5 of the BEST Guitars UNDER $500!

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  • Опубликовано: 29 сен 2024
  • Today I look at 5 of my favourite "high value" guitars under $500!
    If you enjoyed this video, be sure to like and subscribe :)
    GEAR USED IN VIDEO:
    Ibanez under $500 - imp.i114863.ne...
    Squier under $500 - imp.i114863.ne...
    Gretsch under $500 - imp.i114863.ne...
    Epiphone under $500 - imp.i114863.ne...
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    SOLI DEO GLORIA!

Комментарии • 1,1 тыс.

  • @DarrellBraunGuitar
    @DarrellBraunGuitar  3 года назад +163

    Would you guys add any other models to my list? Share your top 5 under $500 and I'd love to see what you choose!

    • @fulbridgerectifier2497
      @fulbridgerectifier2497 3 года назад +36

      I always liked the Schecter platinum series!

    • @judih.8754
      @judih.8754 3 года назад +56

      Yamaha Pacifica

    • @olivercalland1470
      @olivercalland1470 3 года назад +20

      The EVH Wolfgang Standard is about as much bang for your buck as you can get in that price bracket

    • @ZL1LoVeR
      @ZL1LoVeR 3 года назад +10

      Schecter with the Omen Elites

    • @barrettwissell9708
      @barrettwissell9708 3 года назад +8

      I love my Squire. I buy Squires in finishs I like then swap pretty much everything. I prefer the light weight and more playful finishes ( like the red sparkles ).

  • @mattmanley7118
    @mattmanley7118 3 года назад +456

    It’s amazing how far budget guitars have come

    • @grayjack5021
      @grayjack5021 3 года назад +8

      Yep the old silver tones just don't make the grade. Sears and Monte Gnomery Ward were the best! They were made in the same factory. But brand loyalty is a must! LOL!

    • @gabrielledebourg2487
      @gabrielledebourg2487 3 года назад +11

      Agreed! The Squiers I own easily hold their own against my Fenders: even my US ones! Absolutely stellar guitars.

    • @leth9320
      @leth9320 3 года назад +10

      @@gabrielledebourg2487 Squire and Epiphone have really pushed on from their earlier models. You are getting a quality guitar for a fraction of the price of Fenders or Gibsons.

    • @BelBamberg
      @BelBamberg 2 года назад

      @@grayjack5021 e não é l
      July 6 4 hr e km

    • @richardmerriam7044
      @richardmerriam7044 Год назад +3

      @@gabrielledebourg2487 My Squier Vintage Vibe Mustang Bass is a better player than my 2001 American Series Precision Bass. Really hate to say that, but it's true.

  • @straight8ight
    @straight8ight 3 года назад +17

    Thanks again Darrell for all your hard work, dedication, education and appreciation for guitarists all over the world. You rock!! Well done.

  • @drkshter9422
    @drkshter9422 3 года назад +15

    For me, the best are yamaha Pacifica in different configurations...
    I have hh, hss, sss, and always is very good...

  • @matthewkelly8039
    @matthewkelly8039 3 года назад +5

    Thank you for another great video. Love to hear about your choices and then hear you play.
    My choice under $500 has to be the Epiphone 339 pro. The specs, the size, the weight, and most of all the tone of the stock pickups and the come with coil splitting. I would love to hear you play one some day.

  • @nickhake592
    @nickhake592 Год назад

    Always nice to see you in action! I bought myself a Harley Benton ST59, the Hank Marwin reiease. Half the price of a Squier Affinity but I think its just as good.
    Kluson style tuners, medium jumbo frets, Daddario strings, no sharp fret ends and pickups that in my opinion are better than the pickups in Squier Affinity.

  • @vladavasiljev
    @vladavasiljev 2 года назад

    I bought used Washburn win-dlx with EMG pickups and cluson locks for 300 euros...man, it plays and sounds as it's worth 5x more. And it's pretty because it's the same as Adam Jones' Les Paul. Best buy ever!

