AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Heavy Guitars Under $800 2026
The top pick is Jackson JS Series JS32Q DKA HT Dinky Archtop with Amaranth Fretboard ($371). Harley Benton EX-84 Modern BK gives you the most for the money at $300. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 47 models across 8 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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Jackson JS Series JS32Q DKA HT Dinky Archtop with Amaranth Fretboard
JS32T King V AH BK · Jackson
70 for sale on Reverb19 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- BodyPoplar body
This is a black high gloss King V style guitar with a poplar body, a maple neck and two Zebra humbuckers. It has 24 jumbo frets and a 648 mm scale, so it suits you if you want a heavy-style guitar with lots of frets to play on. It is a good pick if you like a sharp, modern look and a bridge you can adjust yourself.
Pros
- Poplar body is a lighter wood choice for a heavy-style guitar
- Two Jackson High Output Zebra humbuckers give you two pickup options
- 24 jumbo frets on a one-piece maple neck with amaranth fretboard
Cons
- Amaranth fingerboard and pearloid inlays may not suit players wanting a rosewood or ebony feel
- No case or gig bag is included with this guitar
86AudioFu
Index↓ 2.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$378 · Aug 17$371 now$371€332 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- BodyBasswood body
This is a matte black electric guitar with a basswood body, a bolted maple neck and two Schecter Diamond Plus pickups. Its thin C neck and 24 jumbo frets make it easy to play fast and reach high up the neck. It suits you if you want a simple, straightforward guitar with a slim neck and a few controls to work with.
Pros
- Basswood body, a lighter wood, is paired with a bolted maple neck.
- Thin C neck profile gives a slim, easy grip for quick playing.
- Two Schecter Diamond Plus pickups with volume, tone and a three-way switch.
Cons
- Only one volume and one tone control, so there is little room to shape the sound.
70AudioFu
Index↓ 1.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$479 · Aug 17$473 now$473€424 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardJatoba fingerboard
This Arrow-200 is a solid choice for players wanting a modern, aggressive sound without the premium price tag. The mahogany body and humbucker pickups deliver a thick, punchy tone perfect for rock and metal, while the comfortable neck makes it a joy to play. It's a great entry point into the ESP world for those seeking a versatile, hard-hitting instrument.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end.
- Thin Uln neck profile is incredibly comfortable for fast playing.
- Roasted jatoba fingerboard offers stability and a smooth feel.
Cons
- Passive electronics limit tonal shaping options compared to active systems.
- Mahogany body can make it feel a little heavier than some players prefer.
59AudioFu
Index↓ 4.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$814 · Aug 17$776 now$776€695 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The Phoenix-201 is a solid choice for players seeking a powerful, well-built guitar at a reasonable price point. The mahogany body and humbucker pickup combo give it a thick, aggressive tone, while the coil-split option offers some tonal flexibility. It's a great option for gigging musicians and serious hobbyists who want a no-nonsense instrument.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Thin 'U' neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- LH-150 humbucker provides aggressive high-gain tones, ideal for rock and metal.
Cons
- Mahogany construction makes it relatively heavy, potentially fatiguing for some players.
- Rosewood fretboard might feel a bit 'slick' to players preferring a more textured surface.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$669 now$669€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyNyatoh body
This EX-84 Modern BK is a serious contender for players wanting a modern metal/rock tone on a budget. The active Roswell pickups pack a punch, and the mahogany body gives it a really solid feel. It's a fantastic choice for heavier genres where high gain and sustain are key, and you don't want to spend a fortune.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant sustain and a thick low-end.
- Roswell active pickups provide high output and a modern, aggressive tone.
- Ebony fretboard offers slick playability and excellent note definition.
Cons
- Mahogany body contributes to a potentially heavy feel, especially for smaller players.
- Active pickups require a power source, limiting versatility for some players.
57AudioFu
Index↓ 10.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$334 · Aug 17$300 now$300€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileV-shape neck
This guitar feels solid thanks to the full mahogany construction and V-neck shape. The DMT pickups give it a big, modern sound that cuts through a mix. It's a straightforward choice for players who want a thick tone without too many knobs to fiddle with.
