AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Double Cut Guitars for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Gretsch Streamliner Jet Club Bass ($312). Harley Benton DC-580 CH Vintage Series gives you the most for the money at $155. Yamaha Revstar II RSE20 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 146 models across 19 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 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
106 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 is a double cut electric guitar with a mahogany body and neck and two HotWire humbucker pickups. It has a 24.88-inch scale, 22 medium jumbo frets, and a compensated wraparound bridge. It suits you if you want a classic-looking Gretsch with a simple set of controls and a jet black finish.
Pros
- Mahogany body and bolt-on mahogany neck give it a wood foundation
- Two HotWire High Output Ceramic Humbucker pickups with volume and tone controls
- Dual action truss rod is adjusted with a 4 mm Allen key at the headstock
76AudioFu
Index↓ 3.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$323 · Aug 17$312 now$312€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$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha Revstar II RSE20
Revstar RSE20 Neon Yellow · Yamaha
144 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.9 mm (1.65")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
The Revstar RSE20 is a seriously cool instrument. It's got a warm, woody tone with a surprising amount of bite thanks to those VH3 pickups. This is a fantastic option for players wanting a unique look and feel without sacrificing quality – especially good for rock, blues, and modern alternative.
Pros
- Mahogany chambered body provides warmth and sustain.
- VH3 pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and powerful tone.
- Comfortable neck profile suits a wide range of playing styles.
Cons
- The mahogany body can make it feel slightly heavier than some alternatives.
- Master volume control can limit tonal shaping flexibility.
79AudioFu
Index↓ 1.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$524 · Aug 17$515 now$515€461 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This guitar feels like a classic rock instrument you can actually play. The mahogany body gives it a warm sound while the 60s neck shape sits nicely under your hand. It comes with two humbuckers that cut through any mix, making it perfect for live gigs or recording riffs. Great for players who want that vintage vibe without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Mahogany body with flamed maple top for warmth
- 60s Slim Taper neck profile for comfortable play
- Two humbuckers deliver thick, classic rock tone
Cons
- No weight spec listed, likely heavy for long sessions
- Lack of active electronics limits volume control options
65AudioFu
Index↓ 9.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$412 · Aug 17$372 now$372€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$245 now$245€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$222 now$222€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$300 now$300€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$245 now$245€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 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$256 now$256€229 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 P90 sound, offering serious character and a playable neck for the price. The TV Yellow finish is a cool bonus. It's a great choice for players wanting a raw, bluesy, or garage rock tone without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Roswell P90D delivers a thick, creamy, and surprisingly articulate tone.
- Nyatoh body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced foundation.
- Graphite nut minimizes tuning instability and improves sustain.
Cons
- Nyatoh can be a bit plain visually compared to mahogany or ash.
- The 60s 'C' neck profile might be too thin for some players’ preferences.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$256 now$256€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 146 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 FAT Faded Che w/BagHarley Benton46Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 12
