AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Jazz Guitars for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Ibanez GB10 George Benson Signature ($3,317). Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II gives you the most for the money at $1,574. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 38 models across 10 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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- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
The GB10-NT is a beautifully crafted instrument, clearly designed for the serious jazz player. The maple back and top combination gives it a focused, refined sound, perfect for Benson's signature voicings. It's a premium-priced option that prioritizes tone and playability over broad versatility.
Pros
- Exceptional maple back/sides deliver focused, articulate tone.
- Spruce top provides warmth and responsiveness for jazz voicings.
- Ebony fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
Cons
- Maple construction can lack the overt warmth of mahogany alternatives.
- Scale length is relatively short, impacting low-end extension.
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,317 now$3,317€2,948 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez PM200 Pat Metheny Signature
PM200-NT Pat Metheny · Ibanez
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
This Ibanez PM200-NT is a beautifully crafted instrument, clearly designed for the discerning jazz player. The combination of mahogany and maple gives it a rich, focused tone that's perfect for Pat Metheny’s signature sound, and the ebony fretboard just sings. It's a premium-priced guitar that's a joy to play and truly delivers a professional-grade jazz experience.
Pros
- Exceptional mahogany/maple body resonance delivers a warm, complex tone.
- Silent 58 humbucker provides a uniquely clean, articulate jazz voice.
- Gotoh hardware ensures rock-solid tuning stability and reliable performance.
Cons
- The shorter scale length might feel unusual for players accustomed to longer scales.
- The Silent 58 pickup, while excellent for jazz, limits versatility for heavier styles.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,352 now$3,352€2,979 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
The LGB300-VYS is a seriously well-built jazz guitar – Ibanez’s take on a classic, but with a modern edge. The humbuckers give it a bit more bite than a traditional jazz box, making it surprisingly versatile for blues and rock as well. This is perfect for players who want that vintage vibe with reliable hardware and a comfortable neck profile.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers articulate, vintage-inspired tonal clarity
- 3-piece maple neck provides exceptional stability and sustain
- Gotoh 510 tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability
Cons
- Super 58 humbuckers might be too aggressive for some jazz purists
- Relatively compact body size may be uncomfortable for larger players
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,994 now$3,994€3,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
The EXL1 Amber is a beautifully crafted instrument, really nailing that vintage jazz tone. That Seymour Duncan '59 gives it a fantastic growl, and the neck profile is seriously comfortable. This is an excellent choice for jazz, blues, and classic rock players seeking a premium-priced, hollowbody experience.
Pros
- Seymour Duncan 59 humbucker delivers thick, warm, and articulate tones.
- Walnut core in the neck adds stability and a pleasing feel under the hand.
- Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
Cons
- Hollowbody construction makes it somewhat prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- Limited tonal versatility; excels in jazz and blues, less suited for modern genres.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,912 now$1,912€1,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II
5th Ave Kingpin II DLX Copper · Godin
30 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43.7 mm (1.72")
- Scale631 mm (24.84")
- Fingerboard radius406 mm (15.98")
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This hollowbody guitar sounds warm thanks to its wild cherry body and two P90 pickups. The GraphTech bridge keeps the tuning steady, but there is no way to add external power. It plays smoothly with its maple neck, though the gloss finish will show wear quickly. Perfect for players who want a classic jazz tone without needing an amp.
Pros
- Hollowbody body shape offers warm, resonant tone
- GraphTech bridge and nut ensure stable tuning
- Two P90 pickups deliver punchy, organic sound
Cons
- No power amp or effects loop for amplification
- Only one tone control limits tonal shaping
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,574 now$1,574€1,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets22 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
The D’Angelico Excel 16 is a seriously gorgeous instrument, built with premium materials and a fantastic humbucker for a warm, powerful tone. It's a fantastic choice for jazz guitarists or anyone seeking a refined, vintage-inspired feel and look, though its weight is something to consider. This is a great step up for players wanting a hollow body experience without the premium price tag of their higher-end siblings.
Pros
- Stunning flamed maple back delivers rich, resonant tone
- Seymour Duncan DA59 humbucker provides powerful, articulate output
- Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and playability
Cons
- Hollowbody construction makes it somewhat heavier than solid-body guitars
- Limited pickup options restrict versatility beyond jazz and blues
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,968 now$1,968€1,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMaple body
This archtop feels like a classic jazz instrument built for warmth and clarity. The solid maple top and custom pickups give it a rich, full sound that shines in small rooms. It suits players who love vintage vibes and need a reliable companion for quiet gigs or studio work.
