Best Baritone Guitars Under $1,000 2026
So, you're chasing that cavernous low-end rumble? A baritone guitar can be a game-changer - that extra length and looser string tension really opens up a new sonic territory. But let's be honest, a custom shop B-guitar can easily drain your bank account. We've hunted down the best baritone guitars you can snag for under $1000 that won't leave you feeling like you got robbed - instruments that can actually hold their own on stage or in a recording.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best baritone guitars in 2026 are Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOG (top pick), Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRL for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton Baritone-7 SBK w/Bag for pros — selected from 15 options across 3 brands, priced $231–$928, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
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
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
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
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 568291
$301
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 394451
$289
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
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
Post-Rock
Experimental
Metal
Key Feature:
This baritone guitar feels solid thanks to its meranti body and set neck. The alnico-5 pickups deliver a strong, clear tone perfect for deep, resonant low ends. It suits players who want a reliable, affordable option for heavy low strings without needing extra tone controls.
PROS
- • Sturdy meranti body and set neck build
- • Powerful alnico-5 humbucker pickups
- • Modern C profile for comfortable play
- • Graphite nut with stainless steel frets
CONS
- • No weight spec listed in description
- • Only one tone control available
- • Coil split requires push-pull action
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 617132
$406
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
Post-Rock
Alternative
Heavy Rock
Key Feature:
The JA-Baritone BK Bundle is a surprisingly capable instrument for the price. It’s a great entry point into the baritone world, offering a raw, vintage P90 tone that’s perfect for heavier blues, rock, and even some stoner rock styles. If you’re looking for a unique, affordable baritone with a distinct voice, this bundle is worth a serious look.
PROS
- • Purpleheart fretboard offers a unique feel and snappy response.
- • P90 pickups deliver thick, gritty tone ideal for blues/rock.
- • Bolt-on neck provides a tight, responsive feel for aggressive playing.
- • Accessory pack adds immediate playability and value.
CONS
- • Poplar body can be resonant, but lacks the sustain of mahogany.
- • Bolt-on neck might not appeal to players preferring set necks.
- • Limited pickup versatility; P90s are a specific tonal flavor.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 561131
$255
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
Experimental
Metal
Ambient
Key Feature:
This guitar sounds deep and thick thanks to its purple heart wood and fixed bridge. It stays in tune well because of the bolt-on maple neck. It is a solid choice for players who want a dark baritone tone without spending a lot of money.
PROS
- • Sturdy bolt-on maple neck ensures stable tuning.
- • Purple heart fingerboard offers a unique dark tone.
- • Fixed bridge design provides strong low-end response.
- • Affordable price point makes it easy to own.
CONS
- • Heavy poplar body may feel unwieldy for some players.
- • Purple heart wood is prone to cracking if not maintained.
- • No specified electronics quality suggests basic performance.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 626716
$243
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
Alternative
Ambient
Metal
Key Feature:
This JA-Baritone BK is a surprisingly capable baritone guitar offering a vintage P90 vibe at a very affordable price. The shorter scale makes it easier to handle than some longer baritones, and the overall build quality is solid for the money. It's a fantastic option for players exploring heavier tones or wanting a unique, growling sound without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • The P90 pickups deliver a raw, gritty tone perfect for blues and rock.
- • Purpleheart fretboard offers a unique feel and a subtle warmth to the tone.
- • Bolt-on neck construction provides a snappy response and easy playability.
- • Kluson-style tuners offer reliable tuning stability, a nice touch for the price.
CONS
- • Poplar body can be a bit plain sonically, lacking some resonance.
- • Bolt-on neck can feel less 'integrated' compared to set-neck designs.