Pros
- Solid Eastern mahogany body and set neck for stability
- Rosewood fingerboard offers a smooth playing surface
- V-neck profile provides comfortable access for fingers
Cons
- No weight information listed in the description
- Only one tone control limits tone shaping options
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$780 now$780€699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius381 mm (15")
- BodyNyatoh body
This EX-76 is a serious contender for players wanting a classic, mahogany-bodied guitar feel without the premium price tag. The Roswell pickups are a pleasant surprise, providing a thick, vintage-inspired tone that cuts through well. It's a great choice for rock, blues, and heavier styles where a warm, resonant core is desired.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant, and sustain-rich tones.
- Roswell LAF pickups offer surprisingly articulate and powerful output.
- Slim Taper C neck profile is comfortable for fast playing and extended sessions.
Cons
- Mahogany construction can lead to a noticeably heavier instrument.
- Pickups, while good, might lack the refinement of higher-end models.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$423 now$423€379 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This guitar uses a mahogany body and maple neck for a solid feel. The active pickups give it a strong voice for heavy riffs. It suits players who want a reliable, high-output instrument for rock and metal.
Pros
- Kerry King signature C-shaped neck offers comfortable playability
- Active DMT humbuckers deliver powerful output for heavy music
- Bolt-on construction ensures stability during intense playing
Cons
- No weight specification listed in the description
- Missing specific tonal character details from manufacturer
55AudioFu
Index↓ 18.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$758 · Aug 17$620 now$620€555 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels solid with a mahogany body and thick maple top. The stainless steel frets stay bright while the brass bridge holds the strings tight. It works best for players who want a heavy, aggressive tone without extra knobs.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body with flamed maple top
- Stainless steel super jumbo frets
- Dual humbucker pickups for thick tone
Cons
- Heavy guitar due to solid mahogany body
- Missing a master volume control knob
55AudioFu
Index↓ 25.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$892 · Aug 17$668 now$668€598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels like a no-nonsense workhorse for anyone who loves heavy riffs. The quilted maple top looks cool and helps keep it light enough for long rehearsals, while the V-neck shape makes big chords easier to reach. With those thick humbuckers, it cuts through a mix without asking for much from the player. It's a smart choice if you want a reliable machine that won't break the bank.
Pros
- Affordable entry point for heavy guitarists needing a solid instrument
- Quilted maple top adds visual flair while keeping body weight low
- V-neck profile offers comfortable reach for larger hand players
Cons
- No electronics diagram means tone control range is unknown
- Single tone control limits frequency shaping compared to multi-band options
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$725 now$725€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 47 heavy guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
ESP LTD Alexi-200 Alexi Laiho SignatureLTD Alexi-200 Black · ESP53Stable$780€699$780€699Check ↗
- 12
ESP LTD HEX-200 Nergal SignatureLTD HEX-200 Nergal BLKS · ESP53↑ 1.5%$780€699$780€699Check ↗
- 13
ESP LTD PHX-200DX RBESP · 2 finishes50↓ 5.0%$529€474$529€474Check ↗
- 14
Dean Guitars Kerry King VX BKSDean Guitars50Stable$758€679$758€679Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton BS-20BK Rock SeriesHarley Benton · 2 finishes49Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 16
Harley Benton Extreme-84 Progressive w/CaseHarley Benton48Stable$300€269$300€269Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton WL-20BK Rock SeriesHarley Benton46Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton MB-20BK Rock SeriesHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton Extreme-76 BK Classic SeriesHarley Benton46Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton Extreme-76 BK Classic w/BagHarley Benton46Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton Extreme-84 Progressive SeriesHarley Benton46Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton Extreme-84 Progressive w/BagHarley Benton46Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 23
Harley Benton RX-10 BK Rock SeriesHarley Benton44Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 24
Harley Benton Victory-BK LH Classic SeriesHarley Benton44Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton Victory Plus BK Vintage SeriesHarley Benton44Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton Victory Plus BK Vintage w/BagHarley Benton44Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 27
Jackson Excl Rhoads JS32T Nat OilJackson44Stable$434€389$434€389Check ↗
- 28
ESP LTD EX-200 Olympic WhiteESP44↑ 1.1%$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 29
Epiphone Flying V 70s Maui BlueEpiphone44Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 30
Solar Guitars S by Solar AB4.7W 7-String WHMSolar Guitars43Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 31
