AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best ST Style Guitars for Professional 2026
The top pick is PRS Custom 24 Private Stock ($16,278). Fender 61 Strat GRY Relic HSS MBAH gives you the most for the money at $9,867. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 628 models across 28 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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PRS Custom 24 Private Stock
Private Stock HPW Custom 24 N · PRS
55 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets24 frets
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar uses rare black limba wood chosen by hand for its sound. The maple burl top and ebony fingerboard give it a rich feel. It fits players who want a custom look and solid tone without too many controls.
Pros
- Hand-selected woods for unique tone
- Black limba body and neck combo
- Maple burl top adds warmth
Cons
- No listed weight for heft assessment
- High-end price may limit buyers
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$16,278 now$16,278€14,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets24 frets
- BodyAsh body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar uses rare woods picked from a private vault for a special sound and look. The spalted maple top shines bright while the ash body and neck keep it balanced. It feels like a top-tier instrument built for players who want unique tone without compromise.
Pros
- Hand-selected woods from a private wood vault ensure unique tone.
- Spalted maple top adds distinct visual character and resonance.
- Gold mother-of-pearl inlays create a stunning, high-end look.
Cons
- No listed weight makes handling balance feel unknown.
- Only two controls limit tone shaping compared to modern standards.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$16,166 now$16,166€14,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels like a real vintage instrument you can trust. The custom build and handwound pickups give it that classic Strat sound. It suits anyone who wants authentic tone without extra knobs.
Pros
- Custom Andy Hicks build ensures top-tier craftsmanship and attention to detail.
- 60s handwound pickups deliver authentic vintage Stratocaster tone and character.
- Selected chestnut body paired with AAA flame maple for a rich, premium feel.
Cons
- Heavy finish and solid wood construction may be difficult for some players.
- Modern wiring limits control options compared to older Fender setups.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 8Oct 8$15,609 now$15,609€13,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets24 frets
- BodyMahogany body
This Cu24 PS is a serious statement piece – the ziricote neck feels phenomenal, and the 58/15 pickups are surprisingly versatile, handling everything from clean jazz tones to driven rock. It's built to a Private Stock standard, so expect incredible attention to detail and a truly luxurious playing experience. This is for the discerning player who appreciates high-end materials and exceptional craftsmanship, and isn't afraid to invest in a truly special instrument.
Pros
- Exquisite ziricote neck & board offer exceptional clarity and feel.
- Mahogany/quilted maple combo delivers rich sustain and warmth.
- 58/15 LT pickups provide versatile, articulate tones, surprisingly dynamic.
Cons
- The ziricote can be brittle; requires careful handling and humidification.
- The Sage Dragons Breath finish, while stunning, is prone to fingerprints.
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$13,379 now$13,379€11,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
Austin Macnutt’s work here is undeniable – this Strat is a beautiful, resonant instrument. The HSS setup gives it a wider tonal palette than a traditional Strat, and the relic'd look nails that worn-in vibe. This is perfect for players who want a premium-priced, versatile Strat with a unique voice and a real connection to its craftsmanship.
Pros
- Macnutt’s build quality is impeccable, a true artist’s touch.
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and resonance.
- Pearly Gates bridge humbucker delivers a powerful, articulate drive.
Cons
- The relic'd finish, while visually appealing, won't appeal to everyone's taste.
- The HSS configuration, while versatile, might not satisfy purist Strat players.
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$10,435 now$10,435€9,359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
PRS 40th Anniversary Charcoal Phoenix Limited Edition
Charcoal Phoenix Ltd Edition · PRS
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyMahogany body
This is a seriously special PRS – the combination of mahogany, zirikote, and those TCI pickups creates a really unique voice. It’s built for players who appreciate refined details and want something a little different than your standard ST-style guitar, perfect for jazz, fusion, or sophisticated rock tones.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain; a beautiful, resonant foundation.
- Zirikote fingerboard offers a unique feel and striking visual appeal.
- TCI pickups deliver articulate highs with a focused, vintage-inspired character.
