AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritone Guitars for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton JA-Baritone P90 BK ($223). Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame Bu w/Bag leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 43 models across 13 brands, 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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- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale762 mm (30")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
This JA-Baritone BK is a surprisingly capable baritone guitar offering a vintage P90 vibe at a very affordable price. The shorter scale makes it easier to handle than some longer baritones, and the overall build quality is solid for the money. It's a fantastic option for players exploring heavier tones or wanting a unique, growling sound without spending a fortune.
Pros
- The P90 pickups deliver a raw, gritty tone perfect for blues and rock.
- Purpleheart fretboard offers a unique feel and a subtle warmth to the tone.
- Bolt-on neck construction provides a snappy response and easy playability.
Cons
- Poplar body can be a bit plain sonically, lacking some resonance.
- Bolt-on neck can feel less 'integrated' compared to set-neck designs.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$223 now$223€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale762 mm (30")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
This guitar sounds deep and thick thanks to its purple heart wood and fixed bridge. It stays in tune well because of the bolt-on maple neck. It is a solid choice for players who want a dark baritone tone without spending a lot of money.
Pros
- Sturdy bolt-on maple neck ensures stable tuning.
- Purple heart fingerboard offers a unique dark tone.
- Fixed bridge design provides strong low-end response.
Cons
- Heavy poplar body may feel unwieldy for some players.
- Purple heart wood is prone to cracking if not maintained.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$234 now$234€209 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 ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale712 mm (28.03")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- BodyMeranti body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This baritone guitar feels solid thanks to its meranti body and set neck. The alnico-5 pickups deliver a strong, clear tone perfect for deep, resonant low ends. It suits players who want a reliable, affordable option for heavy low strings without needing extra tone controls.
Pros
- Sturdy meranti body and set neck build
- Powerful alnico-5 humbucker pickups
- Modern C profile for comfortable play
Cons
- No weight spec listed in description
- Only one tone control available
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$391 now$391€349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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 ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale762 mm (30")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
The JA-Baritone BK Bundle is a surprisingly capable instrument for the price. It’s a great entry point into the baritone world, offering a raw, vintage P90 tone that’s perfect for heavier blues, rock, and even some stoner rock styles. If you’re looking for a unique, affordable baritone with a distinct voice, this bundle is worth a serious look.
Pros
- Purpleheart fretboard offers a unique feel and snappy response.
- P90 pickups deliver thick, gritty tone ideal for blues/rock.
- Bolt-on neck provides a tight, responsive feel for aggressive playing.
Cons
- Poplar body can be resonant, but lacks the sustain of mahogany.
- Bolt-on neck might not appeal to players preferring set necks.
31AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$245 now$245€219 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 ↗ -
- 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 offering a surprising amount of quality for the price. The neck-through design and EMG pickups give it a modern edge while the mahogany body provides warmth. It’s a great option for players exploring heavier genres, low-tuned riffing, or needing a unique, extended-range voice.
Pros
- Mahogany body and flamed maple top deliver a rich, resonant tone with sustain.
- EMG Retro Active pickups provide a powerful, articulate, and versatile sound.
- Neck-through construction enhances sustain and offers excellent upper fret access.
Cons
- The 27” scale might feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- Mahogany body could make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$626 now$626€559 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Fingerboard radius355.6 mm (14")
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Amarok BT is a seriously cool baritone – the neck-through design and EMG pickups give it a modern edge while the mahogany body keeps things warm and full. It’s a fantastic option for left-handed players wanting a unique, versatile instrument for heavier styles and dropped tunings, all at a very accessible price point.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
- Neck-through construction enhances sustain and upper fret access.
- EMG Retro Active pickups provide a powerful, modern high-output sound.
Cons
- The extended scale length demands a looser string gauge and longer fingers.
