AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Baritone Guitars for Metal 2026

The top pick is Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster ($517). Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK gives you the most for the money at $279. ESP LTD SN-1007 HT Baritone leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 43 models across 13 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 26, 2026

43models in this chart
13brands
$760median price
1price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Baritone Guitars Showing: For Metal · clear

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. 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
    • Demand100
    • Lineup50
    • Price54
    • Specs33
    • Maker26
    ↓ 1.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $525 · Aug 17$517 now
    $517€462 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. ESP LTD SN-1007 HT Baritone

    LTD SN-1007 Baritone HT BK Bl · ESP

    13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width48 mm (1.89")
    • Scale686 mm (27.01")
    • Strings7-string
    • BodyAsh body
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    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.

    Cons

    • Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications.
    • Thin 'U' neck profile may not suit all players' preferences.
    64AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand66
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs83
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,902 now
    $1,902€1,699 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame Burst

    Harley Benton

    Not on Reverb yet3 finishes at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs83
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$615 now
    $615€549 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. Danelectro '56 Baritone

    56 Baritone Black · Danelectro

    17 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand72
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs33
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$693 now
    $693€619 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Danelectro 66BT Transparent Red

    Danelectro

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    • Scale755.7 mm (29.75")
    • Frets22 frets
    • Fingerboard radius355.6 mm (14")
    • Neck profileC-shape neck
    • BodyAlder body

    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.

    Cons

    • Bolt-on neck joint can feel less integrated than a set-neck design.
    • Rosewood fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
    60AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup79
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,230 now
    $1,230€1,099 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Ibanez RGIB21 Iron Label Baritone

    RGIB21-BK · Ibanez

    22 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand79
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker26
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$894 now
    $894€799 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. ESP LTD M-201 HT Baritone

    LTD M-201 Baritone HT BK · ESP

    7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand52
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$670 now
    $670€599 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Hagstrom VIDLXBARI Viking Deluxe Baritone

    Viking Deluxe Baritone BK · Hagstrom

    13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Scale711 mm (27.99")
    • Frets22 frets
    • BodyMaple body

    The Hagstrom Viking Deluxe Baritone BK is a serious contender for players seeking a unique baritone voice with vintage character. It’s built solid with a comfortable neck and those pickups give you a great blend of warmth and bite, making it ideal for rock, blues, and heavier styles where a low-end growl is essential. This is a great choice for players who want a distinctive instrument without breaking the bank.

    Pros

    • Maple top and body deliver a bright, articulate, and punchy tone.
    • Hagstrom’s custom 58 pickup provides a thick, vintage-voiced bridge position.
    • The Resinator fretboard is durable and offers a unique, smooth playing experience.

    Cons

    • The extended scale length (711mm) demands adaptation for players used to shorter scales.
    • Maple construction can be somewhat dense, potentially leading to a heavier instrument.
    56AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand66
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker41
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$950 now
    $950€849 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK

    Harley Benton

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$279 now
    $279€249 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK w/Bag

    Harley Benton

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$290 now
    $290€259 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 43 baritone guitars

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone CBDanelectro · 2 finishes
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$670€599
    $670€599Check ↗
  2. 12
    Harley Benton JA-Baritone P90 BKHarley Benton
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$223€199
    $223€199Check ↗
  3. 13
    Harley Benton JA-Baritone HH BKHarley Benton
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$234€209
    $234€209Check ↗
  4. 14
    Harley Benton SC-Custom III Baritone ABHarley Benton
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$391€349
    $391€349Check ↗
  5. 15
    Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame Bu w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$626€559
    $626€559Check ↗
  6. 16
    Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Black · Danelectro · 2 finishes
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$726€649
    $726€649Check ↗
  7. 17
    Cort KX500ETKX500 Baritone Black Burst · Cort
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$805€719
    $805€719Check ↗
  8. 18
    ESP LTD M-7B HT Black Metal IIESP
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$1,902€1,699
    $1,902€1,699Check ↗
  9. 19
    Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame BurstHarley Benton
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$615€549
    $615€549Check ↗
  10. 20
    Harley Benton Amarok-BT EGNT Quilted w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$626€559
    $626€559Check ↗
  11. 21
    Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$626€559
    $626€559Check ↗
  12. 22
    Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$626€559
    $626€559Check ↗
  13. 23
    Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRLGretsch
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$659€589
    $659€589Check ↗
  14. 24
    Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOGGretsch
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$659€589
    $659€589Check ↗
  15. 25
    Schecter Hellraiser C-VIHellraiser C-VI BCH · Schecter
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$1,622€1,449
    $1,622€1,449Check ↗
  16. 26
    Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3Danelectro
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  17. 27
    Danelectro Dan O. Cool Baritone GreenDanelectro
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$816€729
    $816€729Check ↗
  18. 28
    ESP LTD BB-200B QM STBLKSB SatinESP
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$894€799
    $894€799Check ↗
  19. 29
    Sterling by Music Man StingRay Baritone TLBSterling by Music Man
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$1,006€899
    $1,006€899Check ↗
  20. 30
    ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone SignatureESP
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$2,014€1,799
    $2,014€1,799Check ↗
  21. 31
    ESP LTD M-6B ET Black Metal IIESP
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$2,070€1,849
    $2,070€1,849Check ↗
  22. 32
    Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal · Danelectro
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$738€659
    $738€659Check ↗
  23. 33
    Reverend Descent Baritone Army GreenReverend
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$1,454€1,299
    $1,454€1,299Check ↗
  24. 34
    Fender LTD Player Fusion Jag Bari SLVFender
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$1,308€1,169
    $1,308€1,169Check ↗
  25. 35
    Reverend Descent W BaritoneDescent Baritone MBK · Reverend
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$1,454€1,299
    $1,454€1,299Check ↗
  26. 36
    ESP LTD EC-1000 Baritone CHMSESP
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$1,622€1,449
    $1,622€1,449Check ↗
  27. 37
    Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal FlakeDanelectro
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  28. 38
    Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal FlakeDanelectro
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  29. 39
    Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BKDanelectro
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$704€629
    $704€629Check ↗
  30. 40
    Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark AquaDanelectro
    Index 42↑ 4.6%
    42
    ↑ 4.6%$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  31. 41
    Solar Guitars V2.6FBB Baritone Flame BlackSolar Guitars
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$1,118€999
    $1,118€999Check ↗
  32. 42
    Hagstrom Tremar Viking Baritone DLX BLKHagstrom
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$1,096€979
    $1,096€979Check ↗
  33. 43
    Harley Benton JA-Baritone BK BundleHarley Benton
    Index 31Stable
    31
    Stable$245€219
    $245€219Check ↗

