AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Single Cut Guitars for Jazz 2026
The top pick is Gibson Les Paul Standard '50s ($2,418). Epiphone Les Paul Standard '60s gives you the most for the money at $645. Gibson Les Paul Custom "Norlin Era" Electric Guitar 1970 - 1985 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 254 models across 24 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Gibson Les Paul Standard '50s
Les Paul Standard 50s DT TB · Gibson
437 for sale on Reverb9 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This 50s DT Les Paul is a seriously good time – it nails that classic Gibson vibe with its warm mahogany body and those creamy Burstbucker pickups. The slim taper neck makes it surprisingly easy to play, even for smaller hands. It's a premium-priced instrument perfect for players craving authentic vintage tones and a workhorse feel.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides excellent sustain and warmth.
- Slim Taper neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability.
- Burstbucker pickups deliver thick, vintage-voiced tones.
Cons
- The weight can be considerable, potentially tiring for extended playing.
- Rosewood fingerboard might feel less smooth than some modern alternatives.
86AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,418 now$2,418€2,164 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Standard '60s Plain Top
Les Paul Standard 60s DT VCS · Gibson
72 for sale on Reverb13 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43.1 mm (1.7")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This Les Paul Standard 60s DT VCS is a fantastic option for players chasing that classic, vintage Gibson vibe. The Burstbuckers are a real highlight, offering a warm, creamy tone perfect for rock, blues, and even some cleaner styles. It’s a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of quality and feel.
Pros
- Vintage Cherry Sunburst is stunning and authentically aged-looking.
- Burstbucker pickups deliver classic 60s Les Paul tones – thick and warm.
- Slim Taper neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability for many players.
Cons
- Mahogany body makes it undeniably hefty – expect some neck dive.
- Rosewood fretboard might feel a bit thin for players preferring a larger radius.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,606 now$2,606€2,333 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Studio Session
Les Paul Studio Session CH · Gibson
145 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.5 mm (1.67")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar feels like a classic Les Paul but plays easier thanks to the slim neck. The mahogany body sounds warm while the maple top adds brightness. It suits players who want a reliable workhorse for live gigs and recording. The coil tap switch is a must-have for cutting through a mix.
Pros
- Classic mahogany and maple body for warm tone
- Slim Taper neck profile for fast playing
- GraphTech nut ensures intonation and sustain
Cons
- No active electronics for low-end boost
- Cherry finish may show wear quickly
74AudioFu
Index↓ 2.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,851 · Aug 17$1,807 now$1,807€1,617 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Custom "Norlin Era" Electric Guitar 1970 - 1985
Les Paul Custom AW · Gibson
335 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Les Paul Custom AW is a serious instrument—a beautifully crafted, premium-priced guitar built for players who appreciate a traditional, powerful Les Paul voice. The Custom Shop construction and ebony fingerboard elevate the feel and responsiveness. It's ideal for rock, blues, and heavier styles where sustain and articulation are paramount.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides rich sustain and warmth, a classic Les Paul tone.
- Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and note definition.
- Custom Shop build quality guarantees meticulous attention to detail and consistency.
Cons
- The substantial weight (around 11 lbs) can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
- The Alpine White finish, while striking, may not appeal to all tastes.
72AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 17$6,032 · Aug 17$6,032 now$6,032€5,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Custom "Norlin Era" Electric Guitar 1970 - 1985
Les Paul Custom Cl White HA · Gibson
335 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels like a classic Les Paul but with a fresh white coat. The mahogany body and maple top give you a solid, balanced tone, while the ebony fingerboard stays smooth under your fingers. It's built well with modern hardware, making it a solid choice for players who want that familiar sound with a clean, bright finish.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body paired with a maple top for bright tone
- Modern medium C neck profile offers a comfortable playing feel
- High-gloss classic white finish gives a fresh, clean look
Cons
- Heavy aged finish likely adds noticeable weight to the instrument
- High price point places it in a premium segment
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,713 now$8,713€7,799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Standard '60s
Les Paul Standard 60 Fd VCS · Gibson
393 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This Les Paul Standard 60 Fd VCS is a solid choice for players chasing that vintage Gibson vibe. The Burstbucker pickups are a real highlight – they’ve got that thick, creamy tone perfect for rock and blues. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of character and feel.
