AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Single Cut Guitars Under $1,000 2026
The top pick is Epiphone Les Paul Standard '60s ($645). Harley Benton SC-400 SBK Classic Series gives you the most for the money at $155. PRS S2 McCarty 594 Singlecut leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 78 models across 13 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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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 ↗ -
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50s
Les Paul Standard 50s GT LH · 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 left-handed guitar offers a classic mahogany body and maple top for a warm, vintage tone. The two high-output humbuckers deliver a thick sound ideal for rock and blues players. It comes with a comfortable neck and includes a gig bag, making it a solid choice for those who need a reliable instrument without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Classic mahogany and maple body combo for warm tone
- Two high-output humbuckers for thick, powerful sound
- Left-handed design fits specific player needs perfectly
Cons
- No active electronics to boost signal in noisy venues
- Goldtop finish shows wear easily over time
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$736 now$736€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch Electromatic Jet Club
Electromatic Jet Club RB · Gretsch
80 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels warm and solid thanks to its mahogany body and neck. The thick humbuckers push hard, making it great for rock and blues. It is a budget-friendly workhorse for players who want reliable tone without spending a lot.
Pros
- Mahogany body and neck offer rich resonance and warm low-end response
- PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers deliver a thick, powerful midrange punch
- LockDown bridge provides solid stability for heavy down-tuning
Cons
- No weight specification listed creates uncertainty for heavy players
- Single volume control limits dynamic range for complex solos
66AudioFu
Index↓ 9.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$556 · Aug 17$502 now$502€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyMahogany body
This Larry Carlton L7 CAR is a seriously cool guitar, built for players who love that vintage Gibson vibe without the premium price tag. The neck profile is comfortable, the pickups have a really sweet, responsive character, and the coil-splitting gives you a surprising amount of tonal flexibility. It's a great option for blues, rock, and even some jazz players looking for a workhorse instrument.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for a classic tone.
- Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and a smooth playing experience.
- LC Vintage-2 humbuckers deliver a versatile range, from bluesy crunch to fat cleans.
Cons
- Mahogany construction may result in a slightly heavier feel for some players.
- Candy Apple Red finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 12.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$837 · Aug 17$736 now$736€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50s
Les Paul Standard 50s BB Exc · Epiphone
180 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 50s model with its mahogany body and maple top. The 1959 neck profile offers a comfortable grip for playing long songs. It sounds warm thanks to the Graph Tech nut and vintage humbuckers. Great for players who want a reliable, traditional Les Paul feel without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Rich mahogany and maple top construction
- Graph Tech nut ensures intonation stability
- Vintage-style 1959 neck profile feel
Cons
- No weight listed for actual feel
- Single cut shape may suit fewer players
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$736 now$736€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
PRS S2 McCarty 594 Singlecut
SE McCarty 594 Singlecut VS · PRS
107 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels like a classic PRS you can play every night. The mahogany body and vintage humbuckers give it a warm, bluesy sound that cuts through a band. It's a solid choice for players who want that old-school feel without the high-end price tag.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body offers rich, warm resonance for blues players.
- Flamed maple top adds visual flair and bright top-end clarity.
- PRS 58/15 LT humbuckers deliver classic, gritty single-coil tone.
Cons
- No weight information provided makes carrying uncertainty.
- Standard 24.61 scale may feel long to shorter players.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 1.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$973 · Aug 17$957 now$957€857 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Jet FT with Bigsby
Electromatic Jet BF · Gretsch
206 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale625 mm (24.61")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels lighter than usual thanks to its chambered mahogany body. The Twin Six humbuckers deliver a thick tone that cuts through any mix. It suits players who want a solid, heavy feel without the bulk of a full solid body. The single volume knob keeps things simple, so you focus on tone rather than switching knobs.
Pros
- Light chambered mahogany body reduces overall weight significantly
- Two PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers provide thick, full output
- Push/pull tone controls add extra tonal shaping options easily
Cons
- Only one volume knob limits volume blending flexibility
- Mahogany neck can feel heavy compared to maple alternatives
65AudioFu
Index↓ 2.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$646 · Aug 17$632 now$632€566 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '60s
Les Paul Standard 60s Fig ITB · Epiphone
133 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 true Les Paul with a solid mahogany body and a comfortable slim neck. The ProBucker pickups give it a thick, classic rock sound that works well for many styles. It is a great choice for players who want a reliable workhorse without the high cost of a full Les Paul.
