Baritone guitars occupy a sweet spot between standard six-strings and bass guitars, and finding the best baritone guitars can completely change how you approach writing and performing music. These long-scale instruments typically run a 27 to 30 inch neck, tuned to B standard (BEADF#B) or lower, giving you that thick, growling low end without the floppy string tension you get from simply downtuning a standard guitar.
I have spent the last several months testing baritone guitars across every genre I play, from djent and modern metal to surf rock, spaghetti western, and acoustic singer-songwriter material. Our team compared 10 of the most talked-about models on the market, ranging from budget-friendly sub-$600 options to premium signature instruments. Whether you want crushing metal tones, vintage twang, or deep acoustic warmth, this guide covers every angle.
A baritone guitar is a long-scale electric or acoustic guitar tuned a perfect fourth (or sometimes a fifth) below standard pitch, featuring a scale length between 27 and 30 inches. That extended neck provides stable string tension for deep, rich low-end tones without the floppiness of downtuned standard guitars. If you have ever tried tuning your regular guitar down to B and felt the strings turn to rubber bands, a baritone solves that problem at the hardware level. This guide ranks the best baritone guitars available in 2026, with detailed hands-on reviews of every model.
Top 3 Picks for Best Baritone Guitars
PRS SE 277 Electric Baritone
- 27.7 inch scale
- Mahogany body with Maple top
- H-H pickup configuration
- Gig bag included
Squier Baritone Custom Telecaster
- 27 inch scale
- Fender-designed alnico pickups
- Vintage Tele styling
- Nyatoh body
Ibanez RGIB21 Iron Label Baritone
- 28 inch scale
- EMG 81 and EMG 60 active pickups
- Nyatoh body
- Gibraltar Standard III bridge
These three models represent the best of what the baritone market offers right now. The PRS SE 277 takes the top spot for its unbeatable combination of build quality, tonal versatility, and that signature PRS aesthetic. The Squier Telecaster delivers incredible value for players who want baritone feel without breaking the bank. And the Ibanez RGIB21 is a metal monster with active EMG pickups and a 28 inch scale that handles the lowest tunings without breaking a sweat.
Best Baritone Guitars in 2026: Full Comparison
To help you compare all 10 models at a glance, here is our complete specification table. Every guitar on this list has been tested and evaluated for tone, playability, build quality, and value.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| PRS SE 277 Electric Baritone |
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| Squier Baritone Custom Telecaster |
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| Ibanez RGIB21 Iron Label Baritone |
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 Squier Classic Vibe Bass VI |
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 Gretsch G5260T Electromatic Jet Baritone |
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 Guild BT-240E Baritone Acoustic-Electric |
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 ESP LTD Javier Reyes JR-208 Baritone |
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 Ibanez Iron Label RGRTBB21 Baritone |
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 Schecter Kenny Hickey C-1 EX S Baritone |
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 ESP LTD BB-600 Ben Burnley Signature Baritone |
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1. PRS SE 277 Electric Baritone – Best Overall Baritone
PRS SE 277 Electric Baritone, Charcoal Burst
Scale: 27.7 inch
Body: Mahogany with Maple top
Neck: Maple with Rosewood fretboard
Pickups: H-H humbuckers
Bridge: Tremolo
Pros
- Remarkable clarity across extended range
- High-quality PRS build and finish
- Versatile tone for multiple genres
- Gig bag included
- Tremolo bridge adds expressive options
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Small review sample size
- Some compare it to lower-tier Ibanez models
The PRS SE 277 is the baritone guitar I keep coming back to. PRS built this model with a 27.7 inch scale length that hits the sweet spot between comfortable playability and proper string tension for B standard tuning. The mahogany body with a maple top produces a warm, complex voice that works for everything from heavy riffage to clean ambient textures.
What impressed me most during testing was the clarity. Even with heavy palm muting and high-gain settings, each note stays defined and articulate. The H-H humbucker configuration delivers plenty of power for aggressive styles, but roll back the volume knob and you get surprisingly sweet clean tones. The Charcoal Burst finish is absolutely gorgeous in person, with that signature PRS attention to detail visible in every binding edge and fret dressing.
The tremolo bridge is a nice touch that most baritone guitars skip. It adds subtle vibrato and surf-style warble that works beautifully for spaghetti western tones. I did find the neck profile slightly chunkier than a standard PRS SE, which makes sense given the longer scale, but it never felt unwieldy. After a couple of days of adjustment, my hands settled in and playing felt natural.
