Best MIDI, Digital & Modelling Guitars Under $800 2026
So, you want to dive into the world of modelling and MIDI guitars but your bank account isn't screaming for it? It's totally doable. Under $800, you can snag some seriously capable instruments that'll cover a ton of ground - from bedroom practice to gigging with a band. Let's break down the best options, because let's be honest, a lot of these things are compromises, and knowing what you're giving up is key.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best midi, digital & modelling guitars in 2026 are Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 Brown Burst (top pick), Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 Blue Burst for tighter budgets, and Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 Red Burst for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $556–$672, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 Brown Burst
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
647.7 mm (25.5")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
304.8 mm (12")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Modern Technology
Recording
Versatile Sounds
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 is a seriously interesting instrument – a hybrid guitar with a surprisingly good feel and solid construction. It’s a great option for players who want a modern, versatile platform for experimentation, and appreciate a comfortable neck profile. This is perfect for those exploring digital modeling without completely abandoning the feel of a traditional instrument.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a solid foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • GTRS SL-1 pickups provide a versatile range of tones, from clean to grit.
- • Integrated digital system opens up vast sonic possibilities via the app.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it feel a bit heavier than some players prefer.
- • The 'Super Knob' functionality might feel limiting for complex effects chains.
- • Reliance on the app for full feature access could be a drawback for some.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 620625
$568
Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 Blue Burst
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
304.8 mm (12")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Recording
Versatile Sounds
Modern Technology
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 is a seriously interesting hybrid instrument. It’s a well-built guitar with a solid feel and surprisingly good pickups, paired with a convenient digital modeling system. It's a great option for gigging musicians or players wanting a versatile, self-contained performance solution without the complexity of a full pedalboard.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for diverse tones.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • GTRS SL-1 pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and powerful sound.
- • Integrated battery system allows for true wireless operation and extended playtime.
CONS
- • The 'Super Knob' functionality might feel limiting for experienced users wanting granular control.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the inherent warmth of a set-neck.
- • Flamed maple top, while attractive, may be a thin veneer.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 621340
$568
Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 Red Burst
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
647.7 mm (25.5")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
304.8 mm (12")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Electronic Music
Experimental
Versatile Sounds
Key Feature:
This Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 is a seriously cool hybrid instrument. The digital modeling capabilities, combined with the quality hardware and surprisingly good pickups, make it a great choice for players who want a versatile platform for experimenting with sounds. It's particularly appealing to gigging musicians or studio players looking for a self-contained, modern instrument.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck provides stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • GTRS SL-1 pickups offer a surprisingly versatile, modern tone.
- • Tremolo system allows for expressive vibrato and dive bombs.
CONS
- • The 'Super Knob' functionality might feel limiting for experienced users.
- • Active pickups necessitate battery management, though life is decent.
- • Flamed maple top is cosmetic – doesn't significantly impact tone.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 621341
$557
Mooer GTRS Soloist 810 Purple Burst
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
647.7 mm (25.5")
Fingerboard radius
304.8 mm (12")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Sound Design
Electronic Music
Recording
Key Feature:
The GTRS Soloist 810 Purple Burst is a seriously cool-looking and surprisingly capable guitar. It’s a great option for players wanting a solid, versatile instrument with built-in digital functionality and a comfortable feel – perfect for gigging musicians or those exploring different tones without a pedalboard. The combination of traditional construction and modern tech is well-executed.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a great foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • GTRS SL-1 pickups deliver a versatile range of tones, from clean to crunch.
- • Super knob simplifies preset switching and volume control, very intuitive.
CONS
- • Active pickups demand battery power, adding a maintenance consideration.
- • Limited pickup configurations might restrict tonal flexibility for some.
- • The 'Super Knob' functionality, while convenient, might feel basic for experienced users.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 620516
$580
Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 900 W PB
by
Mooer
Nut width
41.3 mm (1.63")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.4 kg
Versatile Sounds
Electronic Music
Experimental
Key Feature:
This Mooer GTRS is a really interesting hybrid—a traditional electric guitar with a powerful, integrated digital brain. It’s fantastic for players who want a wide range of tones without needing a separate amp and pedalboard, especially those who enjoy experimenting with different sounds and recording directly into their mobile devices. A great option for gigging musicians and bedroom producers alike.
PROS
- • Excellent integrated modeling system offers vast sonic possibilities.
- • Wireless connectivity and app control streamline workflow significantly.
- • The GLB-P1 battery provides impressive playtime and convenience.
- • Solid build quality, especially considering the innovative design.
CONS
- • The app-dependent nature limits standalone functionality somewhat.
- • The weight, likely due to the battery and electronics, might be a factor.
