Best Baritone Guitars for Intermediate 2026
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.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best baritone guitars in 2026 are Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRL (top pick), Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOG for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame Bu w/Bag for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $579–$928, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRL
by
Gretsch
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
Ambient
Post-Rock
Alternative
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid with a warm mahogany body and a long scale that makes the low notes sing. The Twin Six pickups drive the amp hard, while the rosewood fingerboard plays smooth under your fingers. It suits players who want thick, dark tones and don't mind getting into lower tunings.
PROS
- • Mahogany body offers deep, warm low-end resonance
- • PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers provide powerful output
- • Graph Tech NuBone nut ensures smooth string action
- • 29.75 inch scale length creates a true baritone feel
CONS
- • No specific weight rating is listed in the description
- • Coil splitting adds complexity for players who prefer full sound
- • Baritone range requires specialized strings and tuning knowledge
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 638088
$685
Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOG
by
Gretsch
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
Heavy Rock
Alternative
Experimental
Key Feature:
This Gretsch Baritone is built for players who want deep, rumbling lows. The mahogany body and twin humbuckers give it a thick, rich voice that stands up to heavy distortion. However, the extra-long scale length means your fingers have to stretch much further than on a standard guitar. It suits those who play with low tunings and love big, punchy sound. Just be ready to reach across the fretboard.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warm, thick resonance for baritone tuning.
- • Twin Six humbuckers deliver powerful low-end punch.
- • Adjusto-Matic bridge ensures stable tuning under heavy string tension.
- • Graph Tech NuBone nut adds sustain and smooth playability.
CONS
- • 686mm scale length creates a very long finger stretch.
- • No listed weight or balance information for player comfort.
- • Bristol Fog finish hides potential surface imperfections.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 638084
$685
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
Heavy Rock
Ambient
Experimental
Key Feature:
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.
- • Graphite nut minimizes friction and improves tuning stability, a premium touch.
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.
- • Limited pickup switching options restrict tonal versatility somewhat.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 558210
$650
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
Post-Rock
Metal
Experimental
Key Feature:
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.
- • Graphite nut resists wear and maintains tuning stability, a premium touch at this price point.
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.
- • Mahogany bodies can be prone to finish checking with temperature fluctuations.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 479377
$638
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
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
Ambient
Heavy Rock
Experimental
Key Feature:
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
- • Graphite nut and 24 jumbo blacksmith stainless steel frets
CONS
- • No bridge material is listed in the provided description
- • Body and neck weight specifications are missing from the text
- • Dual-action truss rod adjustment is not explicitly detailed
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 635534
$650
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
Alternative
Ambient
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
This Amarok-BT is a seriously cool baritone – the neck-through design and those EMG pickups give it a really solid foundation for heavier genres or just a big, full sound. The quilted maple top looks fantastic, and the build quality is surprisingly good for the price point. It's perfect for players looking for a distinctive, powerful baritone without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany/Quilted maple combo delivers warm, resonant, and articulate tones.
- • EMG Retro Active pickups offer high-output, modern versatility with vintage character.
- • Neck-through construction provides exceptional sustain and comfortable access across the fretboard.
- • Graphite nut resists wear and maintains tuning stability remarkably well.
CONS
- • The 27” scale can feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- • Mahogany body may contribute to a heavier overall instrument feel.
- • Limited pickup switching options restrict tonal flexibility beyond humbucker sounds.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 558211
$650
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
Ambient
Post-Rock
Experimental
Key Feature:
This left-handed Amarok BT is a serious contender for players seeking a baritone experience without the premium price tag. The neck-through design and EMG pickups deliver a powerful, modern tone, ideal for rock, metal, and progressive genres. It's a great option for those wanting a longer scale and heavier sound, but be prepared for the adjustment in feel.
PROS
- • Mahogany/flame maple combo delivers rich, warm tones with excellent sustain.
- • EMG Retro Active pickups provide a modern, high-output sound with clarity.
- • Neck-through construction enhances resonance and improves upper fret access.
- • Graphite nut minimizes friction and tuning instability; a welcome upgrade.
CONS
- • The 27” scale can feel unwieldy for players unfamiliar with baritone instruments.
- • Flamed maple veneer, while attractive, might be a thin application.
- • While versatile, the EMG pickups lean towards heavier genres, limiting clean tones.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 558207
$650
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
Alternative
Post-Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
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.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
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.
- • Mahogany body may contribute to a slightly heavier overall feel.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 496248
$638
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
Experimental
Post-Rock
Ambient
Key Feature:
This Amarok-BT is a seriously impressive baritone guitar for the price. The neck-through design and EMG pickups give it a modern, powerful voice while retaining a surprising amount of warmth from the mahogany body. It's perfect for players exploring heavier genres or those wanting a unique, extended-range tonal palette.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warm, resonant low-end tones.