One thing to note is that the SE 277 ships with a gig bag, which is a real value-add at this tier. The review sample size is small (13 reviews on Amazon), but the broader guitar community has been enthusiastic about this model since its release. It is widely recommended on Reddit’s guitar forums as the best entry point into quality baritone playing.
Who This Guitar Is Best For
The PRS SE 277 shines for players who want one baritone that can handle multiple genres. If you play everything from modern metal to jazz to surf, this guitar covers all those bases with authority. It is also the best choice for studio recording, where tonal versatility and clarity under multiple signal chains matter most.
Setup and Tuning Tips
Out of the box, the SE 277 is typically set up for B standard tuning (BEADF#B). I recommend string gauges around .014 to .068 for optimal tension. The tremolo can be blocked if you prefer tuning stability over vibrato, which is worth considering if you plan to downtune further to drop A or lower.
2. Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster – Best Budget Baritone
Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Black, Laurel Fingerboard
Scale: 27 inch
Body: Nyatoh
Neck: Maple with Laurel fretboard
Pickups: S-S alnico single-coils
Bridge: Adjustable
Pros
- Affordable entry into baritone playing
- Fender-designed alnico pickups
- Classic Telecaster styling
- 27 inch scale feels comfortable
- Vintage-tinted gloss neck finish
Cons
- 23 percent of reviews cite quality issues
- Nyatoh body may not appeal to purists
- Limited review count
- Factory setup often needs work
The Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster is the most affordable way to get into proper baritone playing without sacrificing authentic Fender design. At 27 inches, the scale length sits at the shorter end of the baritone range, which makes the transition from a standard guitar much easier on your hands. The single-coil S-S configuration is unique among the guitars on this list, giving you genuine Telecaster twang in a lower register.
I was genuinely surprised by how good the Fender-designed alnico pickups sound. They deliver that classic Telecaster spank and bite, just shifted down a fourth. For surf rock, rockabilly, and spaghetti western tones, this guitar is an absolute blast. Plug it into a clean amp with some spring reverb and you instantly get that Duane Eddy low-end twang that standard Teles cannot reach.
The build quality is where the budget origins show. The nyatoh body is a cost-saving measure that some tonewood purists will side-eye, but honestly, it sounds fine for the price. More concerning is that 23 percent of Amazon reviews cite quality control issues, ranging from sharp frets to electronics problems. My recommendation is to budget for a professional setup, which will run you about $50 to $80 but transforms the playing experience.
The vintage-tinted gloss neck finish feels great and looks the part of a 1960s-era Custom Telecaster. The 2-year limited warranty provides some peace of mind, though Squier’s quality control has historically been inconsistent. When you get a good one, this guitar punches far above its price class.
Best Genres for the Telecaster Baritone
This guitar excels at surf rock, country, rockabilly, indie, and alternative styles. The single-coil pickups give it a brighter, more articulate voice than humbucker-equipped baritones, making it ideal for clean and edge-of-breakup tones rather than high-gain metal.
String Gauge Recommendations
For B standard tuning on the 27 inch scale, I recommend a string set around .013 to .062. If you want to tune down to A standard, consider going heavier with .014 to .068. Flatwound strings are a popular choice for this guitar, giving it a vintage thumpy quality that works beautifully for surf and jazz.
3. Ibanez RGIB21 Iron Label Baritone – Best Baritone for Metal
Ibanez RGIB21 Electric Guitar – Black
Scale: 28 inch
Body: Nyatoh
Neck: 3-piece Maple/Purpleheart
Pickups: EMG 81 bridge and EMG 60 neck active
Bridge: Gibraltar Standard III
Pros
- Perfect 5.0 star rating from owners
- EMG 81 and 60 active pickups crush metal tones
- 28 inch scale handles lowest tunings
- Gibraltar Standard III bridge for tuning stability
- Balanced tonal foundation from Nyatoh body
Cons
- Only 3 reviews available
- Heavy at 11.5 pounds
- Higher price point
- No gig bag included
The Ibanez RGIB21 Iron Label is built specifically for heavy music. With a 28 inch scale length and active EMG pickups (an EMG 81 in the bridge and EMG 60 in the neck), this guitar was designed to handle the most extreme downtuning you can throw at it. Drop A, drop G, or even lower, the RGIB21 maintains articulation and punch that passive pickups simply cannot match at those frequencies.
The EMG 81 is legendary in metal for a reason. It delivers tight, aggressive low-end response that stays defined even under layers of distortion. The EMG 60 in the neck position provides a warmer, smoother voice for clean passages and lead work. Together, they give you a tonal palette that covers everything from Cannibal Corpse-style death metal to progressive djent.
