AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Double Cut Guitars for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Gretsch Streamliner Jet Club Bass ($314). Harley Benton DC-580 CH Vintage Series gives you the most for the money at $156. Yamaha Revstar II RSE20 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 144 models across 19 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Gretsch Streamliner Jet Club Bass
Streamliner CVT JBK · Gretsch
105 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale632 mm (24.88")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels solid thanks to the mahogany body and bolt-on neck. The ceramic humbuckers give a tight, punchy sound perfect for rock. It suits players who want a reliable workhorse without spending a lot of money.
Pros
- Mahogany body and bolt-on neck build strong resonance
- HotWire ceramic humbuckers cut through modern mixes
- Graph Tech NuBone nut reduces fret buzz
Cons
- Lack of single coil pickups limits bright tones
- No specific weight listed makes heft unknown
76AudioFu
Index↓ 3.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$325 · Aug 17$314 now$314€279 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This DC-580 is a seriously impressive value, offering a vintage-inspired aesthetic and sound. The neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of players, and those humbuckers give you a fat, gritty tone perfect for rock and blues. It's a great entry point for players wanting that classic double-cut feel without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Basswood body offers surprisingly warm, resonant low-mids.
- Canadian maple neck provides a comfortable, familiar C-shape profile.
- Thermally treated roseacer fretboard resists moisture and feels smooth.
Cons
- Basswood can feel a little 'soft' under a heavy pick attack.
- Hardware, while functional, is basic and may benefit from upgrades.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$156 now$156€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width41.9 mm (1.65")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
The RSE20 Red Copper is a seriously cool-looking and surprisingly versatile guitar for the price. It's got a warm, woody tone with plenty of punch thanks to those VH3 pickups, making it a great choice for rock, blues, and even some classic country. This is a fantastic instrument for gigging musicians or players looking for quality without premium pricing.
Pros
- Mahogany chambered body delivers a warm, resonant, and surprisingly lightweight feel.
- The VH3 pickups offer a thick, articulate tone ideal for rock and blues.
- The 12” radius rosewood fretboard enhances playability and comfortable bends.
Cons
- Red Copper finish, while striking, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- The neck profile, while comfortable, might be too thin for players preferring a thicker feel.
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$539 now$539€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels like a smaller, lighter version of the classic SG you know and love. The mahogany body and bolt-on neck make it easy to play, while the Zebra Coil humbuckers deliver a punchy sound without needing extra power. It's a solid choice for players who want that vintage vibe on a budget-friendly model.
Pros
- Mahogany body with flamed maple top for classic SG tone
- 60s Slim Taper neck profile offers comfortable playability
- Dual humbucker pickups with Zebra Coils for solid output
Cons
- No active electronics boost for high-gain applications
- Bolt-on neck design may lack traditional set-neck stability
64AudioFu
Index↓ 8.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$411 · Aug 17$375 now$375€333 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyNyatoh body
This DC-Junior is a fantastic entry point into the world of P90 guitars. It nails that raw, bluesy tone and the neck profile is surprisingly comfortable. It's a budget-friendly workhorse, perfect for beginners or players seeking a simple, reliable, and instantly gratifying instrument.
Pros
- Nyatoh body delivers a surprisingly resonant and warm tone.
- Roswell P90D pickup provides thick, gritty, and articulate vintage character.
- 60s 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability and familiar feel.
Cons
- Nyatoh body, while resonant, can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to mahogany.
- Limited pickup options restrict tonal versatility beyond classic rock and blues.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$246 now$246€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets24 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyOkoume body
This DC-600 VI is a seriously impressive offering for the budget-conscious player. The vintage-inspired aesthetics and warm, full tone make it ideal for blues, classic rock, and even some mellow jazz. It's a fantastic platform for beginners or experienced players seeking a vintage vibe without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- Roswell LAF pickups deliver a convincing vintage PAF-style humbucker vibe.
- Mahogany neck provides a warm, comfortable feel and sustain.
Cons
- Okoume body can be prone to finish checking with age and temperature changes.
- Neck profile, while comfortable, might be too thick for players preferring thinner necks.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$224 now$224€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyMeranti body
This DC-Custom II Cherry is a serious contender for players wanting a solid, versatile instrument. The roasted jatoba board and Tesla pickups are real standouts for the price, offering a surprisingly refined playing experience. It’s a great option for rock, metal, and hard rock players looking for a well-built, high-performing guitar without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Roasted jatoba fingerboard offers excellent stability and feel.
- Tesla pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and powerful high-gain tone.
- Meranti body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the instrument.
Cons
- Meranti can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- The neck profile, while comfortable, might not suit players preferring a thinner feel.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$303 now$303€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyNyatoh body
This DC-Junior Pelham Blue is a seriously fun, affordable guitar. The Pelham Blue finish is a real eye-catcher, and the P90 pickup delivers a raw, vintage tone that’s perfect for garage rock, blues, and punk. It’s a great option for beginners or experienced players looking for a no-fuss, character-filled instrument.
