Best Guitar Brands
simli
Don't agree with the list? Vote for an existing item you think should be ranked higher or if you are a logged in, add a new item for others to vote on or create your own version of this list.The Top Ten
1Gibson
The Best Guitar is not in price but in model it's a tip the heavy wood makes the guitar heavier so I think this is the best
The best guitar tone ever comes from a Gibson Les Paul. The heavy wood makes the tone rich and full, and if you replace the pickups with some nice bareknuckles, you have the best guitar ever. Period.
Greatest guitar company of all time. It is simply, awesome. The rich tones when its on clear, and the amazing rock crunch when you flip on the overdrive. I have many Les Pauls, and they are the best. I have both a 1958, and 1959 burst colors and they are amazing. I also end a few stratocasters, they suck compared to my Les Pauls!
More comments about Gibson
2Fender
I have a fender too its great I giving one for free to someone if you wont give me a call
I'm really not into the whole gibson vs. Fender thing, I've just been exposed more to fender and its great, but I should probably familiarize myself more with gibson as well. But I just really like fender. Stratocasters, telecaster are ideal
My guitar teacher has a fender and everything about it is beautiful from the sound to the look. Gibson vs Fender. Fender all the way.
More comments about Fender
3Ibanez
Best brand in price/quality relation. I have 4 guitars, an epiphone explorer goth made on korea, and Jackson KV2 made on usa and 2 ibanez. RG320PG P2 and a RGT6EX, both made on indonesia. The first one is the cheaper, but the sustaine, action a comfort is very nice for a bugget guitar. I've played bugget guitars of other brands, and ibanez is far superior. In fact, my RG320 P2 is nice as some others guitars that cost twice of it price. Mi RGT6EX is excellent, to me must worth $1000 USD but the real price is close $800 USD or less.
My epi is very nice (Almost like a gibson for 1/3 of a gibson price) and obviously, my Jackson is far superior than my other guitars. But I'm just have mid end ibanez guitars and they are very good guitars. The high end ibanez are awesome and worth less than high ends of other brands in most cases having with the same quality (or superior in very cases).
The other plus to the brand is that the made a lot of improvements of guitars technology. For example, They developed a lot of different type of bridges and still innovating and creating new good bridges every year. (To me edge I is very nice bridge (I never had problems with edge I), must of the problem some people have, I think, must be caused by bad setup. My to ibanez has this bridges, and It works very nice, and is the cheaper tremolo bridge they have by the way).
The other reason to choose ibanez, is they made very versatile instruments. I mostly play metal (thrash, death, brutal death), but some times, I like rock, blues, jazz, latin jazz or soft metal sub-genres. My jackson worth $2000 USD and I fell is not appropriate for other genres than heavy rock or metal, but my 2 ibanez does, and works very well for extreme metal too.
The only problem of ibanez is they don't have nice models of unconventional shapes, like V shapes. The models with uncommon shapes are very ugly to my taste, and some models have very awful colors. (Ex: yellow pickups with blue sky finish, I hate that).
My epi is very nice (Almost like a gibson for 1/3 of a gibson price) and obviously, my Jackson is far superior than my other guitars. But I'm just have mid end ibanez guitars and they are very good guitars. The high end ibanez are awesome and worth less than high ends of other brands in most cases having with the same quality (or superior in very cases).
The other plus to the brand is that the made a lot of improvements of guitars technology. For example, They developed a lot of different type of bridges and still innovating and creating new good bridges every year. (To me edge I is very nice bridge (I never had problems with edge I), must of the problem some people have, I think, must be caused by bad setup. My to ibanez has this bridges, and It works very nice, and is the cheaper tremolo bridge they have by the way).
The other reason to choose ibanez, is they made very versatile instruments. I mostly play metal (thrash, death, brutal death), but some times, I like rock, blues, jazz, latin jazz or soft metal sub-genres. My jackson worth $2000 USD and I fell is not appropriate for other genres than heavy rock or metal, but my 2 ibanez does, and works very well for extreme metal too.
The only problem of ibanez is they don't have nice models of unconventional shapes, like V shapes. The models with uncommon shapes are very ugly to my taste, and some models have very awful colors. (Ex: yellow pickups with blue sky finish, I hate that).
Very nice sound for those who like to play hard rock or metal. It has got a very nice clean sound as well. Ibanez is the guitar I use mainly, and will keep using. Of course fender and gibson are the kings. But the ibanez guitars are not too expensive good for beginners and for the professionals!
Great guitar brand. Not as expensive as gibson but same quality
More comments about Ibanez
4Epiphone
I have a limited edition epiphone les paul custom plus and it looks exactly like a gibson
I have a epiphone sg 50th edition and it does great by me in all I do. I play a lot of 60's music and otherwise all I want. It's very versatile and not to mention the cherry red wood grain finish makes it looks really awesome. Everyone I've ever met has bragged on it and I've been offered all kinds of guitars from Washburns to fenders. Just recently I went to a old guitar player of 30 yearsiin my grandfathers neighborhood and he absolutely loved the tone and playability. He said the only thing it might need to make it better was a professional setup which I'll soon be getting. When I first got it I complained a lot that the strings were a bit harder to push down due to the longer scale of the neck (the neck on it is pretty long) however. If you' work with it for about 2 days off and on its no problem. I love epiphone and judging from what I've played in ibanez guitars I might soon invest in one of them.
Lets face it they rock! I've got an epiphone, I've had it for ages and it just works. Great tone and playability. I'm getting another one, I've got a les paul and am getting an sg. Epiphone all the way!
More comments about EpiphoneVisit Epiphone Website
5Jackson
Jackson make very nice, fast and great looking guitars. To me, jackson's have both of to universes, the elegance and the aggressive look at the same time. For example, take a audi, a mercedez and a bmw. Gibson is like bmw, mercedez like fender (or perhaps old cadillacs) and jackson is like and audi, aggressive and elegant.
But not all is good. The well made jackson guitars are expensive, the cheaper ones are very bad guitars. In case of ibanez, to me is the best brand if you talk about quality vs price.
But not all is good. The well made jackson guitars are expensive, the cheaper ones are very bad guitars. In case of ibanez, to me is the best brand if you talk about quality vs price.