Cons
- The mahogany body likely contributes to a higher overall weight.
- The limited run makes it difficult to acquire and potentially impacts resale value.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$10,034 now$10,034€8,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Frets21 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
This is a seriously special Strat. Andy Hicks' touch makes it a joy to play, and the HSS configuration gives you that classic Strat vibe with a modern edge for rock and blues. It’s a top-tier instrument for the discerning player who appreciates vintage aesthetics and premium components.
Pros
- Andy Hicks' craftsmanship ensures exceptional build quality and feel.
- The '60s Oval C neck offers superb comfort and playability.
- EVH Frankenstein humbucker delivers powerful, articulate bridge tones.
Cons
- The HSS configuration limits versatility for modern, high-gain genres.
- Relic'd finish may not appeal to players preferring a pristine look.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$9,867 now$9,867€8,849 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius430 mm (16.93")
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar feels heavy and warm thanks to the purpleheart neck and limba body. The DiMarzio pickups sound thick and aggressive, perfect for live shows. It suits players who want a dark tone and solid tuning, though the natural finish needs careful handling.
Pros
- Heavy limba body with solid burl maple top for warmth
- Purpleheart neck offers rich, dark tone compared to maple
- DiMarzio Air Norton and Tone Zone pickups drive hard sound
Cons
- Natural finish shows wear and scratches very easily
- High price point limits accessibility for many players
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$10,034 now$10,034€8,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar feels like a heavy-duty workhorse built for touring. The maple and purpleheart neck-thru body means it stays stable even when you drop it. The DiMarzio pickups give you crisp cleans and thick humbuckers, while the Lo-Pro Edge tremolo moves smoothly. It suits players who want a reliable stage instrument without sacrificing tone.
Pros
- Japanese-made maple and purpleheart neck-thru body ensures rock-solid stability.
- DiMarzio True Velvet single coil offers bright, articulate clean tones.
- Lo-Pro Edge tremolo provides smooth vibration control for soloing.
Cons
- High price point limits availability for most players.
- Single middle pickup configuration may lack bridge pickup options.
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$10,034 now$10,034€8,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This is a serious Strat for players who want the best. Andy Hicks’ touch elevates the build quality and the P-90 adds a real growl. It's a premium-priced instrument, but the combination of vintage vibe and modern versatility makes it a dream for blues, rock, and even some modern genres.
Pros
- Andy Hicks Masterbuild ensures exceptional craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail.
- The P-90 bridge pickup delivers a thick, powerful tone ideal for rock and blues.
- ’66 Oval C neck profile offers a comfortable, familiar vintage feel for seasoned players.
Cons
- The two-piece alder body might exhibit grain lines, impacting aesthetics for some buyers.
- The premium-priced tag makes it inaccessible to many players, a significant investment.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$9,755 now$9,755€8,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 628 ST style guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
PRS Custom 24 "Birds of a Feather" Limited EditionBirds Of A Feather Custom 24 B · PRS · 3 finishes52Stable$8,919€7,999$8,919€7,999Check ↗
- 12
Pensa MKD Vintage WhitePensa28Stable$9,699€8,699$9,699€8,699Check ↗
- 13
Fender 59 Strat AVWoC3CS Super RelicFender37Stable$9,142€8,199$9,142€8,199Check ↗