  • @mqnmusicproject2691
    @mqnmusicproject2691 3 года назад

    Darrell, you've pretty much convinced me that my next guitar with be a MM Cutlass

  • @ferramirez4668
    @ferramirez4668 3 года назад

    Great video Darrell! Given that you review guitars that go under the radar I would like to mention the Ibanez AR420 and hopefully get a review of it in your channel. Specs and price point are on point and your opinion will be much help. Thanks!

  • @brushstroke3733
    @brushstroke3733 3 года назад +1

    Great list! I just started collecting action figures - guitars may be next!

  • @FreedomsGuard
    @FreedomsGuard 3 года назад +2

    Darrell, if price were no issue, choosing between the Sterling Cutlass or the Charvel Pro Mod So Cal Style 2 24 HT HH, which would you recommend?

  • @jamesdiehl8690
    @jamesdiehl8690 3 года назад

    Look at Sweetwater Music; G&L Legacy in Olympic White, 2 post mount trem, maple neck and fingerboard 12" radius, 3 single coil pickups - $399.00!

  • @tenebroruncr4374
    @tenebroruncr4374 3 года назад

    I miss you the Yamaha Pacifica 311, a great guitar in the same price range.

  • @JonNewquist
    @JonNewquist 3 года назад

    I dig the Cutlass.
    Is that a Charvel branded vibrato on the Gretsch? Interesting. Those are Broad'tron full size humbuckers, right? Not Filter'trons? I bought the first G2210 Streamliner Junior Jet Club a year ago. It's a fun beater!

  • @danielflintknapping
    @danielflintknapping 3 года назад

    All great guitars! If you're looking for another guitar with a roasted maple neck and locking tuners i can recommend a Harley Benton Fusion III series, think it's around 450$ I've had mine for 2 years now and I love it 👍

  • @tristantalbot4408
    @tristantalbot4408 Год назад +1

    Hi what’s the name of song you played at start

  • @wannapg3750
    @wannapg3750 Год назад

    Where is Michael Kelly. I've found them to be excellent but I can't find any reviews for them on your channnel. How come?

  • @nafnaf3914
    @nafnaf3914 3 года назад

    please review Bacchus Universe Series, Darrell.

  • @AbideinChristFully
    @AbideinChristFully Год назад

    So if you are given a guitar to feel moved to play...then it will make it to the recommended list? So if you send them back...no rec?

  • @rroades
    @rroades 3 года назад +479

    Was never a good guitarist, but after 35 years, want to start again. These videos are perfect, new sub and watching as much as I can!

    • @danielbuhr4260
      @danielbuhr4260 3 года назад +29

      Never a better day to learn than today!

    • @anthonychilds8193
      @anthonychilds8193 3 года назад +18

      "Good" is completely relative (but I know what you mean" what's more important is enjoying/ having fun. That will take your guitar playing further. Go for it!

    • @jeekyboi9564
      @jeekyboi9564 3 года назад +17

      Get a cheap jackson and start learning again. Never too late ;)

    • @jerm6539
      @jerm6539 3 года назад +8

      Don’t consider myself good either! I’ve played more off than on for 35 years. Mainly rhythm player but bust out a lead here and there. my current go to is a 2018 Jackson dkny js34 dka m. Only guitar I’ve had that played better, imho, was my Gretsch bst 1500 (the one with the dual dimarZios) I bought used in 1986 ish.

    • @michaelschiessl8357
      @michaelschiessl8357 3 года назад +5

      I've got that Ibanez moon burst, good guitar for intermediate player.

  • @pace7
    @pace7 3 года назад +147

    My favorite part of the day is when my dog scratched it butt across my carpet.

