AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Double Cut Guitars Under $2,000 2026
The top pick is Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS20 ($843). Gretsch Streamliner Jet Club Bass gives you the most for the money at $314. Gibson SG Standard leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 99 models across 16 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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Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS20
Revstar RSS20 Flash Green · Yamaha
181 for sale on Reverb7 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.9 mm (1.65")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The Revstar RSS20 is a seriously well-built guitar offering a ton of value. The mahogany body and AlNiCo 5 pickups give it a warm, punchy character that’s great for rock, blues, and even some heavier styles. It's a fantastic option for players wanting quality construction and a vintage-inspired feel without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a classic tone foundation.
- Carbon-reinforced neck enhances stability and reduces fret buzz.
- VH5 pickups offer a versatile range from clean to crunchy overdrive.
Cons
- The Flash Green finish, while striking, might not appeal to everyone's taste.
- The master volume/tone control scheme can limit nuanced tone shaping.
83AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$843 now$843€749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS02T
Revstar RSS02T Fired Red · Yamaha
174 for sale on Reverb7 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.9 mm (1.65")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
This guitar feels great because the chambered body is light, and the Alnico 5 pickups give a tight, driving sound. It is built well with a reinforced neck and smooth frets, making it ready for long gigs. It suits players who want a classic rock tone without the bulk of a heavy solid body.
Pros
- Chambered mahogany body keeps the guitar light and easy to play for hours.
- Alnico 5 single coils deliver a raw, punchy tone perfect for rock and blues.
- Carbon-reinforced set neck offers strong stability without adding extra weight.
Cons
- Lacks a dedicated pickup selector for switching between humbuckers or different tones.
- No active electronics means output might struggle in very large, loud venues.
82AudioFu
Index↓ 3.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$899 · Aug 17$865 now$865€769 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 width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyAsh body
The SE Swamp Ash Special CH is a seriously good-playing guitar offering a lot of PRS character at a more affordable price point. The swamp ash gives it a lively, responsive feel, and the pickup configuration is surprisingly versatile. This is a fantastic option for players wanting a well-built, great-sounding instrument that can handle everything from blues to rock to lighter funk.
Pros
- Swamp ash body delivers resonant, airy tones with excellent sustain.
- Wide thin neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of hand sizes.
- PRS-designed pickups provide a versatile palette, from chimey cleans to crunchy overdrive.
Cons
- Swamp ash can be somewhat susceptible to finish checking with age and use.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the complexity of a set neck.
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$846 now$846€752 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyMahogany body
This SE McCarty 594 Vintage SB is a seriously impressive instrument for the money. It nails that vintage PRS vibe with its warm mahogany body, comfortable neck, and those fantastic 58/15 pickups. If you’re into classic rock, blues, or just want a well-built, great-sounding guitar that doesn’t break the bank, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain; a classic tonal foundation.
- Vintage 'Pattern' neck profile is exceptionally comfortable and familiar.
- PRS 58/15 LT 'S' pickups offer articulate crunch and vintage-inspired tones.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make it feel a little heavier than some modern guitars.
- Rosewood fingerboard might feel a bit dry for some players; conditioning recommended.
80AudioFu
Index↓ 1.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$980 · Aug 17$964 now$964€857 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
PRS SE Custom 24 Electric Guitar
SE Custom 24 Quilt TB · PRS
215 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets24 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels like a smaller, lighter version of the big PRS Custom models. The quilted maple top looks fancy, and the wide neck makes it easy to play chords. It suits players who want a solid mahogany body with clear highs and warm lows. Great for gigging if you don't mind the tremolo without a full weight spec.
Pros
- Mahogany body paired with quilted maple for visual appeal
- Wide thin neck profile fits large hands easily
- Birds fingerboard inlays offer classic custom look
Cons
- Teal Black finish may show wear quickly
- No weight specification provided in description
79AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$999 now$999€888 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This SG Standard in TV Yellow is a real looker and a solid performer. The mahogany construction gives it a rich, warm voice that's perfect for rock, blues, and even some heavier styles. It’s a great choice for players wanting a classic Gibson feel and tone without venturing into the higher-end models.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warm sustain and a focused tone.
- Rounded neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- 490R/490T pickups provide a versatile range from crunch to high-gain.
Cons
- Mahogany construction contributes to a noticeably heavier feel, potentially fatiguing.
