Best Baritone Guitars Under $800 2026
So, you're chasing that ultra-low rumble, that cavernous resonance that a standard guitar just can't deliver? A baritone is the ticket, but let's be real - they've historically been pretty pricey. Luckily, the market's shifted, and you can get a playable, gig-worthy baritone without remortgaging your house. This list is for players who want that extended range without breaking the bank, focusing on guitars under $800 that actually sound decent and can handle a gig.
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 2 brands, priced $231–$684, 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
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
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
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 479382
$638
Every baritone guitars that matches
30 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 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 |
| 17 | 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 |
| 18 | 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 |
| 19 | Danelectro 56 Baritone BMF 3+3 | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $789 |
| 20 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone BB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $731 |
| 21 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Baritone CB | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $696 |
| 22 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $789 |
| 23 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone White | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $766 |
| 24 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Red Metal | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $766 |
| 25 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Black | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $754 |
| 26 | Danelectro 56 Vintage Baritone Dark Aqua | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $754 |
| 27 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Black | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $719 |
| 28 | Danelectro 56 Baritone Silver Metal Flake | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $789 |
| 29 | Squier Tele Custom Baritone BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $545 |
| 30 | Danelectro DE56 Baritone Guitar BK | Scale 756 mm (29.76") | $731 |
Baritone Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 30 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $650
from $243 to $789
Nut width
median 42 mm (1.65")
from 42 mm (1.65") to 48 mm (1.89") · 19 models
Scale
median 756 mm (29.76")
from 686 mm (27.01") to 762 mm (30") · 28 models
Frets
median 24
from 21 to 24 · 16 models
Neck profile
C, D, U
most common · 9 models
Body
mahogany, poplar, meranti
most common · 12 models
Fingerboard radius
median 355.6 mm (14")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 355.6 mm (14") · 12 models
Fingerboard
ebony, rosewood, pau ferro
most common · 14 models
How to Choose the Best Baritone Guitars
1
Neck Profile
A chunky neck can feel awkward on a long-scale baritone. We prioritized comfortable profiles - think C or D shapes - that allow for easy access to those low notes without feeling like you're wrestling a redwood tree.
2
Pickup Voicing
Many budget baritones suffer from muddy, indistinct low-mids. We looked for pickups that retain articulation and clarity while still delivering that low-end thump - something that can actually be heard in a band setting, not just in the bedroom.
3
Hardware Quality
Tuners, bridges, and nut material all impact tuning stability and sustain. Cheap hardware means constant retuning and a lifeless feel, and that's a deal-breaker for gigging.
4
Body Wood & Construction
Mahogany is the king for low-end warmth, but it's often paired with cheaper woods in this price range. Solid bodies are preferable to laminates, but even a well-built laminate can sound decent with the right amp.
5
Overall Build Quality
Let's be honest, you're not getting boutique craftsmanship. But sloppy fretwork, sharp fret edges, and obvious finish flaws are unacceptable. We prioritized guitars that feel reasonably well-made and playable out of the box.
Buying Guide
At this price point, compromises are inevitable. Expect slightly lower-grade hardware than you'd find on a $1500 baritone - it's a trade-off. Focus on the neck profile and pickup voicing; those are the biggest factors in how the guitar feels and sounds. Don't be afraid to buy used - you can often snag a much better guitar for your money.
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 30 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
The longer scale length can feel a bit more demanding, especially if you're used to shorter scales. Action adjustments are key - a slightly higher action can help prevent fret buzz and make those low notes more manageable.
A good amp with a decent low-end response is crucial. Don't expect miracles from a tiny practice amp. A 1x12 or 2x12 combo with a 10-15 inch speaker will give you more headroom and a fuller sound.
You can, but you'll likely experience fret buzz and intonation issues. Heavier gauge strings (11-56 or even heavier) are generally recommended to maintain proper tension and intonation on a longer scale.
They excel in doom metal, stoner rock, progressive metal, and anything that needs a really deep, resonant low end. They can also be surprisingly versatile for blues and jazz, adding a unique color to your playing.
While both offer extended range, a baritone guitar typically has a longer scale length (27-30") and a more focused low-end response, whereas a 7-string often prioritizes high-end string flexibility.