    • @davidkastin4240
      @davidkastin4240 3 года назад +9

      " Carpet Surfing " 😝

    • @CigLivery
      @CigLivery 3 года назад +12

      Thats random

    • @markbaum9615
      @markbaum9615 3 года назад +5

      The ol'......booty scooty

    • @Peterpepper69
      @Peterpepper69 3 года назад +5

      "Yachting" when i dog tacs across a carpet using its tail as a rudder while trying to scrape barnicles from his keel

    • @mikestroud9969
      @mikestroud9969 Год назад +1

      😂😂

  • @KevinLogsdonMusic
    @KevinLogsdonMusic 3 года назад +59

    Who else was expecting the Yamaha Pacifica for best value?

    • @amarok9097
      @amarok9097 3 года назад +1

      Me. Just picked up the 612. The 212 looks good for this price point

    • @thisguy2973
      @thisguy2973 3 года назад +3

      My first electric was a Pacific PAC012 tele. I was 11 at the time and 26 years later, the only part that’s not original are the Made in Germany Schaller strap locks, but even those are 24 years old. I adjusted the truss on it for the first time six months ago and it’s still an excellent guitar. It was 400 in 1995, and I would never give it up. It’s an amazing guitar and they’ve gotta be the most underrated guitar ever made.

    • @AmericanOutdoors1
      @AmericanOutdoors1 3 года назад

      Sweetwater has them at around 600 dollars. Maybe this why it wasn't on the under 500 list? But of course everything is inflated right now.

    • @cabreradakila4682
      @cabreradakila4682 3 года назад +1

      I was. My nephew got one. Great value.

  • @matthewhyman6601
    @matthewhyman6601 3 года назад +75

    One guitar I'd recommend is the Yamaha Pacifica 311h. I have owned one for a few years and gigged with it and it has been amazing. Very good spec for £300, locking tuners, tusq nut and string retainers, etc. Stays in tune extremely well, sounds awesome, and is very versatile.

    • @walterhartwellwhite2162
      @walterhartwellwhite2162 Год назад +1

      Pacifica 611 and 612 are also great they’re like $750. better than fender

    • @Fishy1337
      @Fishy1337 9 месяцев назад

      idk much about guitars, why are those things good to have?

    • @matthewhyman6601
      @matthewhyman6601 9 месяцев назад

      @Fishy1337 Locking tuners make changing strings really easy. The ones on that guitar are also very good quality, which makes it easier to tune the guitar and keep the guitar in tune.
      Tusq nut and string retainers are self lubricating. This helps the strings stay in tune by eliminating a problem called binding, which is where the string gets caught in the nut or retainers. It's a common fault with plastic nuts.
      Having these components takes a lot of the headache out of playing a guitar. It means you don't have to re-tune it all the time and you can rely on it keeping in tune while playing. There are probably other guitars out there with similar specs for this price, but I don't think you can go too far wrong with Yamaha.
      Other than that, the rest of the guitar's spec is pretty impressive and will set you up well for pretty much anything. I've played all sorts of genres from Funk to Metalcore on it. Can't recommend it enough

    • @batman6540
      @batman6540 8 месяцев назад

      i had a used 102 paficica 10y ago it was way more playable than my fender deluxe that costs 10x

  • @enthused7591
    @enthused7591 3 года назад +53

    The Gretsch is my choice out of these. I own the P90 junior and you really do get professional level tones out of those things, but they are absolute bare bones rockers. No frills, flat tops, etc. They give you actual higher-output pickups and good quality pots, while most of it's competitors are sandbagging the quality of the electronics to protect the prices on the higher priced models.

    • @postoffice146
      @postoffice146 2 года назад +5

      The Gretsch shown here doesn't have Filtertrons like he says.

    • @rubbadubdub6543
      @rubbadubdub6543 Год назад

      @@postoffice146 You’re right, they’re broadtrons, highish output humbuckers, sound somewhere between a PAF and a telecaster.

  • @jorgearcecofre8024
    @jorgearcecofre8024 Год назад +2

    Awesome, but you didn't play the Gretsch

  • @USWNTfan101
    @USWNTfan101 3 года назад +56

    Love my Epiphone LP Studio for $450. Was a great “starter” guitar for me.