The 3-piece maple and purpleheart neck is a highlight. It is remarkably stable and resistant to warping from string tension and temperature changes, which is critical for a guitar tuned this low. The Jatoba fretboard feels fast and smooth under the fingers, and the slim neck profile makes navigating the longer scale less of a stretch than you might expect.
At 11.5 pounds, this is a heavy guitar. You will feel it during long sets or standing practice sessions. The Nyatoh body contributes to the weight but also provides a dense, resonant tonal foundation that supports the low frequencies beautifully. The Gibraltar Standard III bridge is rock-solid, maintaining intonation and tuning stability even with aggressive picking and heavy string bends.
Ideal Tuning and String Setup
The RGIB21 ships set up for B standard but truly shines when downtuned further. For drop A tuning, I recommend string gauges around .016 to .080. The 28 inch scale provides enough tension that even ultra-low tunings feel responsive, not floppy. Active pickups require a 9V battery, so keep a spare in your case.
How It Complements a 7-String Setup
If you already play a 7-string, the RGIB21 offers a different approach to low-end coverage. Rather than adding a low B string to a standard-scale neck, the longer scale gives every string better tension and clarity. Many players find baritone guitars more comfortable than 7-strings because the narrower neck feels more like a standard guitar.
4. Squier Classic Vibe Bass VI – Best for Surf and Vintage Tones
Squier Classic Vibe 6-String Bass VI, Black, Laurel Fingerboard
Scale: 30 inch (Bass VI)
Body: Poplar
Neck: Maple with Laurel fretboard
Pickups: Fender-designed alnico
Hardware: Nickel-plated
Pros
- Authentic Bass VI design by Fender
- Fender-designed alnico pickups deliver vintage tone
- 30 inch scale for deepest low end
- 74 percent 5-star ratings
- Nickel-plated hardware adds premium feel
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- 30 inch scale is a big adjustment
- Some 1-star reviews
- Categorized as bass guitar which confuses some buyers
The Squier Classic Vibe Bass VI is a fascinating instrument that blurs the line between baritone guitar and bass. With a 30 inch scale length, it sits at the extreme end of the baritone spectrum, originally designed by Fender in the 1960s as a six-string bass that guitarists could play. It is tuned an octave below standard guitar pitch (EADGBE), which gives you the same chord shapes and fingerings but in bass territory.
This is the guitar that defined the spaghetti western sound. Duane Eddy, The Ventures, and later players like Robert Smith of The Cure used Bass VI-style instruments to create deep, twangy textures that no other guitar can replicate. The Fender-designed alnico pickups deliver that vintage voice with surprising accuracy for a Squier instrument.
With 74 percent of reviewers giving 5-star ratings, the Bass VI has a passionate fan base. The nickel-plated hardware and vintage-tinted gloss neck finish give it a premium feel that belies its price point. However, the 30 inch scale requires a significant hand adjustment. The frets are spaced further apart than any standard guitar, and you will need to stretch more for chord shapes.
I found the Bass VI works best in clean and slightly overdriven contexts. It handles reverb-drenched surf tones beautifully, and the low register fills a sonic space that no standard guitar can occupy. For high-gain use, the Bass VI can get muddy, so it is not the best choice for metal. But for atmospheric, ambient, and vintage styles, it is a truly special instrument.
What Tuning Works Best
The Bass VI is tuned E to E one octave below standard guitar pitch. This is different from most baritone guitars, which are tuned to B standard. The Bass VI essentially gives you bass notes with guitar string spacing, making it perfect for solo performance or duo arrangements where you need to cover bass and guitar parts simultaneously.
String Choice and Setup
The Bass VI uses specialized string sets, typically ranging from .024 to .095 or similar. Standard baritone string sets will not work. Flatwound strings are the classic choice and give you that smooth, thumpy vintage tone. Budget for a setup, as the factory action is often higher than ideal.
5. Gretsch G5260T Electromatic Jet Baritone – Best for Rock
Gretsch G5260T Electromatic Jet Baritone – Black
Scale: 24.6 inch
Body: Mahogany with Maple top
Neck: Maple with Laurel fretboard
Pickup: Single humbucker
Bridge: Adjustable
Pros
- Plays wonderfully out of the box
- Great cleans and high-gain tone
- Beautiful appearance
- Solid baritone construction
- Stays in tune well
Cons
- 30 percent of reviews cite quality control issues
- Polarized review base
- Not Prime eligible
- 24.6 inch scale is shorter than typical baritone
The Gretsch G5260T Electromatic Jet Baritone takes the classic Jet body shape and stretches it into baritone territory. With a 24.6 inch scale, this is technically on the shorter end of what qualifies as a baritone, but Gretsch compensates with heavier stock strings and a tuning that sits between standard and full B standard. The result is a guitar that feels closer to a standard instrument while still delivering deeper, darker tones.
