Best Baritone Guitars for Advanced 2026
So, you're looking to expand your tonal palette beyond the usual suspects? A baritone guitar isn't just a longer scale length; it's a tool for crafting low-end textures that standard guitars can only dream of. But slapping a baritone neck on any old body doesn't cut it for a player who already knows their way around a fretboard. We're talking about instruments that demand precision, offer nuanced response, and can handle the complexities of modern playing.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best baritone guitars in 2026 are ESP LTD M-7B HT Black Metal II (top pick), Reverend Descent Baritone MBK for tighter budgets, and Reverend Descent Baritone Army Green for pros — selected from 15 options across 8 brands, priced $928–$2,148, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD M-7B HT Black Metal II
by
ESP
Nut width
48 mm (1.89")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
7-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Experimental
Alternative
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar gives you a huge low range thanks to its long scale and active pickups. The thin neck makes it easy to play fast, but it is heavy and has very few controls. It is a solid choice for baritone players who want raw power.
PROS
- • Extra Thin U neck profile plays very fast and light
- • 7-string scale length offers deep, low baritone range
- • Strings-through-body bridge gives strong low-end response
- • Active pickups provide high output and clear tone
CONS
- • Heavy instrument feels difficult for smaller players
- • Single volume control limits mixing of sounds
- • No master tone knob reduces tone shaping options
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 652430
$1,975
#2
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Reverend Descent Baritone MBK
by
Reverend
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
679 mm (26.73")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Heavy Rock
Alternative
Ambient
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid with a stable neck and tight strings running through the body. The Railhammer pickups give a focused low end perfect for rock or metal. It suits players who want a durable, affordable baritone without the weight of a full mahogany body.
PROS
- • Solid Korina body feels substantial and durable for daily playing.
- • Roasted maple neck offers a stable, smooth playing surface.
- • Strings run through the body for a tighter, more responsive feel.
- • Railhammer Chisel pickups deliver a distinct, focused baritone tone.
CONS
- • No weight information provided makes carrying less certain.
- • Midnight Black finish offers no color options for personal preference.
- • Bolt-on construction is less traditional than set-in necks.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 641753
$1,510
#3
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Reverend Descent Baritone Army Green
by
Reverend
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
679 mm (26.73")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Alternative
Metal
Experimental
Key Feature:
This guitar feels great because the roasted maple neck is smooth and the Korina body sounds warm. The low tuning needs thicker strings, but the through-body bridge keeps the notes ringing long. It is a solid choice for players who want deep, thick sound without heavy electronics.
PROS
- • Korina body offers a natural, resonant tone
- • Roasted maple neck feels smooth under the fingers
- • Railhammer Chisel humbuckers deliver tight low-end punch
- • Strings go through the body for solid sustain
CONS
- • No weight specification provided for player comfort
- • Lacks active electronics for boosting signal
- • Baritone scale length requires new playing technique
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 646620
$1,510
#4
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD SN-1007 Baritone HT BK Bl
by
ESP
Nut width
48 mm (1.89")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Strings
7-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Heavy Rock
Post-Rock
Ambient
Key Feature:
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.
- • Hipshot bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain significantly.
CONS
- • Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications.
- • Thin 'U' neck profile may not suit all players' preferences.
- • Weight, typical of swamp ash builds, could be tiring for some.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 535796
$1,975
#5
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Danelectro 66BT Transparent Red
by
Danelectro
Scale
755.7 mm (29.75")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
355.6 mm (14")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
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
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 618371
$1,277
#6
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Fender LTD Player Fusion Jag Bari SLV
by
Fender
Nut width
42.8 mm (1.69")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Ambient
Post-Rock
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar is perfect for players who love deep, rumbling low notes. The 27 inch scale and big jumbo frets make it easy to play in the lowest register. You can change the sound quickly with the split coil feature. It feels solid but might be heavier than a standard guitar.