    • @tannerteevsb8963
      @tannerteevsb8963 3 года назад +7

      What model? My epiphone lp studio costed 250$

    • @FiggyFiggleton
      @FiggyFiggleton 3 года назад +5

      I got one of those and just couldn't get into it and ended up getting rid of it. I found a used Epiphone Les Paul standard that I'm liking a whole lot, though

    • @taylorkraus9491
      @taylorkraus9491 3 года назад +2

      I have a les Paul and that is what my used standard cost me plus setup plus replacement tuners plus pickup

    • @cristaud
      @cristaud 3 года назад +4

      I picked up a 2002 Korean Les Paul studio for about $250 - 16 years ago. And while I have about 12 guitars and my Epi is not my go to guitar, when I pick it up - like today - I think this guitar is unbelievably good, great playability, superb cleans and it rocks - ok I changed one pick up. But it is a lovely guitar. I had a Gibson custom tribute which I swapped. It was different but not better than the Epi

    • @notpub
      @notpub 3 года назад +1

      @@cristaud Wow, the Epi was better than Gibs? Anazing! I could never afford a Gibs but I love my Epis. They rock! In what way(s) was it better?

  • @ryner5171
    @ryner5171 3 года назад +6

    it gets double the price when it comes to india . 💔💔💔💔💔💔

  • @quintenvermeulen4576
    @quintenvermeulen4576 3 года назад +145

    I started playing again last year after a 9-year break and decided to treat myself with a new guitar back in June. I went to the store for a Squier strat, left with a metallic grey Gretsch G5222 and I couldn't be any happier. It cost me a little over €500 and not only is it an absolutely stunning guitar to look at, it plays amazingly as well. Classic rock? No problem. Thrash metal with a lot of sliding over the neck? Why not! The only thing left to do now is to improve my playing until I'm worthy of this beaut.

    • @shawnawesome7770
      @shawnawesome7770 3 года назад +4

      I had a similar experience with my gretsch. Never would have even considered getting rid of some of my guitars until i bought the gretsch, it does everything!

    • @BorisBidjanSaberi11
      @BorisBidjanSaberi11 3 года назад

      Look up some Fender custom shop string trees, small subtle difference

    • @paxonearth
      @paxonearth 2 года назад

      That's a beautiful guitar. There is one exactly yours on CL nearby, but I've seen comments that they are neck-heavy. Is that your experience?

    • @quintenvermeulen4576
      @quintenvermeulen4576 2 года назад +1

      @@paxonearth they are indeed quite neck-heavy. I mostly play seated and I've mostly been able to mitigate the neck-dive by putting some stick-on weights inside the control cavity but if you don't feel like going through that I'd recommend going for one of their single cut models. Other than that it's a great guitar though! I love the way it plays especially in a seated position (the shape makes it very well balanced when you don't have it on a strap) and you get that typical Gretsch sound!

    • @paxonearth
      @paxonearth 2 года назад

      @@quintenvermeulen4576 Thank you. I know it's down to personal preference, but neck dive is a deal-breaker for me. That's a shame. They're quite pretty and sound great.

  • @jonnybroomhead
    @jonnybroomhead 3 года назад +16

    Ibanez is my go to for trying out new styles of guitars! They make one of any style at an entry level price and a high level of quality.

  • @TVP-zb1jo
    @TVP-zb1jo 3 года назад +33

    Guitars under 300 dollars

    • @stripesd
      @stripesd 4 месяца назад +5

      Prolly just save money at that point

    • @douglasscott_pronounced_Mike
      @douglasscott_pronounced_Mike 2 месяца назад +2

      Save more money sheesh

    • @Gliese710_
      @Gliese710_ Месяц назад

      Squier affinity hardtails, or Ibanez hardtails. Trems under around $450 are kinda bad.

