AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Baritone Guitars for Professional 2026

The top pick is ESP LTD M-6B ET Black Metal II ($2,070). Ibanez RGIB21 Iron Label Baritone gives you the most for the money at $894. 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 Professional · clear

Top 10

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

  1. ESP LTD M-6B ET Black Metal II

    ESP

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width43 mm (1.69")
    • Scale762 mm (30")
    • Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This guitar feels heavy because of its long 30-inch scale and thick strings. It uses active pickups that need an external power source to work. It is built for players who want a very low pitch without many knobs to adjust the sound.

    Pros

    • 30-inch scale length makes strings feel heavy and thick.

    Cons

    • Only one volume knob limits sound shaping options.
    • No built-in master tone control for frequency cutting.
    47AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Sep 5
    Sep 5$2,070 now
    $2,070€1,849 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. ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone Signature

    ESP

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width42 mm (1.65")
    • Scale686 mm (27.01")
    • BodyMahogany body
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This BB-600 is a serious baritone instrument built for players who dig heavy, distorted tones and a unique low-end feel. Ben Burnley's signature clearly translates into a powerful, versatile platform perfect for modern metal, djent, and alternative rock where a truly extended range is needed.

    Pros

    • Mahogany body provides warm, resonant low-end frequencies.
    • Seymour Duncan pickups deliver aggressive, articulate high-gain tones.
    • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience.

    Cons

    • The extended scale length demands adaptation for standard bass players.
    • Mahogany construction makes it a notably heavy instrument.
    47AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$2,014 now
    $2,014€1,799 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. ESP LTD M-7B HT Black Metal II

    ESP

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width48 mm (1.89")
    • Scale686 mm (27.01")
    • Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
    • Strings7-string
    • BodyAlder body

    This guitar gives you a huge low range thanks to its long scale and active pickups. The thin neck makes it easy to play fast, but it is heavy and has very few controls. It is a solid choice for baritone players who want raw power.

    Pros

    • Extra Thin U neck profile plays very fast and light
    • 7-string scale length offers deep, low baritone range
    • Strings-through-body bridge gives strong low-end response

    Cons

    • Heavy instrument feels difficult for smaller players
    • Single volume control limits mixing of sounds
    52AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Sep 5
    Sep 5$1,902 now
    $1,902€1,699 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Schecter Hellraiser C-VI

    Hellraiser C-VI BCH · Schecter

    9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width42 mm (1.65")
    • Scale762 mm (30")

    This Hellraiser C-VI BCH is a serious contender for players seeking a baritone with modern aggression. The mahogany body and EMG pickups deliver a thick, powerful tone perfect for djent, metal, and progressive rock. It’s a premium-priced instrument built for those who want a low-tuned powerhouse without sacrificing playability.

    Pros

    • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end response.
    • EMG 81TW/89R combo provides aggressive high-gain tones with clarity.
    • Carbon-reinforced neck enhances stability and reduces unwanted flex under tension.

    Cons

    • The thin C neck profile may not suit players preferring a thicker, vintage feel.
    • The extended scale length requires adaptation for players used to shorter scales.
    48AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand58
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs33
    • Maker26
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,622 now
    $1,622€1,449 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. ESP LTD EC-1000 Baritone CHMS

    ESP

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width42 mm (1.65")
    • Scale686 mm (27.01")
    • BodyMahogany body

    This EC-1000 Baritone is a serious instrument for players wanting a thick, modern tone with a touch of elegance. The Fishman Fluence pickups are incredibly versatile, and the comfortable neck makes it a joy to play extended passages. It's a premium-priced option perfect for metalheads, progressive players, or anyone needing a deep, resonant low-end.

    Pros

    • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end.
    • Thin 'U' neck profile offers exceptional comfort and fast playing feel.
    • Fishman Fluence pickups provide versatile tones, from clean to high-gain.

    Cons

    • Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications.
    • Mahogany construction contributes to a potentially heavier overall instrument.
    45AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,622 now
    $1,622€1,449 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. 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 ↗
  8. 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 ↗
  9. 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 ↗
  10. ESP LTD BB-200B QM STBLKSB Satin

    ESP

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width42 mm (1.65")
    • Scale686 mm (27.01")
    • Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
    • FingerboardRosewood fingerboard