The only reason why anyone likes Ibanez is because it's cheap. When you're ready to buy a real axe, get a Jackson. Ibanez is not a "shredder" brand, it is a budget brand, just like Carvin. Jackson has it all: great sound, great feel, great looks, great for shredding! I'll admit because Rich makes some interesting looking guitars, but Jacksons are still cooler (if you've ever seen a Kelly, I'm sure you'll agree). Jackson For the Win!
Gibson is way overpriced. Jackson is the ultimate metal guitar... And looks totally badass. Go Jackson!
More comments about JacksonVisit Jackson Website
6ESP
Way better than fender for metal than a fender will ever be! The quality of a ESP gives really good rifts and a nice and clean fret board so your fingers don't have to stretch so far plus they have an amazing tone to it with both distortion and non distortion
High power, fast playing, easy to pick up. I love the playing quality and simple beauty of the body!
ESP Is simply the best brand you could ever use, from it's awesome quality ESP too their good quality/price relation with LTD. You can use an LTD distressed series for playing classic rock, for blues also, and the Xtone series make their work too, and from their LTD standard and deluxe series to their ESP standard and signature series for the best and widest range of metal you could ever imagine, with them you can from Black Sabbath or Ozzy Osbourne, to Metallica and Children of Bodom. (Kirk Hammett, James Hetfield, Alexi Laiho, Henkka, Michael Paget, Gus G, Tom Araya, Jeff Hanneman and almost any japanese guitar and bass player that is considered good [Seriously, without exaggerations or lying] endorses ESP guitars and basses).
More comments about ESPVisit ESP Website
7Yamaha
You really get the most out of your money with Yamaha. A very reliable brand. Even the low range guitar guitars like the Yamaha erg121uc2g are Brilliant.
I have a yamaha SG 1000, bought it for $2100 (stock prive 2500)(aus and after haggling)and also tested gibsons from the same price range. From that I found out that although the quality of gibson is good, it's way too over priced especially comparing my sg to a les paul at $4000 that is not even as good as my sg.
secondly, this is japanese, need I say more? Japanese are all ways known for cheap electrical products however they're also the most RELIABLE products that's why customer support is a not needed thing.
thirdly, yamaha has been known for musical instruments for a long long time and is the biggest producer of musical instruments. On its logo, it has got two tuning pegs meaning unlike any other musical brand, it is the most diverse. The only reason that people say fenders and gibsons are better is because they were the original makers of contempory electric guitars and the fact that they're well known. So basically, all you're paying for is the badge.
secondly, this is japanese, need I say more? Japanese are all ways known for cheap electrical products however they're also the most RELIABLE products that's why customer support is a not needed thing.
thirdly, yamaha has been known for musical instruments for a long long time and is the biggest producer of musical instruments. On its logo, it has got two tuning pegs meaning unlike any other musical brand, it is the most diverse. The only reason that people say fenders and gibsons are better is because they were the original makers of contempory electric guitars and the fact that they're well known. So basically, all you're paying for is the badge.
I have a yamaha sg 1000 like Carlos Santana's. It rocks! I tried it with a Gibson sg of the same price and it didn't match the quality. Then I tried a Les Paul Gibson about one and a half grand more, even that wasn't as good as the sg 1000. Lets face it, the Japanese (this does include Ibanez for they are awesome too) kick ass when it comes to quality and price!
More comments about YamahaVisit Yamaha Website
8B.C. Rich
Meatyest, heavyest... Coolest looking guitar ever made. I own a mocking bird proX in black for $1500 but I got a discount for only $800. Everyone should be using this. Nothing can top this. It's almost never breaks and hard to give scratches. It's worth every penny.
I got a eagle arch top its a beautiful mahogany neck through with great pickups for heavy and light toned my friend has a $2000 Gibson guitar and my neck feels way better and I only paid $800 this company honestly needs way more credit I suggest if you see a eagle archtop or any other because rich guitar try it out!
B.C. Rich. Mick use to get sponsored by them, in lamb of gods dvd terror and hubris lamb of god uses some asms and some biches, awesome shapes such as. Bich, warlock, beast v, and more. Used by heaps of death metal guitarists, awesome widow headstock, awesome pointy headstock, and the cheap ones are very good considering the price.
More comments about B.C. RichVisit B.C. Rich Website
9Paul Reed Smith
Features 10/10
Sound 9/10
Quality 10/10
Action 10/10
Price 9/10
Personally I've played Ibanez, Gibson, ESP, Fender for 14yrs they're good but nothing makes me feel good about playing music like PRS Guitars! Thumbs up! Great Job.
PRS for me is in top 3!
Sound 9/10
Quality 10/10
Action 10/10
Price 9/10
Personally I've played Ibanez, Gibson, ESP, Fender for 14yrs they're good but nothing makes me feel good about playing music like PRS Guitars! Thumbs up! Great Job.
PRS for me is in top 3!
PRS makes some of the best guitars in the world. Who ever made this list is insane, PRS should be right after gibson. They're better than fender. Go to a guitar center and try one!
mikepiazza06119
Top 3 yes, none of the other 2 will ever have the tone, simplicity of a fender, or price. Gibson, prs wow really over priced for machine made guitars. Played prs that 25 scale to me sucks they tried to come up with something new going in-between fender and Gibson sound. Now that said I own a lot of fenders and gibsons. You really can't compare head to head. When I want to play rock or need that rich low to mid sound I grab my gibsons but when I want to play blues very slow or fast twang, hey come on nothing will ever come close to a fender. You can ask Eric Clapton true Gibson player in the old days why is he playing only fenders the last 15. 20 years? I'll tell you why it's called what type of music are you playing. The right guitar for the right tone period. So 3 different scale length's can not be compared. Compare each guitar in there own scale category's, makes sense to me it's a no brainer people.
More comments about Paul Reed SmithVisit Paul Reed Smith Website
10Mosrite of California
Smoothest playing guitars ever made. Thin necks, super low action. Perfection.
I have a 67 Celebrity. Super low action, thin narrow neck. Great for small hands. You can effortlessly barre chord and play rhythm all night with almost no pressure.
Mosrites were hand crafted, fast action, electric guitars with driving sound made famous by the Ventures. Their low speed, zero frets, made playing a breeze. Their finishes appeared miles deep and are now prized by collectors.
MosriteCharlie
Related Lists
Get CodeAdd This List to Your Site
The Contenders
11Rickenbacker
There is nothing like a rickenbacker. It is simply the best guitar brand ever. They may be expensive but they are epic. Very unique tone.