Pros
- 60s Burstbuckers deliver authentic vintage tone and sustain.
- Mahogany body and neck provide warmth and exceptional resonance.
- Cream binding adds a touch of elegance and classic aesthetic.
Cons
- Rosewood fingerboard may feel less smooth than some modern alternatives.
- The weight can be considerable, potentially fatiguing during long gigs.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,155 now$2,155€1,929 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Standard '60s
Les Paul Standard 60s Cl.White · Gibson
393 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This Les Paul Standard 60s is a seriously well-made instrument. The Burstbucker pickups nail that classic Gibson growl, and the Slim Taper neck makes it a joy to play. It's a premium-priced option perfect for players chasing that vintage Les Paul vibe for rock, blues, and beyond.
Pros
- Burstbucker 61 pickups deliver a thick, articulate vintage-era tone.
- Slim Taper neck profile offers exceptional playability and comfort.
- Cryogenically-treated frets improve sustain and intonation stability.
Cons
- The mahogany body contributes to a substantial and potentially unwieldy weight.
- Classic White finish shows every fingerprint and requires careful maintenance.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,624 now$2,624€2,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Standard '50s
Les Paul Standard 50s Cl.White · Gibson
437 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This Les Paul Standard is a fantastic recreation of a '50s classic, nailing that sweet spot of vintage vibe and modern usability. The Burstbucker pickups are surprisingly versatile, handling blues, rock, and even some lighter metal with aplomb. It's a premium-priced instrument, perfect for players seeking authentic tone and feel without going full custom shop.
Pros
- Burstbuckers deliver a warm, articulate vintage tone with modern clarity.
- The '50s neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability for many.
- Cryogenically-treated frets provide smoother playability and potentially enhanced sustain.
Cons
- The mahogany body contributes to a substantial, potentially unwieldy weight.
- Classic White finish shows every fingerprint and minor imperfection easily.
70AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 17$2,624 · Aug 17$2,624 now$2,624€2,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar feels heavy and solid thanks to its long scale and mahogany body. The active pickups give you a powerful sound that stays clear even at high volumes. It is a premium choice for players who want a tight feel and a modern black finish, though you will need to buy batteries separately.
Pros
- Mahogany body with a maple top for warmth and clarity
- Heavy 628 mm scale length for a tight, solid feel
- Dual active EMG humbuckers for high-output noise control
Cons
- No specific weight listed to confirm comfort for all players
- Active pickups require batteries which are not included
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,183 now$3,183€2,849 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '60s
Les Paul Standard 60s Ebony · Epiphone
133 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels like a classic Les Paul with a mahogany body and comfortable neck. The GraphTech nut and solid tuners make it reliable for players of any skill level. It suits anyone wanting a warm, punchy tone without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body provides warm, resonant foundation
- SlimTaper 60s neck profile feels comfortable for everyone
- GraphTech nut helps with tuning stability and intonation
Cons
- Weight is not specified, so heft may be an issue
- Single cutaway design limits low string access slightly
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$645 now$645€577 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 254 single 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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Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50sLes Paul Standard 50s WCS · Epiphone · 3 finishes69Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 12
Gibson Les Paul Custom '70sLes Paul Custom 70s Ebony · Gibson · 3 finishes68↓ 2.0%$3,584€3,208$3,584€3,208Check ↗
- 13
ESP LTD EC-01FTLTD EC-01 FT Black · ESP · 2 finishes67↓ 20.0%$1,116€999$1,116€999Check ↗
- 14
Gibson 50th Anniversary Les Paul Music City SpecialLes Paul Music City Sp. WR · Gibson · 3 finishes67↓ 9.7%$1,613€1,444$1,613€1,444Check ↗
- 15
Gretsch Electromatic Jet ClubElectromatic Jet Club RB · Gretsch · 2 finishes66↓ 9.8%$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 16
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50sLes Paul Standard 50s BB Exc · Epiphone66Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 17
Sire Larry Carlton L7L7 CAR New Gen · Larry Carlton · 9 finishes66↓ 12.0%$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 18