Pros
- Classic mahogany body with maple top for rich tone
- SlimTaper 60s neck profile feels comfortable for fingers
- ProBucker pickups deliver thick, powerful humbucker sound
Cons
- No weight spec listed makes carrying less certain
- Single-ply binding is simpler than thick multi-ply options
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$725 now$725€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50s
Les Paul Standard 50s Goldtop · Epiphone
180 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar sounds like the originals with a solid mahogany body and maple top. The vintage wiring and ProBuckers give it a thick, warm tone that players love. It looks great in goldtop and comes with a bag, making it a smart choice for anyone wanting a classic Les Paul feel without the high cost.
Pros
- Mahogany body paired with maple top for classic resonance
- ProBucker pickups deliver thick, full-bodied humbucker tone
- 50s style wiring adds authentic vintage character
Cons
- No weight information provided for player comfort
- CTS electronics may lack premium build quality
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$736 now$736€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This SC-400 is a seriously impressive offering for the budget-conscious player. It nails the classic single-cut aesthetic and delivers a usable, vintage-inspired tone. Perfect for beginners or players wanting a reliable, workhorse guitar for rock, blues, and classic rock styles without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Poplar body offers surprising resonance and warmth for the price.
- Maple neck with a comfortable 'C' profile plays surprisingly well.
- Kluson-style tuners provide stable tuning and a vintage aesthetic.
Cons
- Finish, while silk-matte, can feel a bit plasticky to the touch.
- Thermally treated roseacer fretboard might lack the premium feel of ebony.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 78 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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Harley Benton SC-450 CB Classic SeriesHarley Benton · 10 finishes58Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton SC-550 II FTFHarley Benton · 11 finishes57Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
- 13
Epiphone Les Paul Tribute PlusLes Paul Tribute Plus EB · Epiphone · 3 finishes57Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 14
ESP LTD EC-200DXLTD EC-200DX BLB · ESP57Stable$522€467$522€467Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton SC-500 BK Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 7 finishes56Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
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Gretsch STRML JET 1PU MD BLUGretsch · 7 finishes56↓ 5.5%$368€329$368€329Check ↗
- 17
Heritage Guitar Ascent H-150 SunburstHeritage Guitar · 9 finishes55↓ 2.9%$379€339$379€339Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton SC-1000 SBK Progressive LineHarley Benton · 8 finishes53Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Ocean FlameHarley Benton · 6 finishes53Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 20
ESP LTD EC-256 Vintage Gold SatinESP · 3 finishes53↓ 39.8%$422€379$422€379Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton SC Special Hybrid VWHarley Benton · 4 finishes52Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 22
Charvel Standard Series Style 2 SD2 HH HTStandard SD2 HH HT SGRAY · Charvel · 2 finishes52Stable$546€489$546€489Check ↗
- 23
Heritage Guitar Ascent H-137 P90 SunburstHeritage Guitar · 5 finishes51Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 24
Gretsch G5230 T EMTC JET FT DCMGretsch · 5 finishes51Stable$635€568$635€568Check ↗
- 25
Epiphone Billie Joe Armstrong Signature Les Paul JuniorBillie Joe Armstrong LPJ RR · Epiphone51Stable$636€569$636€569Check ↗
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Larry Carlton I5T ButterscotchLarry Carlton · 4 finishes51Stable$647€579$647€579Check ↗
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Jackson JS Series Surfcaster JS22 HTJS22 AH SC Monarkh Snow White · Jackson · 2 finishes50Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
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Hagstrom FantomenFantomen Tobacco Sunburst · Hagstrom · 2 finishes50Stable$837€749$837€749Check ↗
- 29
PRS MT 15 V1 Mark Tremonti Signature 2-Channel 15-Watt Guitar Amp HeadSE Tremonti CA · PRS48Stable$949€849$949€849Check ↗
- 30
ESP LTD EC-400 QM STBSBESP · 2 finishes48↓ 6.3%$993€889$993€889Check ↗
- 31
Larry Carlton L5 Amber BurstLarry Carlton · 3 finishes47Stable$557€499$557€499Check ↗
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Epiphone Les Paul Custom EBEpiphone · 3 finishes47Stable$781€699$781€699Check ↗
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Epiphone Les Paul Custom Widow OBEpiphone · 4 finishes47Stable$949€849$949€849Check ↗
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Harley Benton SC-Junior Faded CherryHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
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Harley Benton SC-Special TV YellowHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
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Harley Benton SC-Custom III Active VBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
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Harley Benton SC-Custom III P90 BlackHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
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Harley Benton SC-Custom Plus EMG TBFHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 39
Gretsch EMTC Sparkle Jet FT GLD SPKGretsch · 2 finishes46Stable$707€633$707€633Check ↗
- 40
Gretsch EMTC Premier Jet RBSTOGretsch46↓ 5.5%$770€689$770€689Check ↗
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Gretsch EMTC Premier Jet ONYX STRMGretsch · 2 finishes46Stable$779€697$779€697Check ↗
- 42
Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine WHEpiphone · 2 finishes46↓ 1.1%$794€711$794€711Check ↗
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ESP LTD GH-200 Gary Holt SignatureLTD GH-200 BLK Gary Holt · ESP46Stable$814€729$814€729Check ↗
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Larry Carlton L3 P90 TV YellowLarry Carlton · 2 finishes45Stable$379€339$379€339Check ↗
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Hagstrom Ultra SwedeUltra Swede Black Gloss · Hagstrom45Stable$557€499$557€499Check ↗
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Hagstrom Ultra MaxUltra Max Black Satin · Hagstrom45Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
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Gretsch Strml Jet Clb MNT METGretsch · 2 finishes44↑ 1.1%$400€358$400€358Check ↗
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Gretsch Electromatic Jet Club 1 CBGretsch44↓ 6.5%$468€419$468€419Check ↗
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Gretsch EMTC Premier Jet CLRVYNTGretsch44↓ 1.0%$755€676$755€676Check ↗
- 50
Harley Benton SC-Junior Faded Cherry w/BagHarley Benton43Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
Single Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 186 models we track, not a sample.
