AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Single Cut Guitars for Metal 2026
The top pick is Gibson Les Paul Standard '50s ($2,409). Epiphone Les Paul Standard '60s gives you the most for the money at $642. 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 30, 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.
85AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,409 now$2,409€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.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,597 now$2,597€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
73AudioFu
Index↓ 2.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,844 · Aug 17$1,800 now$1,800€1,617 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$8,680 now$8,680€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$2,147 now$2,147€1,929 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.
71AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 17$6,009 · Aug 17$6,009 now$6,009€5,399 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$2,614 · Aug 17$2,614 now$2,614€2,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50s
Les Paul Standard 50s WCS · Epiphone
180 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels like a real Les Paul without the weight. The mahogany body and maple top give it a warm, solid sound. It comes with nice pickups and a comfortable neck shape. Great for players who want classic tone on a budget-friendly model.
Pros
- Rich mahogany body with maple top resonance
- ProBucker pickups deliver thick humbucker tone
- Classic 59 neck profile feels comfortable
Cons
- No active electronics for high-gain clarity
- Weight not listed in product description
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$733 now$733€659 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.
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,614 now$2,614€2,349 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
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$642 now$642€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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ESP E-II EclipseE-II Eclipse BLKS · ESP · 8 finishes68Stable$3,171€2,849$3,171€2,849Check ↗
- 12
Gibson Les Paul Custom '70sLes Paul Custom 70s Ebony · Gibson · 3 finishes67↓ 2.0%$3,571€3,208$3,571€3,208Check ↗
- 13
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50sLes Paul Standard 50s BB Exc · Epiphone66Stable$733€659$733€659Check ↗
- 14
ESP LTD EC-01FTLTD EC-01 FT Black · ESP · 2 finishes66↓ 20.0%$1,112€999$1,112€999Check ↗
- 15
Gibson 50th Anniversary Les Paul Music City SpecialLes Paul Music City Sp. WR · Gibson · 3 finishes66↓ 9.7%$1,607€1,444$1,607€1,444Check ↗
- 16
Gretsch Electromatic Jet ClubElectromatic Jet Club RB · Gretsch · 2 finishes65↓ 9.8%$500€449$500€449Check ↗
- 17
Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Jet FT with BigsbyElectromatic Jet BF · Gretsch65↓ 2.1%$630€566$630€566Check ↗
- 18
Sire Larry Carlton L7L7 CAR New Gen · Larry Carlton · 9 finishes65↓ 12.0%$733€659$733€659Check ↗
- 19
PRS S2 McCarty 594 SinglecutSE McCarty 594 Singlecut CH · PRS · 3 finishes65Stable$945€849$945€849Check ↗
- 20
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '60sLes Paul Standard 60s Fig ITB · Epiphone64Stable$722€649$722€649Check ↗
- 21
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50sLes Paul Standard 50s Goldtop · Epiphone64Stable$733€659$733€659Check ↗
- 22
Gibson Les Paul Studio SessionLes Paul Studio Session HoneyB · Gibson64Stable$1,854€1,666$1,854€1,666Check ↗
- 23
Gibson Les Paul Studio SessionLes Paul Studio Session Cob.B. · Gibson64Stable$2,169€1,949$2,169€1,949Check ↗
- 24
Gibson Les Paul Studio SessionLes Paul Studio Session SmB · Gibson64Stable$2,225€1,999$2,225€1,999Check ↗
- 25
Gibson Les Paul Standard '50s P-90Les Paul Standard 50s P90 TB · Gibson · 2 finishes64Stable$2,481€2,229$2,481€2,229Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton SC-450Plus LD Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 17 finishes62Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 27
Gibson Les Paul '70s DeluxeLes Paul Deluxe 70s Wine Red · Gibson · 2 finishes62Stable$2,559€2,299$2,559€2,299Check ↗
- 28
Gibson Les Paul Modern FiguredLes Paul Modern Figured CB · Gibson · 3 finishes62Stable$2,893€2,599$2,893€2,599Check ↗
- 29
Gibson Slash Collection Les Paul StandardLes Paul Slash Standard GT · Gibson · 2 finishes61↓ 1.7%$2,844€2,555$2,844€2,555Check ↗
- 30
Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '57 Les Paul Standard Reissue57 Les Paul Special EB UHA CS · Gibson61Stable$8,792€7,899$8,792€7,899Check ↗
- 31
Gibson Les Paul Modern StudioLes Paul Modern Studio WRS · Gibson · 2 finishes60Stable$1,891€1,699$1,891€1,699Check ↗
- 32
Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded EbonyGibson · 6 finishes58↓ 12.5%$1,557€1,399$1,557€1,399Check ↗
- 33
Gibson Custom Shop Special Order '57 Les Paul Standard Reissue57 LP Special SC TV Yellow ULA · Gibson · 2 finishes58Stable$4,562€4,099$4,562€4,099Check ↗
- 34
Harley Benton SC-400 SBK Classic SeriesHarley Benton · 11 finishes57Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 35
PRS Limited Edition 40th Anniversary McCarty SC56McCarty SC56 RHT · PRS · 4 finishes57Stable$4,451€3,999$4,451€3,999Check ↗
- 36
Epiphone Les Paul Tribute PlusLes Paul Tribute Plus HCS · Epiphone · 3 finishes56Stable$422€379$422€379Check ↗
- 37
ESP LTD EC-200DXLTD EC-200DX BLB · ESP56Stable$520€467$520€467Check ↗
- 38
Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded T 2016Les Paul Studio Faded G. Mist · Gibson56↓ 12.6%$1,556€1,398$1,556€1,398Check ↗
- 39
Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded T 2016Les Paul Studio Faded Ocean Bl · Gibson56↓ 12.5%$1,557€1,399$1,557€1,399Check ↗
- 40
Harley Benton SC-550 II PAFHarley Benton · 11 finishes55Stable$355€319$355€319Check ↗
- 41
Gretsch STRML JET 1PU MD BLUGretsch · 7 finishes55↓ 5.5%$366€329$366€329Check ↗
- 42
ESP LTD EC-1000 PWESP · 10 finishes55↓ 3.1%$1,869€1,679$1,869€1,679Check ↗
- 43
Gibson Les Paul Standard with '50s Neck Profile 2002 - 2007Les Paul Standard 50s Trans.BB · Gibson55Stable$2,781€2,499$2,781€2,499Check ↗
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Gibson Les Paul Standard with '60s Neck Profile 2002 - 2007Les Paul Standard 60s Trans.BB · Gibson55Stable$2,781€2,499$2,781€2,499Check ↗
- 45
Heritage Guitar H-150 Custom Core TSBHeritage Guitar · 8 finishes55↓ 4.3%$5,007€4,499$5,007€4,499Check ↗
- 46
Harley Benton SC-500 WH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 7 finishes54Stable$188€169$188€169Check ↗
- 47
Heritage Guitar Ascent+ H-150 Lake Blue BurstHeritage Guitar · 9 finishes54Stable$1,001€899$1,001€899Check ↗
- 48
Gibson Les Paul Standard '60s Mahogany TopLP Standard 60s Mahogany TV · Gibson · 2 finishes54Stable$2,503€2,249$2,503€2,249Check ↗
- 49
Gibson Slash "Jessica" Les Paul StandardLes Paul Slash "Jessica" HB/RB · Gibson54Stable$2,837€2,549$2,837€2,549Check ↗
- 50
Heritage Guitar Standard II H-150 WRHeritage Guitar · 7 finishes53↓ 6.7%$3,115€2,799$3,115€2,799Check ↗
Single Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 488 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,501 — half of all single cut guitars here cost less.
median of 369 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43.1 mm (1.7")
median of 433 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
Pickup Voicing
Metal demands aggression, but there's a spectrum. Do you want that scooped, modern high-gain sound, or a more vintage-voiced humbucker with a fat midrange honk? Active pickups offer high output, but passive pickups often have more dynamic range and harmonic complexity.
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is crucial for those extended chugs and blistering sweeps. Thin, fast profiles are popular, but a chunkier neck can provide better grip and control, especially when drop-tuning. Low action is a must for effortless shredding, but too low and you'll get fret buzz - finding that sweet spot is key.
Bridge & Sustain
A fixed bridge (like a Tune-o-Matic) generally provides better sustain and tuning stability than a tremolo system, which can be a liability in aggressive playing styles. The bridge's mass and how it's coupled to the body directly impacts resonance and note decay.
Wood & Construction
Mahogany bodies are common for their warm, thick low-end thump, while maple provides brighter articulation and clarity. Bolt-on necks are generally brighter and snappier, while set-neck constructions offer more sustain and a smoother transition from the body. It's a tonal trade-off.
Hardware Quality
Cheap hardware (pots, tuners, bridge) will fail you eventually. Pots crackle, tuners slip, and bridges become unstable. It's not just about reliability; low-quality hardware can negatively impact the guitar's overall tone and feel.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're chasing that brutal metal tone with a single-cut? Smart move - they've got the sustain and attack you need, but finding the right one for your style can be a headache. We're not talking about shred-happy shredders here; we're talking about guitars that can handle djent, blackened thrash, and everything in between. Forget the looks - we're diving into what actually delivers on stage and in the studio.
Don't chase the looks; chase the tone. Entry-level guitars often cut corners on pickups and hardware, so be prepared to upgrade if needed. Spending a little more on a guitar with better stock components will save you headaches down the line.
Seriously, a bad pot can ruin a gig - trust me, I've been there.
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 488 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
Are active pickups always better for metal?
Not necessarily. Active pickups are high-output and can sound great, but they lack the dynamic response of passive pickups. It depends on your desired tone and playing style.
What's the deal with different neck profiles?
Neck profiles are a personal preference. Try as many as you can before committing. A 'D' profile is a good starting point for many metal players - it's comfortable and offers good grip.
Should I get a tremolo system or a fixed bridge?
For most metal players, a fixed bridge is the way to go. Tremolo systems can be finicky and negatively impact sustain and tuning stability. If you need a trem, invest in a good one and learn to set it up properly.
What's the best wood combination for a metal guitar?
Mahogany body with a maple top is a classic combination. Mahogany provides warmth and low-end, while maple adds brightness and articulation. But honestly, the pickups and amp will have a bigger impact than the wood.
Is it worth upgrading the pickups on a cheaper guitar?
Absolutely. Pickups are the heart of the guitar's tone. Replacing stock pickups with a better set can dramatically improve the sound and make a significant difference, especially when amplified.
