finishes41↓ 1.7%$260€231$260€231Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit SquareHarley Benton27Stable$129€115$129€115Check ↗
- 16
Larry Carlton J3 SilverLarry Carlton · 2 finishes45Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
- 17
Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light TRTraveler Guitar · 3 finishes45Stable$392€349$392€349Check ↗
- 18
Epiphone USA CoronetCoronet Ch · Epiphone58Stable$538€479$538€479Check ↗
- 19
Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL TSPG TCOSquier · 4 finishes51Stable$482€429$482€429Check ↗
- 20
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL 3TSSquier · 4 finishes51Stable$482€429$482€429Check ↗
- 21
Epiphone Wilshire P-90 EbonyEpiphone · 3 finishes48↓ 6.5%$482€429$482€429Check ↗
- 22
Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra Light BlackTraveler Guitar38Stable$392€349$392€349Check ↗
- 23
Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe HYSteinberger Guitars · 5 finishes46Stable$471€419$471€419Check ↗
- 24
Traveler Guitar Speedster Standard Gloss BlackTraveler Guitar41Stable$448€399$448€399Check ↗
- 25
Larry Carlton J5 Sherwood Green MetallicLarry Carlton42Stable$482€429$482€429Check ↗
- 26
Squier CV 60s Mustang LRL SNBSquier44Stable$504€449$504€449Check ↗
- 27
Traveler Guitar Traveler Pro Series Maple ABTraveler Guitar37↓ 1.3%$443€394$443€394Check ↗
- 28
Vox APC-2 WhiteVox · 2 finishes47↓ 16.7%$561€499$561€499Check ↗
- 29
Gold Tone GME-6 Solid-Body Electric ManditarGME-6 w/Bag · Gold Tone47↓ 9.1%$561€499$561€499Check ↗
- 30
Epiphone Coronet EBEpiphone42Stable$538€479$538€479Check ↗
- 31
Harley Benton DC-Custom 612 CherryHarley Benton41Stable$559€498$559€498Check ↗
- 32
Epiphone Crestwood Custom CherryEpiphone40Stable$561€499$561€499Check ↗
- 33
Traveler Guitar Pro Series Mod X - Matte BlackTraveler Guitar39Stable$561€499$561€499Check ↗
- 34
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG BundleSquier · 2 finishes27↓ 4.9%$500€445$500€445Check ↗
- 35
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL BK BundleSquier · 2 finishes28Stable$515€458$515€458Check ↗
- 36
Fender Player II JazzmasterPlayer II Jazzmaster RW BLK · Fender · 5 finishes83Stable$898€799$898€799Check ↗
- 37
Fender Player II JaguarPlayer II Jaguar RW BCG · Fender · 2 finishes77↓ 2.2%$987€879$987€879Check ↗
- 38
Fender American Professional Classic JazzmasterAm Pro Jazzmaster RW OXB · Fender · 5 finishes77Stable$2,392€2,129$2,392€2,129Check ↗
- 39
Duesenberg PalomaPaloma CTB · Duesenberg · 4 finishes64Stable$2,807€2,499$2,807€2,499Check ↗
- 40
Squier J Mascis JazzmasterJ.Mascis Jazzmaster · Squier63Stable$594€529$594€529Check ↗
- 41
EVH Wolfgang Special Striped AgedWolfgang Special Str AGED RBW · Evh63↓ 5.3%$1,796€1,599$1,796€1,599Check ↗
- 42
Rickenbacker 330/12330/12 FG · Rickenbacker61Stable$3,538€3,149$3,538€3,149Check ↗
- 43
Rickenbacker 330/12330/12 JG · Rickenbacker61Stable$3,538€3,149$3,538€3,149Check ↗
- 44
Fender MIJ Hybrid II JazzmasterMIJ Hybrid II Jazzmaster MPB · Fender · 2 finishes60Stable$1,740€1,549$1,740€1,549Check ↗
- 45
Fender Troy Van Leeuwen JazzmasterFender60Stable$1,875€1,669$1,875€1,669Check ↗
- 46
Rickenbacker 330330 JG · Rickenbacker60Stable$2,864€2,549$2,864€2,549Check ↗
- 47
Rickenbacker 360360 FG · Rickenbacker60Stable$3,538€3,149$3,538€3,149Check ↗
- 48
Guild Surfliner DeluxeSurfliner Deluxe RQM · Guild · 3 finishes59↓ 1.0%$777€692$777€692Check ↗
- 49
Fender American Ultra II MeteoraAm Ultra II Meteora EB UBST · Fender58↑ 8.0%$2,729€2,429$2,729€2,429Check ↗
- 50
Rickenbacker 620620 JG · Rickenbacker58Stable$2,807€2,499$2,807€2,499Check ↗
Alternative Design Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 248 models we track, not a sample.
Median $954 — half of all alternative design guitars here cost less.
median of 202 models · 41.3 mm (1.63")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 229 models · 610 mm (24.02")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 154 models · 21–24
most common · 186 models
How to choose the best alternative design guitars
Playability
A low action and comfortable neck profile are crucial for beginners. High fret access is a bonus, but not a dealbreaker. Stiff necks and high action will just make learning harder.
Pickup Voicing
Many alternative designs have unusual pickup configurations. We're looking for something versatile - not necessarily boutique-level clarity, but something that can cover clean tones, crunchy rhythm, and a usable lead voice.
Body Resonance
Different body shapes and woods affect sustain and resonance. A guitar that 'rings' nicely, even unplugged, will inspire more playing.
Hardware Quality
Cheaper alternative designs often cut corners on hardware - tuners that slip, bridges that warp. This impacts tuning stability and overall feel, which is critical for a beginner building confidence.
Overall Ergonomics
Is the guitar comfortable to hold? Does the balance feel natural? A guitar that fights you will be a constant distraction, hindering your progress.
Buying guide
So, you're past the Strat and Les Paul phase and want something with a bit more personality? Alternative design guitars aren't just for quirky looks; they can seriously shape your tone and feel. But jumping into something like a Teisco or a quirky offset can be overwhelming as a beginner. Let's look at some models that offer a unique playing experience without throwing you into a gear-nerd rabbit hole.
Don't chase the coolest looks; prioritize playability. Many budget alternative designs use cheaper hardware, so be prepared to potentially upgrade tuners or the bridge down the line. A good setup from a tech is essential - even a great guitar can be unplayable with poor setup.
Ultimately, the 'best' guitar is the one that inspires you to pick it up and play.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 248 alternative design guitars from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are alternative design guitars harder to play than Strats or Les Pauls?
Not necessarily, but the ergonomics and neck profiles can be wildly different. Some might feel awkward at first, but a proper setup can make a huge difference.
What about pickup swapping? Can I just put standard pickups in a weird-shaped guitar?
Usually, yes. However, the routing might be unconventional, requiring some adaptation or custom work. It's something to consider if you're planning on heavily modifying the guitar.
I'm on a tight budget. What's the sweet spot for an alternative design guitar?
Look for reputable brands reissuing vintage designs or offering modern interpretations. Expect to pay between $200-$500 for a decent instrument that isn't falling apart.
Will an alternative design guitar sound 'better' than a Strat?
'Better' is subjective. They offer different tonal palettes. A quirky offset might have a warmer, more compressed tone than a Strat's bright, cutting sound. It's about finding what inspires you.
What's the deal with these vintage Japanese guitars I keep seeing?
Many are great instruments, but quality control varied wildly. Do your research, check for cracks and repairs, and be prepared to potentially replace some hardware. A solid-body Teisco is often a safer bet than a hollow-body.