A Ricky is without doubt the best guitar brand ever. They cost that much for a reason. Why is this down here?! Is it because people haven't tried them out.
Nothing sounds like these guitars they have a sound like none other. Anyone who thinks any of imports come close to the american made brands are out of their minds. You can, t make something better for less. Some of these people have no idea what quality is.
More comments about Rickenbacker
12Carvin
Carvin is an American Company. They are great sounding and built as well as Gibson or Fender. The sound in many cases is better and they are very versatile in tone. I have an acoustic electric thinline with a cherryburst finish over a spalted wood body. It is one of the most stunning looking and best sounding guitars I have ever played. The price is very reasonable too.
awsm guitars nice performace good finishing and matirial use to make it
Gibson and Fender have been ripping the public off for years, they're not even close to being worth what they charge especially Fender with such a mass produced bolt on neck and lame finishes design. Carvin is a superior guitar in every way and what people fail to mention is that you can choose what wood and finish you would like as well as bolt on neck, set neck or neck through designs and their pick up's are impeccable. A truly great guitar co. With excellent customer relations and real musicians will all show respect for Carvin when mentioned if not already owning one.
More comments about Carvin
13Schecter
I have a sunset hellraiser fr. I have been playing for 8yrs and it is by far the best guitar I have ever owned or even played. Next to the ltd models that I was considering the schecter had better quality, feel, and sound at almost HALF the price of the high end lts. The quality of the abalone inlays, the finish (black cherry), the original floyd, grover tuners, 24 fret rosewood board, incredible set neck (you would think its a neckthrough without checking the specs), and the coil tapping emgs is unbelievable. I could go on forever about this guitar's action, sound, feel, quality, looks... I have spent over a 1000$ on a few dif. Guitars and I will never do it again. Ex- zack wylde epi, 2 usa fenders couple mex. 1's, a gibson Linkin Park standard, ltd kh-602, and a really nice jackson dinky style(not sure model) with 3 carvin humbuckers coiltaped just to name a few. Hellraiser is better than all of them. I recommend any of the hellraiser guitars especially with coil tapping emgs.
Schecter is a really great guitar brand. When I was looking for my electric I searched through many guitar brands most of which are on this list and the only one that really felt right in my hands was the Schecter I play. Its got awesome tone quality, gorgeous body design and fret inlay along with very nice balance and it will stay relatively in tune for up to a few days at a time without the pegs slipping. Great for metal and rock and even really lots of other genres as well. Performs very well it should be at least top 5 if not top 3.
I have one and it sounds GREAT! Schecter guitars are great, the hardware are good, the finishing are great. Great sound. And also low price. They are used by avenged 7 fold just for information. Peace
More comments about SchecterVisit Schecter Website
14G&L
I have played a ASAT Telecastor Bass for about thirteen years. I keep purchasing other bass guitars for many other reasons. But I have sold them all. I am down to just one bass that's all I need with my G&L, it very responsive, it has many opitions with pick ups and the action is good. It took along time for me to figure out how to use the pick ups because there is so many different ways you adjust it. They are built with better quality parts than a fender. They are numbered from the factory in america. But watch out for the Tribute series that is fake or cheap want to be G&L. A real G&L will be a little more expensive but the quality is excellent
George Fullerton Leo Fender. Better built and with innovations. What FMIC should have been.
Fenders are great, but having owned 3 Fenders and 2 G&Ls so far, G&L should be ranked pretty near to, if not higher than Fender.
More comments about G&L
15Taylor
I have a taylor and it is much better than my gibson. The sound is clearer, the guitar looks better, it is very easy to play, and it is affordable for what you pay for. This should be the best guitar brand should be at this top of the list but I dunno what people these people are thinking
Geud very very very extra gwed (where laugh out loud was) I'm just wasting shizz for I don't know... why is it still poor?!?! I said very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very very good. I should try erasing Laugh out loud. Wait... YEAH! IT WORKS
The only reason why the other guitars are ahead is that they have never played a taylor, I have three different brands of guitar and am most pleased with the Taylor. Just go to a music retailer and test one out, you will not be dissapointed.
More comments about Taylor
16Martin
Martin is the best. people are ignorarnt on here. On the top ten best acoustic guitar list they have Ovation as #1!?! and Martins are #2 Why? Ovations are terrible Guitars. If Jesus had a guitar it would be a Martin!
Top drawer acoustic... hands down. This company pre-dates all others listed here. They've been making guitars since 1833. Still handmade in Nazareth PA.
As for acoustic guitars I would've thought Martin would've been undisputed! No1! Maybe the list was compiled by people who are into electric guitars and acoustics are their 'second' instrument.
More comments about Martin
17Gretsch
Why arnet gretsch in the top ten and fender should be number 1
because the sre just so good and and have a great range of guitars
because the sre just so good and and have a great range of guitars
Iconic classic made famous by Chet Atkins and The Beatles. Deep sounding semi hollow body guitars and full hollow body guitars with clear note definition that defined sound and made George Harrison's early sounds come to life.
MosriteCharlie
For sheer playability Gretsch guitars are fantastic. Add to that the price and quality of the new Electromatics with the black top Filtertron pick ups & you have, in my humble opinion, the best guitars around. And if they were good enough for George Harrison they are good enough for anybody.
More comments about Gretsch
18Suzuki
Nice sound M...
You must buy one...
You feel very good even
You must buy one...
You feel very good even
19Maton
I have a maton and it is far better than any guitar I have ever had. I had at one point 13 acoustic guitar and and classical and 4 electric. And none of them even compare to the richness and tone of a Maton guitar. The craftmansip is top quality, the wood used is top quality. Far better than a fender or gibson. So anyone who thinks it is a crap brand is stupid or arragant.
Wow! You guys have no idea at all! (probably Americans! )
Maton is the true winner here people!
Doesn't matter what anyone tells you, put a Maton next to Martin, Taylor, Cole Clark or any of the above and Maton will outperform them in Tone, looks and character!
Each has their own preference - mine will always be Maton
Maton is the true winner here people!
Doesn't matter what anyone tells you, put a Maton next to Martin, Taylor, Cole Clark or any of the above and Maton will outperform them in Tone, looks and character!
Each has their own preference - mine will always be Maton
I love my Maton. The tone is incredible! They are made from great wood and are quality Aussie guitars. Highly recommended for beginners and serious players alike. They are also good value for money and should last you a life time.