    • @SirMactator
      @SirMactator 14 дней назад

      Do you really want a video about yamaha pacifica and harley benton? (And maybe squier, bc fender has to be mentioned in every guitar video for some reason...)

    • @traemiller1156
      @traemiller1156 10 дней назад

      Guitar center used section

  • @grayaj23
    @grayaj23 3 года назад +30

    I know that these are subjective and there are always ones that should be on the list-- but I am sooooo happy you included the Gretsch. My first electric guitar was an Electromatic Jet Club -- $359 in 2019, and was the lowest rung on the Gretsch ladder at that time (before the Streamliner line was introduced). It's *still* one of my favorites.

    • @blitheringrando1410
      @blitheringrando1410 2 года назад +1

      I grabbed up a cheap semihollow gretch at guitar center and I was pretty impressed by the feel and sound, light for the size too. I didn't buy it but it was a good impression.

  • @danieljennings6144
    @danieljennings6144 3 года назад +19

    I literally want one of all of those now

  • @jimmylovato7483
    @jimmylovato7483 3 года назад +26

    I would love to see you review the LTD ec-256. I think its a great little guitar, runs around $450 and sounds great

    • @BrandonTheBoyWonder
      @BrandonTheBoyWonder 3 года назад +2

      EC-256 Comes with dual humbuckers and coil split……hands down favorite guitar for under $500

    • @jimmylovato7483
      @jimmylovato7483 3 года назад +1

      @@BrandonTheBoyWonder same here i definitely love my 256, thinking about getting a 257.

    • @HandOfMetal
      @HandOfMetal 3 года назад +1

      I have the Dark Brown Sunburst and it rocks. My only issues have been the basic LTD tuners, which I'm going to replace soon anyways. Same goes to pickups. They aren't bad by any means, but not amazing either.

    • @BrandonTheBoyWonder
      @BrandonTheBoyWonder 3 года назад +2

      I’ve got 3 from different years lol. They are all a little different. My favorite is the vintage road worn. There’s no gloss finish so the neck feels awesome

    • @bushcry1
      @bushcry1 3 года назад

      @@BrandonTheBoyWonder That is awesome! From what year?

  • @Imposibilitron
    @Imposibilitron 3 года назад +16

    Darrell can't stop laughing when he talks about gretsch with evertune bridge that is more expensive than a guitar!

    • @theohaines4464
      @theohaines4464 3 года назад +2

      Thanks for pointing this out. I searched for that guitar and it lists for $799.00.

    • @tolvajakos
      @tolvajakos 3 года назад +1

      i was going to say... that's not that guitar. but i guess he was going to mention the evertune-less guitar but he did not want to get one just for this video...

  • @samuelreyes7467
    @samuelreyes7467 2 года назад +6

    I’m definitely getting that cutlass after my deployment. I’ve been looking at it for a while.

  • @vaughanmacegan4012
    @vaughanmacegan4012 3 года назад +19

    After having the obligatory starter guitar I managed to buy myself a Yamaha RGX 211 (iirc) for $499 - this was years ago. It had a Humbucker with coil split, and a single coil - sounded great in all positions. Had a floating type trem system proprietary (not a floyd), a neck to die for, 24 frets and great upper fret access, and an aggressive look. Was red of course, so it played faster :) To me it was Yamaha's answer to the Ibanez RG, except better in all respects. Was almost heartbroken when I accidentally stepped on the neck one dark night and it started creaking.

    • @bushcry1
      @bushcry1 3 года назад +1

      Is it usable still?

    • @ShadowD2C
      @ShadowD2C Год назад

      can you tell me why is it better? Im trying to get this style guitar with a locking bridge, was thinking of the ibanez now thinking of this

  • @michaelolz
    @michaelolz 3 года назад +22

    By far, my favorite under $500 is the Squier Classic Vibe. I bought one expecting that I was going to want to return it after hearing all the good reviews. Well, there’s a reason for all the good reviews-it’s a really nice feeling, playing and sounding guitar. It really exceeded my expectations.

