AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritone Guitars 2026
The top pick is Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster ($517). Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK gives you the most for the money at $279. ESP LTD SN-1007 HT Baritone leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 43 models across 13 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 26, 2026
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All Baritone GuitarsTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster
Tele Custom Baritone BK · Squier
53 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This Squier Baritone Tele is a seriously cool option for players wanting extended range without the premium price tag. The neck feels great, and those single-coils deliver that classic Tele bite, just deeper and heavier. It's a fantastic platform for heavier rock, blues, or even some modern genres where a low-tuned growl is needed.
Pros
- Nyatoh body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- C-shaped neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
- Fender-designed AlNiCo single coils deliver classic Tele twang with surprising output.
Cons
- Nyatoh body, while good, isn't as tonally refined as Ash or Alder.
- Limited pickup options restrict tonal versatility beyond classic Tele sounds.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 1.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$525 · Aug 17$517 now$517€462 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
ESP LTD SN-1007 HT Baritone
LTD SN-1007 Baritone HT BK Bl · ESP
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Strings7-string
- BodyAsh body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This SN-1007 is a serious instrument for players wanting extended range and a modern voice. The combination of swamp ash and Fishman Fluence pickups gives it a really unique character – tight lows, clear highs, and a ton of tonal options. It's ideal for progressive metal, djent, or anyone who needs that extra bit of low-end grunt.
Pros
- Swamp Ash body delivers resonant, articulate low-end response.
- Roasted maple/purple heart neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- Fishman Fluence pickups provide versatile tones, from clean to high-gain.
Cons
- Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications.
- Thin 'U' neck profile may not suit all players' preferences.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,902 now$1,902€1,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Fingerboard radius355.6 mm (14")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Amarok-BT is a serious baritone guitar, built to deliver thick, powerful tones. The neck-through design and EMG pickups really make it shine for heavier genres. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly instrument with a modern feel and a deep, growling voice, this is a compelling option.
Pros
- Mahogany body and flamed maple top deliver a warm, resonant, and visually striking tone.
- EMG Retro Active pickups offer high-output, articulate tones suitable for rock and metal.
- Neck-through construction enhances sustain and provides exceptional upper fret access.
Cons
- The 27 in scale might feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scale lengths.
- Limited tonal versatility; not ideal for clean, delicate genres like jazz or country.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$615 now$615€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale756 mm (29.76")
- Frets24 frets
This Danelectro 56 Baritone Black is a quirky and characterful instrument. It's perfect for players seeking a distinct voice for stoner rock, blues, or alternative music – something with serious growl and a vintage vibe. Don't expect pristine cleans, but for its price, the unique sound and comfortable feel are hard to beat.
Pros
- Lipstick pickups deliver a unique, raw, and surprisingly powerful tone.
- The poplar body frame provides a surprisingly resonant and lightweight feel.
- 756mm scale offers a looser, more relaxed feel for baritone playing.
Cons
- Masonite top/back construction can feel less robust than solid wood alternatives.
- Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less adaptable overall.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$693 now$693€619 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale755.7 mm (29.75")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius355.6 mm (14")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
This 66BT is a seriously cool baritone, offering a unique blend of vintage vibe and modern playability. The Lipstick humbucker delivers a thick, saturated tone that's perfect for heavier styles, while the P90 adds a touch of warmth. It's a great option for players seeking a distinctive voice and a long scale length for dropped tunings.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a surprisingly resonant and focused low-end response.
- Lipstick Humbucker provides thick, creamy tones ideal for rock and stoner genres.
- Graphite nut improves tuning stability and minimizes fret buzz.
Cons
- Bolt-on neck joint can feel less integrated than a set-neck design.
- Rosewood fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,230 now$1,230€1,099 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale712 mm (28.03")
- BodyNyatoh body
The RGIB21-BK is a seriously capable baritone, built for modern metal and progressive rock. That Nitro Baritone neck profile is comfortable even with the longer scale, and the EMG pickups deliver a powerful, saturated sound. This is an excellent choice for players needing a heavier, lower-tuned instrument without the premium-priced tag of some high-end models.
Pros
- Nyatoh body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- Maple/Bubinga neck offers excellent stability and a comfortable feel.
- EMG 81/60 combo delivers aggressive high-output and versatile tonal options.
Cons
- Nyatoh, while good, isn't as premium as mahogany or alder for tonal complexity.