- 14
Fender Roasted '61 Strat ABLK/3TSBFender43Stable$8,807€7,899$8,807€7,899Check ↗
- 15
ESP Horizon NT CTM ST Red BurstESP40Stable$8,696€7,799$8,696€7,799Check ↗
- 16
Fender Custom Shop Roasted Poblano Stratocaster RelicPoblano Strat SHR AB · Fender37Stable$8,807€7,899$8,807€7,899Check ↗
- 17
Fender LTD Hotshot Strat HR ALPBoACTSFender41Stable$8,473€7,599$8,473€7,599Check ↗
- 18
Fender LTD Hotshot Strat HR BSoACSFender41Stable$8,473€7,599$8,473€7,599Check ↗
- 19
Fender Custom Shop '65 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic65 Strat CAR JM Relic LH · Fender · 5 finishes55Stable$7,804€6,999$7,804€6,999Check ↗
- 20
Fender 60 Strat AOW/3TSB Heavy RelicFender39Stable$8,473€7,599$8,473€7,599Check ↗
- 21
Fender Artisan Koa Thinline Strat ANFender44Stable$8,250€7,399$8,250€7,399Check ↗
- 22
Fender Custom Deluxe Strat HB-S1 SFSPFender · 2 finishes45Stable$8,170€7,299$8,170€7,299Check ↗
- 23
Fender Custom Shop '63 Reissue Stratocaster Relic63 Strat RW Black Relic HSS · Fender · 4 finishes62Stable$7,246€6,499$7,246€6,499Check ↗
- 24
Suhr Custom Shop StandardCustom Shop Standard TR · Suhr49↓ 1.4%$7,804€6,999$7,804€6,999Check ↗
- 25
Fender Custom Shop '69 Reissue Stratocaster Relic69 Strat Relic MN GYW HSS FR · Fender · 4 finishes64Stable$7,135€6,399$7,135€6,399Check ↗
- 26
Fender LTD 59 Strat BPoMW Heavy RFender43Stable$8,027€7,199$8,027€7,199Check ↗
- 27
PRS 40th Anniversary Custom 2440th Anniversary Custom 24 TE · PRS47Stable$7,804€6,999$7,804€6,999Check ↗
- 28
Fender Fat 64 Stratocaster AagOGs LtdFender · 2 finishes37Stable$8,138€7,299$8,138€7,299Check ↗
- 29
Fender 60 Strat C3TSB SH RelicFender37Stable$8,027€7,199$8,027€7,199Check ↗
- 30
Fender 61 Strat Roasted ABCS SH RelicFender33Stable$8,138€7,299$8,138€7,299Check ↗
- 31
Fender LTD Artisan P90 Koa Strat ANFender · 2 finishes43Stable$7,692€6,899$7,692€6,899Check ↗
- 32
Fender 61 Strat Heavy Relic FSBFender · 2 finishes35Stable$8,027€7,199$8,027€7,199Check ↗
- 33
PRS Custom 24 WL Burnt Maple LeafPRS37Stable$7,804€6,999$7,804€6,999Check ↗
- 34
PRS Custom 24 Artist PackageArtist Grade Custom 24 FI · PRS · 2 finishes49Stable$7,246€6,499$7,246€6,499Check ↗
- 35
PRS 40th Anniversary Custom 2440th Anniversary Custom 24 SuZ · PRS49Stable$7,245€6,498$7,245€6,498Check ↗
- 36
Fender 62/63 Strat SHR Lake PlacidFender · 5 finishes45Stable$7,358€6,599$7,358€6,599Check ↗
- 37
Fender Strat Roasted Pine CC ATGMFender33Stable$7,804€6,999$7,804€6,999Check ↗
- 38
Fender 63 Strat AFR Heavy RelicFender33Stable$7,692€6,899$7,692€6,899Check ↗
- 39
Fender Artisan Maple Burl Strat ANFender43Stable$7,246€6,499$7,246€6,499Check ↗
- 40
Fender LTD 61 Strat SHR VWo3CSBFender · 2 finishes39Stable$7,358€6,599$7,358€6,599Check ↗
- 41
Fender Custom Shop '56 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic56 Strat Journeyman Relic GLS · Fender · 3 finishes59Stable$6,466€5,799$6,466€5,799Check ↗
- 42
Fender Elite Strat MN QMT Tiger EyeFender33Stable$7,581€6,799$7,581€6,799Check ↗
- 43
Fender 62/63 Strat SHR Dakota RedFender37Stable$7,358€6,599$7,358€6,599Check ↗
- 44
PRS Custom 24 10-TopCustom 24 10 Top Cobalt SB · PRS57Stable$6,466€5,799$6,466€5,799Check ↗
- 45
Fender 62/63 Strat SHR Tomatillo GFender35Stable$7,358€6,599$7,358€6,599Check ↗
- 46
PRS 40th Anniv Custom 24 Ltd 87 SZPRS37Stable$7,245€6,498$7,245€6,498Check ↗
- 47
PRS 40th Anniv. Custom 24 SuZ #2PRS37Stable$7,245€6,498$7,245€6,498Check ↗
- 48
PRS 40th Anniv. Custom 24 SuZPRS37Stable$7,245€6,498$7,245€6,498Check ↗
- 49
Fender Limited Edition Vintera II Road Worn '60s Stratocaster60s DM II CR Strat Relic 3TSB · Fender · 2 finishes57Stable$6,354€5,699$6,354€5,699Check ↗
- 50
Fender 60 Strat 3TSB RelicFender · 4 finishes44Stable$6,912€6,199$6,912€6,199Check ↗
ST Style Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 1,452 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,092 — half of all ST style guitars here cost less.