- • The .014-.068 string gauge might require adjustments for some players.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 528005
$231
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 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 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 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 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
Every baritone guitars that matches
34 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 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 | $638 |
| 17 | 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 | $638 |
| 18 | ESP M-201 Baritone HT BK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $696 |
| 19 | ESP LTD Viper-201B Baritone Black | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Neck profile U-shape neck · Body Mahogany body | $580 |
| 20 | Hagstrom Viking Deluxe Baritone BK | Scale 711 mm (27.99") · Frets 22 frets · Body Maple body | $987 |
| 21 | Ibanez RGIB21-BK | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 712 mm (28.03") · Body Nyatoh body | $929 |
| 22 | Danelectro Dan O. Cool Baritone Green | Scale 755 mm (29.72") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $847 |
| 23 | Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3 | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $789 |
| 24 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone BB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $731 |
| 25 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone CB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $696 |
| 26 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $789 |
| 27 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone White | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $766 |
| 28 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $766 |
| 29 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Black | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $754 |
| 30 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark Aqua | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $754 |
| 31 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $719 |
| 32 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $789 |
| 33 | Squier Tele Custom Baritone BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $545 |
| 34 | Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BK | Scale 756 mm (29.76") | $731 |
Baritone Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 34 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $685
from $243 to $929
Nut width
median 42 mm (1.65")
from 42 mm (1.65") to 48 mm (1.89") · 21 models
Scale
median 712 mm (28.03")
from 686 mm (27.01") to 762 mm (30") · 32 models
Frets
median 24
from 21 to 24 · 18 models
Neck profile
C, D, U
most common · 9 models
Body
mahogany, poplar, meranti
most common · 14 models
Fingerboard radius
median 355.6 mm (14")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 355.6 mm (14") · 13 models
Fingerboard
ebony, rosewood, pau ferro
most common · 16 models
How to Choose the Best Baritone Guitars
1
Neck Profile
This is HUGE. A thick, unwieldy neck on a baritone is a nightmare. Look for something comfortable - a modern C or even a slightly thinner D profile will be your friend when you're navigating those lower tunings.
2
Pickup Voicing
A high-output humbucker can sound great, but a hotter pickup often loses articulation. You want something with enough headroom to avoid mud when you're dropping to B or A, but still able to deliver a chunky rhythm tone.
3
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners are the enemy. They'll make keeping the guitar in tune a constant battle, especially with the longer scale length. Decent locking tuners are a worthwhile upgrade if the stock ones are questionable.
4
Scale Length & String Gauge
Most baritones sit around 27-30" scale. Heavier gauge strings are a must to maintain tension and avoid floppy, buzzy low notes. Factor this into your buying decision - you'll likely need to experiment.
5
Body Wood & Construction
Don't expect mahogany or alder at this price point. You'll likely be looking at basswood or nato. Solid wood is a bonus, but a well-built laminate construction can still sound surprisingly good - it's the overall design and resonance that matters most.
Buying Guide
At this price range, you're making trade-offs. Expect some corners to be cut - often in the finish, hardware, or wood selection. Focus on the neck and electronics - those are the things that directly impact playability and tone. A good setup from a qualified tech is essential to get the action right and optimize the guitar's performance. Don't chase the prettiest guitar; chase the one that feels and sounds the best in your hands.
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 34 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
Generally, 27" is the absolute minimum. Anything shorter and you'll likely end up with a very floppy feel and intonation issues. 28" to 30" is the sweet spot for most players.
Absolutely not. You'll need heavier gauge strings - typically 11s or even 12s - to maintain proper tension. Otherwise, the low strings will be a mess.
A clean amp with a little bit of headroom is your friend. Baritone guitars thrive on clarity. A tube amp will give you that warm, responsive breakup when you need it, but a solid-state amp can also work well, especially for recording. Avoid overly bright or fizzy amps.
Not inherently. The longer scale length and heavier strings require a bit more finger strength, but a comfortable neck profile and proper setup will make a huge difference. It's more about adapting to the feel than facing a major technical challenge.
While both extend the range, a baritone guitar typically has a longer scale length than a 7-string, contributing to a different feel and low-end response. A 7-string is more about adding higher notes; a baritone is about expanding the lower register with a unique sonic character.
