Best Alternative Design Guitars Under $2,000 2025

Affordable alternative design guitars under $2,000 - great value without compromising quality

Last updated: November 12, 2025 • Next update: November 19, 2025

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

Danelectro Sitar Bundle - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.8/5 (20 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

6/10

Danelectro Sitar Bundle

by Danelectro

Innovation Contemporary Players Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• Higher cost for unique design

Danelectro Sitar Bundle*Bundle offer comprising*, Danelectro Sitar Red Crackle*Electric Sitar*Style: Hollow BodyBody:...

⭐ 4.8/5 (20 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 372270

$1,084

Buy at Thomann View Details

Fender Troy Van Leeuwen Jazzmaster - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.5/5 (28 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Fender Troy Van Leeuwen Jazzmaster

by Fender

Distinctive Look Contemporary Players Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• Higher cost for unique design

Fender Troy Van Leeuwen JazzmasterElectric GuitarArtist SeriesTroy Van Leeuwen Signature ModelBody: AlderNeck:...

⭐ 4.5/5 (28 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 330943

$1,777

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez Q54-BKF - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Ibanez Q54-BKF

by Ibanez

Progressive Music Modern Design Innovation

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• Higher cost for unique design

Ibanez PGM54-BKElectric GuitarQ SeriesBody: NyatohBolt-on 3-piece neck: roasted maple/bubingaFingerboard: roasted...

⭐ 4.7/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 523708

$1,099

Buy at Thomann View Details

Fender MIJ Trad II Jazzm LTD BK - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 5.0/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Fender MIJ Trad II Jazzm LTD BK

by Fender

Unique Style Distinctive Look Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Unique visual appeal
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Limited mainstream appeal

Fender MIJ Trad II Jazzm LTD BKElectric GuitarBody: AlderNeck: MapleFingerboard: RosewoodPerloid block fingerboard...

⭐ 5.0/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 591989

$1,572

Buy at Thomann View Details

Fender Hybrid II Jazzmaster RW Q AQM - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 5.0/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Fender Hybrid II Jazzmaster RW Q AQM

by Fender

Modern Design Unique Style Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Often improved ergonomics

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May not suit traditional players

Fender Hybrid II Jazzmaster RW Q AQMElectric GuitarBody: AlderTop: Quilted mapleBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard:...

⭐ 5.0/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 598128

$1,539

Buy at Thomann View Details

Reverend Double Agent W MSF - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (50 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Reverend Double Agent W MSF

by Reverend

Contemporary Players Unique Style Innovation

Key Feature:

• Unique visual appeal

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Limited mainstream appeal

Reverend Double Agent W MSFElectric GuitarBody: KorinaBolt-on neck: Roasted mapleFingerboard: Rosewood (Dalbergia...

⭐ 4.6/5 (50 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 615424

$1,099

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez QX54QM-BSM - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.5/5 (4 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Ibanez QX54QM-BSM

by Ibanez

Contemporary Players Distinctive Look Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• Resale value uncertainty

Ibanez QX54QM-BSMElectric GuitarQ SeriesBody: NyatohTop: Quilted mapleBolt-on 3-piece neck: Roasted...

⭐ 4.5/5 (4 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 523678

$1,099

Buy at Thomann View Details

Reverend Charger HB GM - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (32 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

6/10

Reverend Charger HB GM

by Reverend

Contemporary Players Distinctive Look Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Unique visual appeal

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May not suit traditional players

Reverend Charger HB GMElectric guitarBody: CorinaBolted neck: Roasted mapleFretboard: Roasted mapleNeck profile: Medium...

⭐ 4.9/5 (32 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 460477

$1,077

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez QX52-BKF - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (21 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Ibanez QX52-BKF

by Ibanez

Modern Design Distinctive Look Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Contemporary aesthetics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Resale value uncertainty

Ibanez QX52-BKFElectric GuitarQ SeriesBody: NyatohTop: quilted mapleBolt-on 3-piece neck: roasted...

⭐ 4.7/5 (21 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 523690

$1,044

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez Q52PB-COL - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#10

⭐ 4.5/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Ibanez Q52PB-COL

by Ibanez

Distinctive Look Modern Design Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Ibanez Q52PB-COLElectric GuitarBody: Nyatoh3-Piece bolt-on neck: roasted maple / bubingaFingerboard: Roasted birdseye...

⭐ 4.5/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 604069

$1,319

Buy at Thomann View Details

Reverend Charger 290 Deep Sea Blue - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#11

⭐ 4.9/5 (41 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Reverend Charger 290 Deep Sea Blue

by Reverend

Contemporary Players Innovation Distinctive Look

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Unique visual appeal
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Higher cost for unique design
• Resale value uncertainty

Reverend Charger 290 Deep Sea BlueElectric GuitarBody: KorinaBolt-on neck: Roasted mapleFingerboard: Roasted mapleBlack...

⭐ 4.9/5 (41 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 592122

$1,099

Buy at Thomann View Details

Epiphone 1963 Firebird V Ember Red - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#12

⭐ 4.9/5 (13 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Epiphone 1963 Firebird V Ember Red

by Epiphone

Contemporary Players Unique Style Innovation

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Contemporary aesthetics
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Epiphone 1963 Firebird V Ember RedElectric GuitarBody: MahoganySet-in neck-thru-body: Mahogany / WalnutFingerboard:...

⭐ 4.9/5 (13 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 569522

$1,711

Buy at Thomann View Details

Fender Vintera II 70s Jaguar VW - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#13

⭐ 4.7/5 (14 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Fender Vintera II 70s Jaguar VW

by Fender

Distinctive Look Contemporary Players Modern Design

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Unique visual appeal
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May not suit traditional players

Fender Vintera II 70s Jaguar VWElectric GuitarVintera II SeriesBody: AlderNeck: MapleFingerboard: MapleFingerboard...

⭐ 4.7/5 (14 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 571455

$1,407

Buy at Thomann View Details

Reverend Club King 290 MBK - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#14

⭐ 4.7/5 (7 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Reverend Club King 290 MBK

by Reverend

Modern Design Progressive Music Distinctive Look

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Reverend Club King 290 MBKElectric GuitarType: Semi-HollowBody: KorinaTop: Solid spruceBolt-on neck: Roasted...

⭐ 4.7/5 (7 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 592322

$1,319

Buy at Thomann View Details

DAngelico DLX Bedford SH Matte Walnut - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#15

⭐ 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

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 Under $2,000 2025

Danelectro Sitar Bundle

Fender Troy Van Leeuwen Jazzmaster

Ibanez Q54-BKF

Fender MIJ Trad II Jazzm LTD BK

Fender Hybrid II Jazzmaster RW Q AQM

Reverend Double Agent W MSF

Ibanez QX54QM-BSM

Reverend Charger HB GM

Ibanez QX52-BKF

Ibanez Q52PB-COL

Reverend Charger 290 Deep Sea Blue

Epiphone 1963 Firebird V Ember Red

Fender Vintera II 70s Jaguar VW

Reverend Club King 290 MBK

DAngelico DLX Bedford SH Matte Walnut

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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