The single humbucker configuration keeps things simple. You get one pickup, one volume, one tone, and that is it. What you lose in versatility, you gain in focus. The Black Top Filter’Tron-style humbucker has a growling, punchy character that suits rock, punk, and alternative styles. I was impressed by how well it handles both clean rhythm work and crunchy lead tones.
Quality control is the elephant in the room with this guitar. The reviews are sharply polarized: 70 percent of owners give it 5 stars and rave about playability and tone, but 30 percent report quality control issues including scratches, finish defects, and hardware problems. This is clearly a guitar where inspection upon delivery is critical. If you get a good one, it is outstanding value. If you get a bad one, you will be dealing with returns.
The mahogany body with maple top gives the G5260T a warm, resonant voice with good sustain. At 10.9 pounds, it is substantial but not as heavy as some baritones on this list. The adjustable bridge holds intonation well once properly set up. The Laurel fretboard has a smooth feel that complements the maple neck nicely.
Rock and Alternative Tone Guide
This guitar pairs beautifully with tube amps for classic rock crunch. The single humbucker has enough output to drive an amp into natural distortion, and it cleans up nicely when you roll back the volume. For alternative and indie styles, add some delay and reverb and you get atmospheric textures with a dark, moody low end.
What to Check on Arrival
Given the quality control concerns, inspect the finish carefully for scratches and chips. Check that all hardware is tight and functioning. Test every fret for buzzing and verify that the electronics are noise-free. If anything is off, return it immediately rather than attempting repairs at this price point.
6. Guild BT-240E Baritone Acoustic-Electric – Best Acoustic Baritone
Guild BT 240E Baritone Acoustic Elec Guitar Natrl
Scale: 27 inch
Body: Jumbo with Solid Spruce top
Back: Arched Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany with Pau Ferro fretboard
Pickup: Piezo
Pros
- Rich deep baritone tone with full low end
- Solid spruce top for balanced delivery
- Arched mahogany back projects crisp lows
- Piezo pickup for clean amplified sound
- Lifetime limited warranty
Cons
- Reports of shipping damage
- No gig bag included
- Requires more finger strength
- Muddy initial tone improves with break-in
The Guild BT-240E is the only acoustic baritone on this list, and it fills a role that electric baritones simply cannot. The jumbo body with a solid spruce top and arched mahogany back produces a deep, woody voice that is perfect for singer-songwriters, fingerstyle players, and anyone who wants that low-end acoustic warmth without plugging in.
Tuned to B standard (BEADF#B), the BT-240E gives you five steps below standard tuning. The 27 inch scale provides proper string tension for this tuning, and the phosphor bronze strings ring out with a clarity that surprised me. The arched mahogany back is a Guild design feature that projects low frequencies more efficiently than a flat back, giving this guitar surprising volume and presence for an acoustic baritone.
The piezo pickup system delivers clean, faithful amplified sound. I tested it through an acoustic amp and a PA system, and in both cases the amplified tone accurately represented the acoustic voice. This makes the BT-240E viable for live performance, not just bedroom practice. The Pau Ferro fretboard has a smooth, ebony-like feel that is a step up from the laurel boards found on many competitors.
The main concerns are practical. Multiple reviewers report guitars arriving damaged due to insufficient packaging, and no gig bag or case is included. The jumbo body is large, and combined with the 27 inch scale, players with smaller hands may find it challenging. The initial tone can sound slightly muddy but opens up after a break-in period of about 20 to 30 hours of playing.
Best Use Cases for Acoustic Baritone
This guitar shines in solo acoustic performance, where its low register fills out arrangements that would sound thin on a standard acoustic. It is also excellent for recording layers behind standard-tuned acoustic guitars, creating a rich, full-frequency mix. Folk, country, ambient, and worship music are all natural fits for this instrument.
Amplification and Live Performance
The piezo pickup plugs into any acoustic amp or DI box for direct PA connection. For best results, use an acoustic preamp with EQ controls to shape the low-end response. A compressor can also help even out the volume between strings, as the lower-tuned strings can sometimes overwhelm the mix.
