AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritone Guitars Under $1,000 2026
The top pick is Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster ($517). Harley Benton JA-Baritone P90 BK gives you the most for the money at $223. Hagstrom VIDLXBARI Viking Deluxe Baritone leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 30 models across 8 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 26, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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↓ 1.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$525 · Aug 17$517 now$517€462 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$615 now$615€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$693 now$693€619 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$894 now$894€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$670 now$670€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$950 now$950€849 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$279 now$279€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$290 now$290€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale756 mm (29.76")
- Frets24 frets
- Neck profileD-shape neck
This Longhorn Baritone is a character piece, no doubt. It’s got that classic Danelectro quirkiness with a bit more low-end thump thanks to the longer scale. Ideal for players seeking a unique voice for stoner rock, alternative, or experimental music – it’s a seriously cool, affordable option.
Pros
- Unique, resonant poplar frame delivers a distinct, 'swampy' tone.
- High-output Lipstick pickups offer surprising grit and sustain for a Danelectro.
- Bolt-on neck provides comfortable access and a snappy, responsive feel.
Cons
- Poplar body can feel somewhat lightweight and 'floaty' for some players.
- The D-profile neck, while comfortable, might not suit all hand sizes or preferences.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$670 now$670€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale762 mm (30")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
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.
Cons
- Poplar body can be a bit plain sonically, lacking some resonance.
- Bolt-on neck can feel less 'integrated' compared to set-neck designs.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$223 now$223€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 30 baritone guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Harley Benton JA-Baritone HH BKHarley Benton52Stable$234€209$234€209Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Baritone ABHarley Benton52Stable$391€349$391€349Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKNT Flame Bu w/BagHarley Benton52Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 14
Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Black · Danelectro · 2 finishes52Stable$726€649$726€649Check ↗
- 15
Cort KX500ETKX500 Baritone Black Burst · Cort52Stable$805€719$805€719Check ↗
- 16
Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame BurstHarley Benton49Stable$615€549$615€549Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton Amarok BT LH BKNT Flame w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton Amarok-BT BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton Amarok-BT EGNT Quilted w/BagHarley Benton49Stable$626€559$626€559Check ↗
- 20
Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOGGretsch49Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 21
Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRLGretsch49Stable$659€589$659€589Check ↗
- 22
Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3Danelectro47Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 23
Danelectro Dan O. Cool Baritone GreenDanelectro47Stable$816€729$816€729Check ↗
- 24
ESP LTD BB-200B QM STBLKSB SatinESP47Stable$894€799$894€799Check ↗
- 25
Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal · Danelectro46Stable$738€659$738€659Check ↗
- 26
Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal FlakeDanelectro44Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 27
Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal FlakeDanelectro44Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 28
Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BKDanelectro42Stable$704€629$704€629Check ↗
- 29
Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark AquaDanelectro42↑ 4.6%$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 30
Harley Benton JA-Baritone BK BundleHarley Benton31Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
Baritone Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 34 models we track, not a sample.
Median $670 — half of all baritone guitars here cost less.
median of 21 models · 42 mm (1.65")–48 mm (1.89")
median of 32 models · 686 mm (27.01")–762 mm (30")
median of 18 models · 21–24
most common · 9 models
How to choose the best baritone guitars
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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 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 34 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 shortest baritone scale length I should consider?
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.
Can I use standard gauge strings on a baritone?
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.
What kind of amp sounds best with a baritone guitar?
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.
Are baritone guitars hard to play?
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.
What's the difference between a baritone and a 7-string guitar?
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.