    • @daman2479
      @daman2479 Год назад

      Which classic vibe did you purchase

    • @keremkaya1185
      @keremkaya1185 Год назад +1

      @@daman2479 i have the classic vibe 50s strat i tried all classic vibe strats and 50s was the best one. It just feels like a vintage guitar

    • @guido_laremi
      @guido_laremi Год назад

      @@keremkaya1185 what's the difference between the different "dacades"? like the vibe '60 etc? thanks

  • @soulconnectedstudioproject4612
    @soulconnectedstudioproject4612 2 года назад +2

    Harley benton by thomann has the fusion III cost 399 and has a Floyd 1000 and a roasted neck. Check these guitars out they are amazing

  • @jeffleecust
    @jeffleecust 3 года назад +35

    I also think the G&L tribute series should be mentioned, usually have USA hardware or pickups. The Fallout is really cool H/P90 with a coil split for the H

  • @ralphrudon298
    @ralphrudon298 3 года назад +5

    Best value under $500 is definitely G&L. A bunch of models and great stuff at that price.

  • @SirHeadly84
    @SirHeadly84 3 года назад +23

    For the money..especially for beginners, i wholeheartedly recommended ibanez. Most of even their entry level guitars (GAX30 $160US when i bought it new) for example are fine guitars. They skimp on the hardware quality on lower end models. But not on the fit and finish. And thats fine. Youre not going to get DiMarzios or Fishmans, etc on a sub $200 guitar. Not getting gotoh tuners, etc either. I have several of all price points and love them all.

    • @alejorag
      @alejorag 3 года назад +3

      I wholeheartedly agree with this. I bought a GAX70 for 200 back in 2007 and I still have it and play it often even if I own a few american Fenders, a PRS and a Gibson. Properly made guitars, if anything I'd suggest upgrading the electronics a few years down the line and you're golden.

    • @cristaud
      @cristaud 3 года назад

      A great guitar in Australia - made in China is the Artist. Shane’s channel has reviewed them a couple of times. . I have their 335 and it was around 400 Aus $ and - sure it does not have the warmth of a guitar 7 or 8 times the price but it has a hell of a lot going for it, and certainly does not sound cheap. They also do a gold top with p90s which makes my mouth water, but having picked up a Tokai addiction I am hanging out for one of them if it won’t break the bank.

    • @peterklein5861
      @peterklein5861 3 года назад +2

      I checked out a few cheap Ibanez models when starting out - they definitely looked and felt really good. My only criticism is that they sounded a little "generic", even to my untrained ear.

    • @SirHeadly84
      @SirHeadly84 3 года назад

      @@peterklein5861 they definitely are a little cheap sounding. But its tolerable without having to upgrade pups. I think a little EQ shaping might improve them a bit. They do seem to be kinda flat.

    • @LoneWolf-ni1zj
      @LoneWolf-ni1zj 3 года назад

      My Ibanez RG was my least played guitar, so I gave it to my Neighbors Son as he really loved the Wine Quilt top and the Shark Tooth inlays. For me, the body is too "Blocky" and while I love the thin fast neck, the body is nowhere near as comfortable as my American Strat with all it's "Comfort Cuts", so I have no plans to buy any other Ibanez in the future. I'm not knocking lower end Guitars as my favorite guitar for the past few months has been a Semi Hollow Tele with P90's from Harley Benton... Nice feel and great P90 tone. The only pickups I don't have are Filtertrons and that's about to change as I ordered Blackface Filtertrons that are going into a double bound, cherry burst Tele by Jay Turser, that I picked up for $150 used. While there's nothing wrong with the Guitar, I didn't want to add another Guitar to my 21 Guitar collection. It's weird, I have some nice guitars (Gibson, Fender, Schecter and a Boutique Tele) but enjoy some of my entry levels guitars even more lol