    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

    Cons

    • Large nut width may feel bulky for some
    • Limited control options compared to full models
    47AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Sep 5
    Sep 5$894 now
    $894€799 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
    Sterling by Music Man StingRay Baritone TLBSterling by Music Man
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$1,006€899
    $1,006€899Check ↗
  2. 12
    Reverend Descent Baritone Army GreenReverend
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$1,454€1,299
    $1,454€1,299Check ↗
  3. 13
    Fender LTD Player Fusion Jag Bari SLVFender
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$1,308€1,169
    $1,308€1,169Check ↗
  4. 14
    Reverend Descent W BaritoneDescent Baritone MBK · Reverend
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$1,454€1,299
    $1,454€1,299Check ↗
  5. 15
    Cort KX500ETKX500 Baritone Black Burst · Cort
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$805€719
    $805€719Check ↗
  6. 16
    Solar Guitars V2.6FBB Baritone Flame BlackSolar Guitars
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$1,118€999
    $1,118€999Check ↗
  7. 17
    Hagstrom Tremar Viking Baritone DLX BLKHagstrom
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$1,096€979
    $1,096€979Check ↗
  8. 18
    Danelectro '56 Baritone56 Baritone Black · Danelectro
    Index 61Stable
    61
    Stable$693€619
    $693€619Check ↗
  9. 19
    Danelectro Dan O. Cool Baritone GreenDanelectro
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$816€729
    $816€729Check ↗
  10. 20
    Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone White · Danelectro · 2 finishes
    Index 51↑ 3.0%
    51
    ↑ 3.0%$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  11. 21
    Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3Danelectro
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  12. 22
    Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone BBDanelectro · 2 finishes
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$704€629
    $704€629Check ↗
  13. 23
    ESP LTD M-201 HT BaritoneLTD M-201 Baritone HT BK · ESP
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$670€599
    $670€599Check ↗
  14. 24
    Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal FlakeDanelectro
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  15. 25
    Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal FlakeDanelectro
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  16. 26
    Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal · Danelectro
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$738€659
    $738€659Check ↗
  17. 27
    Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark AquaDanelectro
    Index 42↑ 4.6%
    42
    ↑ 4.6%$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  18. 28
    Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRLGretsch
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$659€589
    $659€589Check ↗
  19. 29
    Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOGGretsch
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$659€589
    $659€589Check ↗
  20. 30
    Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame Bu w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$626€559
    $626€559Check ↗
  21. 31
    Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BKDanelectro
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$704€629
    $704€629Check ↗
  22. 32
    Harley Benton Amarok-BT EGNT Quilted w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$626€559
    $626€559Check ↗
  23. 33
    Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$626€559
    $626€559Check ↗
  24. 34
    Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$626€559
    $626€559Check ↗
  25. 35
    Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom TelecasterTele Custom Baritone BK · Squier
    Index 66↓ 1.5%
    66
    ↓ 1.5%$517€462
    $517€462Check ↗
  26. 36
    Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame BurstHarley Benton · 3 finishes
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$615€549
    $615€549Check ↗
  27. 37
    Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBKHarley Benton
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$279€249
    $279€249Check ↗
  28. 38
    Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$290€259
    $290€259Check ↗
  29. 39
    Harley Benton JA-Baritone P90 BKHarley Benton
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$223€199
    $223€199Check ↗
  30. 40
    Harley Benton JA-Baritone HH BKHarley Benton
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$234€209
    $234€209Check ↗
  31. 41
    Harley Benton SC-Custom III Baritone ABHarley Benton
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$391€349
    $391€349Check ↗
  32. 42
    Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame BurstHarley Benton
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$615€549
    $615€549Check ↗
  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

Neck Profile & Playability

A thick, unwieldy neck is a nightmare on a baritone. We're looking for profiles that offer comfortable access to those low registers without feeling like you're wrestling a redwood tree. Action needs to be spot-on - too high and you'll fight it, too low and you'll get fret buzz that eats sustain.

Pickup Voicing & Response

That low-end thump needs to be articulate, not muddy. Overwound pickups can quickly turn into a sonic black hole. We're favoring pickups that retain clarity and dynamic response even when pushed hard, offering a usable range from clean to creamy breakup.

Hardware Quality & Tuning Stability

Cheap tuners and a flimsy bridge are a recipe for disaster on a baritone. String tension is already higher, so you need hardware that can lock everything down and keep it in tune under gigging conditions. Intonation is critical, too - a poorly intonated baritone is just frustrating.

Scale Length & String Choice

The longer scale is essential for tension, but it also affects the feel. We're evaluating how different scale lengths (27" and up) interact with various string gauges to find the sweet spot between tightness and floppy-ness. Lighter strings can feel too loose, heavier strings can be a workout.

Body Wood & Resonance

While pickups get a lot of attention, the wood contributes significantly to the overall tone. We're listening for resonance and sustain - mahogany and korina often deliver that warm, resonant low-end, but the construction and bracing play a huge role in how it translates.

Buying guide

Alright, so you're chasing that low-end rumble and need a baritone guitar that can actually do something beyond just looking cool. Forget the toy versions - we're talking about instruments that can handle serious gigs, tracking sessions, and the demands of a professional player. This isn't about novelty; it's about expanding your sonic palette and adding a serious low-frequency presence to your sound. Let's dial in some serious baritone options.

Don't chase the cheapest baritone; you'll end up paying more in frustration and repairs. Solid wood bodies are generally worth the extra investment - laminates can sound lifeless. Pay attention to the neck joint - a poorly fitted neck joint will kill sustain and introduce unwanted noise.

And remember, a baritone isn't a magic tone generator; it's a tool, and you need to know how to use it.

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?

They require adjusting your technique. Fret spacing is wider, string tension is higher, and you need to be more mindful of your fretting hand. It's not inherently harder, just different.

What string gauges should I use on a baritone?

Typically, you'll want to step up a full gauge from what you'd use on a standard guitar. 11-52 or 11-56 is a common starting point, but experiment to find what feels comfortable and delivers the tone you're after.

Will a baritone guitar cut through the mix?

Potentially, but it's not automatic. The low end needs to be controlled and articulate. EQing and proper amp settings are crucial to avoid muddiness. It's a powerful tool, but requires finesse.

Can I use a baritone guitar for all genres?

Not really. While versatile, baritone guitars excel in genres that benefit from low frequencies - doom metal, stoner rock, blues, and even some jazz. They're less ideal for bright, jangly styles.

What's the difference between a baritone and a 7-string?

A baritone typically has a longer scale length (27"+) on a 6-string, while a 7-string adds an extra low string. They both extend the low end, but the baritone offers a different feel and tonal character - often warmer and more resonant.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 47ESP LTD M-6B ET Black Metal II · $2,070€1,849
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗

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