AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Jackson Alternative Design Guitars 2026
The top pick is Jackson JS Series Surfcaster JS22 HT ($294). Jackson Pro Sig Lee Malia LM-1987 BK leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 4 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
Top 4
Full detail for the 4 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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 ↗ -
Jackson JS Series Surfcaster JS22 HT
JS Series Surfcaster JS22 PPM · Jackson
53 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyPoplar body
This guitar feels surprisingly light thanks to the poplar body and plays great for fingerstyle with its wide neck. The humbuckers give a big, thick sound perfect for heavy riffs. It is a budget-friendly choice for players who want a simple, reliable machine without extra controls.
Pros
- Lightweight poplar body feels easy to hold for long practice sessions
- Wide nut and compound radius make fingerstyle playing incredibly comfortable
- Two high-output humbuckers deliver thick, powerful sound for rock and metal
Cons
- Only two control knobs limit tone shaping options for complex solos
- No specific weight rating makes it feel heavier than expected
53AudioFu
Index↓ 1.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$347 · Aug 17$343 now$343€305 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Jackson X-Series Surfcaster OC HT6
X Series Surfcaster HT6 STN BK · Jackson
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Frets24 frets
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Surfcaster is a solid choice for players wanting a modern, aggressive sound without spending a fortune. The compound radius neck makes it comfortable to play, and those Jackson pickups deliver plenty of bite for hard rock and metal. It's a great entry point into the Jackson X Series, offering a lot of bang for your buck.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- Compound radius fingerboard enhances playability for both chords and leads.
- Jackson high-output humbuckers deliver aggressive, modern rock tones effortlessly.
Cons
- Poplar body can be a bit prone to feedback at higher gain levels.
- Hardware, while functional, feels somewhat budget-oriented compared to premium models.
46AudioFu
Index↓ 3.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$783 · Aug 17$755 now$755€672 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyOkoume body
This LM-1987 is a seriously cool instrument, perfect for players wanting a modern edge with vintage charm. The pickup combination is surprisingly versatile, covering everything from chunky riffs to soaring leads. It's a well-built guitar offering a lot of bang for the buck, especially for fans of heavier alternative sounds.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a surprisingly resonant and lightweight feel.
- LM-87 humbucker/P90 combo delivers a versatile, modern/vintage tone.
- Bolt-on neck provides snappy response and ease of playability.
Cons
- Okoume, while lightweight, can be prone to finish checking with heavy use.
- Plastic nut is a common cost-saving measure; an upgrade is worthwhile.
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$954 now$954€849 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
Alternative Design Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 248 models we track, not a sample.
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 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 5 alternative design guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 248 in the category). 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
What should I look for when buying alternative design guitars?
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.
How much should I spend on alternative design guitars?
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.
Are expensive alternative design guitars worth the investment?
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.
What are the best brands for alternative design guitars?
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.
Should I buy alternative design guitars online or in-store?
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.
