It’s a common belief that this is the golden age of guitar. Never before have so many instruments been available. And never before has this level of quality been so affordable. If you’re on the hunt for a great gift for a guitarist or bassist, or you want to use this holiday season to spoil yourself, then you can get a high-quality instrument without spending too much money.
With that in mind, Sweetwater has compiled this list of five of our favorite guitars and basses under $500. From acoustic-electrics to tried-and-true icons to even a metal-minded model, they’re all here. Whether you’re learning to play, buying for someone else, or looking for a dependable backup, you’ll find something that fits the bill.
Danelectro Stock ’59 Electric Guitar
You’d be hard-pressed to find a guitarist that doesn’t admire the classics, making the Danelectro Stock ’59 electric guitar the perfect addition to your favorite musician’s arsenal. Its faithfully styled, lightweight, and hardboard body grants an admirable and distinct vintage tone complimented by twin Lipstick single-coil pickups and a tone/volume knob duo to boot. Comfortable, jangly, and jam-packed with antique versatility, your loved one will welcome the Stock ’59 with open arms.
Schecter Omen-6 Electric Guitar
Metal and progressive styles require a specific set of tools. Namely, high-output pickups to light up an amp and a fast neck to facilitate technical flourishes. The Schecter Omen-6 accomplishes both goals while looking the part. This modern metal machine gains endless sustain from its string-through-body design. And, thanks to a set of high-res sealed tuners at the stem and a Tune-o-Matic bridge at the stern, it punches through a mix while holding its tuning. Black chrome hardware and pearloid Semi-Goth fingerboard inlays add to the ambience. Whether they’re a rhythm chugger or a lead shredder, any developing guitarist will find ways to grow their skills (and audience) with the Omen-6.
Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Stratocaster
Championing the vintage guitars, the Squier Classic Vibe ’60s Stratocaster offers single-coil tones from one of the world’s largest guitar manufacturers. The Stratocaster is one of the most recognizable instruments in the world, thanks to its classic look and versatile tones. Built with the player in mind, this axe is incredibly easy to play and will suit players of all skill levels. Best of all, the Classic Vibe ’60s Stratocaster won’t break the bank. Guitar players around the world love the Classic Vibe ’60s Stratocaster. Your loved one will too.
Guild D-240E Flamed Mahogany
Continuing the trend of eye-catching instruments, you need to see the gorgeous figuring of the Guild D-240E Flamed Mahogany. This acoustic-electric guitar blends a rich midrange with sweet highs that will have you picking it up at every opportunity. It features a solid Sitka spruce top, flamed mahogany back and sides, and an onboard Guild AP-1 pickup. Best of all, Guild has created this stunning instrument at a price that’s nearly impossible to beat. The D-240E is an instrument that will encourage players to take it everywhere, be it the studio, the stage, or the state park.
Squier Mini Strat Electric Guitar
The Squier Mini Strat electric guitar is made to fit smaller hands but boasts the power of the real thing. A standard set of three single-coil pickups ensures the same tonal versatility, control, and punch of a tried-and-true Strat. Its three-quarter size, however, makes it the perfect option for younger guitarists, traveling musicians, and smaller players. Topped off with a classic ’60s-style headstock, chrome hardware, and a genuine Squier gloss finish, the Mini Strat emits classic performance and provides a convenient size that’s perfect for any guitarist you have in mind.
You know what the best part of this list is? It’s that these five instruments are only a small sampling of the amazingly affordable guitars and basses that we offer at Sweetwater. And because most every guitar that’s $399 and up is put through our 55-point Inspection, you can rest assured that whichever one you choose will play like a top-shelf instrument the moment it hits your hands.
And don’t forget — if you have any questions or want a bit of help zeroing in on the exact model that will be perfect for you or the player in your life, then give one of our Sales Engineers a call at (800) 222-4700. They can’t wait to hear from you.