PRS S2 McCarty 594 SinglecutSE McCarty 594 Singlecut VS · PRS · 3 finishes66↓ 1.6%$957€857$957€857Check ↗
- 19
Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Jet FT with BigsbyElectromatic Jet BF · Gretsch65↓ 2.1%$632€566$632€566Check ↗
- 20
Gibson Les Paul Studio SessionLes Paul Studio Session HoneyB · Gibson65Stable$1,861€1,666$1,861€1,666Check ↗
- 21
Gibson Les Paul Studio SessionLes Paul Studio Session Cob.B. · Gibson65Stable$2,177€1,949$2,177€1,949Check ↗
- 22
Gibson Les Paul Studio SessionLes Paul Studio Session SmB · Gibson65Stable$2,233€1,999$2,233€1,999Check ↗
- 23
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '60sLes Paul Standard 60s Fig ITB · Epiphone64Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 24
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50sLes Paul Standard 50s Goldtop · Epiphone64Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 25
Gibson Les Paul Standard '50s P-90Les Paul Standard 50s P90 TB · Gibson · 2 finishes64Stable$2,490€2,229$2,490€2,229Check ↗
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Gibson Les Paul '70s DeluxeLes Paul Deluxe 70s Wine Red · Gibson · 2 finishes63Stable$2,568€2,299$2,568€2,299Check ↗
- 27
Gibson Les Paul Modern FiguredLes Paul Modern Figured CB · Gibson · 3 finishes63Stable$2,904€2,599$2,904€2,599Check ↗
- 28
Gibson Slash Collection Les Paul StandardLes Paul Slash Standard GT · Gibson · 2 finishes62↓ 1.7%$2,854€2,555$2,854€2,555Check ↗
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Gibson Les Paul Modern StudioLes Paul Modern Studio WRS · Gibson · 2 finishes61Stable$1,898€1,699$1,898€1,699Check ↗
- 30
Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '57 Les Paul Standard Reissue57 Les Paul Special EB UHA CS · Gibson61Stable$8,825€7,899$8,825€7,899Check ↗
- 31
Harley Benton SC-400 SBK Classic SeriesHarley Benton · 11 finishes59Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 32
Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded EbonyGibson · 6 finishes59↓ 12.5%$1,563€1,399$1,563€1,399Check ↗
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Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '57 Les Paul Standard Reissue57 LP Special SC TV Yellow ULA · Gibson · 2 finishes59Stable$4,579€4,099$4,579€4,099Check ↗
- 34
Harley Benton SC-450 BK Classic SeriesHarley Benton · 10 finishes58Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 35
PRS Limited Edition 40th Anniversary McCarty SC56McCarty SC56 GB · PRS · 4 finishes58Stable$4,451€3,999$4,451€3,999Check ↗
- 36
Harley Benton SC-550 II PAFHarley Benton · 11 finishes57Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
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Epiphone Les Paul Tribute PlusLes Paul Tribute Plus HCS · Epiphone · 3 finishes57Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 38
ESP LTD EC-200DXLTD EC-200DX BLB · ESP57Stable$522€467$522€467Check ↗
- 39
ESP LTD EC-1000 PWESP · 10 finishes57↓ 3.1%$1,876€1,679$1,876€1,679Check ↗
- 40
Harley Benton SC-500 WH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 7 finishes56Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 41
Gretsch STRML JET 1PU MD BLUGretsch · 7 finishes56↓ 5.5%$368€329$368€329Check ↗
- 42
Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded T 2016Les Paul Studio Faded G. Mist · Gibson56↓ 12.6%$1,562€1,398$1,562€1,398Check ↗
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Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded T 2016Les Paul Studio Faded Ocean Bl · Gibson56↓ 12.5%$1,563€1,399$1,563€1,399Check ↗
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Gibson Les Paul Standard with '60s Neck Profile 2002 - 2007Les Paul Standard 60s Trans.BB · Gibson56Stable$2,792€2,499$2,792€2,499Check ↗
- 45
Heritage Guitar H-150 Custom Core TSBHeritage Guitar · 8 finishes56↓ 4.3%$5,026€4,499$5,026€4,499Check ↗
- 46
Heritage Guitar Ascent H-150 Lemon BurstHeritage Guitar · 9 finishes55↓ 2.9%$379€339$379€339Check ↗
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Gibson Les Paul Standard '60s Mahogany TopLP Standard 60s Mahogany TV · Gibson · 2 finishes55Stable$2,513€2,249$2,513€2,249Check ↗
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Gibson Les Paul Standard with '50s Neck Profile 2002 - 2007Les Paul Standard 50s Trans.BB · Gibson55Stable$2,792€2,499$2,792€2,499Check ↗
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Gibson Slash "Jessica" Les Paul StandardLes Paul Slash "Jessica" HB/RB · Gibson55Stable$2,848€2,549$2,848€2,549Check ↗
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Heritage Guitar Standard II H-150 WRHeritage Guitar · 7 finishes55↓ 6.7%$3,127€2,799$3,127€2,799Check ↗
Single Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 481 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,518 — half of all single cut guitars here cost less.