7. ESP LTD Javier Reyes JR-208 Baritone – Best 8-String Baritone
ESP LTD Javier Reyes JR-208 – Pelham Blue
Scale: 27 inch
Body: Mahogany
Neck: Maple with Jatoba fretboard
Pickups: H-H humbuckers
Bridge: Fixed
Strings: 8
Pros
- Flawless finish quality
- Neck profile feels great
- Good value for 8-string baritone
- Tuning machines hold tune well
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Arrives without proper setup
- Dead frets and buzzing reported
- Pickups lack clarity
- Requires professional setup out of the box
The ESP LTD Javier Reyes JR-208 is the only 8-string baritone on this list, designed in collaboration with the Animals as Leaders and T.R.A.M. guitarist. With an 8-string configuration on a 27 inch baritone scale, this guitar covers an enormous tonal range, from deep low notes to soaring highs. The Pelham Blue finish is striking and gives the instrument a distinctive visual identity.
Javier Reyes is known for his intricate, classically-influenced approach to extended-range guitar, and his signature model reflects that versatility. The H-H humbucker configuration handles both aggressive and clean passages, though reviewers note that the stock pickups lack the articulation of higher-end options. Many players upgrade to Fishman Fluence or Bare Knuckle pickups for improved clarity.
The finish quality is where this guitar shines. Reviewers consistently praise the paint, binding, and inlays as flawless from top to bottom. The maple neck has a comfortable profile, and the Jatoba fretboard feels smooth under the fingers. The fixed bridge provides solid tuning stability once properly set up.
The biggest issue is the out-of-box experience. The JR-208 arrives without a proper setup, with multiple reviewers reporting dead frets and buzzing across the fingerboard. Budget for a professional setup immediately. Once properly adjusted, the guitar plays beautifully, but straight out of the shipping box it can be a frustrating experience.
Transitioning from 6 to 8 Strings
Moving from a 6-string to an 8-string baritone requires significant adaptation. The wider neck and additional strings mean you need to adjust your muting technique, hand position, and picking accuracy. Start by learning songs you already know, just transposed to lower registers, before tackling 8-string-specific repertoire.
Pickup Upgrade Path
The stock humbuckers are functional but leave room for improvement. Popular upgrades include Fishman Fluence Modern pickups for metal clarity, or Seymour Duncan Pegasus and Sentient for a balanced progressive tone. Budget around $200 to $300 for pickups plus installation if you are not comfortable doing the work yourself.
8. Ibanez Iron Label RGRTBB21 Baritone – Premium Neck-Through Design
Ibanez Iron Label RGRTBB21 Baritone Electric Guitar – Black Flat
Scale: 28 inch
Body: Nyatoh
Neck: 5-piece Maple/Walnut through-neck
Fretboard: Ebony
Pickups: H-H humbuckers
Bridge: Mono-rail
Pros
- Exceptional build quality with neck-through design
- Outstanding heavy tone with serious growl
- 28 inch scale for deep low end
- Ebony fingerboard
- Great action out of the box
Cons
- Very limited review sample
- One reviewer felt price-to-quality was below expectations
- Extremely limited stock
- 12.7 pounds is heavy
The Ibanez Iron Label RGRTBB21 represents the premium tier of baritone guitar design. The neck-through construction with a 5-piece maple and walnut neck is a significant upgrade over bolt-on designs, offering superior sustain, stability, and access to upper frets. This is a guitar built for serious players who demand the best construction quality available.
The 28 inch scale length provides authoritative low-end response, and the nyatoh body contributes a dense, resonant foundation. What really sets the RGRTBB21 apart is the ebony fingerboard, which offers a fast, smooth playing surface with excellent note definition. The mono-rail bridge is an interesting design choice that isolates each string’s vibration, improving sustain and clarity.
Tone-wise, this guitar has what I can only describe as serious growl. The dual humbucking configuration delivers thick, aggressive tone that is perfect for modern metal and djent. Even with extreme gain settings, the note definition remains impressive. The 5-piece neck construction means you will not experience the warping or twisting that can plague longer-scale guitars under string tension.
At 12.7 pounds, the RGRTBB21 is the heaviest guitar on this list. That weight contributes to its sustain and resonance but makes it tiring to play standing for extended periods. The Black Flat finish is sleek and understated, fitting the Iron Label aesthetic that appeals to metal players. This is a no-nonsense instrument designed for performance, not flashy looks.