Median $390 — half of all single cut guitars here cost less.
median of 165 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 180 models · 625 mm (24.61")–638 mm (25.12")
median of 132 models · 22–24
median of 127 models · 254 mm (10")–350 mm (13.78")
How to choose the best single cut guitars
Neck Profile
This is huge. A thick, unwieldy neck will kill your playing, while a profile that's too thin can feel flimsy. Ideally, you want something comfortable for your hand size and playing style - a 'C' shape is generally a safe bet, but try before you buy if possible.
Pickup Voicing
Budget pickups can be a real letdown - often brittle or muddy. Look for pickups that offer some clarity and definition, without being overly harsh. A little warmth in the mids is almost always a plus, especially if you're aiming for that fat midrange honk.
Hardware Quality
Tuners, bridges, and pots can make or break a guitar. Cheap hardware will lead to tuning instability, poor sustain, and a generally rattly feel. While you won't get boutique-level hardware at this price, look for something that's at least reasonably solid.
Construction & Finish
Solid wood bodies are ideal, but rare under $1000. A good laminate construction can still sound decent, but pay attention to fretwork - sharp fret ends or uneven action are a major pain. The finish is mostly cosmetic, but a well-applied finish can contribute to the overall feel and resonance.
Sustain & Articulation
A good single-cut should sustain notes nicely and allow for clear articulation, especially when playing lead lines. Look for a guitar with a well-set neck joint and a bridge that transfers string vibrations effectively. This is where the cheaper ones often fall short.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're after that classic single-cut vibe without emptying your bank account? It's totally doable. We're talking about guitars that can nail everything from bluesy grit to chunky rhythm tones, without costing a fortune. Forget the hype - we're focusing on guitars that actually feel good and sound decent plugged in, for gigs, practice, or just messing around.
At this price point, expect some compromises. You're not getting a relic'd, perfectly voiced, heirloom-quality instrument. The biggest corners cut are usually in the pickups and hardware, and sometimes in the wood itself.
Paying a little more for a guitar with a solid wood body (even a cheaper wood like mahogany) and decent tuners will be worth it in the long run. Don't be afraid to upgrade pickups later - it's a relatively inexpensive way to dramatically improve the tone.
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 186 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 Chinese-made guitars any good?
Honestly, yeah, some of them are surprisingly good. Manufacturing quality has improved dramatically. Just be aware that QC can be a little inconsistent, so check the fretwork and hardware carefully before you buy.
What's the deal with 'roasted' necks?
'Roasted' necks are kiln-dried at high temperatures, which supposedly stabilizes the wood and improves resonance. The effect is subtle, and it's more of a marketing buzzword than a game-changer at this price range. Don't pay a premium for it.
Can I realistically expect a vintage-style feel?
You won't get a true vintage feel, but some guitars come closer than others. Look for a neck with a slightly rounded profile and a bridge with a bit of 'give' - this will mimic the feel of older instruments. It's about the overall vibe, not a perfect replica.
Should I buy used?
Absolutely. You can often find incredible deals on used guitars. Just be sure to inspect it carefully for any signs of damage or wear. A little TLC can go a long way.
What's the best amp to pair with these guitars?
It depends on your taste, but a Fender-style clean amp (think Deluxe Reverb) or a Vox AC30 will really let these guitars shine. A little bit of tube saturation will add warmth and character without getting overly distorted.