Dean Guitars MLX Quilt Maple Scary CherryDean Guitars43Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 32
Dean Guitars MLX Quilt Maple TBZ LeftyDean Guitars43Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 33
Dean Guitars Doyle Annihilator X BKSDean Guitars43Stable$758€679$758€679Check ↗
- 34
Harley Benton Victory-BK Classic SeriesHarley Benton42Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 35
Jackson JS1X Rhoads Minion Satin BlackJackson42Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 36
Harley Benton Victory Active SBKHarley Benton42Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 37
Harley Benton Victory Active SBK w/BagHarley Benton42Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 38
Solar Guitars S by Solar XB4.6C CBMSolar Guitars41Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 39
Solar Guitars S by Solar EB4.6C CBMSolar Guitars · 2 finishes41Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 40
Solar Guitars S by Solar AB4.6FRC CBMSolar Guitars39Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 41
Solar Guitars S by Solar VB4.6C CBMSolar Guitars36Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 42
Ibanez PSM10-BKPaul Stanley Sign.Ibanez35Stable$367€329$367€329Check ↗
- 43
Harley Benton Extreme-76 BK Classic BundleHarley Benton28Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 44
Harley Benton Victory Plus BK Vintage BundleHarley Benton26Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 45
Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit VictoryHarley Benton25Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 46
Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit Extreme-84Harley Benton25Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 47
Harley Benton Electric Guitar Kit Extreme-76Harley Benton24Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
Heavy Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 89 models we track, not a sample.
Median $390 — half of all heavy guitars here cost less.
median of 78 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 89 models · 628 mm (24.72")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 53 models · 22–24
most common · 20 models
How to choose the best heavy guitars
Pickups
This is the heart of a heavy guitar. We're looking for pickups that deliver a tight low-end thump for that modern metal growl, without getting lost in the mix. Expect some trade-offs - often, you'll find hotter pickups with a slightly less nuanced articulation.
Hardware
Tuners, bridge, and nut all impact tuning stability and sustain. Cheap hardware can lead to frustration, especially when you're trying to nail a drop-tuned riff. A locking tremolo is a dream, but expect basic, functional hardware in this price range.
Neck Profile & Feel
A comfortable neck is critical for fast playing. A slim C or D profile is generally a safe bet for most players, but it's a personal preference. A rough fret job can kill your playing experience, so pay attention to the action and fret condition.
Construction & Woods
You're not getting mahogany and figured tops here, generally. Expect basswood or alder bodies, which are both versatile tonewoods but don't have the same visual flair. Construction quality (neck joint, fretwork) is more important than the wood itself.
Sustain
A good heavy guitar needs to sing. Body wood, bridge design, and even the finish contribute to sustain. Don't expect the endless sustain of a $2000 axe, but a decent instrument should hold a note well enough for those pinch harmonics and dive bombs.
Buying guide
Alright, so you want a heavy guitar that doesn't drain your bank account? It's totally doable. Forget those impulse buys of guitars that promise the world and deliver a muddy mess - we're focusing on instruments that give you serious crunch and sustain without breaking the $800 barrier. This list isn't about miracles; it's about getting the most brutal bang for your buck.
At this price point, you're making compromises. Don't expect flawless fretwork or boutique-grade pickups. Prioritize a comfortable neck and decent hardware - those are the things that will drive you crazy if they're bad.
Upgrading pickups later is almost always easier than fixing a poorly constructed neck. Think of this as a foundation to build on.
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 89 heavy 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 these guitars gig-worthy?
Absolutely, but be realistic. They won't sound like a custom shop axe, but with a good amp and some tweaking, they'll hold their own. Just be prepared for a little more maintenance - check intonation regularly.
Can I expect a Floyd Rose tremolo for under $800?
A full Floyd Rose is unlikely, but some models offer locking tremolos that provide similar functionality at a lower cost. Be aware that these can be trickier to set up and maintain.
What about used guitars?
Excellent idea! You can often find higher-end models or guitars in better condition for the same price. Just inspect carefully for neck warps or excessive wear.
Are these guitars suitable for drop tunings?
Most are, but heavier tunings put more stress on the neck and hardware. Check the specs for recommended string gauges and be prepared to potentially upgrade the tuners if you're going significantly below standard tuning.
What about the finish? Is it going to chip easily?
Finishes on budget guitars are often thinner and more prone to scratches. It's not a deal-breaker, but be mindful and consider a clear protective film if you're hard on your gear.