PROS
- • Deep low range from 27 inch scale and 22 jumbo frets
- • Smooth playability with thin C neck profile and ebony fingerboard
- • Versatile sound via spin-a-split humbucker rhythm circuit
- • Solid build using alder body and maple bolt-on neck
CONS
- • Heavy instrument likely due to large frets and thick neck
- • No specific weight listed in manufacturer description
- • Single master volume limits independent volume control
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 647464
$1,359
#7
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD M-6B ET Black Metal II
by
ESP
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Post-Rock
Metal
Ambient
Key Feature:
This guitar feels heavy because of its long 30-inch scale and thick strings. It uses active pickups that need an external power source to work. It is built for players who want a very low pitch without many knobs to adjust the sound.
PROS
- • 30-inch scale length makes strings feel heavy and thick.
CONS
- • Only one volume knob limits sound shaping options.
- • No built-in master tone control for frequency cutting.
- • No pickup selector switch to choose between tones.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 652453
$2,149
#8
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone Signature
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Ambient
Heavy Rock
Alternative
Key Feature:
This BB-600 is a serious baritone instrument built for players who dig heavy, distorted tones and a unique low-end feel. Ben Burnley's signature clearly translates into a powerful, versatile platform perfect for modern metal, djent, and alternative rock where a truly extended range is needed.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warm, resonant low-end frequencies.
- • Seymour Duncan pickups deliver aggressive, articulate high-gain tones.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience.
- • Graph Tech Resomax bridge enhances sustain and resonance.
CONS
- • The extended scale length demands adaptation for standard bass players.
- • Mahogany construction makes it a notably heavy instrument.
- • Passive electronics limit tonal shaping flexibility.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 603807
$2,091
Sterling by Music Man StingRay Baritone TLB
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
699 mm (27.52")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
6-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Ambient
Alternative
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a solid, heavy-duty tool built for players who want thick tones. The roasted maple neck is smooth, and the two humbuckers give you a punchy low end. It suits anyone looking for a baritone guitar that plays well and sounds full without extra knobs.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers a smooth play feel for fast fretwork
- • Two ceramic humbuckers deliver thick, tight low-end response
- • 24 medium frets allow easy access to higher frets
- • Bolt-on construction ensures strong, stable neck joint
CONS
- • No dedicated low E string control for tonal shaping
- • Weight is not listed, likely heavy due to baritone scale
- • Vintage tremolo may feel less stable than a locking system
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 638744
$1,045
#10
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
ESP LTD EC-1000 Baritone CHMS
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Post-Rock
Alternative
Ambient
Key Feature:
This EC-1000 Baritone is a serious instrument for players wanting a thick, modern tone with a touch of elegance. The Fishman Fluence pickups are incredibly versatile, and the comfortable neck makes it a joy to play extended passages. It's a premium-priced option perfect for metalheads, progressive players, or anyone needing a deep, resonant low-end.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end.
- • Thin 'U' neck profile offers exceptional comfort and fast playing feel.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups provide versatile tones, from clean to high-gain.
- • TonePros locking bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications.
- • Mahogany construction contributes to a potentially heavier overall instrument.
- • Macassar ebony fretboard can be prone to occasional hairline cracks.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 535944
$1,684
#11
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Schecter Hellraiser C-VI BCH
by
Schecter
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Heavy Rock
Post-Rock
Alternative
Key Feature:
This Hellraiser C-VI BCH is a serious contender for players seeking a baritone with modern aggression. The mahogany body and EMG pickups deliver a thick, powerful tone perfect for djent, metal, and progressive rock. It’s a premium-priced instrument built for those who want a low-tuned powerhouse without sacrificing playability.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end response.
- • EMG 81TW/89R combo provides aggressive high-gain tones with clarity.
- • Carbon-reinforced neck enhances stability and reduces unwanted flex under tension.
- • TonePros bridge with brass saddles improves sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • The thin C neck profile may not suit players preferring a thicker, vintage feel.
- • The extended scale length requires adaptation for players used to shorter scales.
