AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritone Guitars for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Danelectro '56 Baritone ($693). Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster gives you the most for the money at $517. 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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- 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 ↗ -
- 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 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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale712 mm (28.03")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar feels solid thanks to its roasted walnut neck and ebony fingerboard. The two Seymour Duncan pickups give you a thick, powerful sound perfect for heavy riffs. It is a great choice for players who want a reliable baritone without too many knobs to mess with.
Pros
- Roasted walnut neck offers tight, stable action for heavy bending.
- 24 jumbo stainless steel frets provide smooth playability.
- Graph Tech Black TUSQ nut protects strings and adds sustain.
Cons
- Lacks a master volume knob for quiet practice.
- Single volume and tone controls limit signal shaping.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 22Oct 22$805 now$805€719 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Fingerboard radius355.6 mm (14")
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This baritone guitar feels comfortable thanks to its arched body and modern neck profile. The EMG pickups deliver a punchy sound perfect for heavy rock or metal. It suits players who want a solid, affordable option with premium frets and a nice wood finish.
Pros
- Modern Comfort arched body design feels great to play
- Real wood body binding adds a nice touch of quality
- EMG Retro Active Hot 70 ceramic and alnico-5 pickups
Cons
- No bridge material is listed in the provided description
- Body and neck weight specifications are missing from the text
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$626 now$626€559 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 BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 13
Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRLGretsch49Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 14
Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOGGretsch49Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame BurstHarley Benton49Stable$615€549$615€549Check ↗
- 16
Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3Danelectro47Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 17
Danelectro Dan O. Cool Baritone GreenDanelectro47Stable$816€729$816€729Check ↗
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ESP LTD BB-200B QM STBLKSB SatinESP47Stable$894€799$894€799Check ↗
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Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal · Danelectro46Stable$738€659$738€659Check ↗
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Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal FlakeDanelectro44Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
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Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal FlakeDanelectro44Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 22
Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BKDanelectro42Stable$704€629$704€629Check ↗
- 23
Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark AquaDanelectro42↑ 4.6%$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 24
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Baritone ABHarley Benton52Stable$391€349$391€349Check ↗
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ESP LTD SN-1007 HT BaritoneLTD SN-1007 Baritone HT BK Bl · ESP64Stable$1,902€1,699$1,902€1,699Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK w/BagHarley Benton54Stable$290€259$290€259Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBKHarley Benton54Stable$279€249$279€249Check ↗
- 28
Danelectro 66BT Transparent RedDanelectro · 2 finishes60Stable$1,230€1,099$1,230€1,099Check ↗
- 29
Hagstrom VIDLXBARI Viking Deluxe BaritoneViking Deluxe Baritone BK · Hagstrom56Stable$950€849$950€849Check ↗
- 30
Harley Benton JA-Baritone HH BKHarley Benton52Stable$234€209$234€209Check ↗
- 31
Harley Benton JA-Baritone P90 BKHarley Benton52Stable$223€199$223€199Check ↗
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ESP LTD M-7B HT Black Metal IIESP52Stable$1,902€1,699$1,902€1,699Check ↗
- 33
Schecter Hellraiser C-VIHellraiser C-VI BCH · Schecter48Stable$1,622€1,449$1,622€1,449Check ↗
- 34
Sterling by Music Man StingRay Baritone TLBSterling by Music Man47Stable$1,006€899$1,006€899Check ↗
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ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone SignatureESP47Stable$2,014€1,799$2,014€1,799Check ↗
- 36
ESP LTD M-6B ET Black Metal IIESP47Stable$2,070€1,849$2,070€1,849Check ↗
- 37
Reverend Descent Baritone Army GreenReverend46Stable$1,454€1,299$1,454€1,299Check ↗
- 38
Fender LTD Player Fusion Jag Bari SLVFender45Stable$1,308€1,169$1,308€1,169Check ↗
- 39
Reverend Descent W BaritoneDescent Baritone MBK · Reverend45Stable$1,454€1,299$1,454€1,299Check ↗
- 40
ESP LTD EC-1000 Baritone CHMSESP45Stable$1,622€1,449$1,622€1,449Check ↗
- 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
Neck Profile
A chunky, vintage-style neck might feel amazing at home, but it'll be a pain in a gigging situation. Intermediate players need something comfortable for extended playing - a modern C or D profile is usually a safe bet. Avoid anything too thick or overly ornate.
Scale Length & String Tension
Longer scale lengths (27-30") are typical for baritones, which means higher string tension. This isn't inherently bad, but it will feel different than a standard guitar. Lighter gauge strings are a must, but be prepared for a slightly stiffer feel. Finding the right balance is key.
Pickup Voicing
Baritone guitars need pickups that can handle low frequencies without getting muddy. High-output humbuckers can be tempting, but they often lack articulation. Look for pickups with a clear, defined low-end - something that delivers a 'thump' without losing the note separation. Think PRS SE humbuckers, not full-on EMG.
Body Wood & Construction
A mahogany body is common for baritones, offering warmth and sustain. Bolt-on necks are generally more stable for longer scale lengths, and often easier to set up. Avoid super-cheap all-basswood builds - they tend to lack character and resonance.
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners and a flimsy bridge will ruin your experience. Poor tuning stability and intonation problems become much more noticeable on a baritone. Decent quality hardware (locking tuners are a plus) is a worthwhile investment for gigging or serious recording.
Buying guide
So, you're feeling the pull of the low end, huh? Baritone guitars are fantastic for adding serious depth and a different sonic texture to your playing, but they're not just about dropping to B standard. For an intermediate player, choosing the right baritone is about more than just scale length - it's about playability, features that don't overwhelm, and a learning curve you can actually manage. Let's find you a baritone that won't leave you wrestling with a unwieldy instrument.
Don't chase the cheapest baritone you can find. Corners get cut in places that really matter - neck comfort, hardware quality, and pickup clarity. A slightly more expensive model with a comfortable neck profile, decent pickups, and reliable hardware will be far more enjoyable to play and far more useful in a band setting.
Prioritize playability over flashy aesthetics; a baritone is a tool, not a trophy.
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?
Not inherently harder, but the longer scale length and heavier strings require some adjustment. Your fretting hand will need to work a bit more, and your picking technique might need tweaking to avoid muddiness.
What gauge strings should I use on a baritone?
Start with a lighter gauge - .011-.056 or .011-.058 is a good starting point. Experiment to find what feels comfortable and still allows you to tune down without excessive slack.
Can I use a standard guitar amp with a baritone guitar?
Yes, but be mindful of your amp's headroom. Baritones produce more low-end frequencies, so your amp might start to breakup or distort more easily at lower volumes. A clean amp or one with a good amount of headroom is ideal.
Are baritones good for recording?
Absolutely! They add a unique depth and richness to recordings, especially in genres like stoner rock, doom metal, and even jazz. Just be careful to EQ properly to avoid overwhelming the mix.
What's the difference between a baritone guitar and a bass guitar?
A baritone guitar typically has a shorter scale length than a bass (around 27-30" compared to 34") and is tuned lower than a standard guitar, but not as low as a bass. It fills a sonic space between the two, offering a unique blend of guitar and bass tones.