Larry Carlton Q3 Vintage CherryLarry Carlton · 3 finishes58↓ 10.1%$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 13
PRS CE-24 Standard SatinSE CE 24 Standard Satin VC · PRS · 4 finishes63↓ 2.9%$530€475$530€475Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit DC StyleHarley Benton25Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 15
Epiphone SG CustomSG Custom EB · Epiphone · 2 finishes70↓ 9.1%$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 16
Epiphone Les Paul Special DC TV YellowEpiphone · 2 finishes57↓ 14.3%$514€460$514€460Check ↗
- 17
Höfner HCT-LeaderHöfner47↓ 29.9%$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 18
ESP LTD Viper-10LTD Viper-10 BLK · ESP36Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 19
Larry Carlton Q7 BlackLarry Carlton · 5 finishes60↓ 11.7%$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 20
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-StoptailG2622T STRML CB ARCTC · Gretsch64Stable$646€579$646€579Check ↗
- 21
Gretsch EMTC CVT VWTGretsch · 2 finishes49Stable$502€450$502€450Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton DC-200CH DNAFX AmP20 SetHarley Benton28Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 23
Epiphone SG Modern Mojave BurstEpiphone50↓ 34.9%$560€499$560€499Check ↗
- 24
Harley Benton DC-Junior FAT TV Yellow BundleHarley Benton28Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 25
Epiphone SG Standard EB IBGEpiphone · 2 finishes51Stable$603€540$603€540Check ↗
- 26
Gretsch EMTC CVT WYCHWD GRNGretsch46↓ 2.0%$557€499$557€499Check ↗
- 27
Ibanez AR420 ArtistAR420-VLS · Ibanez · 2 finishes53↓ 1.8%$657€588$657€588Check ↗
- 28
Ibanez AR320 Artist StandardAR320-MBM · Ibanez50Stable$642€575$642€575Check ↗
- 29
Gretsch G5222 EMTC D. Jet BT V-St. NATGretsch · 2 finishes45Stable$590€528$590€528Check ↗
- 30
Danelectro 59X1259M NOS+ DC White · Danelectro · 2 finishes50Stable$658€589$658€589Check ↗
- 31
Epiphone Les Paul Special DC Fig BBEpiphone47Stable$624€559$624€559Check ↗
- 32
Epiphone Fatoumata Diawara Signature SG StandardFatoumata Diawara SG · Epiphone49↓ 9.2%$658€589$658€589Check ↗
- 33
Epiphone Les Paul Special DC Fig OceanWEpiphone47Stable$635€569$635€569Check ↗
- 34
Gretsch G5232T EMTC Double Jet CGRNGretsch · 2 finishes49Stable$668€598$668€598Check ↗
- 35
Höfner HCT-Leader Bundle w/ Gig BagHöfner28↓ 28.2%$413€370$413€370Check ↗
- 36
Guild Polara Blue SteelGuild43↓ 0.7%$612€548$612€548Check ↗
- 37
Danelectro Dan O. Mano SilverDanelectro · 2 finishes47↓ 7.7%$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 38
Guild Polara Phantom GreenGuild43↓ 1.1%$629€563$629€563Check ↗
- 39
Hagstrom Megin Aged Sky BlueHagstrom · 2 finishes46↓ 4.8%$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 40
Guild Polara Night Edition TungstenGuild41↓ 0.5%$640€573$640€573Check ↗
- 41
Danelectro Classic 59 Maroon Silver GlittDanelectro37Stable$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 42
Guild Polara Limited Vintage WalnutGuild43Stable$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 43
Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS20Revstar RSS20 Flash Green · Yamaha · 7 finishes84↓ 4.9%$795€712$795€712Check ↗
- 44
Gibson SG Standard '61 With Stop Bar TailpieceSG 61 Standard VC · Gibson · 7 finishes82Stable$2,009€1,799$2,009€1,799Check ↗
- 45
PRS SE Swamp Ash SpecialSE Swamp Ash Special CH · PRS · 3 finishes81Stable$840€752$840€752Check ↗
- 46
Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS02TRevstar RSS02T Fired Red · Yamaha · 7 finishes81↓ 3.8%$859€769$859€769Check ↗
- 47
PRS SE McCarty 594SE McCarty 594 Vintage SB · PRS · 3 finishes80↓ 1.6%$957€857$957€857Check ↗
- 48
PRS SE Custom 24 Electric GuitarSE Custom 24 Quilt TB · PRS · 3 finishes80↓ 2.1%$970€869$970€869Check ↗
- 49
Gibson SG StandardSG Standard TV Yellow · Gibson · 3 finishes78↓ 1.8%$1,785€1,599$1,785€1,599Check ↗
- 50
PRS SE Custom 24-08 QuiltSE Custom 24-08 TU · PRS · 4 finishes75Stable$1,060€949$1,060€949Check ↗
Double Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 245 models we track, not a sample.
Median $948 — half of all double cut guitars here cost less.
median of 166 models · 41.9 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 222 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 171 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 245 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.