More comments about Maton
20Ovation
USA Made Ovation Guitars are still built by hand using only the best materials and guitar building techniques. The difference between them and other guitar manufacturers is that Ovation has mastered the art of combining traditional guitar bulding techniques with modern technological advances in materials and proven scientific research. The result is an instrument that equals or surpasses any of the other top named brands (in tone, playability, reliabilty, and awesome looks), while keeping prices down below their competitors... AND keeping the the work and workmanship here in the USA.
bvince
I've been playing basic acoustic Fenders, Gibson's, etc etc my entire life. And just recently I purchased my first Ovation! It is the way different feel of having the electric guitar feel while at the same time have an acoustic sounding guitar in your hands! If your trying to switch to acoustic from electric then this would be a great guitar for you! Its also (to me) the greatest show guitar! Because they look great on stage! New favorite brand!
For Me as a beginner, great acoustically. nice pre-amp with the option of recording right on the guitar as well as being able to tune by pushing a button on the pre-amp. A little round for me so suggest the contoured body. 6778 ax great guitar to learn on full and rich
More comments about Ovation
21Takamine
Takamine is my first Guitar! Got a normal not solid wood and guess what its Awesome. Later got a solid one and its unbelievable! It beats most guitar at a price/quality range! D-series rocks!
I saved up 1500.00 to buy a guitar. Tried every model and make in that price range. The takamine won with guild a close 2nd
Great quality. Tone coming out of this guitar is very unique and warm/deep. I couldn't believe that this sounds much sweater than Fender or Martin, even Taylor! Try it out yourself..
More comments about Takamine
22Kramer
You should really vote for Kramer!
It's a great guitar-brand, Eddie Van Halen played a Kramer! This guitar should be in the top 5 of best guitar brands! COME ON ROCKERS! VOTE FOR KRAMER!
I love Kramer guitars but they are now part of gibson corporation... so it's not kramer:D.
Kramer set the bar before Gibson. I have both and my Kramer seems to be a better quality and fit than my Fender.
More comments about KramerVisit Kramer Website
23Charvel
A Charvel is the best guitar for the best price. The Floyd rose on it is killer, it is always in tune and I've never had any problems with it. The neck is smooth and totally made for shredding. Charvel guitars are the holy grail.
Charvel is so awesome! Very light and lasts a long time. Has a lot of power like a gibson. Strings are easy to bend and my charvel has emg automatic pick ups and they are really good. Very good for its low price. I have a Charvel Desolation DC-1-ST.
Without a doubt the best guitar made for the money. Compound radius next, floyd rose, light body with a great feel. Adjusting the volume knobs gives you a softer tone if you want. Fantastic guitar!
More comments about CharvelVisit Charvel Website
24JIMM
Jimm guitars are equal to granada in performance and even durable!
should try it once!
should try it once!
Its A Good Guitar Brand... Thier Hollow guitars are good
Awesome Guitar in Low budget... Sound quality very good...
More comments about JIMM
25Maestro
Amazing guitars, specially the Custom Series full solids. You can choose from variety of tonewoods and soundboard combination and 4 different shapes. Offering almost every player's preference. You can also choose options such as soundport off-the-rack. Great craftsmanship, amazing tone, and superb playabality at an amazing price. Great guitar, and definitely not an OEM brand. They only make their own guitars.
Affordable price but no compromise in quality. Even the SD1 for beginners produce great sounds.
This is a good brand because Maestro comes from Gibson.
So therfore it as beautiful just like Gibson. What so bad about this? I think MAESTRo... IS... AWESOME!. So... Ge
So therfore it as beautiful just like Gibson. What so bad about this? I think MAESTRo... IS... AWESOME!. So... Ge
26Danelectro
Jimmy Page? Jimi Hendrix? The Hodads they made for a limited time in the late 90's are superb.
damn good
pake dah ni gitar manstap banjet bre!
pake dah ni gitar manstap banjet bre!
White summer/Black mountain side, Kashmir, In My Time of Dying, All the song do have this little percussion in the sound, And they are all played with his danelectro, So its just your preference of sound, but I think it sounds very good. Not to forget Syd barret also had one!
27Rondo
28Cort
The guitars are affordable and better than ibanez for low ranges.
I have Cort X2, costs about 150 euros, it's light guitar, about 3 kg, great clean tone and playability. Great for Rock and Metal music. The best for beginners.
I have Cort Earth Ground Acoustic with Fish Man pick-up. My opinion, I have played Gibson, Yamaha, Pluto, Hoffner etc. Cort is better than all other acoustic guitars.
More comments about Cort
29Kapok
Kapok guitar is similar to the classical guitar. It's fret is also as big as classical. You can use both nylon or steel string. Anyway, it is easy to find it. You even can found it at a Bookstore.
Haha.. Kapok the best guitar that every beginner in malaysia have... I live in kemaman, terengganu, Malaysia.. Kapok the cheapest guitar ever.. It only cost $30 only which mean rm90 in malaysia.. -apis cheneh-
Ya I too have the same company guitar its good
30GB&A
I have a Black color stunning gb&a guitar...
Its sounds sexy whenever strum the strings...
This is the best I have ever buy...
I suggest this to all guitar lovers..
Its best for intermediates and even for professionals...
The guitar is heavy n good shape n awesome sound and good sound output as well.. By the way am having semi acoustic sexy black color..
Its sounds sexy whenever strum the strings...
This is the best I have ever buy...
I suggest this to all guitar lovers..
Its best for intermediates and even for professionals...
The guitar is heavy n good shape n awesome sound and good sound output as well.. By the way am having semi acoustic sexy black color..
Sound quality 910
design 910
colour 1010
There are many models in gb&a guitar best thing of this guitar is that because of action and the shape perfect design. This guitar is bit heavy, this guitar are for various ages.
design 910
colour 1010
There are many models in gb&a guitar best thing of this guitar is that because of action and the shape perfect design. This guitar is bit heavy, this guitar are for various ages.
Dude I have been using a gb&a acoustic for two years and trust me it's got the best sound in the world!
More comments about GB&A
31Washburn
Had gibsons, fenders, etc. Was really impressed with my washburn idol. Only downside is that there aren't many dealers, so you've really got to make an effort to get one in your hands. Dollar for dollar, one of the best brands out there. Quality can be spotty if you look on ebay, so I'd recommend craigslist... Buy em used, since they don't hold value like the big brands.