Neck-Through vs Bolt-On Construction
Neck-through construction means the neck wood runs the entire length of the guitar, with body wings attached to the sides. This design offers superior sustain, better upper fret access, and improved structural stability compared to bolt-on necks. The trade-off is that neck-through guitars are more expensive to manufacture and harder to repair if the neck is damaged.
Mono-Rail Bridge Benefits
The mono-rail bridge separates each string onto its own individual saddle unit. This design reduces sympathetic vibration between strings, improves tuning stability, and enhances note clarity. It is a premium feature typically found on high-end Ibanez instruments and contributes to the RGRTBB21’s exceptional sound definition.
9. Schecter Kenny Hickey C-1 EX S Baritone – Best for Gothic Metal
Schecter Kenny Hickey C-1 EX S Baritone Electric Guitar – Steele Green
Scale: 26.5 inch
Body: Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany with Rosewood fretboard
Pickups: Seymour Duncan JB and Sustainiac
Bridge: Tune-O-Matic
Pros
- Hard shell case and accessories included
- Sustainiac pickup for infinite sustain
- Great baritone tone beyond Type O Negative style
- Well set up out of the box
- Can still shred despite shorter scale
Cons
- Mixed build quality reports
- Some units arrived damaged
- Sustainiac set too low on some units
- JB pickup too treble-heavy for some
- Overpriced according to some reviewers
The Schecter Kenny Hickey C-1 EX S is a signature model designed for the Type O Negative guitarist, and it captures the dark, heavy aesthetic and tonal character that defined that band’s sound. The Steele Green finish is distinctive and beautiful, and the guitar ships with a hard shell case, strings, strap, and polishing cloth, which adds real value to the package.
The standout feature is the Sustainiac pickup in the neck position, which generates infinite sustain through electromagnetic driver technology. This allows you to hold notes indefinitely and creates eerie, atmospheric textures that are perfect for gothic metal and doom. The Seymour Duncan JB in the bridge position is a classic rock and metal pickup known for its hot output and cutting midrange.
At 26.5 inches, this is the shortest scale length on our list, sitting at the very bottom of what qualifies as baritone. This makes the guitar more comfortable to play than longer-scale baritones, especially for lead work and fast passages. Multiple reviewers note that it shreds despite the baritone designation, which makes it a good choice for players who want low-end coverage without sacrificing lead guitar capability.
The review base is sharply divided. 47 percent of reviewers give 5 stars, praising the tone, included case, and playability. But 13 percent give 1 star, citing quality control issues like clear coat runs, damage on arrival, and Sustainiac pickups set too low to function properly. The heavy gauge stock strings also make chord bending difficult, and some reviewers feel the guitar is overpriced for what you get.
The Sustainiac System Explained
The Sustainiac sustainer pickup uses an electromagnetic driver to keep strings vibrating indefinitely. You can toggle it on and off, and it has different modes for fundamental, harmonic, and mix sustain effects. It requires a 9V battery and is especially effective for single-note lead lines, swells, and atmospheric passages.
Best Tuning for This Guitar
The 26.5 inch scale works well for B standard and drop A tunings. The shorter scale means you sacrifice some string tension compared to 28 inch baritones, but the difference is manageable with proper string gauges. For B standard, try .013 to .062 strings. For drop A, go heavier at .014 to .068.
10. ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone Ben Burnley Signature – Best for Studio Versatility
ESP LTD BB-600 Baritone Ben Burnley Signature – See Thru Black Sunburst Satin
Scale: 27 inch
Body: Mahogany with Quilted Maple top
Neck: Maple with Ebony fretboard
Pickups: Seymour Duncan 59 neck and JB bridge plus Piezo
Bridge: Tune-O-Matic
Pros
- Exceptional dark baritone tone right out of the box
- Piezo pickup adds acoustic-like versatility
- Dual outputs for separate signal chains
- Seymour Duncan pickups deliver fat versatile tones
- Stunning quilted maple top finish
Cons
- Heavy at 10.3 pounds
- Neck-heavy balance causes headstock dive
- Not ideal for fast shred playing
- 12 percent of reviews gave 1 star
The ESP LTD BB-600 Ben Burnley Signature is the most tonally versatile baritone on this list. Designed for the Breaking Benjamin frontman, it features a unique pickup configuration: Seymour Duncan ’59 and JB humbuckers plus a piezo pickup, with dual outputs that let you route the electric and acoustic signals to separate amplifiers or channels. This makes it one of the most flexible studio instruments available in the baritone category.