Baritone Guitars by the numbers

Measured across all 48 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $760 — half of all baritone guitars here cost less.

5
1
0
18
10
8
4
2
<$300$300–400$400–500$500–750$750–1k$1k–1.5k$1.5k–2k$2k+
Nut width42 mm (1.65")

median of 33 models · 42 mm (1.65")–48 mm (1.89")

Scale711 mm (27.99")

median of 46 models · 679 mm (26.73")–762 mm (30")

Frets24

median of 22 models · 21–24

Neck profileC, D

most common · 10 models

How to choose the best baritone guitars

Scale Length

Crucial for tension and clarity in low tunings. Shorter scale lengths (27-28") can feel easier to play but risk flabbiness; 29"+ is where you start to get that tight, focused low-end response we need for metal.

Pickup Voicing

Forget bright, glassy cleans. Metal baritone guitars need thick, aggressive pickups - typically high-output humbuckers with a strong emphasis on low-mids and a controlled high-end. Too much ice-pick treble and it'll just sound harsh; we want growl, not ear-splitting noise.

Neck Profile

A comfortable neck is essential when you're chugging through downtuned riffs. Thicker C or D profiles are common, but make sure it doesn't feel like wrestling a tree trunk. Ergonomics matter when you're playing for hours.

Hardware Quality

Cheap hardware will let you down when you need it most. Tuners that slip, bridges that rattle - these are dealbreakers. Solid locking tuners and a well-built bridge are a must for tuning stability and sustain.

Construction & Wood Choice

Mahogany is a frequent choice for its warm, resonant character, often paired with a maple top for added clarity. The overall build quality and attention to detail - fretwork, finish - directly impact the instrument's resonance and feel.

Buying guide

So, you're chasing that ultra-low rumble for your doom metal riffs or need a baritone to really dig into the Djent? It's not just about slapping on a longer scale length; it's about the whole package. A baritone guitar needs to handle drop tunings without sounding like a muddy mess, and still articulate those complex rhythms. Let's break down the best options for metal players who want serious low-end without sacrificing tone.

Baritone guitars aren't a casual purchase. Entry-level models often cut corners on hardware and fretwork, leading to tuning instability and a less-than-stellar playing experience. Investing in a guitar with solid hardware and a well-set-up neck is crucial.

Don't be afraid to spend a bit more for a guitar that can actually handle the abuse of metal playing and hold its tuning through drop C# or lower.

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

What's the difference between a baritone and a regular guitar?

Scale length is the biggest factor. Baritones have longer scales (typically 27" or more) to maintain string tension in lower tunings, preventing a floppy, muddy sound. It's not just about being 'lower' - it's about staying tight and focused.

Can I just tune a regular guitar down to drop C#?

You can, but the string tension will be incredibly low, making it difficult to bend notes and risking fret buzz. It'll also sound inherently flabby and lack definition. A baritone is designed for that territory.

What kind of amp do I need for a baritone guitar?

You need an amp with serious headroom and a tight low-end response. A small practice amp won't cut it. Look for something with a powerful bass speaker and a clean, uncolored preamp to handle the low frequencies without muddiness.

Are baritone guitars difficult to play?

The longer scale can take some getting used to, but it's not inherently difficult. The main challenge is adjusting to the increased string tension and learning to control the lower frequencies. Proper setup and a comfortable neck profile are key.

What's the deal with fan-fret baritones?

Fan fret designs allow for a shorter scale on the higher strings and a longer scale on the lower strings, optimizing string tension across the entire range. They're great for extended range playing but can be a bit tricky to learn initially due to the changing string spacing.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 66Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster · $517€462
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗

Magazine

Popular charts

Press / on any page to search.