Recently picked myself up a second J28SCDL Jumbo, which was set up beautifully and I have to say it truly is an amazing guitar. It could give some of the higher priced guitars a run for its money. Lovely sound, creative design and clearly a lot of guitar for your money. I seriously encourage you not to over look Washburn when looking for a good guitar at an affordable price. Might end up your favorite guitar!
Washburn makes great HB guitars that have great sustain yet no feed back problems. The HB 30 is just as good as the Gibson ES-335 for a fraction of what the Gibson would cost. Washburn makes the best guitar for the money.
More comments about Washburn
32Godin Guitars
Seagull Artist, by far the best I have ever played, followed by the Art and Lutherie
I have one. Owned it for 15 years. Nicest tone and just keeps getting better.
Not really a beginners guitar but definitely for those that appreciate fine workmanship and SOUND. The sound is really great.
Not really a beginners guitar but definitely for those that appreciate fine workmanship and SOUND. The sound is really great.
I feel sorry for this brand. It deserves a better place in this evaluation. These guitars are more then fine and their price is more then accessible for this quality. Moreover they are wonderful for concerts: the sound is clear, rich, warm and balanced; especially when the top is made of cedar wood. Alain Godon. Romania.
More comments about Godin Guitars
33Saint Guitar Company
Saint Guitar Company, is a custom guitar manufacturer in central california. Saint Guitar Company makes some of the best guitars ever!
Just check one out and play it... You're going to have a very hard time finding a better guitar.
Seriously...
alexei
34Kasuga
Over 30 years of playing different guitars the Kasuga I had in the late 1970s was the best and I was a total idiot for getting rid of it.
kasuga is the coolest guitar yeh go kasuga
ok everyone kasuga guitar is the best its better than epiphone and stuff my guitar teacher said and he is so good so I think he knows what he is talking about so year go kasuga
More comments about Kasuga
35Aria
ARIA SHOULD REPLACE YAMAHA IN THE TOP 10 LIST!
because I hate kasuga! their just imitations of gibson les pauls!
plus I have a custom aria!
its purple with a gold marble plate, built-in tuner, and in the dots there are LED lights!
Solid copper tuning keys!
mahogany neck!
anywayz!
plus I have a custom aria!
its purple with a gold marble plate, built-in tuner, and in the dots there are LED lights!
Solid copper tuning keys!
mahogany neck!
anywayz!
I have a PE Standard ^^ it knocks spots off many of the more expensive guitars out there. Aria make a good guitar.
More comments about Aria
36Eastwood
I've been playing guitar for a while now and out of all of these, Eastwood is probly my favorite. I'd highly recommend one. I own the airline map and it's fantastic, great tone and sound and easy to play. Great guitars.
2P DXL CUSTOM airline. They bleed rawness and feeling.
37Manson
Some of the best craftsmanship I have ever seen in any instrument. They really put their own heart, soul, sweat and blood into the instruments they create. When you pick one up or when you look at it, you just want to go crazy on it and play your heart out they are so well made and look beautiful to the eye.
It is a brilliant guitar. They are made very well and the tech is just brilliant. Why is it in 79th place. People need to familiarize themselves more with Manson guitars.
Why is Manson in 123rd? Don't you guys know about Muse? MB series are awesome with chaos pad!
More comments about Manson
38Music Man
Unbelievable... Music man guitar is ranked 78th. Guy who ranked must be insane. I have played many musicman guitars and it was just awesome. Especially the jp-6 model awesome. Music man should be placed among top 10.
Of all the guitars in the world, this ends up as number 42!?! OK, amateurs, time to tell the truth, these guitars are the best, simply flawless and amazing. Don't talk about your Yamahas or your Ibanez or even Fender for that case! Those are just decent guitars. You will fall in love with the John Petrucci models; they have clobbered, I mean nearly humiliated Gibson. Try these, then think again.
Very good guitar. The specs is awesome. John petrucci's signature is very good but the price is too expensive. But when it comes to quality, music man is number one for me. =)) (music-man. Com/instruments/guitars/jp12. Html) they also make chambertings to guitars than make it sound good. =)) (music-man. Com/blog/sterling/25-yearswow. Html)
More comments about Music Man
39Stagg
I have a Stagg guitar! It's fantastic. I have heard that many people say tahat Stagg guitars are crap, but they aren't. Really. Maybe it isn't the best guitar in the world but it's amazing. :)
Amazing! Better than a gibson at some instances. The sound clarity is absolutely marvelous. A must have I would say! I believe that staggs should be the new gibsons
I got a stag. And I enjoy it being my first guitar in all but have played my friendds washburn and was surprised the difference between thetwo
More comments about Stagg
40Fernando
It is a great choice! Vote this guys. Trust me you will love its sound quality. Its worth it guys! Please vote this guitar best model too! And designs
This one is great! This brand should be next to Yamaha.. I just can't believe it's down low.. My friend has a Fernando guitar and I have a Yamaha.. Both just sound great..
Good Prices... Nice Sound... Specially the Acoustic Guitar that they have... It has pretty classical tune to it...
More comments about Fernando
41RJ Guitars
They make great guitars and great copies..
It's cheap yet unimaginable..
I think it sounds like any cool guitars..
We should make this up
It's cheap yet unimaginable..
I think it sounds like any cool guitars..
We should make this up
Great guitar produce great sounds and affordable not like gibsons and ibanez the prize is only high
Low price with high quality...
More comments about RJ Guitars
42Granada
I M USING A GRANADA PRLT-18 DREADNOUGHT FOR 6 MONTHS EVERYONE PRAOSES ITS SOUND I LOVE IT VERY MUCH ' I THINK IT IS BEST FOR LEARNIND CHORD SHIFTING AND AFCORSE FOR THE PERFORMANCES TOO...! 11111
I have been using it since 3 years. It is not even costly. Its good looking and I think its even better than gibson. It even very easy to tune for it has a very good sound quality. More over it has a beautiful look like a guitar. Even a beginner should be advised to buy this guitar for it cost a minimum of 3000 rs. So as it is less costly and more quality its the best for me. I even like lakewood but its cost is just my dream.
Granada is verry verry bad. Its a ass whole
More comments about Granada
43Fernandes
Fernandez is a real under-rated brand. They have a wide variety of body styles, and there's one for every budget. They have great sound and some amazing finishes. Plus, they have the sustainer pickup, who doesn't want infinite sustain?