- Plastic nut can be a potential upgrade point for improved sustain and tuning.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$894 now$894€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The ESP M-201 Baritone HT BK is a seriously cool instrument for players wanting that extended range and beefy low-end. The mahogany body and bolt-on neck create a solid foundation for everything from stoner rock to modern metal. This is an ideal choice for bassists wanting to explore guitar or guitarists looking for a massive, unique tone without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end response.
- Thin 'U' neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability for various hand sizes.
- Coil-splitting pickup versatility expands tonal options beyond heavy rhythm tones.
Cons
- Limited pickup options restrict sonic flexibility for diverse genres.
- Mahogany body can make the guitar feel a little weighty for extended playing.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$670 now$670€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Hagstrom VIDLXBARI Viking Deluxe Baritone
Viking Deluxe Baritone BK · Hagstrom
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale711 mm (27.99")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMaple body
The Hagstrom Viking Deluxe Baritone BK is a serious contender for players seeking a unique baritone voice with vintage character. It’s built solid with a comfortable neck and those pickups give you a great blend of warmth and bite, making it ideal for rock, blues, and heavier styles where a low-end growl is essential. This is a great choice for players who want a distinctive instrument without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Maple top and body deliver a bright, articulate, and punchy tone.
- Hagstrom’s custom 58 pickup provides a thick, vintage-voiced bridge position.
- The Resinator fretboard is durable and offers a unique, smooth playing experience.
Cons
- The extended scale length (711mm) demands adaptation for players used to shorter scales.
- Maple construction can be somewhat dense, potentially leading to a heavier instrument.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$950 now$950€849 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale689 mm (27.13")
- Frets24 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings7-string
This Harley Benton Baritone-7 is a seriously impressive value for the money. It’s built for players exploring extended-range and heavier genres, offering a neck-through design and surprisingly powerful pickups. If you need a baritone 7-string on a budget and appreciate a modern feel, this is a fantastic starting point.
Pros
- Graphite nut minimizes fret buzz and improves tuning stability significantly.
- Canadian maple neck-through design offers exceptional sustain and comfortable access.
- HBZ humbuckers deliver a surprisingly thick, high-output sound suitable for metal.
Cons
- Poplar body, while resonant, might lack the premium feel of mahogany or basswood.
- The 'C' neck profile could be too thin for players preferring a thicker feel.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$279 now$279€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale689 mm (27.13")
- Frets24 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings7-string
This Harley Benton Baritone-7 is a seriously impressive value. The neck-through design and those humbuckers give it a surprisingly powerful and modern voice, perfect for metalheads and progressive players looking for extended range without the premium price tag. It’s a solid platform for experimentation and customization, too.
Pros
- Canadian maple neck-through construction offers excellent sustain and stability
- HBZ humbuckers deliver a surprisingly thick, high-output tone
- Graphite nut minimizes tuning instability and friction
Cons
- The matt black finish can show fingerprints easily and require frequent cleaning
- While versatile, the pickup configuration leans toward heavier rock and metal genres
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$290 now$290€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 43 baritone guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone CBDanelectro · 2 finishes53Stable$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton JA-Baritone P90 BKHarley Benton52Stable$223€199$223€199Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton JA-Baritone HH BKHarley Benton52Stable$234€209$234€209Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Baritone ABHarley Benton52Stable$391€349$391€349Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame Bu w/BagHarley Benton52Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 16
Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Black · Danelectro · 2 finishes52Stable$726€649$726€649Check ↗
- 17
Cort KX500ETKX500 Baritone Black Burst · Cort52Stable$805€719$805€719Check ↗
- 18
ESP LTD M-7B HT Black Metal IIESP52Stable$1,902€1,699$1,902€1,699Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame BurstHarley Benton49Stable$615€549$615€549Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton Amarok-BT EGNT Quilted w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 23
Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRLGretsch49Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 24
Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOGGretsch49Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 25
Schecter Hellraiser C-VIHellraiser C-VI BCH · Schecter48Stable$1,622€1,449$1,622€1,449Check ↗
- 26
Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3Danelectro47Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 27
Danelectro Dan O. Cool Baritone GreenDanelectro47Stable$816€729$816€729Check ↗
- 28
ESP LTD BB-200B QM STBLKSB SatinESP47Stable$894€799$894€799Check ↗
- 29
Sterling by Music Man StingRay Baritone TLBSterling by Music Man47Stable$1,006€899$1,006€899Check ↗
- 30
ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone SignatureESP47Stable$2,014€1,799$2,014€1,799Check ↗
- 31
ESP LTD M-6B ET Black Metal IIESP47Stable$2,070€1,849$2,070€1,849Check ↗
- 32
Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal · Danelectro46Stable$738€659$738€659Check ↗
- 33
Reverend Descent Baritone Army GreenReverend46Stable$1,454€1,299$1,454€1,299Check ↗
- 34
Fender LTD Player Fusion Jag Bari SLVFender45Stable$1,308€1,169$1,308€1,169Check ↗
- 35
Reverend Descent W BaritoneDescent Baritone MBK · Reverend45Stable$1,454€1,299$1,454€1,299Check ↗
- 36
ESP LTD EC-1000 Baritone CHMSESP45Stable$1,622€1,449$1,622€1,449Check ↗
- 37
Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal FlakeDanelectro44Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 38
Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal FlakeDanelectro44Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 39
Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BKDanelectro42Stable$704€629$704€629Check ↗
- 40
Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark AquaDanelectro42↑ 4.6%$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 41
Solar Guitars V2.6FBB Baritone Flame BlackSolar Guitars42Stable$1,118€999$1,118€999Check ↗
- 42
Hagstrom Tremar Viking Baritone DLX BLKHagstrom41Stable$1,096€979$1,096€979Check ↗
- 43
Harley Benton JA-Baritone BK BundleHarley Benton31Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
Baritone Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 48 models we track, not a sample.