Pros
- Solid quilted maple top delivers bright, articulate tone
- Hand-wound humbuckers provide rich, warm fullness
- Ivory binding adds classic vintage aesthetic appeal
Cons
- Hollow body design may not suit loud gigging
- No weight specification provided for player comfort
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,963 now$5,963€5,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets20 frets
This Eagle Classic AN is a serious instrument for the discerning jazz or blues player. The build quality is superb, and the Seth Lover pickups deliver a fantastic vintage tone—it's a true throwback to the golden age of archtops. If you’re after that warm, woody, and articulate sound, and appreciate a handmade, premium-priced guitar, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers exceptional clarity and projection
- Seymour Duncan Seth Lovers provide a thick, warm, vintage tone
- Ebony fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience
Cons
- The 17 in hollowbody construction makes it quite heavy for extended playing
- Limited tonal versatility compared to more modern, flexible guitars
45AudioFu
Index↓ 1.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$6,863 · Aug 17$6,751 now$6,751€5,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar feels like stepping into a 1957 jazz club with its chunky neck and solid spruce top. It sounds warm and full thanks to the Alnico pickups, perfect for smooth fingerstyle playing. While it lacks modern tweaks, its classic design and smooth action make it a joy for players who love that old-school vibe.
Pros
- Authentic 1950s look from detailed 3D scans of originals
- AAA carved spruce top paired with flamed maple body
- Custombucker Alnico 3 pickups deliver classic jazz tone
Cons
- Heavy three-piece set neck design adds significant mass
- Only two volume and two tone controls limit adjustments
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 6Oct 6$10,914 now$10,914€9,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets20 frets
The H-575 OSB is a seriously refined jazz box—it’s got that classic, woody tone and a beautiful aesthetic. This is a top-tier choice for experienced jazz players and serious collectors who appreciate a focused, vintage-inspired voice and impeccable construction. It’s a beautiful instrument built to last.
Pros
- Solid maple construction delivers exceptional clarity and resonance for a focused tone.
- Seymour Duncan Seth Lovers provide warm, vintage-voiced humbucker power and articulation.
- CTS pots and quality Grover hardware ensure reliable performance and lasting value.
Cons
- The all-solid construction results in a noticeably heavier instrument – a potential fatigue factor.
- Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more pickup options or switching configurations.
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,963 now$5,963€5,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 38 jazz guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
DAngelico Excel 16 AmberDAngelico44Stable$1,856€1,649$1,856€1,649Check ↗
- 12
DAngelico Excel Style B Dark Iced TeaDAngelico46Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 13
Godin 5th Avenue Uptown Custom5th Avenue Uptown Custom BR · Godin58Stable$1,574€1,399$1,574€1,399Check ↗
- 14
Godin 5th Avenue TL Thinline Kingpin P905th Ave TL Kingpin P90 OC · Godin50↓ 3.9%$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
- 15
DAngelico Excel Style B AmberDAngelico46Stable$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
- 16
Stanford CR Fatboy GE 95 Bigsby B60Stanford43Stable$1,632€1,450$1,632€1,450Check ↗
- 17
Stanford CR Fatboy PB 95 Bigsby B60Stanford43Stable$1,632€1,450$1,632€1,450Check ↗
- 18
Ibanez AF75 ArtcoreAF75-BS · Ibanez74Stable$554€492$554€492Check ↗
- 19
Ibanez LGB30 George Benson SignatureLGB30-NT · Ibanez · 2 finishes71Stable$1,393€1,238$1,393€1,238Check ↗
- 20
Ibanez AF55 ArtcoreAF55-TF · Ibanez68↓ 3.9%$421€374$421€374Check ↗
- 21
Epiphone BroadwayBroadway VSB · Epiphone68Stable$1,068€949$1,068€949Check ↗
- 22
Godin 5th Avenue CW Kingpin II5th Ave CW Kingpin II HB · Godin68Stable$1,237€1,099$1,237€1,099Check ↗
- 23
Ibanez AF95 Artcore ExpressionistAF95-DA · Ibanez · 2 finishes67Stable$737€655$737€655Check ↗
- 24
Ibanez AG95QA Artcore ExpressionistAG95QA-DBS · Ibanez62Stable$785€698$785€698Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton BigTone Trem Vintage OrangeHarley Benton · 2 finishes52Stable$370€329$370€329Check ↗
- 26
Godin 5th Avenue TL Thinline Kingpin P905th Ave Kingpin P90 VB · Godin · 2 finishes52Stable$1,237€1,099$1,237€1,099Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton BigTone Vintage Orange w/CaseHarley Benton49Stable$449€399$449€399Check ↗
- 28
Harley Benton BigTone Trem White w/CaseHarley Benton49Stable$449€399$449€399Check ↗
- 29
Stanford CR Fatboy Golden Eye 95Stanford47Stable$1,293€1,149$1,293€1,149Check ↗
- 30
Godin 5th Ave Jumbo P90 Harvest GoldGodin47Stable$1,339€1,190$1,339€1,190Check ↗
- 31
Harley Benton Custom Line Manhattan-StandardHarley Benton45Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 32
Harley Benton Custom Line Manhattan-S w/CaseHarley Benton45Stable$426€379$426€379Check ↗
- 33
Godin 5th Avenue Kingpin CognacburstGodin43Stable$1,102€979$1,102€979Check ↗
- 34
Stanford CR Fatboy Candy Apple Red 95Stanford43Stable$1,451€1,289$1,451€1,289Check ↗
- 35
Stanford CR Fatboy Pelham Blue 95Stanford43Stable$1,451€1,289$1,451€1,289Check ↗
- 36
Larry Carlton H7F Tobacco BurstLarry Carlton41↓ 1.8%$629€559$629€559Check ↗
- 37
Stanford CR Vanguard AVStanford41Stable$1,345€1,195$1,345€1,195Check ↗
- 38
The Loar LM-700 Supreme F-Style MandolinLH-700 VS · The Loar37Stable$1,462€1,299$1,462€1,299Check ↗
Jazz Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 52 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,462 — half of all jazz guitars here cost less.
