AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Single Cut Guitars Under $2,000 2026
The top pick is Gibson Les Paul Studio Session ($1,800). Gretsch Electromatic Jet Club gives you the most for the money at $500. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 131 models across 19 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 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 ↗ -
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$733 now$733€659 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 ↗ -
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$733 now$733€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar feels great in hand with a solid mahogany body and thin neck. The single Custom humbucker gives a warm, thick tone that works well for rock. It is a simple, reliable choice for players who want stability without extra electronics.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body and neck provide strong resonance
- Thin U neck profile offers easy playability
- Seymour Duncan Custom pickup delivers rich output
Cons
- Limited to one volume control only
- Single humbucker lacks tone variety
66AudioFu
Index↓ 20.0%since Aug 27$1,390 · Aug 27$1,112 now$1,112€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson 50th Anniversary Les Paul Music City Special
Les Paul Music City Sp. WR · Gibson
48 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Music City is a cool little Les Paul variant – a real departure from the standard mahogany build. The shorter scale and ebony board make it surprisingly nimble, and those 70s Tribute pickups nail that classic rock and blues vibe. It's a premium-priced option perfect for players seeking a unique feel and vintage tones without the hefty weight of a traditional Les Paul.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience.
- 70s Tribute humbuckers deliver thick, vintage-voiced power.
Cons
- Limited production run means resale value might be unpredictable.
- Poplar, while good, isn’t as tonally complex as mahogany.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 9.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,780 · Aug 17$1,607 now$1,607€1,444 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
65AudioFu
Index↓ 9.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$554 · Aug 17$500 now$500€449 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$643 · Aug 17$630 now$630€566 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.
65AudioFu
Index↓ 12.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$834 · Aug 17$733 now$733€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
PRS S2 McCarty 594 Singlecut
SE McCarty 594 Singlecut CH · 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
The SE McCarty 594 Singlecut CH is a fantastic option for players seeking a vintage-inspired PRS experience without the premium price tag. It nails that sweet spot of warmth and clarity, making it ideal for classic rock, blues, and even some jazz. The build quality is surprisingly good for an SE model, and it’s a serious contender if you’re after a dependable, great-sounding workhorse guitar.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for a balanced tone.
- Flamed maple top adds visual appeal and a touch of brightness.
- PRS 58/15 LT pickups deliver a versatile range, from clean to driven.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make it slightly heavier than some players prefer.
- Rosewood fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$945 now$945€849 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 131 single cut guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '60sLes Paul Standard 60s Fig ITB · Epiphone64Stable$722€649$722€649Check ↗
- 12
Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50sLes Paul Standard 50s Goldtop · Epiphone64Stable$733€659$733€659Check ↗
- 13
Gibson Les Paul Studio SessionLes Paul Studio Session HoneyB · Gibson64Stable$1,854€1,666$1,854€1,666Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton SC-450Plus CB Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 17 finishes62Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 15
Gibson Les Paul Modern StudioLes Paul Modern Studio WRS · Gibson · 2 finishes60Stable$1,891€1,699$1,891€1,699Check ↗
- 16
Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded EbonyGibson · 6 finishes58↓ 12.5%$1,557€1,399$1,557€1,399Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton SC-400 SBK Classic SeriesHarley Benton · 11 finishes57Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 18
Epiphone Les Paul Tribute PlusLes Paul Tribute Plus EB · Epiphone · 3 finishes56Stable$422€379$422€379Check ↗
- 19
ESP LTD EC-200DXLTD EC-200DX BLB · ESP56Stable$520€467$520€467Check ↗
- 20
Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded T 2016Les Paul Studio Faded G. Mist · Gibson56↓ 12.6%$1,556€1,398$1,556€1,398Check ↗
- 21
Gibson Les Paul Studio Faded T 2016Les Paul Studio Faded Ocean Bl · Gibson56↓ 12.5%$1,557€1,399$1,557€1,399Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton SC-550 II FTFHarley Benton · 11 finishes55Stable$355€319$355€319Check ↗
- 23
Gretsch STRML JET 1PU MD BLUGretsch · 7 finishes55↓ 5.5%$366€329$366€329Check ↗
- 24
ESP LTD EC-1000 PWESP · 10 finishes55↓ 3.1%$1,869€1,679$1,869€1,679Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton SC-500 BK Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 7 finishes54Stable$188€169$188€169Check ↗
- 26
Heritage Guitar Ascent+ H-150 Gold TopHeritage Guitar · 9 finishes54Stable$1,001€899$1,001€899Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Ocean FlameHarley Benton · 6 finishes52Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
- 28
ESP LTD EC-256 Vintage Gold SatinESP · 3 finishes52↓ 39.8%$422€379$422€379Check ↗
- 29
Charvel Standard Series Style 2 SD2 HH HTStandard SD2 HH HT SGRAY · Charvel · 2 finishes52Stable$544€489$544€489Check ↗
- 30
Epiphone Alex Lifeson Signature Les Paul Custom AxcessAlex Lifeson LP Custom Axcess · Epiphone52↓ 6.8%$1,223€1,099$1,223€1,099Check ↗