median of 1,115 models · 41.9 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 1,317 models · 635 mm (25")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 725 models · 21–24
most common · 1,308 models
How to choose the best ST style guitars
Neck Profile & Playability
Forget the 'C' shape hype; it's about what feels right in your hand for hours on end. A comfortable neck doesn't mean it has to be thick - it means it allows for effortless access to the higher frets without feeling like you're wrestling with it. We're looking for consistent fretwork and a smooth, even action.
Pickup Voicing & Response
A bright, ice-picky top end is fatiguing and doesn't cut through a loud band. We want pickups with clarity and articulation - capable of delivering a warm, fat midrange honk for rhythm work, but also retaining enough bite for searing leads. Headroom under drive is crucial.
Hardware Quality & Reliability
Stage-worthy hardware isn't just about aesthetics. Locking tuners are non-negotiable for tuning stability. A good bridge transfers string vibration efficiently and stays in tune even with aggressive playing. Cheap pots and switches fail; period.
Body Wood & Resonance
Alder is the standard for a reason - it's balanced and versatile. Ash can offer a more scooped midrange and brighter character. The key is how the wood interacts with the pickups to produce a responsive and dynamic instrument, not just a piece of lumber.
Construction & Fretwork
Sloppy fretwork is a deal-breaker. Sharp fret edges, buzzing, and unevenness kill sustain and articulation. A well-setup guitar is essential, but a poorly constructed instrument will always fight you.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk ST style guitars for folks who actually play. You're past the beginner phase, you're gigging, tracking, and you're tired of guitars that feel like a chore. Forget the cheap noodle-masters - we're looking at instruments that can handle the demands of a professional, offering nuanced tone and feel that inspires, not limits. This isn't about looks; it's about delivering the goods when it counts.
Don't fall for the 'vintage spec' trap - modern manufacturing allows for improvements. A slightly more modern neck profile can be a huge win for playability. Paying extra for quality hardware and a meticulous setup is almost always worth it.
Be honest with yourself about your playing style - if you're a heavy hitter, you'll want a more robust instrument than someone who plays mostly clean chords.
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 1,452 ST style 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 all-rosewood fretboard guitars better?
Not necessarily. Rosewood is warmer, but maple can be brighter and more articulate. It's a tonal preference, not an inherent quality advantage. Consider how it will interact with your amp and other gear.
What's the deal with roasted necks?
Roasted necks are kiln-dried, which stabilizes the wood and reduces moisture-related movement. This can lead to better tuning stability and a slightly smoother feel, but it's not a magic bullet.
Should I get a guitar with stainless steel frets?
Stainless steel frets last longer and offer a smoother feel, but some players find them a bit 'clinical' in tone. It's a personal preference and worth trying before committing.
What's the best finish for a professional guitar?
That's purely aesthetic, but a gloss finish tends to be easier to clean and maintain, which is important for gigging. A thin, nitro finish allows the wood to breathe more, but it's more delicate.
Are custom shop guitars always better?
Not always. A well-made, thoughtfully spec'd production model can often outperform a poorly made custom shop instrument. Do your research and play before you buy.