median of 363 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43.1 mm (1.7")
median of 424 models · 625 mm (24.61")–648 mm (25.51")
most common · 395 models
most common · 322 models
How to choose the best single cut guitars
Tonal Voicing
Jazz demands clarity and warmth, not aggression. We're looking for a balanced response - not overly bright or muddy - with a focus on a smooth, defined low-end and a subtle, "fat" midrange. That ice-picky high-end just won't do. Think Wes Montgomery, not Angus Young.
Pickup Selection
Humbuckers can work, but often need to be wound hotter and with a more vintage voicing. Alnico II or Alnico IV pickups are your friends. P-90s, when tamed, can offer a unique, slightly gritty character that adds personality without overwhelming the tone. Single coils are generally a safer bet for that clean, articulate jazz tone.
Neck Profile & Feel
A comfortable neck is crucial for fluid lines and effortless improvisation. Thin, fast necks can feel disconnected, while overly thick necks can be a chore. A '50s style rounded C or a slim tapered profile are usually a good starting point, but it's all about what feels right in your hand.
Sustain & Resonance
Jazz often involves extended chords and single-note lines, so sustain is important. A well-built guitar with a solid body and a properly set-up neck will resonate more freely, adding warmth and complexity to your tone. Cheap guitars often have dead spots - something you'll definitely notice in a quiet jazz setting.
Hardware & Electronics
Quality hardware makes a difference. Good tuning stability is essential for intonation, and higher-quality pots and caps can improve the overall clarity and responsiveness of the guitar's electronics. Don't skimp here - it's what connects your hands to the tone.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking for a single-cut for jazz? Forget the scooped mids and high-gain shred tones - we're after something that breathes, something with articulation and a touch of warmth. A Les Paul or SG can work, but you'll need to be picky about specs and modifications. Let's talk about what makes a single-cut truly sing in a jazz context, and which guitars actually deliver that vibe.
Finding a good single-cut for jazz isn't about dropping a ton of cash; it's about being discerning. Vintage guitars are great, but often come with their own set of problems (neck resets, brittle nitro finishes). Modern guitars can be excellent, but often need tweaking - pickup swaps, setup adjustments.
Be wary of guitars marketed as "versatile" - that often means they're good at nothing in particular. Prioritize a balanced tonal response and a comfortable neck, and be prepared to spend a little extra on a professional 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 481 single 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
Can I use a Les Paul for jazz?
Sure, but you'll likely want to swap the pickups for something warmer and more articulate. The stock pickups are often too aggressive. A good setup is also critical - lowering the action and adjusting the intonation will make a big difference.
Are humbuckers okay for jazz?
They can be. You need to find ones with a vintage voicing - Alnico II or IV are good choices. They'll give you more output and a slightly thicker tone than single coils, but avoid anything too high-gain or scooped.
What about an SG? Is it too thin sounding?
The SG can be a great option, but it's even more prone to feedback than a Les Paul. You'll need to be mindful of your volume levels and potentially use a noise gate. The lighter weight can also be an advantage for comfortable playing.
Should I consider a semi-hollow body?
Absolutely. A semi-hollow body - like a Gibson ES-335 - offers more resonance and warmth than a solid-body single-cut, and is a very popular choice among jazz guitarists. It's a natural fit for the genre.
What's the most important thing to look for?
Playability. If it doesn't feel good in your hands, it doesn't matter how great it sounds. Go to a shop, play a bunch of guitars, and find one that inspires you to play.
