Best Baritone Guitars for Metal 2026
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.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best baritone guitars in 2026 are Harley Benton Agufish Custom Signatur w/Case (top pick), Harley Benton Agufish Standard BT w/Case for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK w/Bag for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $273–$2,308, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Harley Benton Agufish Custom Signatur w/Case
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
712 mm (28.03")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Weight
4.72 kg
Alternative
Metal
Ambient
Key Feature:
This Agufish Custom Signatur is a seriously impressive baritone guitar, especially considering the price. The roasted maple neck and Roswell pickups combine for a fantastic, modern tone with vintage character. It’s a great choice for players who want a distinctive baritone sound for genres like stoner rock, doom metal, or low-tuned blues, and appreciate a premium feel without premium price tag.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck provides excellent stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and powerful tone.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard offers a luxurious feel and bright attack.
- • The push/pull coil split adds versatility for a wider range of sounds.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while weight-reduced, might not resonate as richly as mahogany.
- • The 'Smooth U' neck profile may not suit players preferring a thicker profile.
- • Baritone scale limits versatility; best suited for lower tunings and specific genres.
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 618551
$714
#2
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Harley Benton Agufish Standard BT w/Case
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
712 mm (28.03")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Weight
4.72 kg
Heavy Rock
Ambient
Alternative
Key Feature:
This Agufish Standard BT is a seriously cool baritone guitar. The roasted maple neck and Roswell pickups deliver a warm, punchy tone perfect for heavier styles or dropping tunings. It's an excellent value for players wanting a unique voice and extended range.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and smooth playing feel.
- • Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and powerful, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard offers a luxurious feel and excellent note definition.
- • The coil-splitting functionality expands tonal versatility considerably.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while lightweight, lacks the resonance of mahogany or ash.
- • Stainless steel frets may require occasional maintenance to prevent sticking.
- • Baritone scale limits its suitability for standard tuning or certain genres.
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 618552
$659
#3
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
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
Alternative
Heavy Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
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
- • Well-executed arched poplar body looks and feels more premium than the price suggests
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
- • The included gig bag, while functional, lacks the robust protection of a hard case
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 568291
$296
#4
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
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
Heavy Rock
Post-Rock
Alternative
Key Feature:
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.
- • Die-cast locking tuners enable rapid string changes and precise tuning.
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.
- • Limited pickup switching options restrict tonal versatility compared to more expensive guitars.
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 394451
$274
#5
⭐
2.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
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.
⭐
2.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 618371
$1,209
#6
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Reverend Descent RA Baritone AG
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
Experimental
Heavy Rock
Post-Rock
Key Feature:
This Descent RA Baritone is a serious contender for players seeking a unique, powerful voice. The combination of Korina, roasted maple, and those beefy Railhammer pickups delivers a growling, articulate tone perfect for stoner rock, doom metal, or anyone wanting a low-end rumble. It's a premium-priced instrument that offers a lot of value for the money.
PROS
- • Korina body delivers excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Railhammer Chisel humbuckers provide thick, powerful, modern tones.
- • Pin-Lock tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability, even with baritone strings.
CONS
- • Korina body can make it feel a bit heavier than some guitars.
- • Army Green finish might not appeal to everyone's aesthetic.
- • Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 592129
$1,319
#7
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Reverend Descent W Baritone TWH
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
Ambient
Alternative
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
The Descent W Baritone TWH is a seriously cool instrument. The long scale and baritone tuning unlock a massive, low-end rumble while retaining clarity thanks to the thoughtful pickup pairing. It's perfect for players wanting a unique voice for stoner rock, modern metal, or just exploring deeper sonic territory.
PROS
- • Korina body delivers surprising resonance and sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- • Nuevo 90/Cleancut combo provides versatile, articulate tones.
- • Wilkinson tremolo is smooth, reliable, and stays in tune well.
CONS
- • Korina body can make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
- • Rosewood fretboard may require more frequent oiling for optimal feel.
- • Bass Contour control can be subtle and require tweaking.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 603301
$1,264
#8
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Reverend Descent W 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
Maple fingerboard
Metal
Alternative
Post-Rock
Key Feature:
The Descent W Baritone is a seriously cool instrument for players wanting to explore lower tunings. The roasted maple neck feels fantastic, and the pickup combination offers a surprising amount of tonal flexibility, leaning towards a vintage-inspired, slightly compressed sound. It’s a great option for rock, stoner, or doom players who want a unique voice without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Korina body provides a warm, resonant foundation with surprising sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Nuevo 90/Cleancut pickup combo delivers a versatile range, from clean to chunky.
- • Wilkinson tremolo provides reliable vibrato without excessive tuning instability.
CONS
- • Korina body, while resonant, can contribute to a moderately heavy feel.
- • Treble bleed circuit, while present, might not offer extensive high-end preservation.
- • Baritone scale limits versatility; not ideal for all genres or playing styles.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 595553
$1,209
#9
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Duesenberg Julietta Baritone Catalina Red
by
Duesenberg
Nut width
42.5 mm (1.67")
Scale
710 mm (27.95")
Frets
24 frets
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Ambient
Metal
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
This Julietta Baritone is a seriously cool instrument—a real statement piece. The extended scale gives it a unique, deep voice perfect for stoner rock, blues, or anything needing a little extra low-end thump. It’s a premium-priced option, but the build quality and distinctive sound make it worthwhile for players seeking something special.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Maple neck with rosewood fingerboard offers comfortable playability and warmth.