- • The black chrome hardware, while aesthetically pleasing, can show fingerprints easily.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 546759
$1,684
#12
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars V2.6FBB Baritone Flame Black
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Post-Rock
Ambient
Alternative
Key Feature:
This V2.6FBB is a serious baritone, built to deliver thick, saturated tones for modern metal, djent, and progressive rock. The Seymour Duncan pickups really shine in the lower registers, and the comfortable neck makes extended playing sessions a breeze. It’s a premium-priced instrument that's ideal for players seeking a distinct, powerful low-end voice.
PROS
- • Mahogany/flamed maple combo delivers rich, resonant low-end tones.
- • Seymour Duncan Solar humbuckers offer powerful, articulate output.
- • Graphite nut minimizes tuning instability and improves sustain.
- • Comfortable 'C' neck profile and ebony fingerboard enhance playability.
CONS
- • Flame Black Burst Matte finish can be susceptible to fingerprints.
- • Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications.
- • Weight, typical for mahogany builds, might be tiring for some players.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 540604
$1,161
#13
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Hagstrom Tremar Viking Baritone Black
by
Hagstrom
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
711 mm (27.99")
Frets
22 frets
Heavy Rock
Ambient
Experimental
Key Feature:
The Hagstrom Tremar Viking Baritone is a seriously cool instrument for players wanting a unique voice. Its baritone scale and pickup combination give it a distinct, low-end growl perfect for stoner rock, doom metal, or adding a brooding vibe to blues. It's a well-built, semi-hollow offering a lot of character for the price.
PROS
- • Canadian flamed maple body delivers a resonant, articulate tone.
- • The Tremar vibrato system offers surprisingly stable tuning for a vintage-style trem.
- • P-Urified P-90 provides a thick, creamy tone ideal for blues and rock.
- • Resinator fingerboard is durable and offers a unique, smooth playing experience.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow construction may introduce feedback at high volumes.
- • 711mm scale length requires adjustment for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- • High-gloss finish can be a fingerprint magnet and require frequent cleaning.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 614264
$1,138
ESP LTD BB-200B QM STBLKSB Satin
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Post-Rock
Alternative
Experimental
Key Feature:
This Ben Burnley baritone guitar feels solid with a thick 27-inch scale that produces deep, heavy tones. The quilted maple top looks great, but the big nut width might feel tight for smaller hands. It suits players who want a powerful, signature sound without too many knobs to fiddle with.
PROS
- • Ben Burnley signature model for familiar tone
- • Quilted maple top adds visual appeal
- • Thick 27 scale length for deep baritone sound
- • Red bobbin humbuckers for powerful output
CONS
- • Large nut width may feel bulky for some
- • Limited control options compared to full models
- • Heavy mahogany body adds significant mass
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 652469
$929
#15
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Danelectro 66BT Blue Burst
by
Danelectro
Scale
756 mm (29.76")
Body
Alder body
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
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 461950
$1,219
Every baritone guitars that matches
48 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Hagstrom Viking Deluxe Baritone BK | Scale 711 mm (27.99") · Frets 22 frets · Body Maple body | $987 |
| 17 | Ibanez RGIB21-BK | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 712 mm (28.03") · Body Nyatoh body | $929 |
| 18 | Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRL | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $685 |
| 19 | Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOG | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $685 |
| 20 | Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK w/Bag | Nut width 48 mm (1.89") · Scale 689 mm (27.13") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 7-string · Body Poplar body | $301 |
| 21 | Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK | Nut width 48 mm (1.89") · Scale 689 mm (27.13") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 7-string · Body Poplar body | $289 |
| 22 | Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame Bu w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $650 |
| 23 | Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame Burst | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $638 |
| 24 | Harley Benton SC-Custom III Baritone AB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 712 mm (28.03") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Meranti body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $406 |
| 25 | Harley Benton JA-Baritone BK Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 21 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $255 |
| 26 | Harley Benton JA-Baritone HH BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 21 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $243 |
| 27 | Harley Benton JA-Baritone BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 21 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $231 |
| 28 | Harley Benton Amarok-BT EGNT Quilted w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $650 |
| 29 | Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKRD Quilted w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $650 |
| 30 | Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $650 |