Pros
- Nyatoh body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- Roswell P90D delivers thick, gritty tones ideal for rock and blues.
- 60s C neck profile offers a comfortable, familiar feel for many players.
Cons
- Nyatoh can be a bit brittle; potential for finish checking with heavy use.
- Amaranth fingerboard, while nice, lacks the slickness of maple or ebony.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$246 now$246€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyNyatoh body
This DC-Junior FAT Faded is a fantastic entry point into the world of P90 guitars. The faded cherry finish looks great, and the Roswell pickup delivers a surprisingly thick and powerful tone. It’s a real winner for players looking for that classic, raw rock sound on a budget.
Pros
- Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- Roswell P90D delivers thick, gritty tones ideal for rock and blues.
- Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience and sustain.
Cons
- Nyatoh body, while resonant, can be less stable than mahogany.
- ’Fat ‘59’ neck profile may feel bulky for players with smaller hands.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$291 now$291€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyNyatoh body
This DC-Junior Pelham Blue is a seriously fun guitar for the money. The Pelham Blue finish is a real head-turner, and that Roswell P90 delivers a raw, bluesy tone. It's a great option for players who love that classic, stripped-down Junior vibe and don’t need a ton of bells and whistles.
Pros
- Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation
- Roswell P90D pickup delivers a thick, gritty, and vocal tone
- 60s C neck profile is comfortable and familiar for many players
Cons
- Nyatoh can be a bit on the plain-looking side aesthetically
- 305mm radius fingerboard might feel a bit steep for some players
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$258 now$258€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 144 double cut guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Harley Benton DC-Junior TV Yellow w/BagHarley Benton44Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 12
Larry Carlton Q3 Vintage CherryLarry Carlton · 3 finishes58↓ 10.1%$449€399$449€399Check ↗
- 13
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-StoptailG2622T STRML CB DC VWT · Gretsch · 2 finishes69Stable$618€549$618€549Check ↗
- 14
PRS CE-24 Standard SatinSE CE 24 Standard Satin CH · PRS · 4 finishes60↓ 2.0%$539€479$539€479Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit DC StyleHarley Benton25Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 16
Epiphone SG CustomSG Custom AW · Epiphone · 2 finishes66Stable$652€579$652€579Check ↗
- 17
ESP LTD Viper-10LTD Viper-10 BLK · ESP36Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 18
Gretsch EMTC CVT VWTGretsch · 2 finishes49Stable$506€450$506€450Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton DC-200CH DNAFX AmP20 SetHarley Benton28Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 20
Epiphone Les Paul Special DC TV YellowEpiphone · 2 finishes52↓ 3.7%$582€517$582€517Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton DC-Junior FAT TV Yellow BundleHarley Benton28Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 22
Larry Carlton Q7 BlackLarry Carlton · 5 finishes57Stable$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 23
Epiphone SG Standard EB IBGEpiphone · 2 finishes50Stable$608€540$608€540Check ↗
- 24
Gretsch EMTC CVT WYCHWD GRNGretsch46↓ 2.0%$562€499$562€499Check ↗
- 25
Ibanez AR420 ArtistAR420-VLS · Ibanez · 2 finishes53Stable$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 26
Ibanez AR320 Artist StandardAR320-MBM · Ibanez50Stable$647€575$647€575Check ↗
- 27
Danelectro Fifty Niner Jade TopDanelectro44Stable$573€509$573€509Check ↗
- 28
Gretsch G5222 EMTC D. Jet BT V-St. NATGretsch · 2 finishes45Stable$594€528$594€528Check ↗
- 29
Danelectro 59X1259M NOS+ DC White · Danelectro · 2 finishes50Stable$663€589$663€589Check ↗
- 30
Epiphone Les Paul Special DC Fig BBEpiphone46Stable$629€559$629€559Check ↗
- 31
Höfner HCT-LeaderHöfner40Stable$560€498$560€498Check ↗
- 32
Gretsch G5232T EMTC Double Jet CGRNGretsch · 2 finishes49Stable$673€598$673€598Check ↗
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Epiphone Les Paul Special DC Fig OceanWEpiphone46Stable$640€569$640€569Check ↗
- 34
Guild Polara Blue SteelGuild43↓ 0.7%$617€548$617€548Check ↗
- 35
Danelectro Dan O. Mano SilverDanelectro · 2 finishes47↓ 7.7%$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 36
Guild Polara Phantom GreenGuild43↓ 1.1%$634€563$634€563Check ↗
- 37
Danelectro Classic 59 Maroon Silver GlittDanelectro38Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
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Guild Polara Night Edition TungstenGuild41↓ 0.5%$645€573$645€573Check ↗
- 39
Guild Polara Limited Vintage WalnutGuild43Stable$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 40