- • Neck-through construction enhances sustain and upper fret access.
- • EMG Retro Active pickups deliver a powerful, modern high-output sound.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience.
CONS
- • The extended scale length demands a looser string gauge or adjusted playing style.
- • Mahogany body may make it somewhat heavier than other guitars.
- • Quilted maple veneer, while beautiful, might be a thin layer.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 479382
$638
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
Heavy Rock
Metal
Alternative
Key Feature:
This Amarok-BT is a serious baritone guitar offering a lot of bang for the buck. The neck-through design and EMG pickups give it a modern edge while retaining a warm, classic feel. It's perfect for players exploring heavier genres or wanting a unique, low-tuned voice without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end frequencies.
- • Neck-through construction enhances sustain and upper fret access.
- • EMG Retro Active pickups provide a powerful, articulate, modern tone.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
CONS
- • The longer scale length may feel unwieldy for players used to shorter scales.
- • Mahogany body can make it a heavier instrument, potentially uncomfortable for some.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more complex switching options.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 479380
$638
ESP M-201 Baritone HT BK
by
ESP
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Alternative
Post-Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
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.
- • Fixed bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain, a boon for baritone applications.
CONS
- • Limited pickup options restrict sonic flexibility for diverse genres.
- • Mahogany body can make the guitar feel a little weighty for extended playing.
- • Rosewood fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608796
$696
ESP LTD Viper-201B Baritone Black
by
ESP
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Neck profile
U-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Post-Rock
Ambient
Experimental
Key Feature:
This guitar gives you a thick, warm sound perfect for heavy riffs. The roasted wood stays stable, and the extra-wide frets help you hit those low notes easily. It is great for players who want a powerful baritone voice without too many knobs to mess with.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body offers a warm, thick baritone tone
- • Roasted jatoba fingerboard ensures stable tuning and playability
- • Jumbo frets provide easier access for power chords and bends
- • LH-150N and LH-150N pickups deliver a classic baritone growl
CONS
- • Heavy scale length may be difficult for smaller hands
- • Only two controls limit volume and tone shaping options
- • Roasted wood can sometimes feel less smooth than polished
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 431961
$580
Ibanez RGIB21-BK
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
712 mm (28.03")
Body
Nyatoh body
Ambient
Alternative
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
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.
- • Gotoh locking tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability under heavy baritone string tension.
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.
- • Bolt-on neck construction may not appeal to players seeking a more vintage feel.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 484608
$929
Danelectro Dan O. Cool Baritone Green
by
Danelectro
Scale
755 mm (29.72")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Ambient
Metal
Post-Rock
Key Feature:
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
- • Aluminium nut ensures intonation stays true across frets
CONS
- • No specific body wood listed, likely solid wood only
- • Single volume and tone controls limit tone shaping options
- • Weight not specified, likely heavy due to solid construction
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 638815
$847
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 | Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3 | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $789 |
| 17 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone BB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $731 |
| 18 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone CB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $696 |
| 19 | 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 |
| 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 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $789 |
| 22 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $766 |
| 23 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone White | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $766 |
| 24 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark Aqua | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $754 |
| 25 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Black | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $754 |
| 26 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $719 |
| 27 | 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 |
| 28 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $789 |
| 29 | ESP LTD M-7B HT Black Metal II | 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 | $1,975 |
| 30 | 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 | $1,045 |
| 31 | Danelectro 66BT Transparent Red | 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 | $1,277 |
| 32 | Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BK | Scale 756 mm (29.76") | $731 |
| 33 | Squier Tele Custom Baritone BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $545 |
| 34 | Reverend Descent Baritone MBK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 679 mm (26.73") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,510 |
| 35 | Reverend Descent Baritone Army Green | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 679 mm (26.73") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,510 |
| 36 | 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 |
| 37 | 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 |
| 38 | ESP LTD SN-1007 Baritone HT BK Bl | Nut width 48 mm (1.89") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Strings 7-string · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,975 |
| 39 | Fender LTD Player Fusion Jag Bari SLV | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,359 |
| 40 | 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 |
| 41 | ESP LTD M-6B ET Black Metal II | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,149 |
| 42 | ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone Signature | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,091 |
| 43 | Solar Guitars V2.6FBB Baritone Flame Black | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 673 mm (26.5") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 44 | Hagstrom Tremar Viking Baritone Black | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 711 mm (27.99") · Frets 22 frets | $1,138 |
| 45 | ESP LTD EC-1000 Baritone CHMS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Body Mahogany body | $1,684 |
| 46 | Hagstrom Viking Deluxe Baritone BK | Scale 711 mm (27.99") · Frets 22 frets · Body Maple body | $987 |
| 47 | Schecter Hellraiser C-VI BCH | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") | $1,684 |
| 48 | Danelectro 66BT Blue Burst | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Body Alder body | $1,219 |
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
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