- • The preset selection, while versatile, could feel restrictive to some.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 562121
$580
Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 900 W PP
by
Mooer
Nut width
41.3 mm (1.63")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.4 kg
Recording
Modern Technology
Electronic Music
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Standard 900 W PP is a fascinating blend of classic guitar design and modern digital technology. It’s a great option for players who want a versatile, self-contained rig without the clutter of pedals, especially those comfortable with mobile apps and exploring a wide range of amp and effect simulations. This is a really compelling choice for gigging musicians or bedroom producers looking for maximum flexibility in a single instrument.
PROS
- • Excellent integrated digital modeling; broad sonic palette available.
- • Wireless functionality and USB-OTG recording offer immense creative flexibility.
- • Impressive battery life simplifies gigging and practice scenarios.
- • The Super Knob provides intuitive, on-the-fly preset switching.
CONS
- • Reliance on the app for full functionality can be a workflow hurdle.
- • Potential latency issues with complex effect chains are possible.
- • The overall build quality, while decent, might not match high-end alternatives.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 562126
$580
Mooer GTRS Guitars Wing 800 Int PW
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Frets
24 frets
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
2.7 kg
Experimental
Sound Design
Electronic Music
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Wing 800 Int PW is a seriously interesting instrument—a compact, headless, multiscale guitar packed with digital sound shaping. It's ideal for modern players who want a versatile platform for experimentation and a streamlined stage setup, especially those already comfortable with digital modeling. The build quality feels surprisingly premium, and the unique design makes it a real head-turner.
PROS
- • American alder body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Roasted maple/rosewood neck offers stability and a smooth feel.
- • Custom GTRS HM-2N pickups deliver a versatile, modern tone.
- • Multiscale design enhances intonation and expands playing range.
CONS
- • Headless design may take some getting used to for traditional players.
- • Reliance on digital processing could limit appeal for purists.
- • App-based editing, while powerful, introduces a layer of complexity.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 553693
$673
Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 810 BB
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
647.7 mm (25.5")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Sound Design
Experimental
Recording
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Modern 810 BB is a compelling option for players seeking a digitally enhanced guitar experience. It blends classic aesthetics with modern modeling capabilities, offering a surprising amount of versatility in a relatively compact package. This is ideal for the modern guitarist who wants a great-sounding, adaptable instrument without getting bogged down in complex pedalboard setups.
PROS
- • Alder/Poplar body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • GTRS HMT pickups deliver a versatile range, from clean to high-gain.
- • Abalone inlays and burl top add a touch of premium aesthetic appeal.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction might lack the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Rosewood fingerboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
- • Reliance on the GTRS app could be limiting for users preferring traditional controls.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 596965
$661
Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 810 GB
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
647.7 mm (25.5")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Sound Design
Versatile Sounds
Modern Technology
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Modern 810 GB is a seriously interesting hybrid instrument. It's a great platform for players wanting a solid, well-built guitar with the flexibility of digital modelling, perfect for those who crave versatility and are comfortable with app-based control. The HMT pickups offer a modern, high-output sound that cuts through the mix.
PROS
- • Alder/Poplar combo delivers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, comfortable playing feel.
- • GTRS system unlocks immense tonal possibilities beyond standard pickups.
- • Abalone inlays and burl top elevate the aesthetic with a premium look.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction might not appeal to players preferring set or neck-through designs.
- • Reliance on the GTRS app for full functionality could be a barrier for some.
- • Alder body may make it slightly heavier than guitars with lighter woods.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 596977
$661
Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 810 NB
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Versatile Sounds
Electronic Music
Experimental
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Modern 810 NB is a seriously interesting hybrid instrument. It’s a well-built guitar offering a surprising amount of digital processing power, making it perfect for players wanting a wide range of sounds in a single package, particularly those comfortable with app-based control. It's a great option for gigging musicians and studio players who want to minimize their pedalboard footprint.
PROS
- • Integrated GTRS processor offers incredible tonal flexibility and effects.
- • Li-Ion battery provides substantial playtime for practice and performance.
- • USB OTG recording simplifies direct capture to mobile devices.
- • Super knob provides intuitive preset selection and parameter adjustment.
CONS
- • Reliance on the GTRS app limits standalone functionality and adds complexity.
- • Build quality, while decent, might not match premium-priced instruments.
- • Digital nature may not appeal to players seeking purely analog tone.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 597068
$661
Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 810 PB
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Sound Design
Modern Technology
Recording
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Modern 810 PB is a really interesting hybrid – a solid-feeling guitar married to a surprisingly powerful digital engine. It's a fantastic option for players who want a wide range of tones and effects at their fingertips without needing a pedalboard, especially those exploring modern sounds and direct recording setups. It's ideal for bedroom producers and gigging musicians wanting maximum flexibility in a single instrument.
