AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Double Cut Guitars Under $5,000 2026
The top pick is Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS20 ($794). Gretsch Streamliner Jet Club Bass gives you the most for the money at $311. Gibson SG Standard '61 With Stop Bar Tailpiece leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 125 models across 19 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 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
175 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.
84AudioFu
Index↓ 4.9%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$835 · Aug 17$794 now$794€712 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson SG Standard '61 With Stop Bar Tailpiece
SG 61 Standard VC · Gibson
115 for sale on Reverb7 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This SG 61 Standard VC is a fantastic choice for players craving a vintage-inspired Gibson feel and tone without the premium price tag. The Burstbucker pickups are surprisingly versatile, covering classic rock, blues, and even some lighter hard rock. It's a real workhorse guitar, perfect for gigging musicians and serious hobbyists.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, classic SG tone
- Slim Taper neck profile is exceptionally comfortable for fast playing
- Burstbucker 61 pickups offer vintage PAF-like output and clarity
Cons
- SG's inherent neck dive can be noticeable, requiring strap adjustments
- Rosewood fretboard might not appeal to all players preferring maple
82AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,006 now$2,006€1,799 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$534 now$534€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$838 now$838€752 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS02T
Revstar RSS02T Fired Red · Yamaha
166 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.
81AudioFu
Index↓ 3.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$891 · Aug 17$857 now$857€769 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$971 · Aug 17$956 now$956€857 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
PRS SE Custom 24 Electric Guitar
SE Custom 24 Quilt TB · PRS
221 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$990 now$990€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.
78AudioFu
Index↓ 1.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,816 · Aug 17$1,783 now$1,783€1,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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 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$322 · Aug 17$311 now$311€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$1,058 now$1,058€949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 125 double cut guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Gibson Les Paul Junior Double CutLP Junior Double Cut Ebony · Gibson · 3 finishes74Stable$1,610€1,444$1,610€1,444Check ↗
- 12
PRS CE-24 Semi-HollowSE CE 24 BU · PRS72Stable$757€679$757€679Check ↗
- 13
Epiphone SG CustomSG Custom EB · Epiphone · 2 finishes69↓ 9.1%$668€599$668€599Check ↗
- 14
PRS Custom 24 10-TopSE DGT Gold Top · PRS69↓ 1.0%$857€769$857€769Check ↗
- 15
PRS Mark Holcomb SignatureSE Mark Holcomb SVN HL · PRS · 2 finishes69Stable$1,393€1,249$1,393€1,249Check ↗
- 16
PRS SE Floyd Custom 24SE Custom 24 Floyd Charcoal CB · PRS68↓ 14.5%$1,239€1,111$1,239€1,111Check ↗
- 17
Epiphone SG Tribute PlusSG Tribute Plus VS · Epiphone · 3 finishes64↓ 8.8%$371€333$371€333Check ↗
- 18
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-StoptailG2622T STRML CB ARCTC · Gretsch64Stable$646€579$646€579Check ↗
- 19
PRS CE-24 Standard SatinSE CE 24 Standard Satin VC · PRS · 4 finishes63↓ 2.9%$530€475$530€475Check ↗
- 20
Yamaha RS02CB Chris Buck Signature RevstarChris Buck RS02CB Honey Gold · Yamaha62Stable$1,337€1,199$1,337€1,199Check ↗
- 21
Yamaha Revstar II RSP02TRevstar RSP02T Crisp Gold · Yamaha · 2 finishes61Stable$2,117€1,899$2,117€1,899Check ↗
- 22
Gibson SG ModernSG Modern BBF · Gibson · 2 finishes61Stable$2,340€2,099$2,340€2,099Check ↗
- 23
PRS S2 McCarty 594 Thinline VCPRS · 6 finishes61Stable$2,786€2,499$2,786€2,499Check ↗
- 24
Guild Newark St. Collection Kim Thayil Signature PolaraPolara Kim Thayil · Guild · 2 finishes60Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 25
Gibson Custom Shop '58 Les Paul Junior Double Cut ReissueLP Junior 58 DC TVY VOS LH · Gibson60Stable$4,012€3,598$4,012€3,598Check ↗
- 26
PRS SE A60E AngelusSE DGT Tobacco Sunburst · PRS59↓ 1.7%$852€764$852€764Check ↗
- 27
Yamaha Revstar II RSP20Revstar RSP20 Moonlight Blue · Yamaha · 2 finishes59Stable$2,006€1,799$2,006€1,799Check ↗
- 28
Larry Carlton Q3 Antique WhiteLarry Carlton · 3 finishes58↓ 11.1%$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 29
Danelectro '59M NOS Double Cutaway59 XT Silver · Danelectro · 2 finishes58Stable$813€729$813€729Check ↗
- 30
Harley Benton DC-580 CH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 5 finishes57Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 31
Larry Carlton Q7 Metallic GoldLarry Carlton · 5 finishes57Stable$668€599$668€599Check ↗
- 32
Ibanez AR420 ArtistAR420-BMG · Ibanez · 2 finishes57Stable$768€689$768€689Check ↗
- 33
Gibson Jake Kiszka Signature '61 SG StandardJake Kiszka SG Standard FVC · Gibson57↓ 7.7%$2,447€2,195$2,447€2,195Check ↗
- 34
Gibson Custom Shop '58 Les Paul Junior Double Cut ReissueLP Junior 58 Doublecut TVY VOS · Gibson56Stable$4,235€3,798$4,235€3,798Check ↗
- 35
Harley Benton DC-Junior FAT Faded CherryHarley Benton · 4 finishes55Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 36