Höfner HCT-Leader Bundle w/ Gig BagHöfner24↓ 1.2%$573€509$573€509Check ↗
- 41
Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS20Revstar RSS20 Flash Green · Yamaha · 7 finishes83Stable$843€749$843€749Check ↗
- 42
Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS02TRevstar RSS02T Fired Red · Yamaha · 7 finishes82↓ 3.8%$865€769$865€769Check ↗
- 43
Gibson SG Standard '61 With Stop Bar TailpieceSG 61 Standard VC · Gibson · 6 finishes82Stable$2,024€1,799$2,024€1,799Check ↗
- 44
PRS SE Swamp Ash SpecialSE Swamp Ash Special CH · PRS · 3 finishes81Stable$846€752$846€752Check ↗
- 45
PRS SE McCarty 594SE McCarty 594 Vintage SB · PRS · 3 finishes80↓ 1.6%$964€857$964€857Check ↗
- 46
PRS SE Custom 24 Electric GuitarSE Custom 24 Quilt TB · PRS · 3 finishes79Stable$999€888$999€888Check ↗
- 47
Gibson SG StandardSG Standard TV Yellow · Gibson · 3 finishes77Stable$1,833€1,629$1,833€1,629Check ↗
- 48
PRS SE Custom 24-08 QuiltSE Custom 24-08 TU · PRS · 4 finishes75Stable$1,068€949$1,068€949Check ↗
- 49
Gibson Les Paul Junior Double CutLP Junior Double Cut Ebony · Gibson · 3 finishes74Stable$1,625€1,444$1,625€1,444Check ↗
- 50
PRS CE-24 Semi-HollowSE CE 24 BU · PRS72Stable$764€679$764€679Check ↗
Double Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 241 models we track, not a sample.
Median $922 — half of all double cut guitars here cost less.
median of 164 models · 41.9 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 217 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 168 models · 21–24
median of 117 models · 254 mm (10")–350 mm (13.78")
How to choose the best double cut guitars
Neck Profile
A comfortable neck is everything. Chunky 50s profiles can be a workout for smaller hands, while super-thin shred necks can feel lifeless. Look for something in the middle - a C or D profile - that lets you play for hours without fatigue.
Action and Setup
A high action (string height) makes fretting chords a struggle. Even a decent guitar often needs a setup - leveling the frets, adjusting the intonation - to play easily. Factor in the cost of a professional setup if the guitar's action feels too high out of the box.
Pickup Voicing
You don't need high-output pickups for rock and blues. Often, a more balanced voicing - something that gives you clarity and a bit of warmth - is more versatile for learning. Harsh, ice-picky pickups can mask sloppy technique and make clean tones sound brittle.
Hardware Quality
Cheap hardware - tuners, bridge - will fight you. Poor tuning stability is a huge frustration for beginners. While you can always upgrade later, a guitar with decent hardware will be more enjoyable to play right out of the box.
Body Wood and Construction
While mahogany and alder are great, they're not essential for a beginner. A well-built guitar with a simpler tonewood like basswood can still sound fantastic. More important is solid construction - no rattles, no sharp fret edges, and good overall stability.
Buying guide
So, you're looking at a double cut guitar as your first serious axe? Smart move - they're comfortable, versatile, and a classic look. But not all double cuts are created equal, especially when you're just starting out. We're going to break down what you really need in a beginner-friendly double cut, beyond just the aesthetics, because a guitar that fights you is going to kill your motivation faster than a bad amp tone.
Don't chase the 'name' - focus on feel. A slightly more expensive guitar that plays well and sounds decent is better than a cheaper one that's a pain to handle. Watch out for guitars with excessively thin necks or overly aggressive pickups.
And remember, a good setup is almost always worth the investment; it'll unlock the guitar's true potential and make learning much more rewarding.
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 241 double cut 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 difference between a double cut and a single cut?
Double cuts have cutaways on both sides of the body, offering easier access to higher frets. Single cuts only have one - a classic Les Paul design. Double cuts are generally more comfortable for reaching those upper registers.
Are double cut guitars better than other body styles?
Not necessarily. It's about preference and ergonomics. A double cut just offers better upper fret access, which can be helpful as you develop your skills.
Can I upgrade the pickups later?
Absolutely. Pickups are one of the easiest and most impactful upgrades you can make. But a bad guitar is a bad guitar, no matter how good the pickups are.
What's a reasonable budget for a beginner double cut?
You can find decent double cuts in the $200-$400 range. Be prepared to spend another $50-$100 for a proper setup.
I'm left-handed, can I get a double cut guitar?
Yes, but your options will be more limited. Many manufacturers offer left-handed models, but inventory can be spotty. Be prepared to wait or search online.





