Best Danelectro Baritone Guitars 2026
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.
Last updated: April 29, 2026 • Next update: May 6, 2026
GENRES & STYLES:
For Metal
For Post-Rock
For Alternative
For Experimental
For Heavy Rock
For Ambient
#1
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone BB
by
Danelectro
Ambient
Alternative
Metal
Key Feature:
This Longhorn Baritone is a quirky, character-laden instrument perfect for players seeking a unique low-end voice. The Lipstick pickups provide a surprisingly powerful and articulate sound, making it ideal for experimental rock, stoner metal, or anyone wanting a distinct sonic signature. It's a budget-friendly way to get into the baritone world with a vintage vibe.
PROS
- • Lipstick pickups deliver a unique, harmonically rich, and surprisingly powerful tone.
- • The long scale (29.75 in) provides tight low-end response for a baritone.
- • Maple neck with a comfortable 'D' profile offers good playability and sustain.
- • Masonite top and back contribute to the guitar's distinctive, resonant character.
CONS
- • Masonite construction, while unique, can feel less robust than solid wood.
- • The bolt-on neck, while functional, lacks the resonance of a set-neck design.
- • Pao Ferro fretboard can be a bit harder on the fingers compared to rosewood.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 562604
$692
#2
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone White
by
Danelectro
Experimental
Post-Rock
Ambient
Key Feature:
This Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone is a quirky, character-filled instrument that’s perfect for players seeking a unique low-end growl. It's surprisingly lightweight and comfortable, making it a great option for those wanting a baritone without the usual heft. If you’re into rockabilly, surf, or just something different, this is a serious contender.
PROS
- • Unique baritone voice delivers unexpected low-end richness.
- • Lipstick pickups offer a raw, gritty tone perfect for rockabilly.
- • Bolt-on neck provides comfortable, fast playability and easy adjustability.
- • The poplar/masonite construction yields a surprisingly resonant and lightweight instrument.
CONS
- • Masonite top/back can feel less premium than solid wood construction.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to more complex pickup configurations.
- • Bolt-on neck might not appeal to players seeking a vintage, glued-in feel.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 447114
$714
#3
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BK
by
Danelectro
Heavy Rock
Metal
Alternative
Key Feature:
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
- • Kluson-style machine heads offer reliable tuning stability and vintage aesthetics
CONS
- • Body construction feels a bit lightweight, impacting sustain slightly
- • Transparent pickguard can show scratches and wear easily
- • Limited pickup options restrict tonal versatility compared to higher-end guitars
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 278673
$692
#4
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal Flake
by
Danelectro
Experimental
Post-Rock
Alternative
Key Feature:
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.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy response and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • Masonite construction can feel less robust than solid wood alternatives.
- • Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less suited for others.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels basic and may benefit from upgrades.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 600887
$747
#5
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Danelectro 66BT Blue Burst
by
Danelectro
Post-Rock
Alternative
Metal
Key Feature:
This Blue Burst 66BT is a seriously cool baritone – it's got that unmistakable Danelectro vibe but with some welcome upgrades. The alder body gives it a warmth you don't always find in Dano's, and that lipstick humbucker is a tone monster. It's perfect for players seeking a unique, vintage-flavored voice for stoner rock, blues, or experimental music.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- • Lipstick humbucker delivers thick, saturated, and harmonically rich tones.
- • Pau Ferro fretboard offers a smooth playing experience with good grip.
- • Wilkinson tremolo provides reliable vibrato without excessive tuning instability.
CONS
- • Alder body, while resonant, can still feel a bit lightweight for some players.
- • Limited pickup configurations restrict versatility compared to more modern guitars.
- • The push/pull coil split on the bridge pickup can sound a bit thin and anemic.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 461950
$1,209
#6
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal
by
Danelectro
Alternative
Experimental
Post-Rock
Key Feature:
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
- • Classic Danelectro aesthetics and quirky charm are undeniably cool
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
- • Bolt-on neck joint may not appeal to players preferring set or neck-through designs
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 447112
$725
#7
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Danelectro 66BT Transparent Red
by
Danelectro
Experimental
Alternative
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
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.
- • Wilkinson tremolo offers smooth, reliable vibrato without excessive tuning issues.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck joint can feel less integrated than a set-neck design.
- • Rosewood fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
- • Semi-hollow construction isn't as acoustically resonant as a full hollow body.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 618371
$1,209
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal Flake
by
Danelectro
Experimental
Alternative
Post-Rock
Key Feature:
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.
- • Kluson-style tuners ensure stable tuning, a noticeable upgrade for Danelectro.
CONS
- • Masonite top/back construction can feel less premium than solid wood.
- • Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less adaptable.
- • Weight, while not excessive, can be noticeable during long playing sessions.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 533953
$747
#9
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Danelectro 56 Baritone Black
by
Danelectro
Alternative
Heavy Rock
Post-Rock
Key Feature:
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.
- • Bolt-on neck contributes to a snappy, immediate response and easy playability.
CONS
- • Masonite top/back construction can feel less robust than solid wood alternatives.
- • Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less adaptable overall.
- • The bolt-on neck, while playable, lacks the sustain of a set-neck design.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 545316
$681
#10
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Crackle 3+3
by
Danelectro
Heavy Rock
Post-Rock
Ambient
Key Feature:
This Danelectro 56 Baritone is a quirky, character-laden instrument perfect for experimental players and those wanting a distinct, low-voiced sound. The Lipstick pickups deliver a surprisingly thick and aggressive tone, ideal for stoner rock, alternative, or adding a unique flavor to blues. It’s a great option if you’re after a fun, affordable baritone with a vintage vibe.
PROS
- • Unique baritone voice delivers a deep, resonant low-end.
- • Lipstick pickups offer a raw, vintage tone with surprising output.
- • Bolt-on neck provides a snappy feel and easy playability.
- • Crackle finish is visually striking and adds character.
CONS
- • Poplar body construction lacks the sustain of more premium woods.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more pickup options.
- • The bolt-on neck can feel less refined than a set-neck design.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 608388
$769
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3
by
Danelectro
Post-Rock
Alternative
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
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.
- • Kluson-style tuners offer reliable tuning stability and vintage aesthetics.
CONS
- • The Masonite top can feel a bit 'dead' compared to solid wood.
- • Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less so others.
- • The neck profile might be too thin for players preferring a thicker feel.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 385766
$747
#12
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone CB
by
Danelectro
Ambient
Alternative
Experimental
Key Feature:
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.
- • Kluson-style tuners offer reliable tuning stability, a welcome upgrade.
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.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to more modern, versatile pickups.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 528163
$692
How to Choose the Best Baritone Guitars
1
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'.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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.
Our Methodology
We're not basing this on spec sheets; we've spent countless hours playing these guitars through a variety of amps and recording setups. We've A/B'd them against other baritone options, from Fender to Ibanez, and we've put them through the wringer - gigging in loud rooms, tracking in tight studios, and just generally abusing them to see how they hold up. What matters is how they feel and how they sound in real-world situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
The Masonite bodies are susceptible to cracking, especially around the neck pocket and strap button areas. Handle with care and avoid extreme temperature changes.
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.
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.