Schecter Sun Valley Super Shredder FR S SustainiacSun Valley Super Shredder BL · Schecter54Stable$1,671€1,499$1,671€1,499Check ↗
- 37
Gibson SG Standard '61 Faded with Maestro VibrolaSG Standard '61 Faded VCS · Gibson53Stable$1,926€1,727$1,926€1,727Check ↗
- 38
Gibson Custom Shop '60 Les Paul Special Double Cut ReissueLP Special 60 TV Yellow VOS · Gibson53↑ 5.3%$4,459€3,999$4,459€3,999Check ↗
- 39
Epiphone Les Paul Special DC TV YellowEpiphone · 2 finishes52↓ 3.7%$576€517$576€517Check ↗
- 40
Danelectro 59X1259X Black · Danelectro · 2 finishes52Stable$712€639$712€639Check ↗
- 41
Guild Polara Deluxe KWGGuild · 3 finishes52Stable$857€769$857€769Check ↗
- 42
Gibson Custom Shop '61 Les Paul SG Standard ReissueSG Custom EB GH · Gibson51Stable$4,792€4,298$4,792€4,298Check ↗
- 43
Harley Benton DC-Custom II CherryHarley Benton · 2 finishes50Stable$300€269$300€269Check ↗
- 44
Gretsch EMTC CVT HVNA BRSTGretsch · 2 finishes50↓ 1.6%$543€487$543€487Check ↗
- 45
Epiphone SG Standard EB IBGEpiphone · 2 finishes50Stable$602€540$602€540Check ↗
- 46
Ibanez AR320 Artist StandardAR320-MBM · Ibanez50Stable$641€575$641€575Check ↗
- 47
PRS SE 277 Charcoal BurstPRS50↓ 11.1%$990€888$990€888Check ↗
- 48
Epiphone IGC 1960 LP Special DC R CREpiphone · 2 finishes50↓ 4.8%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 49
Gretsch G5232T EMTC Double Jet CGRNGretsch · 2 finishes49Stable$667€598$667€598Check ↗
- 50
PRS SE CE 24 Slate BluePRS49Stable$757€679$757€679Check ↗
Double Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 214 models we track, not a sample.
Median $857 — half of all double cut guitars here cost less.
median of 156 models · 41.9 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 191 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 146 models · 21–24
median of 106 models · 254 mm (10")–305 mm (12.01")
How to choose the best double cut guitars
Neck Profile
This is HUGE. A thin, shredder-style neck isn't for everyone. Find a profile that feels comfortable and allows for good control - a C shape is often a safe bet, but try before you buy. Neck comfort dictates playability more than anything.
Pickup Voicing
Don't expect boutique-level clarity and articulation at this price point. Most guitars in this range will have pickups leaning towards a certain sonic character - warm and vintage, or hotter and more modern. Consider what genres you play and choose accordingly. That 'fat midrange honk' or a searing high-output crunch - it matters.
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners and a flimsy bridge will kill sustain and tuning stability. Look for Grover, Hipshot, or similar brands. A locking tremolo is a nice-to-have, but expect some compromises in feel compared to higher-end units.
Construction & Finish
Solid wood bodies are preferable for tone and sustain, but expect laminated bodies (mahogany/maple) to be common to keep costs down. The finish quality might not be flawless - watch for uneven coats or minor imperfections, but don't sweat the small stuff.
Ergonomics & Balance
A guitar that feels unbalanced or digs into your shoulder after an hour of playing isn't worth it. Check the weight distribution, especially if you'll be standing for long gigs. Comfortable access to the higher frets is also key for a double cut.
Buying guide
Alright, so you want a double cut guitar that doesn't require selling a kidney. It's totally doable. We're talking serious playing potential - think comfortable access to the upper registers, a balanced feel, and a sound that'll cut through a band mix without needing a tone-sucking compressor. Let's find you something that delivers tone and playability without the crippling debt.
At this budget, you're making trade-offs. The biggest corners cut are usually in the pickups and hardware. Don't expect the absolute best sustain or the most nuanced pickup response - but you can find instruments that play incredibly well and deliver a solid, usable tone.
Prioritize neck comfort and overall feel over flashy features. A good setup from a qualified tech is absolutely essential - even a great guitar can be unplayable with a bad setup.
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 214 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
Are all double cuts made of mahogany?
Nope. Mahogany is common, but you'll also find alder, basswood, and even ash. Each wood has its own tonal character - mahogany tends to be warmer, alder more balanced, basswood lighter and brighter, and ash more articulate. It's not just about the wood itself, but the construction too.
What's the deal with 'roasted' necks?
Roasted necks are kiln-dried to reduce moisture content. They're generally more stable and resistant to warping, which can improve tuning stability. It's a nice feature, but not a deal-breaker - a well-built standard neck can be just as good.
Can I realistically expect a Floyd Rose tremolo under $5000?
You can find Floyd Rose tremolos, but expect them to be the lower-end versions. They might not be as smooth or easy to adjust as the high-end ones. Be prepared for some tweaking and potential compromises in tuning stability.
What's more important: pickups or the wood the guitar is made of?
Pickups have a more immediate impact on tone. While the wood contributes to the overall resonance, a great set of pickups can elevate a less-than-stellar wood choice. However, both work together, so don't ignore the wood entirely.
Should I buy used to get more bang for my buck?
Absolutely. The used market is your friend. You can often find incredible deals on guitars that have been lightly used or even brand new. Just be sure to inspect the guitar thoroughly before buying - check the neck, frets, and electronics.