  • @edatkinson322
    @edatkinson322 3 года назад +9

    Harley Benton SC550 ll fabulous guitar for $375 shipped with gigbag,
    SS frets, good sounding Tesla pick ups and plays great out of the box; mahogany body, maple top, pau ferro fretboard. Man hard to beat.
    Hey come on Darrell 🤷🏻‍♂️

    • @mattbparrish565
      @mattbparrish565 3 года назад +5

      Ya really surprised there wasn’t anything from Harley Benton on the list.
      I got a sc450plus that sells for $200 on the Thoman site. It cost me $275 after taxes and shipping (to US) really hard to beat that price for a guitar with flame maple top, body and neck binding, contour set-in neck joint,
      2 volume 2 tone with split coils.
      Really great guitars!

    • @edatkinson322
      @edatkinson322 3 года назад +2

      @@mattbparrish565 I totally agree; I’ve had many expensive boutique guitars and Gibsons, Fender CS; I think a lot of folks are drinking the cool aid of high priced hype. They are making huge strides in the over seas manufacturing process

    • @tostrmofo6686
      @tostrmofo6686 3 года назад +3

      @@mattbparrish565 I think Darrell had a not so nice experience with HB in the past. For me... well I'm playing for 8 years now and owned 10 Guitars over that time. 7 were HBs of which I still own 3. I started with a simple HB strat which was great for a beginner, followed by a vintage HB LP which is no longer in their lineup, but the SC 550 is the precedessor if I remember correctly. I also had an HB SG copy, which I didn't like that much, but I don't like SGs at all, so that's why. Next was a Fusion II (Strat Style, 2x Humbucker, FR, SS-Frets, extremly nice finish, no flaws or anything. I play this guitar nearly every day.) Long story short, the HBs never failed to impress me in the bang for your buck category. The ones I kept are the Fusion II, CST-24 (PRS copy) and SC Custom Active (ESP EC 1000 copy). All of those are great instruments.
      I also own a Slick SL 50, which is also increadible at that price point a bit over 200 Bucks, unfortunetly it is now nearly 300 Euro. I assume thanks to the pandemic.
      The other guitar I play regularly is a Strat which I build myself. I played a lot of 4-figure-priced guitars in the last few years and this thing beats everything. 25 Euros Glarry bought used from ebay, 20-30 hours of work, 350 Euros for the used hardware hand tailored to my needs and a lot of fun in the process. I just wanted to learn a bit more about guitar building and ended up with a perfect guitar for my needs. But to get back to the point: The Harley Bentons between 300 and 500 Bucks are absolutely great guitars with features totally out of their price range.

    • @edatkinson322
      @edatkinson322 3 года назад +3

      John Robson seems to be an honest guitar reviewer and has some great pointers on playing. Really appreciate his candor on the guitar manufacturing process; he has an informative video on his RUclips channel regarding the guitar marketing process.

    • @Chip_57
      @Chip_57 3 года назад +1

      @@edatkinson322 Yes. Great channel. His Friday Live stream us a good hour spent.

  • @skipwiley2497
    @skipwiley2497 Год назад +4

    It’s a long story, but I’m fresh home from the army and learning how to live with a disability. My doc said music was good for the spirit so here I am. Thank you for these videos.

  • @arturobm1073
    @arturobm1073 3 года назад +1

    You can get locking tuners, graphtech nut, stainless steel freets, roasted maple neck and even headless guitars for less than 400€ from Harley Benton

  • @anthonychilds8193
    @anthonychilds8193 3 года назад +4

    No fair showing a 299 Gretch with an Evertune and not even adding the caveat of that guitar as shown is $800.

    • @danjohnson1158
      @danjohnson1158 3 года назад +1

      Exactly. That bridge costs more than the rest of the guitar

  • @tacob69
    @tacob69 3 года назад +8

    Totally agree with the Cutless I couldn't believe the price when they came out last year. A guitar I think should be on there is the LTD 256.I have one from along time ago and now that I'm old and can afford it I have an Eclipse E-ll and a ESP one.I still find myself playing the LTD once in a while for nostalgic reasons and end up playing the whole time with it.Very solid guitar for under $500.