median of 43 models · 42.8 mm (1.69")–44 mm (1.73")
median of 50 models · 628 mm (24.72")–648 mm (25.51")
most common · 34 models
median of 29 models · 20–22
How to choose the best jazz guitars
Neck Profile & Playability
Advanced players need a neck that feels like an extension of their hand. This isn't about 'slim' or 'thick'; it's about finding a profile that allows for effortless legato runs, complex chord voicings, and accurate intonation across the entire fretboard. A comfortable neck reduces fatigue during long gigs.
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
Forget overly bright, ice-picky tones. We're looking for pickups that provide a warm, balanced response with excellent articulation - enough clarity to hear every note in a complex chord, but with enough body to cut through a quartet without sounding harsh. That fat midrange honk is crucial.
Sustain & Resonance
Jazz playing often demands long, singing notes. A guitar with good sustain and resonance allows those notes to bloom, creating a richer, more expressive sound. This isn't just about volume; it's about the guitar's ability to vibrate and project tone.
Hardware Quality & Stability
Loose tuners, sloppy hardware - these are dealbreakers. Advanced players need a guitar that stays in tune under the demands of live performance and recording. Quality hardware contributes to overall stability and a more refined feel.
Construction & Wood Selection
The woods used impact the guitar's tonal character and responsiveness. Mahogany offers warmth and sustain, maple provides clarity and brightness, and figured tops (flame, quilt) are often a sign of higher-grade wood, though aesthetics alone don't guarantee sonic excellence.
Buying guide
So, you've mastered your basic jazz voicings and are ready to step up your game? A good guitar isn't just about looking cool; it's about being a responsive extension of your musical ideas. We're not talking about beginner axes here; this list is for players who demand nuance, articulation, and a guitar that can handle the complexities of advanced jazz playing, from smoky club gigs to detailed studio tracking.
Don't chase the hype. A beautifully figured top doesn't automatically equal a great-sounding guitar. Pay close attention to the neck profile - that's the most personal aspect.
Be prepared to spend a bit more on quality hardware; it's a worthwhile investment. Cheaper instruments often cut corners on fretwork and hardware, leading to frustration and compromised performance.
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 52 jazz 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 best wood combination for a jazz guitar?
There's no 'best,' it's about balance. Mahogany body/maple neck is a classic for warmth and clarity. Maple body/mahogany neck can be brighter and more articulate. Ultimately, try before you buy.
Are humbuckers or single-coils better for jazz?
Single-coils offer more clarity and that airy, bell-like tone that's common in jazz. Humbuckers provide more output and can cut through a louder ensemble, but be careful of muddiness - look for vintage-voiced humbuckers.
What action should I set on a jazz guitar?
Lower action generally promotes faster playing, but too low and you'll get fret buzz. Start around 2.0mm at the 12th fret and adjust to your preference. Proper fretwork is essential for low action without buzz.
Should I worry about the finish?
Nitrocellulose finishes are often preferred for their tonal properties and aging characteristics, but they're also more delicate. Polyester finishes are more durable but can sometimes dampen the guitar's resonance slightly.
What's the deal with 'floating' pickups?
Floating pickups (not directly mounted to the body) can sometimes improve sustain and resonance, but it's a subtle difference. The quality of the pickups and construction are far more important than the mounting style.
