AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Danelectro Baritone Guitars 2026
The top pick is Danelectro '56 Baritone ($693). Danelectro 66BT Transparent Red leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 11 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 26, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- 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 ↗ -
- Scale756 mm (29.76")
- Frets24 frets
- Neck profileD-shape neck
This Longhorn Baritone is a character piece, no doubt. It’s got that classic Danelectro quirkiness with a bit more low-end thump thanks to the longer scale. Ideal for players seeking a unique voice for stoner rock, alternative, or experimental music – it’s a seriously cool, affordable option.
Pros
- Unique, resonant poplar frame delivers a distinct, 'swampy' tone.
- High-output Lipstick pickups offer surprising grit and sustain for a Danelectro.
- Bolt-on neck provides comfortable access and a snappy, responsive feel.
Cons
- Poplar body can feel somewhat lightweight and 'floaty' for some players.
- The D-profile neck, while comfortable, might not suit all hand sizes or preferences.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$670 now$670€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone
56 Vintage Baritone Black · Danelectro
3 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Scale756 mm (29.76")
- Frets24 frets
This guitar feels like a friend's well-loved road tool. It uses light Masonite for the body so it doesn't weigh you down, and gives you 24 frets to reach those deep low notes easily. The single coil pickups sound bright and punchy in a band, though you might need to shield them if you play in loud venues. It is a solid choice for anyone wanting a big, low-sounding guitar without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Affordable price point for a full-sized baritone guitar
- Lightweight Masonite top and back for easy transport
- High output single coils cut through modern mixes
Cons
- No weight listed makes carrying feel uncertain
- Single coil pickups may need shielding in noisy rooms
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$726 now$726€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale756 mm (29.76")
- Frets24 frets
- FingerboardPau ferro fingerboard
This Danelectro Baritone BMF is a quirky, character-laden instrument perfect for players seeking a unique baritone voice. It’s got that classic Danelectro vibe dialed up to eleven, and those Lipstick pickups deliver a seriously distinctive growl – a real winner for alternative rock, stoner blues, and anything needing a little extra sonic weirdness.
Pros
- Lipstick pickups deliver a uniquely gritty, harmonically rich tone.
- The poplar/Masonite body provides surprising resonance and character.
- 756mm scale offers a looser feel, ideal for baritone voicings.
Cons
- The Masonite top can feel a bit 'dead' compared to solid wood.
- Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less so others.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$760 now$760€679 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale755 mm (29.72")
- Frets24 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels like a modern take on the classic 1954 Danelectro. It uses hotter pickups to make your notes sound brighter and punchier. The aluminium nut keeps tuning stable, and the semi-hollow style offers a nice balance of resonance and stability. It is perfect for players who want that vintage vibe but need a solid, reliable instrument for daily use.
Pros
- Modern 1954 style with a centre block for stability
- 20% hotter neck pickup for brighter low-end response
- 30% hotter bridge pickup for punchy high-end dynamics
Cons
- No specific body wood listed, likely solid wood only
- Single volume and tone controls limit tone shaping options
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$816 now$816€729 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone
56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal · Danelectro
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale756 mm (29.76")
- Frets24 frets
This Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone is a real character guitar. It’s perfect for players seeking a deep, growling tone for blues, stoner rock, or experimental music. The unique construction gives it a distinct vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
Pros
- Unique baritone voice with distinct, gritty Lipstick pickup tone
- Solid poplar core provides surprising resonance and sustain
- Bolt-on maple neck offers comfortable, familiar playing feel
Cons
- Masonite top/back can feel a bit 'boxy' and less resonant than solid wood
- Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more pickup options
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$738 now$738€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale756 mm (29.76")
- FingerboardPau ferro fingerboard
This Danelectro 56 Baritone is a quirky, character-laden instrument perfect for players seeking a unique sonic palette. Its baritone scale and Lipstick pickups deliver a distinctive growl ideal for stoner rock, blues, and experimental genres. It's an affordable way to get into the baritone guitar world and explore some seriously weird and wonderful sounds.
Pros
- Lipstick pickups deliver a unique, harmonically rich, and snarling tone.
- 756mm scale offers a looser feel, ideal for baritone bends and lower tunings.
- Masonite top/back creates a distinctive, resonant, and surprisingly airy character.
Cons
- Masonite construction can feel less robust than solid wood alternatives.
- Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less suited for others.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$760 now$760€679 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale756 mm (29.76")
- Frets24 frets
This Black Metal Flake baritone is a real character piece – it's got that unmistakable Danelectro vibe, but with a bit more low-end grunt thanks to the longer scale. The Lipstick pickups are surprisingly powerful and offer a really unique, almost vocal quality. It's perfect for players wanting a quirky, affordable baritone for stoner rock, doom, or anything needing serious low-end chug.
Pros
- Lipstick pickups deliver a unique, thick, and harmonically rich tone.
- The poplar body with middle block provides surprising resonance and sustain.
- 756mm scale offers a comfortable, lower tension feel for baritone playing.
Cons
- Masonite top/back construction can feel less premium than solid wood.
- Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less adaptable.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$760 now$760€679 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale756 mm (29.76")
This DE56 Baritone is a quirky, characterful instrument perfect for players seeking a unique low-end voice. It's surprisingly playable, offering that classic Danelectro vibe with a longer scale for a more relaxed feel – ideal for stoner rock, experimental music, or just adding some unusual textures to your sound.
Pros
- Lipstick pickups deliver that signature Danelectro chime and growl
- 756mm scale offers a unique, looser feel for low-end exploration
- Pau Ferro fretboard provides a smooth playing experience and good durability
Cons
- Body construction feels a bit lightweight, impacting sustain slightly
- Transparent pickguard can show scratches and wear easily
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$704 now$704€629 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 11 baritone guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark AquaDanelectro42↑ 4.6%$760€679$760€679Check ↗
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
Tone
The signature Danelectro 'honk' is a product of the Masonite body and lipstick-style pickups. It's not about thick sustain, it's about a unique midrange character-sometimes cutting, sometimes muddy-that sits differently in a mix. It's often a surprisingly powerful low-end thump, especially when overdriven, but it's not a deep, resonant bass; think more 'throaty rumble'.
Build Quality
Let's be honest, Danelectro's build quality is... idiosyncratic. The Masonite bodies are prone to cracking if you're rough on them, and the hardware is often basic. However, that's part of the charm - a well-worn Danelectro has character.
Neck Profile
Danelectro necks are often slim and fast, which makes them comfortable to play, but they can also feel a little flimsy compared to a traditional Fender or Gibson neck. The action can be tricky to set up properly, and you'll likely want to have a professional setup done.
Pickup Voicing
The lipstick pickups are the heart of the Danelectro sound. They offer a unique blend of clarity and grit, but they can be a bit brittle and lack the warmth of a traditional humbucker. Experimenting with different amp settings and pedals is key to unlocking their full potential.
Versatility
While the signature tone is a defining characteristic, Danelectro Baritones can be surprisingly versatile with the right pedals. They excel at adding a unique flavor to genres like stoner rock, surf rock, and even experimental pop - anything that needs a little weirdness.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're looking at a Danelectro Baritone? Smart move. They're not for everyone - that quirky, almost brittle tone isn't a universal fit - but when they click, they really click. We're talking about a seriously unique low-end voice, perfect for adding a weird, swampy texture to your sound or just plain laying down some thunderous riffs. Let's break down which Baritone Danelectro models are worth your time and money.
Don't expect a pristine instrument - Danelectros are known for their quirks. The older models, especially those from the 1950s and 60s, are highly sought after for their vintage mojo, but they'll cost you. Newer models are more affordable, but be prepared to spend some time dialing in the action and pickup height to get the most out of them.
A gig bag is a must - that Masonite body isn't exactly indestructible.
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 14 baritone guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 48 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
Are Danelectro Baritones easy to play?
The necks are generally slim and comfortable, but the action can be high out of the box. A professional setup is almost essential for optimal playability.
Can I use a Danelectro Baritone for heavy metal?
It's not the first choice, but absolutely. The low-end thump can be surprisingly powerful when overdriven, and the unique midrange can cut through a dense mix. Just don't expect the same thick, saturated tone as a high-gain humbucker guitar.
Are Danelectro Baritones prone to cracking?
The Masonite bodies are susceptible to cracking, especially around the neck pocket and strap button areas. Handle with care and avoid extreme temperature changes.
What's the difference between a vintage and a new Danelectro Baritone?
Vintage models often have a more resonant tone and a more worn-in feel, but they're also more expensive and may require more maintenance. New models are more affordable and consistent, but they lack some of the vintage charm.
Do I need to change the pickups?
The stock lipstick pickups are a huge part of the Danelectro sound, but if you're after something different, there are aftermarket options available. However, experiment with your amp and pedals first - you might be surprised at what you can achieve with the stock pickups.