- 31
Harley Benton SC-1000 SBK Progressive LineHarley Benton · 8 finishes51Stable$221€199$221€199Check ↗
- 32
Harley Benton SC Special Hybrid VWHarley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$221€199$221€199Check ↗
- 33
Epiphone Futura Les Paul CustomLes Paul Custom Futura TS · Epiphone · 2 finishes51Stable$1,056€949$1,056€949Check ↗
- 34
Heritage Guitar Ascent H-137 P90 SunburstHeritage Guitar · 5 finishes50Stable$288€259$288€259Check ↗
- 35
Gretsch G5230 T EMTC JET FT DCMGretsch · 5 finishes50Stable$632€568$632€568Check ↗
- 36
Epiphone Billie Joe Armstrong Signature Les Paul JuniorBillie Joe Armstrong LPJ RR · Epiphone50Stable$633€569$633€569Check ↗
- 37
Larry Carlton I5T ButterscotchLarry Carlton · 4 finishes50Stable$644€579$644€579Check ↗
- 38
ESP LTD Iron Cross James Hetfield SignatureLTD Iron Cross SW · ESP50Stable$1,667€1,498$1,667€1,498Check ↗
- 39
Jackson JS Series Surfcaster JS22 HTJS22 AH SC Monarkh Snow White · Jackson · 2 finishes49Stable$255€229$255€229Check ↗
- 40
Hagstrom FantomenFantomen Tobacco Sunburst · Hagstrom · 2 finishes49Stable$834€749$834€749Check ↗
- 41
Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Re GPBEpiphone49↓ 17.2%$1,196€1,075$1,196€1,075Check ↗
- 42
PRS MT 15 V1 Mark Tremonti Signature 2-Channel 15-Watt Guitar Amp HeadSE Tremonti CA · PRS48Stable$945€849$945€849Check ↗
- 43
Gibson Les Paul Junior VTBGibson · 3 finishes48Stable$1,446€1,299$1,446€1,299Check ↗
- 44
ESP LTD EC-400 QM STBSBESP · 2 finishes47↓ 6.3%$989€889$989€889Check ↗
- 45
Epiphone Les Paul Custom Ebony IGCEpiphone · 3 finishes47↓ 4.8%$1,112€999$1,112€999Check ↗
- 46
Epiphone 1960 Les Paul Standard WCSEpiphone · 2 finishes47↓ 1.7%$1,221€1,097$1,221€1,097Check ↗
- 47
Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard WBBEpiphone · 2 finishes47↓ 5.7%$1,245€1,119$1,245€1,119Check ↗
- 48
Harley Benton SC-Junior Faded CherryHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 49
Harley Benton SC-Special TV YellowHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$277€249$277€249Check ↗
- 50
Harley Benton SC-Custom III Active VBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
Single Cut Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 282 models we track, not a sample.
Median $667 — half of all single cut guitars here cost less.
median of 274 models · 628 mm (24.72")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 201 models · 22–24
most common · 245 models
most common · 191 models
How to choose the best single cut guitars
Sustain
At this price point, you're looking for decent resonance. Mahogany bodies generally win here, but even a well-constructed alder can surprise you. Cheap hardware and short-scale lengths will kill sustain, so pay attention to those details.
Neck Profile
This is hugely important for playability. A neck that's too thick will feel clumsy, while one that's too thin can be uncomfortable for extended playing. Try before you buy if possible, or at least check online reviews for neck dimensions.
Pickup Voicing
You're likely to find humbuckers in this category, but the voicing varies wildly. Some will be scooped and modern, others will have that warmer, vintage 'fat midrange honk'. Think about the tones you want to achieve and match the pickups accordingly.
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners will have you retuning mid-song. Weak bridges will buzz. It's not about boutique hardware, but functional, reliable parts that don't compromise the guitar's performance. Upgrading is an option, but it's a drain on your budget.
Construction & Finish
Solid construction means fewer headaches down the road. Check for tight fretwork, clean binding (if present), and a finish that doesn't feel plasticky. A great finish doesn't guarantee quality, but a bad one is a red flag.
Buying guide
So, you want that classic single-cut vibe - the sustain, the feel, the way it cuts through a mix - but you're not looking to drop five figures. It's totally doable. We've hunted down the best single-cut guitars under $2000 that deliver serious bang-for-your-buck, whether you're gigging out, tracking in a studio, or just shredding in your bedroom. Let's break down what you can realistically expect for your money.
Don't expect flawless fretwork or perfectly balanced tones. At this price, there will be compromises. Focus on the overall feel and the core sound - can you comfortably play it for hours?
Does it inspire you? Upgrading pickups is often a worthwhile investment, but be wary of upgrading everything else; it's often cheaper to get a slightly better guitar from the start. A good setup from a tech is absolutely essential, regardless of the brand.
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 282 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
Is a roasted maple neck worth the extra money?
It's a nice upgrade for stability and a smoother feel, but it's not essential. It'll resist changes in humidity better, but honestly, a well-cured standard maple neck can be just as good if properly maintained.
What's the deal with 'chambered' bodies?
Chambering reduces weight, which is a plus, but it can also alter the tone. Some chambered bodies sound thin and lifeless; others retain a surprising amount of resonance. It's a gamble - try before you buy if possible.
Can I realistically expect vintage-style tones under $2000?
You can get close, but don't expect a 1959 Les Paul. You'll get a good chunk of that vibe, but modern pickups and construction will always impart a slightly different character. Embrace it - it can be a good thing.
Should I buy online or try it in a store?
Ideally, try it in a store. Neck feel is subjective. If that's not possible, buy from a retailer with a generous return policy. Seriously, use it.
What about Chinese-made guitars? Are they any good?
Quality control has improved dramatically. Many excellent guitars are built in China these days, offering incredible value. Just be extra careful about setup and fretwork - they often need a little TLC to play their best.