My Monterey Elite has proved to be my dream electric guitar. Its sound is incredible, it plays perfectly, it feels amazing, it looks beautiful, and the sustainer pickup is awesome! And of course, I've also installed a Roland GK-3 pickup to make the rest of my dreams come true...
pinkdroyd
Really underrated brand, but the ones in Japan are better especially customs like hide ARTIST MODEL from X JAPAN. They look almost exactly like B.C. rich MOCKINGBIRDS
More comments about Fernandes
44Hamer
Indescribably better than 95% of the other brands on here. Hamer is below First Act? Seriously? What 'tards designed this list!?!?!
Best guitar here by a country mile I've played all of the others this is easily the best it's handmade no cnc machine and not mass produced gibson at number 1 you're having a laugh too many slash fans
I have a Hamer XT Sunburst Flame Top and it was 400 euro. My uncle has a Gibson Les Paul, but every time I see him, he wants to play my guitar. It feels nice, and has an incredible sound! I also like the fact that they're handmade and very unique.
More comments about Hamer
45Larrivée Guitars
It's not that easy for saying this is the best. Who can pretend he has the best didn't played much Brands. But after all I do enjoy my Larrivée D 09. I've tried a Larrivée a Gibson a Martin an Ibanez and a Ovation a week each then I when back to the Larrivée and I bought it. It was in 1998 and I still enjoy it. In that range they all good guitars. I guest it goes with your taste. So who can say he has the best... sick.
Very nice guitar, top quality, top materials.
I have got à lv03, the best guitar in My range,
Jean larrivee makes the best quality guitars out There.
I have got à lv03, the best guitar in My range,
Jean larrivee makes the best quality guitars out There.
I have washburn ovation yamaha fender kimax prince nothing sounds like the larrivee its just amazing!
More comments about Larrivée Guitars
46Hofner
their guitars are hand made in germany thta have so much quality to them its not even funny
maxwarawa
Hofner guitars are so good... Hofner should be in the top ten...
I have one of them... They are so good and also with low prices...
I have one of them... They are so good and also with low prices...
I am in favor of hofner can some one give me a brief historical feedback for hofner
More comments about Hofner
47First Act
Only the mentally challenged would like first act guitars for something other than fire wood.
I use first acts for when I want to play led zeppelin or pink Floyd while taking a shower.
I have a first act guitar and I think it should ranked lower than 47. It sucks.
More comments about First Act
48LTD
Why is this all the way down here.. You people are insane.. Its the same as a esp.. They are amazing when it comes to metal and rock... Ill shred your faces off
I have an Ltd F-50 which is very cheap and does its work very good. Ltd guitars are cheap and really good : P : )
They only make 3 Guitars ESP, LTD, And B.C. rich. The first two are from the same company! SO mabye there are just two makers.
More comments about LTD
49Lakewood
Lakewood guitar is the best!
Have you seen them... You could even design your own in almost every way... Great sound but you would expect that when you could be spending £5000 on one but I'd say that's worth it for the acoustic of your dreams... Check out the site
Sungha Jung's guitar...
vEry niCE souNDD..!
I WANT ONE... LAKEWOOD GUITAR
IWANTONEE! 1
50Pluto
I'm playing Pluto past 3 months ago.. This is my 5th guitar. It sounds very good, well furnished and beautiful look...
Very nice guitar and it sounds very soothing and this is the best guitars in my collection of guitar
I like the sound of pluto's acoustic.
its better than my 1st guitar and many other brands
More comments about Pluto
its better than my 1st guitar and many other brands
51Parker
This list is an amateurish joke. Many guitars listed are pure cheap junk I'd toss in the garbage even if they were free. Take it from a 45-year Pro, Parker & PRS are the 2 highest quality. Fender, Ric and Gibson, along w/ brands that have stood the test of time, plus a few hand-made (custom) brands are the only ones you can seriously depend on. The rest are mostly pathetic attempts at copying a major brand and cutting the price by REALLY cutting back on quality. As they say: "You get what you pay for. "
Best guitars on this planet... And maybe others. Best neck in the business. Stays in perfect tune without a locking nut. Don't believe me... Go play one with a carbon neck & stainless frets.
I can't believe Parker is this low. I can't say it surprised me to see the top ten. I understand Gibson, Fender, Ibanez, PRS, and other companies that have stood the test of time should be in the top ten list, but for those that have played a Parker, there's no going back to any other guitar.
More comments about Parker
52Lumanog Guitars
#1 in the Philippines. This guitar brand is legendary! Made of quality wood, and gives you quality sound! I have 2 of 'em cause I really trust this guitar brand.
Lumanog is very under rated, for me they make the best acoustic guitars far better than brands up there, and most of all, it is all in the package, low prices and best quality!
Number 1 dapat to!
Ganda nang sound ei...
More comments about Lumanog Guitars
Ganda nang sound ei...
53Hagstrom
I play on an Ultra Swede and the sound is just perfect! You can play everything from Metallica to George benson with just one guitar! Believe me when I say that Hagstrom sounds better than Fender or Gibson!
Never seen any laminated top hagstrom. Sounds perfect, low action, thin neck (perfect for small hands)
Good guitars make a good Les Paul style guitar.
More comments about Hagstrom
54Luna
Luna guitars are so under-rated. Not only are they beautiful, but they sound wonderful. I have had 4 Lunas and whether they came to me sight unseen by mail, or from in the stores where I found them, they all consistently sounded wonderful and looked gorgeous. I think that many people rush to judgement, thinking that because a guitar is pretty it can't sound good. Nothing could be further from the truth.
These are incredibly cool sounding, folksy guitars
They are so pretty!
More comments about Luna
55Samick
Is good and nice guitars, like fender or prs sound...
But with low budget... Nice for Samick guitars..
8 for 10 for samick...
But with low budget... Nice for Samick guitars..
8 for 10 for samick...
This should be the number one because Fifteen years ago, a lot of, but certainly not all, Epiphone
guitars as well as other brands like Squier, were made at the Samick factory in
Korea.
guitars as well as other brands like Squier, were made at the Samick factory in
Korea.