- • Grand Vintage humbucker provides thick, articulate high-gain tones.
- • Diamond Deluxe tremolo allows for expressive vibrato and subtle pitch bending.
CONS
- • The 28” scale can feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more complex control sets.
- • Catalina Red finish, while striking, might not appeal to all tastes.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 586221
$2,309
#10
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
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.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 535796
$1,832
#11
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 558210
$624
#12
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Harley Benton Amarok-BT EGNT Quilted Burst
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Fingerboard radius
355.6 mm (14")
Body
Mahogany body
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.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 479382
$604
#13
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 479377
$604
#14
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Harley Benton Agufish Custom Signature BT PB
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
712 mm (28.03")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Ambient
Experimental
Post-Rock
Key Feature:
This Agufish Custom Signature BT PB is a serious contender for players seeking a baritone with a modern edge. Hunter Engel’s signature touches, combined with the roasted maple neck and Roswell pickups, create a surprisingly refined and powerful instrument. It's ideal for rock, metal, and progressive players wanting a unique voice and extended range without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, comfortable feel.
- • Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and powerful tone, versatile for many genres.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard provides a luxurious feel and excellent note definition.
- • The push/pull coil split dramatically expands tonal options, offering single-coil versatility.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while weight-reduced, isn’t as tonally resonant as mahogany.
- • The extended scale length (28in) requires adjustment for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- • Hardware, while functional, might be an upgrade point for serious players seeking premium feel.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 563381
$604
#15
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton Agufish Standard STD BT BK
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
712 mm (28.03")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Alternative
Post-Rock
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
This Agufish Standard BT is a seriously impressive baritone guitar for the price. The roasted neck and Roswell pickups are the real standouts, offering a surprisingly refined and powerful tone. It's perfect for players exploring lower tunings and heavier genres, or anyone wanting a unique and well-built instrument without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • Roasted Canadian maple neck provides exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- • Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and powerful tone, surprisingly versatile.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard offers a luxurious feel and excellent note definition.
- • The push/pull coil split adds significant tonal flexibility for varied playing styles.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while lightweight, lacks the premium resonance of mahogany or alder.
- • The 'Smooth U' neck profile may not suit players preferring a thinner or more vintage C shape.
- • Factory tuning to Standard A requires immediate retuning to more common tunings.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 556839
$549
Every baritone guitars that matches
47 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | 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 | $244 |
| 17 | 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 | $219 |
| 18 | ESP LTD EX-7 Baritone Black Metal | Nut width 48 mm (1.89") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 7-string | $1,374 |
| 19 | Reverend Descent RA Baritone PB | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 679 mm (26.73") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,319 |
| 20 | 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 | $636 |
| 21 | 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 | $624 |
| 22 | 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 | $615 |
| 23 | 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 | $604 |
| 24 | ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone Signature | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,979 |
| 25 | Solar Guitars V2.6FBB Baritone Flame Black | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 673 mm (26.5") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,099 |
| 26 | ESP M-201 Baritone HT BK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $659 |
| 27 | Hagstrom Tremar Viking Baritone Black | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 711 mm (27.99") · Frets 22 frets | $1,077 |
| 28 | Gretsch G5260 EMTC Jet Baritone BF | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 22 frets | $648 |
| 29 | ESP E-II Viper Baritone CHMS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Body Mahogany body | $2,639 |
| 30 | ESP LTD EC-1000 Baritone CHMS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Body Mahogany body | $1,594 |
| 31 | Hagstrom Viking Deluxe Baritone BK | Scale 711 mm (27.99") · Frets 22 frets · Body Maple body | $934 |
| 32 | Ibanez RGIB21-BK | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 712 mm (28.03") · Body Nyatoh body | $879 |
| 33 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Crackle 3+3 | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $769 |
| 34 | Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3 | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $747 |
| 35 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone CB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $692 |
| 36 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone BB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $692 |
| 37 | Schecter Hellraiser C-VI BCH | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") | $1,594 |
| 38 | Reverend Descent RA Baritone MBK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 679 mm (26.73") | $1,297 |
| 39 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $747 |
| 40 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $725 |
| 41 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone White | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $714 |
| 42 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $681 |
| 43 | LSL Baribone 22 Ice Blue Metallic | Scale 698 mm (27.48") · Body Alder body | $4,014 |
| 44 | Danelectro 66BT Blue Burst | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Body Alder body | $1,209 |
| 45 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $747 |
| 46 | Squier Tele Custom Baritone BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $461 |
| 47 | Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BK | Scale 756 mm (29.76") | $692 |
Baritone Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 47 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $725
from $274 to $1,979
Scale
median 711 mm (27.99")
from 679 mm (26.73") to 756 mm (29.76") · 45 models
Frets
median 24
from 21 to 24 · 20 models
Fingerboard
ebony, rosewood, pau ferro
most common · 24 models
Nut width
median 43 mm (1.69")
from 42 mm (1.65") to 48 mm (1.89") · 33 models
Body
mahogany, nyatoh, alder
most common · 23 models
Fingerboard radius
median 350 mm (13.78")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 355.6 mm (14") · 18 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 8 models
How to Choose the Best Baritone Guitars
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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 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 47 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