- Rosewood fingerboard may feel less slick than alternatives for some players.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,833 now$1,833€1,629 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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 width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels like a fast, comfortable tool for players who like long stretches of playing. The wide neck makes getting to the higher frets easy, and the flamed maple top looks like a fine instrument. It suits anyone who wants more frets than standard models without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Wide thin neck profile for fast playing and easy access
- Flamed maple top adds visual beauty and structural rigidity
- 24 frets allow playing higher positions comfortably
Cons
- Set neck construction may feel less solid than bolt-on
- No listed weight means the guitar could be heavy
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,068 now$1,068€949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Junior Double Cut
LP Junior Double Cut Ebony · Gibson
89 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels like a classic, built from solid mahogany with a smooth rosewood neck. The vintage P90 pickup gives a loud, gritty sound that cuts through a mix. It is perfect for players who want a simple, authentic rock tone without extra electronics.
Pros
- Rich mahogany body offers warm, natural resonance.
- Slim Taper neck provides easy playability for all hands.
- Authentic vintage P90 single coil delivers raw bite.
Cons
- No preamp output for direct recording.
- Single volume and tone controls limit shaping.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,625 now$1,625€1,444 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 99 double cut guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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PRS CE-24 Semi-HollowSE CE 24 BU · PRS72Stable$764€679$764€679Check ↗
- 12
PRS Custom 24 10-TopSE DGT Gold Top · PRS70↓ 1.0%$865€769$865€769Check ↗
- 13
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-StoptailG2622T STRML CB DC VWT · Gretsch · 2 finishes69Stable$618€549$618€549Check ↗
- 14
PRS Mark Holcomb SignatureSE Mark Holcomb SVN HL · PRS · 2 finishes69Stable$1,406€1,249$1,406€1,249Check ↗
- 15
Epiphone SG CustomSG Custom AW · Epiphone · 2 finishes66Stable$652€579$652€579Check ↗
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Epiphone SG Tribute PlusSG Tribute Plus VS · Epiphone · 3 finishes64↓ 8.8%$375€333$375€333Check ↗
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Yamaha RS02CB Chris Buck Signature RevstarChris Buck RS02CB Honey Gold · Yamaha61Stable$1,349€1,199$1,349€1,199Check ↗
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PRS SE Floyd Custom 24SE Custom 24 Floyd Charcoal CB · PRS61Stable$1,462€1,299$1,462€1,299Check ↗
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PRS CE-24 Standard SatinSE CE 24 Standard Satin CH · PRS · 4 finishes60↓ 2.0%$539€479$539€479Check ↗
- 20
Guild Newark St. Collection Kim Thayil Signature PolaraPolara Kim Thayil · Guild · 2 finishes60Stable$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
- 21
PRS SE A60E AngelusSE DGT Tobacco Sunburst · PRS59↓ 1.7%$860€764$860€764Check ↗
- 22
Yamaha Revstar II RSP02TRevstar RSP02T Swift Blue · Yamaha · 2 finishes59Stable$1,968€1,749$1,968€1,749Check ↗
- 23
Larry Carlton Q3 Antique WhiteLarry Carlton · 3 finishes58↓ 11.1%$449€399$449€399Check ↗
- 24
Ibanez AR420 ArtistAR420-BMG · Ibanez · 2 finishes58Stable$775€689$775€689Check ↗
- 25
Danelectro '59M NOS Double Cutaway59 XT Silver · Danelectro · 2 finishes58Stable$820€729$820€729Check ↗
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Harley Benton DC-580 CH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 5 finishes57Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 27
Larry Carlton Q7 Metallic GoldLarry Carlton · 5 finishes57Stable$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 28
Harley Benton DC-Junior FAT Faded CherryHarley Benton · 4 finishes55Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 29
Schecter Sun Valley Super Shredder FR S SustainiacSun Valley Super Shredder BL · Schecter54Stable$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
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Gibson SG Standard '61 Faded with Maestro VibrolaSG Standard '61 Faded VCS · Gibson53Stable$1,943€1,727$1,943€1,727Check ↗
- 31
Epiphone Les Paul Special DC TV YellowEpiphone · 2 finishes52↓ 3.7%$582€517$582€517Check ↗
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Danelectro 59X1259X Black · Danelectro · 2 finishes52Stable$719€639$719€639Check ↗
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Guild Polara Deluxe KWGGuild · 3 finishes52Stable$865€769$865€769Check ↗
- 34
Harley Benton DC-Custom II CherryHarley Benton · 2 finishes50Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 35
Gretsch EMTC CVT HVNA BRSTGretsch · 2 finishes50↓ 1.6%$548€487$548€487Check ↗
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Epiphone SG Standard EB IBGEpiphone · 2 finishes50Stable$608€540$608€540Check ↗
- 37
Ibanez AR320 Artist StandardAR320-MBM · Ibanez50Stable$647€575$647€575Check ↗