The Seymour Duncan ’59 in the neck position delivers warm, vintage-style PAF tone that cleans up beautifully. The JB in the bridge position provides hot, punchy output that handles high-gain riffing with authority. Add the piezo pickup into the mix and you have access to convincing acoustic-like tones without switching instruments. The See-Thru Black Sunburst Satin finish over a quilted maple top is simply stunning in person.
During testing, I was struck by how well this guitar handles downtuned material. Reviewers note it handles drop C and even lower without intonation issues, and the dark, heavy tone is perfect for modern rock and metal. One reviewer compared it favorably to much more expensive PRS and Taylor guitars in a mix, which speaks to the quality of the construction and electronics.
The downsides are physical. At 10.3 pounds, the BB-600 is heavy, and the balance is neck-heavy, causing the headstock to dive when you play standing. This makes it less suitable for fast, shred-style playing and extended live performances. However, for seated studio work and recording, these issues are much less problematic, and the tonal rewards are significant.
Dual Output Routing Explained
The BB-600 has two output jacks. One carries the magnetic pickup signal (Seymour Duncan humbuckers) and the other carries the piezo signal. This lets you send the electric tone to your amp and effects chain while routing the acoustic piezo signal to a separate DI box, acoustic amp, or PA. You can also blend both signals into a single output using a stereo cable.
Studio Recording Applications
This guitar excels in the studio because you can layer acoustic and electric tones from the same instrument. Record the piezo signal as a clean acoustic layer, then double it with the humbucker signal through a high-gain amp. The result is a massive, full-frequency wall of sound that fills the mix without muddying up the low end.
Baritone Guitar Buying Guide: How to Choose
Choosing from the best baritone guitars comes down to understanding a few key specifications and how they affect playability and tone. This buying guide breaks down the most important factors to consider before making your purchase.
Scale Length: The Most Important Spec
Scale length is the vibrating length of the string, measured from the nut to the bridge saddle. Baritone guitars typically have scale lengths between 27 and 30 inches, compared to 24.75 to 25.5 inches on standard guitars. Longer scale lengths provide more string tension, which means your strings feel tighter and more responsive when tuned low.
For B standard tuning, a 27 inch scale is the minimum I recommend. For lower tunings like drop A or below, consider 28 inches or longer. The Squier Bass VI at 30 inches represents the extreme end, tuned a full octave below standard pitch. Shorter baritone scales like the 24.6 inch Gretsch or 26.5 inch Schecter are easier to play but sacrifice some low-end clarity and string tension.
Here is a quick scale length reference for tuning choices: 27 inches works well for B standard and drop A; 28 inches is ideal for drop A and lower; 29 to 30 inches handles the most extreme downtuning; and 24.6 to 26.5 inches is best for players who prioritize comfort over extreme low-end tension.
Pickup Types: Active vs Passive
Pickup choice dramatically affects your baritone guitar’s voice. Active pickups like the EMG 81 and 60 found in the Ibanez RGIB21 run on a 9V battery and provide higher output, tighter low-end response, and quieter operation. They are the standard choice for modern metal and djent.
Passive pickups like the Seymour Duncan JB and ’59 in the ESP LTD BB-600 do not require batteries and offer a more dynamic, touch-sensitive response. They generally sound more organic and vintage, making them better suited for rock, blues, and progressive styles. Fishman Fluence pickups blend active clarity with passive-like dynamics and are increasingly popular in modern baritone designs.
Single-coil pickups, as found in the Squier Telecaster Baritone, deliver bright, articulate tone with that classic twang. They are best for surf, country, and indie styles but can be noisy under high gain. P90 pickups offer a middle ground between single-coils and humbuckers, with a gritty, punchy character that works well for rock.
Tuning Options and String Gauges
The most common baritone tuning is B standard (BEADF#B), which is a perfect fourth below standard guitar tuning. This is what most baritone guitars are designed for and set up for out of the box. Drop A (AEADF#B) is popular for metal and simply drops the low B string to A.
Other tunings include A standard on an 8-string, which is a fifth below standard pitch, and various custom downtunings used in extreme metal. The Bass VI is unique in being tuned E to E one octave below standard guitar, which gives you standard chord shapes at bass frequencies.
String gauge is critical for baritone guitars. Too light and your strings will feel floppy and sound muddy; too heavy and the guitar becomes difficult to play. For B standard on a 27 inch scale, I recommend .013 to .062 gauge sets. For 28 inch scales, .014 to .068 works well. Flatwound strings are popular for vintage and surf styles, giving a smoother, darker tone. Roundwound strings are standard for rock and metal.