I have a samick bass. Eh. Its alright. Not the best
56Tanglewood
Tanglewood are byfar my favorite guitar company. They're hand made and have a great sound! I started with an apolified acoustic from tanglewood which cost £895.72, then when I turned 16 I got a tanglewood electric guitar and I adore it! My band and I have met numerous bands(eyes set to kill, skindred, whitechaple, foofighter etc) and each one of them have commented on how amazing it sounds and how great it looks! It's a guitar that'll last a life time and beyond :) I've had other guitars like gibson and tenson and nothing compares to tanglewood :) however, the only problem with tanglewood is how expensive they are so if you can't afford one I would then go for a washburn guitar :) oh and never ever get a falcon guitar, they don't have a very good tone
I bought a Tanglewood TW1000 recently, best tone of any acoustic in the shop, including all the 'top end' brands. A well priced and great playing acoustic and would be gutted if anything happened to it.
Best looking and sounding guitars ever! Amazing on and of an amp, awesome quality. I have a Twrsfce and it is the most amazing guitar I recommend them to everyone beginner or advanced!
More comments about Tanglewood
57Tokai
They look great, sound great, feel great and they are a fraction the price of a gibson Linkin Park. Personally some gibsons can't compete and rely on their name. I prefer the Tokai.
wtf! gibson number 1 everybody knows that tokai makes waaaaay better guitars then gibson, the new gibson's are a piece of crap you just pay them because they are gibson but in the other case gibson has good old guitars like ones that he made in 1959, but today I think that tokai makes much beter guitars then gibson and aria my friend has an aria and it sounds even better than a gibson sg that my other friend has and when I started testing the aria against my japanese les paul the les paul won!
japanese guitars they are amazing
Good price, sounds good too. Reliable. Not the best, but you get what you pay for.
More comments about Tokai
58Spear
I sold my Gibson standard sg because it was collecting dust after I bought my first Spear. I now own 4 Spear guitars.
Amazing Guitars at Amazing Prices! My les-paul style Spear outplays any epiphone clone, hands down. Good humbucker pickups right from the factory, good maple top, and a nice heavy solid body. The set-neck is a plus as well!
I love spear guitars
they're like... the best
Bibshall
59Alvarez
I own 6 alvarezez and each one sounds better than the next
I own 15 Guitars, including Gibson, Martin, and Fender. My Alvarez Yari is by far the better overall guitar than all the rest. Playabiity, sound, looks and overall quality of workmanship, and the lifetime warranty.
Alvarez makes pretty high-quality stuff for there price. They should at least be on the first page here.
60Givson
I am having an esp... A because rich... And les paul by gibson and a givson blue diamond but givson suits the best to my marshall and line 6 amp so its cheap and best
Best and cheff guitar company in the world
It is good and also cheap. Good for beginners!
More comments about Givson
61Ashton
An Australian owned brand, for such high quality guitars Ashtons are seriously underrated. These are amazing guitars for there price, matching the qualities of even the high end guitars such as Ibanez. There strats are perfect for shredding. For such a low prices Ashtons get the job done.
I have this for 3 years great sound and a good quality
Just a nice guitar
More comments about Ashton
62Boss
63DBZ Guitars
I've been playing guitar for over 22 years and my DBZs are honestly the best guitars I've ever had. I currently own a Bolero, Imperial, and Barchetta. For once, I actually don't have the desire to trade them which is a big deal for me as I'm very selective and picky.
petewilliamz
64Lâg Guitars
Lag guitars have a very good sound that is hard to get with a lot of acoustics. This guitar is underrated
Lâg just deserves a lot more. The most warmest and cleanest sounds a guitar can make. Simply amazing. This should be in top 30 at least.
MMR 2011 Acoustic Line of the Year and Best in Show at NAMM in 2010 and 2011. Lâg Guitars definitely deserves a good place in the ranking.
More comments about Lâg Guitars
65Davis
^^good sound really apreciate it keep up the good work
(jayjayMorales)
66Eko
Eko, is a good guitar because the sound is great and have a very beautiful styles and and have a very best price ever, you gonna have some fun for that guitar, great voice...
That is a really good brand it is wonderful and reliable and it sounds great
67Walden
When you compare guitars of Walden and other brands in certain price range, Walden guitars prove to be of the best value.
Although, its still a relatively new brand, the acoustics it produces is just amazing.
Although, its still a relatively new brand, the acoustics it produces is just amazing.
Really crisp sound very good purchase for the money it's a pity you don't see more of them around
I own an acoustic Walden- it is probably the best guitar that I have ever used. Crisp perfect sound.
I literally love it, it is a shame that there are not more of these beautiful guitars around
More comments about Walden
I literally love it, it is a shame that there are not more of these beautiful guitars around
68Peavey Guitars
Not one mention of the most affordable Made in The USA guitars you can buy used. Go on Ebay, buy a Predator Made in USA for $120 shipping included, set the neck correct polish the frets, change one pickup of the 3 with a lipstick if you desire, and It will go toe to toe with any $1000 guitar above.
I have a peavey raptor plus... With its stock pickups and a boss gt10 it can devastate any other guitars above... Its cheap and effective.. For me the best guitar for its price..
My peavey was bought at a reliable music store and works for everything I do. Good guitar!
69Zachary Guitars
70Indie
A really high quality guitar brand from England I believe they started manufacturing guitars in 2008. Only good reviews
71Seagull
I have owned a Seagull for four years and it still plays like it did when it was new. It isCanadian made and has a very good sound; I would highly recommend this brand.
My first real guitar was a Seagull S6 and it was hand made at an entry price level. Truly an amazing guitar with a very warm sound. I tried a few others and finally got myself a Mini-Jumbo Maritime Seagull because nothing compared for the price. I'd highly recommend Seagull for sound, build quality and style. Simply beautiful!
Great guitar ever... Seagull is the best best..
More comments about Seagull
72Ran
73Line 6
Line 6 is my best brand because guitar produce great sounds and affordable has a great design.. Comfortable to use.. Strings are very original.. Made up of
steel
74Warwick
75Martinez
Martinez acoustic guitar is best sound, best price and best model.
AcousticDtar
76Breedlove
What great guitars. Beautiful highs and lows. They sound just so amazing. I own three of these wonderful Breedloves and I tend to use them Way much more then my Gibson and Taylor
Amazing! Wonderful workmanship, and sound. From there passport series to there custom series, every guitar is worth having.
Breedlove is a new brand that is taking the guitar world with a bang, the sounds is by far better than those 3000Dlls guitars (gibson and taylor)... Check it out you wont regret it...