PROS
- • Excellent onboard processor offers vast sonic possibilities.
- • Solid build quality; feels surprisingly substantial for a digital instrument.
- • Convenient silent practice with headphone jack and built-in battery.
- • App integration expands functionality beyond basic guitar playing.
CONS
- • The digital nature might not satisfy purists seeking a purely analog experience.
- • Reliance on the app for many features creates a potential point of failure.
- • Battery life, while decent, requires planning for longer gigs.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 597079
$661
Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 800 DRD
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
647.7 mm (25.5")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Versatile Sounds
Experimental
Modern Technology
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Modern 800 DRD is a surprisingly capable platform, blending traditional electric guitar feel with a powerful digital processor. It’s an excellent choice for players wanting versatile tones and preset recall without the complexity of a full pedalboard—particularly appealing to gigging musicians or those who enjoy experimenting with different amp models and effects.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant foundation for tone.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • GTRS HMT pickups deliver a modern, high-output sound with clarity.
- • Super Knob offers intuitive preset switching and output level control.
CONS
- • The bolt-on neck construction might lack the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Reliance on the GTRS app for full functionality can be limiting for some users.
- • Rosewood fretboard might require more frequent maintenance compared to maple.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 587260
$580
Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 800 DPP
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
647.7 mm (25.5")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Electronic Music
Recording
Versatile Sounds
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Modern 800 DPP is a seriously interesting offering. It's a well-built guitar with a comfortable feel and those GTRS pickups give you a surprising amount of versatility for modern sounds and experimentation – it's great for players who want a solid platform and digital flexibility without needing a massive pedalboard.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, fast playing feel.
- • GTRS system unlocks vast tonal possibilities beyond standard pickups.
- • Nickel silver jumbo frets allow for effortless bending and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction may lack the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Rosewood fretboard can be susceptible to wear without proper care.
- • Reliance on the GTRS app might be a drawback for some purists.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 587261
$580
Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 800 DN
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
647.7 mm (25.5")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Versatile Sounds
Modern Technology
Electronic Music
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Modern 800 DN is a really interesting proposition—a solid, playable guitar with a surprisingly capable digital processor built in. It’s a great option for players wanting modern tones and effects without a separate pedalboard, especially those who enjoy experimenting with different sounds and appreciate a comfortable, modern feel. This is a solid choice for gigging musicians or bedroom producers looking for a versatile, all-in-one solution.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • GTRS HMT pickups deliver a high-output, modern rock/metal tone.
- • Integrated GTRS processor unlocks a vast palette of digital sounds and effects.
CONS
- • The 'Super Knob' functionality, while versatile, may feel limiting for experienced users.
- • Alder body, while good, isn't the premium tonewood some players might desire.
- • Reliance on the GTRS app for full functionality might deter those preferring standalone gear.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 587262
$580
Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 800 BLC
by
Mooer
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
647.7 mm (25.5")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Weight
3.8 kg
Sound Design
Experimental
Electronic Music
Key Feature:
The Mooer GTRS Modern 800 BLC is a seriously interesting proposition, blending a solid, classic feel with a modern digital heart. It's perfect for players who want a versatile, gig-ready instrument without the fuss of pedals – especially those intrigued by digital modeling and preset switching. The roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play, and the humbuckers deliver a powerful, modern tone.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers excellent stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • GTRS system unlocks immense tonal flexibility and preset recall.
- • Nickel silver jumbo frets facilitate effortless bending and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • Rosewood fingerboard might feel a bit dry for some players.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while practical, lacks the complexity of a set-neck.