| 31 | Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame Burst | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $638 |
| 32 | Harley Benton Amarok-BT EGNT Quilted Burst | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $638 |
| 33 | Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKRD Quilted Burst | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $638 |
| 34 | ESP M-201 Baritone HT BK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $696 |
| 35 | ESP LTD Viper-201B Baritone Black | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Neck profile U-shape neck · Body Mahogany body | $580 |
| 36 | Danelectro Dan O. Cool Baritone Green | Scale 755 mm (29.72") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $847 |
| 37 | Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3 | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $789 |
| 38 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone BB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $731 |
| 39 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone CB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $696 |
| 40 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $789 |
| 41 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $766 |
| 42 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone White | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $766 |
| 43 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark Aqua | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $754 |
| 44 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Black | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $754 |
| 45 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $719 |
| 46 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $789 |
| 47 | Squier Tele Custom Baritone BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $545 |
| 48 | Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BK | Scale 756 mm (29.76") | $731 |
Baritone Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 48 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $754
from $255 to $1,975
Nut width
median 42 mm (1.65")
from 42 mm (1.65") to 48 mm (1.89") · 33 models
Scale
median 711 mm (27.99")
from 679 mm (26.73") to 762 mm (30") · 46 models
Fingerboard radius
median 350 mm (13.78")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 355.6 mm (14") · 20 models
Fingerboard
ebony, rosewood, pau ferro
most common · 26 models
Strings
median 7-string
from 6-string to 7-string · 5 models
Body
mahogany, poplar, alder
most common · 23 models
Neck profile
C, D, U
most common · 10 models
Frets
median 24
from 21 to 24 · 22 models
How to Choose the Best Baritone Guitars
1
Neck Profile & Playability
Advanced players need a neck that inspires, not restricts. Thin, shred-style profiles can feel flimsy on a longer scale; a more substantial C or D shape often provides better control and clarity when digging into those lower frequencies. Action needs to be dialed in impeccably - too high and you'll fight the string tension, too low and you'll get fret buzz.
2
Pickup Voicing & Response
That low-end thump needs to be articulate, not muddy. We're looking for pickups that retain clarity and definition even when pushed, avoiding that generic, boomy sludge. High-output pickups can be a trap; nuanced dynamic response is key for expressive playing.
3
Scale Length & String Tension
The longer scale (typically 27-30 inches) inherently increases string tension. This impacts playability and tuning stability. Players need to consider string gauges and setup adjustments to find a comfortable balance - too light and it feels sloppy, too heavy and it's a workout.
4
Construction & Hardware Quality
Cheaper baritones often cut corners on hardware - flimsy tuners, poorly finished frets, and low-quality pots. These details directly impact tuning stability, playability, and overall reliability, especially when gigging regularly.
5
Body Wood & Resonance
While pickups get most of the attention, the body wood contributes significantly to the guitar's resonance and sustain. Mahogany and its variants are common for their warmth, but the quality of the wood and the construction techniques heavily influence the final tone - a dense, resonant body will provide a more substantial low-end response.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the lowest price. Baritone guitars require more precise construction and higher-quality components to truly shine. Pay attention to the neck profile - it's the first thing you'll interact with. Be prepared to spend time dialing in the setup; a professional setup is almost a necessity with these longer scales. Ultimately, try before you buy if possible; the feel of a baritone is something you need to experience firsthand.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 48 baritone guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the scale length and your preferred tension, but generally, you'll need heavier gauges than you'd use on a standard guitar. 11-56 or 12-60 are common starting points - experiment to find what feels comfortable and tunes well.
Not inherently, but the increased string tension and longer scale length require adjustments to your technique. You'll need to develop a stronger grip and more deliberate picking/fretting motion.
You can, but it's not ideal. The string tension will be extremely high, making it uncomfortable to play and potentially damaging to the instrument. It's designed to be played in lower tunings.
They excel in genres that benefit from a deep, resonant low-end - doom metal, stoner rock, progressive rock, jazz, and even orchestral arrangements. They're also great for adding unique textures to more mainstream genres.
While both offer extended range, a baritone's defining characteristic is the longer scale length, which results in a different feel and tonal character compared to a 7-string's shorter scale and often higher output pickups.