More comments about Breedlove
77Ferrington
78Monterey
I have one $180 I got it new
79Mayones
Custom guitars made in Poland. Technology, Innovation, Style, Performance, Creativity and Craftsmanship come together when you get a Mayones.
I love polish guitars and Mayones is far far away very underrated. Perfect for Metal, big solos and Blues!
80Steinberger
Steinberger guitars are the most innovative instruments I've every played. no head stock, a transposing tremolo and a graphite neck for lots of SUSTAAIN!
nausea_87
81StarSun
They made very good affordable guitar in the low & middle price range, especially for the newbie!
I love this brand
82Cole Clark
At Cole Clark Guitars, we've applied a new understanding to an age old art. Like you, we appreciate the sound and feel of a great steel string guitar, one that reflects and projects the emotion you put into your music.
Great guitars require great tone woods, and we select our timbers with care. Even our most basic model acoustic is made from all solid timbers. Our patented manufacturing method applies the finest of control to each instrument we make, so that every instrument can be loud and lively and subtle and soft.
Play one at your local dealer. Whack it! Caress it! You'll find that it responds in kind to your touch. String response and articulation are excellent. You can option your guitar with our new pickup system. We believe this to be the best pickup yet offered. Big claim? Listen to it, then tell us what you think.
Great guitars require great tone woods, and we select our timbers with care. Even our most basic model acoustic is made from all solid timbers. Our patented manufacturing method applies the finest of control to each instrument we make, so that every instrument can be loud and lively and subtle and soft.
Play one at your local dealer. Whack it! Caress it! You'll find that it responds in kind to your touch. String response and articulation are excellent. You can option your guitar with our new pickup system. We believe this to be the best pickup yet offered. Big claim? Listen to it, then tell us what you think.
Own three, culprit 1 and 111 Duncan pups standard, plus a Guardian, quality woods and components, well made aussie guitars, more bang for my buck compared to my American made telecaster.
Jack Johnsons #1 guitar. Superb quality and sound, beats the Taylors, Gibsons, Takamines, Martins and Matons hands-down, no contest...!
More comments about Cole Clark
83Stratocaster
84Lindo
I was bought this guitar by my father, it is a nice shape and sound, but, I am not sure about the make, has anyone heard of it before or knows anything about it, thanks
It was my first full size, its beautiful and has a lush sound. It's electro/acousic and works perfectly
Bought my first bass a lindo, Fine make, great sound. Love the enameled birds down the neck.
85Framus
Amazing guitars, I found them better than Gibson.. Probably one of the most underrated guitars of the last ten years
I own a Framus Tennessee the best, mellow or hard its up to you. Quality! Quality! Beautiful fast neck, superb hollow body, great humbuckers and tremm bar. Very good value for money.
86Freedom
I think freedom guitars have a great sound and its got a comfortable action. I would recommend it for any guitarists
Feels good and sounds great. I have many guitars and this is probably one of the best. Freedom guitars are also excellent with their stunning looks
Great guitar I have one myself and really reccogmend it it's nots too expensive but is great quality, and sounds amazing
More comments about Freedom
87Caparison
Very unknown in the scene. But this is one of the most innovative guitarcompanies in my eyes. I own a Horus and I have to say I love this guitar never would change to another. I don't know all companies here, but if you need a custome guitar with an amazing sound and a very good qualtity this company is for sure not the wrong choice.
Come on. Seriously they are the nicest playing and sounding electrics made. Ashamed something of this superior quality is this far down
88Vintage
I think the vintage are better than others brands at least in the v100 and the new paradise model with zebras really looks very good. I don't like the cutaway because is so sharped but in general I put this brand les paul models over the tokais models...
Its a nice brand if you got this brand of a guitar you have a great deal. It has a nice tune for it, and it is fansey
Amazing guitars for the price, these guitars can equal guitars with a price tag twice as high, I own the v100bb which has a mahogany body with a set mahogany neck and its just amazing. I've also owned 2 epiphones and compared to them it definitely as good as them in terms of sound and build quality
More comments about Vintage
89Danie
Danie high quality Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar gives you great quality for a respectable price. Great tone from a solid AA Sitka spruce top is given projection and bright highs by the mahogany back and sides. Indian rosewood fretboard on a mahogany neck plus laser-etched Engraved Rosette offer a touch of luxury. Chrome plated gold die-cast machine heads for easy and stable tuning.
-dreadnought body size.
-AA Sitka Spruce top.
-Mahogany back and side.
-Indian Rosewood 14-fret.
-Bridge Indian rosewood.
-solid chrome gold cast tuning head.
-matt finish.
Amazing prize for guitar and prize.
sound 9/10
quality 9/10
prize 10/10
action 8/10
Features 10/10
Sound 9/10
Quality 9/10
Action 10/10
Price 9/10
love it so much
90Marina
Very first "decent" guitar I had, still has it and it still sounds great. Pity it can't plug in...
91Gremlin
92Jay Turser
I have a Jay Turser Jt-50 and it sounds pretty good great guitar for its price range.
93Manne
94SX Guitars
95Floyd Rose Guitars
I own a floyd rose and it is without a doubt one of the best. The speed loaders are amazingly easy to use and the pickups are great too but be careful not to over do it because the parts ain't cheap.
96Kalos
97Burney
98J&D
I own a J&D electric guitar and it is awesome. Not even Ibanez or Leas Paul impresses me as much as this one do.
I'm probably a noob to say this, but my JD150 bass sounds sweet. Just not a very good sound when the action is low.
99Tenson
100Sakura
Comments About This List
Featured Lists
Popular Lists
New Lists
- Best Video Games of 2013
- Best Home Workout Programs
- Best Movies of 2012
- Best Online Dating Services
- Best Credit Repair Companies
- Best AntiVirus Software Companies
- Best Mountain Bike Brands
- Best Web Hosting Companies
Blog Posts About This List
Be the first to add a post about this list
Top Remixers of This List
List Info
This list was created 5 years, 198 days ago and has been voted on over 16,000 times. This top ten list contains 206 items, has been remixed 10 times and has been blogged about 4 times.
Updated Saturday, May 25, 2013
Updated Saturday, May 25, 2013
List Error Reporting
See an item on this list that's mispelled, duplicated, or doesn't belong? Let us know. Click here to report the error.