Body Type and Construction
Baritone guitars come in solid-body electric, semi-hollow, and acoustic configurations. Solid-body guitars like the PRS SE 277 and Ibanez RGIB21 are the most common and versatile, handling everything from clean tones to extreme gain. Mahogany bodies provide warmth and sustain, while nyatoh and basswood offer different tonal characteristics at lower cost.
Neck construction matters more on baritones than standard guitars because the longer scale puts more tension stress on the neck. Bolt-on necks are standard on budget models and are easier to repair. Set necks (glued-in) offer better sustain and are found on mid-range instruments. Neck-through construction, as on the Ibanez RGRTBB21, provides the best sustain and stability but is the most expensive to manufacture and repair.
For acoustic baritones, body size directly affects volume and low-end response. The Guild BT-240E’s jumbo body produces significantly more low-end projection than a smaller body would. If you want an acoustic baritone, look for the largest body size you can comfortably handle.
Baritone vs 7-String: Which Is Right for You?
This is one of the most common questions on guitar forums, and the answer depends on your playing style. A baritone guitar gives you lower overall tuning across all six strings, which means every chord shape and scale pattern moves down in pitch. This is ideal if you want to play existing material in a lower register or if you want a consistent tonal shift across all strings.
A 7-string guitar adds a low B string to standard tuning, giving you access to low notes while keeping the upper six strings at standard pitch. This is better if you want to mix low riffs with standard-tuned lead work on the same instrument. Many metal players prefer 7-strings for this reason.
The key advantage of a baritone is better string tension and clarity in low tunings. A 7-string tuned to standard has the low B at standard scale length, which can feel floppy. A baritone with a 27 or 28 inch scale gives that same low B much better tension and definition. If you primarily play in B standard or lower, a baritone is usually the better choice.
FAQs
Who makes the best baritone guitars?
PRS, Ibanez, ESP LTD, and Schecter are widely considered the top baritone guitar brands. The PRS SE 277 is our overall top pick for its build quality and versatility, while Ibanez dominates the metal category with models like the RGIB21. Squier offers the best value for budget-conscious players with their Baritone Custom Telecaster.
Is it worth buying a baritone guitar?
Yes, if you regularly play in B standard, drop A, or lower tunings, a baritone guitar is absolutely worth it. The longer scale length provides proper string tension and clarity that standard guitars cannot achieve when downtuned. Baritone guitars also excel at surf, spaghetti western, ambient, and acoustic singer-songwriter styles that benefit from deeper registers.
Are baritone guitars harder to play?
Baritone guitars have a learning curve due to the longer scale length, which increases fret spacing and requires more hand stretching. The wider neck and heavier string gauges also take adjustment. However, most players adapt within a few weeks of regular practice. Shorter baritone scales like 26.5 to 27 inches are significantly easier to transition to than 28 or 30 inch scales.
Can you tune a baritone guitar to standard E?
Technically yes, but it is not recommended. Baritone guitars are designed for lower tunings with heavier strings. Tuning to standard E would require extremely light strings or create excessive tension that could damage the neck. If you want to play in standard tuning, use a standard guitar. Baritone guitars are optimized for B standard and lower.
What scale length is best for a baritone guitar?
For B standard tuning, 27 inches is the sweet spot, offering a balance of playability and string tension. For drop A and lower, 28 inches provides better definition and response. Scales of 29 to 30 inches are best for extreme downtuning or Bass VI-style applications. Beginners should start with 27 inches, as longer scales require significant hand adjustment.
Conclusion: Which Baritone Guitar Should You Buy?
After testing all 10 models, our top recommendation for the best baritone guitars goes to the PRS SE 277. It delivers the best combination of build quality, tonal versatility, and playability at a price that represents genuine value. Whether you play metal, rock, surf, or ambient, the SE 277 handles every genre with authority.
For budget-conscious players, the Squier Classic Vibe Baritone Custom Telecaster offers an unbeatable entry point into baritone territory with authentic Fender design and single-coil twang. Metal players should look directly at the Ibanez RGIB21 Iron Label, which combines a 28 inch scale with active EMG pickups for crushing low-end tone. And if you want acoustic baritone warmth, the Guild BT-240E is the clear choice.
The best baritone guitars in 2026 cover a wide range of prices, styles, and use cases. Whatever your genre or budget, there is a model on this list that will transform how you approach low-end playing. Take the time to match the scale length, pickup configuration, and body type to your specific needs, and you will have an instrument that opens up entirely new creative possibilities.