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Epiphone IGC 1960 LP Special DC R CREpiphone · 2 finishes50↓ 4.8%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
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Gretsch G5232T EMTC Double Jet CGRNGretsch · 2 finishes49Stable$673€598$673€598Check ↗
- 40
PRS SE CE 24 Slate BluePRS49Stable$764€679$764€679Check ↗
- 41
Harley Benton DC-600 VI Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 42
Danelectro Dan O. Cool BlueDanelectro · 3 finishes48↓ 3.0%$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 43
ESP LTD Volsung-200LTD Volsung 200 Black Satin · ESP48Stable$787€699$787€699Check ↗
- 44
Epiphone SG Custom Futura M Ember ShiftEpiphone48↓ 12.4%$899€799$899€799Check ↗
- 45
Harley Benton DC-Junior FAT Faded Che w/BagHarley Benton47Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 46
Danelectro Dan O. Mano SilverDanelectro · 2 finishes47↓ 7.7%$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 47
Danelectro 59M NOS+ Metalflake 60th Anniversary59M NOS+ Orange Metalflake · Danelectro47↓ 2.3%$713€634$713€634Check ↗
- 48
Gretsch EMTC CVT WYCHWD GRNGretsch46↓ 2.0%$562€499$562€499Check ↗
- 49
Epiphone Les Paul Special DC Fig BBEpiphone46Stable$629€559$629€559Check ↗
- 50
Epiphone Les Paul Special DC Fig OceanWEpiphone46Stable$640€569$640€569Check ↗
Double Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 171 models we track, not a sample.
Median $753 — half of all double cut guitars here cost less.
median of 130 models · 41.9 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 155 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 128 models · 21–24
median of 91 models · 254 mm (10")–305 mm (12.01")
How to choose the best double cut guitars
Neck Profile
A comfortable neck is everything. Whether you prefer a slim C, a thicker D, or something in between, the neck needs to feel good in your hand for hours on end. A neck that's too thick will fight you, a neck that's too thin feels lifeless.
Pickup Voicing
This is huge. Do you want a searing high-gain tone for metal? A warm, bluesy growl? Or something more versatile? Cheap guitars often skimp on pickups, resulting in muddy lows, harsh highs, and a general lack of character. Listen closely for that 'fat midrange honk' or that glassy clarity you're after.
Hardware Quality
Tuners, bridge, and nut - these are the unsung heroes. Cheap tuners will have you retuning every other song. A poorly designed bridge can kill sustain and make intonation a nightmare. A plastic nut will buzz and choke your tone.
Construction and Finish
Solid wood bodies are ideal, but at this price point, expect a blend of woods or a mahogany/basswood combination. The finish needs to be durable enough to withstand gigging; thin, flaking finishes are a sign of corners cut.
Overall Ergonomics
Beyond the neck profile, consider the body shape, weight, and balance. A guitar that's uncomfortable to play will limit your creativity and tire you out quickly. This is especially important for longer gigs or extended practice sessions.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're after a double cut guitar that doesn't require selling a kidney? Smart move. The double cut design offers better access to the upper frets, crucial for lead work and those soaring solos, and thankfully, you don't have to break the bank to get one. We're focusing on guitars under $2000 that actually deliver playable feel, decent tone, and can handle the rigors of gigging or serious practice sessions - no plastic-y feel or weak pickups here.
At this price point, you're trading off somewhere. Expect compromises in things like binding, figured tops, or exotic wood choices. Don't get hung up on aesthetics; focus on the feel, the tone, and the hardware.
A well-built guitar with basic appointments will always outperform a flashy one with cheap components. Always check the action and intonation before you buy - a quick setup can make a world of difference.
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 171 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 mahogany and basswood?
Mahogany tends to be warmer, with a bit more sustain and a pronounced midrange. Basswood is brighter, more balanced, and often preferred for high-gain tones as it doesn't get muddy. Both are common and work well.
Are 'roasted' necks worth the extra cost?
Roasted (torrefied) necks are kiln-dried at high temperatures, which stabilizes the wood and supposedly improves resonance. They can be slightly more stable and have a smoother feel, but the audible difference is subtle for most players. It's a nice-to-have, not a must-have.
What about coil-splitting or other 'modern' features?
Those are nice, but don't prioritize them over core build quality. A coil-split won't save a bad pickup, and a poorly made guitar won't magically become a shred machine just because it has push-pull pots.
Should I buy online or try it in a store?
Ideally, try before you buy. But if that's not possible, buy from a retailer with a good return policy. Setup is almost always needed, so factor that into your budget.
What's the deal with 'factory seconds'?
Factory seconds can be a steal, but be aware of why they're discounted. It could be a finish flaw, a minor hardware issue, or a neck that needs a bit of tweaking. Inspect carefully before committing.
