AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Baritone Guitars Under $2,000 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 41 models across 13 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 26, 2026

41models in this chart
13brands
$738median price
1price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Baritone Guitars Showing: Under $2,000 · 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 41 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 LH BKNT Flame 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 EGNT Quilted w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$626€559
    $626€559Check ↗
  13. 23
    Gretsch EMTC CVT Baritone BRSTL FOGGretsch
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$659€589
    $659€589Check ↗
  14. 24
    Gretsch EMTC JET Baritone IMPRLGretsch
    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
    Danelectro ‘56 Vintage Baritone56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal · Danelectro
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$738€659
    $738€659Check ↗
  21. 31
    Reverend Descent Baritone Army GreenReverend
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$1,454€1,299
    $1,454€1,299Check ↗
  22. 32
    Fender LTD Player Fusion Jag Bari SLVFender
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$1,308€1,169
    $1,308€1,169Check ↗
  23. 33
    Reverend Descent W BaritoneDescent Baritone MBK · Reverend
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$1,454€1,299
    $1,454€1,299Check ↗
  24. 34
    ESP LTD EC-1000 Baritone CHMSESP
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$1,622€1,449
    $1,622€1,449Check ↗
  25. 35
    Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal FlakeDanelectro
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  26. 36
    Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal FlakeDanelectro
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  27. 37
    Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BKDanelectro
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$704€629
    $704€629Check ↗
  28. 38
    Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark AquaDanelectro
    Index 42↑ 4.6%
    42
    ↑ 4.6%$760€679
    $760€679Check ↗
  29. 39
    Solar Guitars V2.6FBB Baritone Flame BlackSolar Guitars
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$1,118€999
    $1,118€999Check ↗
  30. 40
    Hagstrom Tremar Viking Baritone DLX BLKHagstrom
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$1,096€979
    $1,096€979Check ↗
  31. 41
    Harley Benton JA-Baritone BK BundleHarley Benton
    Index 31Stable
    31
    Stable$245€219
    $245€219Check ↗

Baritone Guitars by the numbers

Measured across all 46 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $738 — half of all baritone guitars here cost less.

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

median of 31 models · 42 mm (1.65")–48 mm (1.89")

Scale711 mm (27.99")

median of 44 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

Longer scale lengths (27" or more) are essential for baritone guitars to maintain string tension and avoid floppy, undefined low-end. Shorter scales just won't cut it; the string tension will be all over the place.

Pickup Voicing

Many cheaper baritones come with generic pickups that sound muddy or thin. Look for pickups with a slightly darker voicing or consider aftermarket upgrades to get the right tonal character - that sweet spot between a growl and a defined low-end.

Neck Profile

A comfortable neck is crucial, especially with heavier gauge strings. Check the neck profile - a slimmer C or D profile is often preferred for easier access to those lower frets and a more comfortable playing experience.

Hardware Quality

Cheap hardware (tuners, bridge) can lead to tuning instability and a generally lower-quality feel. Solid locking tuners are a worthwhile upgrade if the stock ones feel flimsy; they'll save you headaches on stage.

Construction & Materials

While you won't get exotic woods at this price point, look for solid bodies (not just laminate) and well-fitted hardware. A well-built guitar will stay in tune better, resonate more clearly, and simply feel more reliable - a huge factor for gigging.

Buying guide

So, you're chasing that cavernous low-end rumble and need a baritone to really fill out the sonic landscape? Good choice. Getting a baritone that doesn't sound like a muddy mess and can actually cut through a band mix doesn't have to bankrupt you. We've rounded up some solid options under $2000 that deliver serious thump without the premium price tag - these are the guitars you should be checking out.

At this budget, you're making trade-offs. You're unlikely to find a perfectly flawless instrument; expect some minor finish imperfections or slightly less premium hardware. Prioritize the scale length and pickup voicing above all else - those are the things that truly define a baritone's tone.

Don't be afraid to consider aftermarket upgrades like pickups or tuners to elevate the instrument's performance.

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 46 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 gauge strings should I use on a baritone?

Generally, you'll want heavier gauges - 11s or even 12s are common. Experiment to find what feels comfortable and produces the tone you're after. Lighter gauges can feel floppy on a longer scale.

Are baritone guitars hard to play?

They can be, especially if you're used to standard-scale guitars. The heavier strings and longer scale require more finger strength. But with practice, it becomes second nature.

Can I use a regular amp with a baritone guitar?

Yes, but a good amp with ample headroom will help you get the most out of the low-end. A smaller amp might just breakup and sound muddy. A clean, powerful amp lets the baritone's unique character shine.

What kind of music is a baritone guitar good for?

Anything that needs low-end rumble! Think doom metal, stoner rock, progressive rock, blues, jazz - even country can benefit from the added depth. It's a surprisingly versatile instrument.

Should I buy used to save money?

Absolutely. You can often find excellent deals on used baritone guitars, especially if you're willing to do a little research and inspect the instrument carefully. Just check for neck warps and excessive wear.

Related charts

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

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