- • Reliance on the GTRS app could be a limiting factor for some users.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 587263
$580
Every midi, digital & modelling guitars that matches
48 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 800 DSI | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard · Weight 3.8 kg | $568 |
| 17 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 800 PWH | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard · Weight 3.8 kg | $545 |
| 18 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Modern 800 PBK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard · Weight 3.8 kg | $533 |
| 19 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 801 VW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Frets 22 frets · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $382 |
| 20 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Wing 900 Int APU | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard · Weight 2.7 kg | $789 |
| 21 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Wing 900 Int API | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard · Weight 2.7 kg | $789 |
| 22 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Wing 900 Int AGR | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard · Weight 2.7 kg | $789 |
| 23 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Wing 800 Int PB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets · Body Alder body · Weight 2.7 kg | $673 |
| 24 | Mooer GTRS Guitars int. Prof. 800 DN | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $696 |
| 25 | Mooer GTRS Guitars int. Prof. 800 DP | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $696 |
| 26 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Prof. 800 OW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $661 |
| 27 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 900 W RG | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $580 |
| 28 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 900 W PW | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $580 |
| 29 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 800 SB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $382 |
| 30 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 801 SB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $382 |
| 31 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 800 MR | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $382 |
| 32 | Mooer GTRS Guitar Standard S801 Gold | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 22 frets · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $382 |
| 33 | Mooer GTRS Guitar Profess. 801 DN | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Alder body | $696 |
| 34 | Mooer GTRS Guitars int. Prof. 800 DS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Alder body | $673 |
| 35 | Mooer GTRS Guitar Profess. 801 OW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Alder body | $661 |
| 36 | Mooer GTRS Guitar Profess. 801 MG | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Alder body | $661 |
| 37 | Mooer GTRS Guitar Profess. 801 FP | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Alder body | $661 |
| 38 | Mooer GTRS Guitar Profess. 801 FRD | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Alder body | $661 |
| 39 | Mooer GTRS Guitar Profess. 801 TB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Alder body | $650 |
| 40 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard S 800 G | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Basswood body | $382 |
| 41 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 800 SG | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Basswood body | $382 |
| 42 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 801 SP | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Basswood body | $382 |
| 43 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 801 SG | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 647.7 mm (25.5") · Body Basswood body | $382 |
| 44 | Soran Verser VP 2200 VG | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $348 |
| 45 | Soran Verser VP 2200 SG | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $348 |
| 46 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Prof. 800 FP | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $661 |
| 47 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 800 SP | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Body Basswood body | $382 |
| 48 | Mooer GTRS Guitars Standard 800 VW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Body Basswood body | $382 |
MIDI, Digital & Modelling Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 48 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $580
from $382 to $696
Scale
median 647.7 mm (25.5")
from 647.7 mm (25.5") to 648 mm (25.51") · 38 models
Frets
median 24
from 22 to 24 · 12 models
Fingerboard
rosewood, maple
most common · 34 models
Nut width
median 42 mm (1.65")
from 41.3 mm (1.63") to 42 mm (1.65") · 45 models
Body
alder, basswood, mahogany
most common · 43 models
Weight
median 3.8 kg
from 2.7 kg to 3.8 kg · 22 models
Fingerboard radius
median 304.8 mm (12")
from 304.8 mm (12") to 305 mm (12.01") · 8 models
How to Choose the Best MIDI, Digital & Modelling Guitars
1
Modelling Quality
This isn't just about having a bunch of amp models. It's about how convincingly they nail the nuances of classic amps and cabs - the sag, the compression, that sweet, saturated breakup. A decent modeller will give you a usable sound straight out of the box, without needing a PhD in EQ.
2
MIDI Implementation
MIDI guitars are more than just digital amp sims; they're a gateway to synth sounds, virtual instruments, and endless creative possibilities. We're looking at MIDI response, the number of MIDI channels, and how well it integrates with common DAWs.
3
Playability (Neck Profile & Action)
Even the best digital tones fall flat if the guitar is a pain to play. Neck profile is hugely personal, but we're assessing comfort and ease of access across the fretboard. Action - the string height - is critical for both playability and avoiding fret buzz, especially when using heavier gauge strings.
4
Build Quality & Components
Let's be real, at this price point, corners will be cut. We're evaluating the quality of the pots, switches, and overall construction. A flimsy build can impact tuning stability and make the instrument feel cheap, even if the digital tones are good.
5
User Interface & Software
A complicated menu system or buggy software can be a major headache. We're looking at how intuitive the controls are, the quality of the companion app (if there is one), and how easily the guitar integrates with other gear.
Buying Guide
At this budget, you're trading off something. You might get a slightly less responsive MIDI implementation, a less refined amp modelling engine, or a less premium feel. Don't chase the 'perfect' digital clone of a vintage Marshall - focus on versatility and finding a core tone you can build on. A good MIDI guitar will open up a lot of doors for experimentation, but remember, a great digital tone still needs a decent speaker or headphones to shine.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 48 midi, digital & modelling guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. You won't get the absolute best modelling out there, but modern technology means you can get surprisingly realistic amp tones and effects. Just be realistic about your expectations - don't expect to perfectly replicate a vintage Plexi.
A modelling guitar focuses on digitally recreating amp and effects sounds. A MIDI guitar uses MIDI to control external synthesizers or virtual instruments. Many guitars combine both features.
Crucial. A cheap interface will introduce noise and latency, ruining your recordings. Ideally, look for a guitar with a decent built-in interface or budget for a separate, quality USB audio interface.
Neck profiles vary, and it's a very personal preference. Most guitars in this price range will have a fairly standard 'C' shape, but the wood and finish can drastically affect how it feels. Try before you buy if possible.
Construction quality can be a limiting factor. Treat it well - proper setup, regular cleaning, and careful storage - and most of these guitars should hold up for years, but don't expect the same level of robustness as a higher-end instrument.