Median $760 — half of all baritone guitars here cost less.
median of 33 models · 42 mm (1.65")–48 mm (1.89")
median of 46 models · 679 mm (26.73")–762 mm (30")
median of 22 models · 21–24
most common · 10 models
How to choose the best baritone guitars
Scale Length
This is the big one. Typically 27" or longer is considered baritone, and longer scales (30"+) offer even more fundamental definition and reduced string floppiness, but also increase tension - finding the sweet spot is key.
Neck Profile
A longer scale demands a comfortable neck. Chunky vintage profiles can be a slog, while overly thin profiles might feel unstable. Consider your hand size and playing style when choosing - a C or D profile often works well.
Pickup Voicing
Baritone guitars need pickups that can handle low frequencies without getting muddy. High-output humbuckers can be good for aggressive tones, but often lack articulation. Consider pickups with a balanced frequency response to preserve clarity. That low-end thump needs to be defined, not just a rumble.
Body Wood
Mahogany and its variants are common for their warmth and sustain, but can get boomy if not managed. Alder or ash can provide a tighter, more focused low-end. Ultimately, the wood's impact is often shaped by the pickups and overall design.
Hardware Quality
Cheap hardware on a baritone is a recipe for disaster. Tuners need to hold up under high tension, and the bridge must transfer vibrations efficiently. A poorly constructed trem system can sound brittle and unstable at lower tunings, killing sustain and clarity.
Buying guide
So, you're chasing that ultra-low rumble, huh? Baritone guitars aren't just about dropping a few tunings; they're a different beast altogether. They're about expanding your sonic palette, adding a serious low-end weight that can cut through a dense mix or just lay down a groove like nothing else. But picking the right one isn't as simple as just grabbing the longest scale length you can find - let's break down what you need to know.
Baritone guitars are often a compromise. You're trading some upper-midrange sparkle for low-end authority. Cheap baritones often cut corners on hardware and bracing, leading to a muddy, flabby sound and tuning instability.
It's worth investing in a well-built instrument if you genuinely want that extended range - the difference between a baritone that inspires and one that frustrates is massive.
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 48 baritone 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
Can I just downtune a standard guitar to baritone tuning?
Technically, yes, but the increased string tension will likely impact feel and intonation. The scale length is what truly defines a baritone, and a shorter scale will always struggle to deliver that authentic low-end response and clarity.
Are baritone guitars hard to play?
They can be! The increased scale length and string tension require more finger strength and a slightly different technique. A comfortable neck profile and proper setup are critical for playability.
What kind of music are baritone guitars good for?
Everything from doom metal and stoner rock to blues, jazz, and even progressive rock. They add a unique depth and texture to any genre that can benefit from a heavier low-end presence.
What gauge strings should I use on a baritone?
String gauge is crucial. You'll likely need heavier gauges than you'd use on a standard guitar - 11s or even 12s are common, but experiment to find what feels best and delivers the desired tension and tone.
Do baritone guitars require special amps?
Not necessarily, but an amp with good low-end headroom will certainly help. Many amps will just get muddy and flabby with the extended low frequencies. A speaker cab with a larger woofer can also make a difference.