- Flame maple veneer can be prone to finish checking with heavy use.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$615 now$615€549 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
Harley Benton Amarok-BT EGNT Quilted w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 14
ESP LTD SN-1007 HT BaritoneLTD SN-1007 Baritone HT BK Bl · ESP64Stable$1,902€1,699$1,902€1,699Check ↗
- 15
Danelectro '56 Baritone56 Baritone Black · Danelectro61Stable$693€619$693€619Check ↗
- 16
Danelectro 66BT Transparent RedDanelectro · 2 finishes60Stable$1,230€1,099$1,230€1,099Check ↗
- 17
Ibanez RGIB21 Iron Label BaritoneRGIB21-BK · Ibanez59Stable$894€799$894€799Check ↗
- 18
ESP LTD M-201 HT BaritoneLTD M-201 Baritone HT BK · ESP56Stable$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 19
Hagstrom VIDLXBARI Viking Deluxe BaritoneViking Deluxe Baritone BK · Hagstrom56Stable$950€849$950€849Check ↗
- 20
Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone CBDanelectro · 2 finishes53Stable$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 21
Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Black · Danelectro · 2 finishes52Stable$726€649$726€649Check ↗
- 22
Cort KX500ETKX500 Baritone Black Burst · Cort52Stable$805€719$805€719Check ↗
- 23
ESP LTD M-7B HT Black Metal IIESP52Stable$1,902€1,699$1,902€1,699Check ↗
- 24
Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRLGretsch49Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 25
Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOGGretsch49Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 26
Schecter Hellraiser C-VIHellraiser C-VI BCH · Schecter48Stable$1,622€1,449$1,622€1,449Check ↗
- 27
Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3Danelectro47Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 28
Danelectro Dan O. Cool Baritone GreenDanelectro47Stable$816€729$816€729Check ↗
- 29
ESP LTD BB-200B QM STBLKSB SatinESP47Stable$894€799$894€799Check ↗
- 30
Sterling by Music Man StingRay Baritone TLBSterling by Music Man47Stable$1,006€899$1,006€899Check ↗
- 31
ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone SignatureESP47Stable$2,014€1,799$2,014€1,799Check ↗
- 32
ESP LTD M-6B ET Black Metal IIESP47Stable$2,070€1,849$2,070€1,849Check ↗
- 33
Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal · Danelectro46Stable$738€659$738€659Check ↗
- 34
Reverend Descent Baritone Army GreenReverend46Stable$1,454€1,299$1,454€1,299Check ↗
- 35
Fender LTD Player Fusion Jag Bari SLVFender45Stable$1,308€1,169$1,308€1,169Check ↗
- 36
Reverend Descent W BaritoneDescent Baritone MBK · Reverend45Stable$1,454€1,299$1,454€1,299Check ↗
- 37
ESP LTD EC-1000 Baritone CHMSESP45Stable$1,622€1,449$1,622€1,449Check ↗
- 38
Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal FlakeDanelectro44Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 39
Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal FlakeDanelectro44Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 40
Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BKDanelectro42Stable$704€629$704€629Check ↗
- 41
Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark AquaDanelectro42↑ 4.6%$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 42
Solar Guitars V2.6FBB Baritone Flame BlackSolar Guitars42Stable$1,118€999$1,118€999Check ↗
- 43
Hagstrom Tremar Viking Baritone DLX BLKHagstrom41Stable$1,096€979$1,096€979Check ↗
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
Playability
A longer scale (typically 27" or longer) can make bending a challenge for smaller hands. We're prioritizing guitars with comfortable neck profiles and manageable action - a high fretboard can be brutal. A thinner 'C' shape or a modern 'D' profile are generally more forgiving.
Scale Length & Tuning
27" is standard, but some go longer. Lower tunings (B Standard, A Standard, Drop A) are common, and a longer scale helps avoid muddiness. Beginners should stick with 27" and B Standard to start.
Body Weight & Balance
Baritones are often built heavier to handle the lower frequencies. This can be fatiguing for extended gigs. We're looking for guitars that are relatively well-balanced and don't feel like you're wrestling with a brick.
Pickup Voicing
The low-end thump of a baritone can get boomy quickly. We're favoring pickups with a clear midrange and decent articulation-avoiding overly thick, muddy voicings that obscure the note definition. A single-coil in the bridge can cut through a mix nicely.
Hardware Quality
Cheaper baritones often skimp on tuners and bridges. Poor tuning stability makes lower tunings even worse. Decent locking tuners and a solid bridge are non-negotiable for keeping things in tune on stage.
Buying guide
So, you're thinking about a baritone guitar? Excellent choice. They're criminally underrated, offering a seriously different vibe from your standard Fender or Gibson. But diving into baritone territory as a beginner can feel overwhelming - longer scale lengths, heavier builds, and a unique tonal landscape. Let's break down what you need to know to find a baritone that'll be inspiring, not frustrating.
Don't chase the 'cool factor' first. Focus on playability. A baritone is already a bigger commitment, so don't end up with something that's a pain to hold and play.
Solid hardware is key - cheap tuners will fight you at lower tunings, and a flimsy bridge will buzz. Be prepared to spend a little more; baritone guitars are often built with compromises on the budget end.
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
Are baritone guitars hard to learn on?
They present a different set of challenges than standard guitars, primarily due to the longer scale length and lower tuning. Bending strings requires more strength, and intonation can be trickier to dial in. But with patience and practice, it's totally manageable.
What kind of music are baritone guitars good for?
Everything! Doom metal, stoner rock, blues, jazz, even pop. The low-end rumble adds a unique depth and texture to any genre. Think of it as a sonic foundation.
What's the difference between a baritone and a bass guitar?
A baritone guitar is still a guitar - it's tuned lower, but it's still played with a pick or fingers. Bass guitars are typically lower in pitch and have thicker strings, designed for a different role in the band.
Do I need a different amp for a baritone guitar?
Not necessarily, but a full-range amp with good low-end response will help you get the most out of it. A smaller practice amp might struggle to reproduce the low frequencies cleanly; you'll get a muddy mess. A 1x12 or larger combo is a good starting point.
What tuning should I start with?
B Standard is the most common and a good starting point. It's low enough to get that baritone vibe without being too extreme. Drop A is even lower, but it's harder to manage as a beginner.