  • @justnik8727
    @justnik8727 3 года назад +5

    A $499 guitar or a $4999 guitar in Darrell's hands sound fantastic and a pleasure to hear and watch. Thank you Darrell. Best wishes from Sydney Australia.

  • @garyheaton4791
    @garyheaton4791 3 года назад +6

    I have bought the guitars you have reviewed over the last two or three years. A es-335, a very cool half hollow body telly with three knobs..and a flower pattern inlaid finger board, and a Les Paul knockoff you really liked when you reviewed it. I love them all..not as much as my real fender stratocaster, but close!!
    You have always given trustworthy reviews, and I have not been let down by one yet. I plan on buying more in the future..I do rework the fret ends, and polish a little here and there on them. A little action work..nothing big. I Changed a set of tuners on one of them to lockers..since then they are ALL solid as rocks!
    Thanks bro! 😁✌️

  • @lostreb
    @lostreb 3 года назад +3

    The Music Man Sterling Cutlass HSS is the only one of the guitars you have mentioned in this video that I would put my hard-earned $$$$ down for!!! I was really disappointed in this video until I saw you rate it as the best Bang for the Buck under $ 500.00. But, everyone has their own personal preferences, and that is why there are so many guitar manufacturers and choices. Having said all that? To each his own. I hope you find your perfect guitar to match your own personal preferences!!! That's why Darrell does this videos...I think, anyway. If I'm wrong? It won't be the first time. And...After over 70 years on this planet? I'm 100% positive it won't be the last!!!

  • @edigabrieli7864
    @edigabrieli7864 3 года назад +8

    Eart guitars are good contenders in this category especially the Explorer series. 5 pcs neck roasted with compound radius and stainless steel frets all for $350. I have one and they are fantastic.

  • @iamgarrettlyons
    @iamgarrettlyons 3 года назад +4

    Meh, you missed Schecter. They make the best budget guitars. I still have mine 13 years later and still have it. I also have a $2k Strat. The schecter will always be a part of the family.

  • @papajaa7387
    @papajaa7387 3 года назад +9

    Under $50 next time

    • @DarrellBraunGuitar
      @DarrellBraunGuitar  3 года назад +5

      The best inflatable/cardboard guitars!! 😂😂😂

    • @papajaa7387
      @papajaa7387 3 года назад +3

      @@DarrellBraunGuitar The Hello Kitty acoustic kid guitar takes the top spot in my opinion.

    • @barrettwissell9708
      @barrettwissell9708 3 года назад +1

      @@papajaa7387 never understood why didn't make a My Melody one, considering that's the "music character" of that franchise. Meh, brand recognition always wins.

  • @benfowler2127
    @benfowler2127 3 года назад +3

    Curious… Did you have the Evertune bridge installed on the Gretsch?

  • @andrerieux89
    @andrerieux89 Год назад +2

    I think the Ibanez azes40 should make the list at least for versatility (only guitar with 9 pickup config under $500.) and sounds quite good, i would like your opinion on this guitar. Thank you for your good reviews

  • @ckallaher
    @ckallaher 3 года назад +16

    Yamaha makes some really quality guitars under $500. Several Pacificas, for example. I have the 311 with the bridge humbucker and neck P90. It’s pretty sweet. Very nice matte finish neck. $399. Of course, I don’t play it much since I got my Classic Vibe 60s Strat in Lake Placid Blue. That thing is amazing and definitely deserves its place on your list.

    • @sidrolf
      @sidrolf 3 года назад +1

      Same, can confirm, love my 311!

    • @konstantingeorgiev7521
      @konstantingeorgiev7521 3 года назад +3

      Man, you should tr y the Yamaha Revstar 420! Easily a guitar that will cost 1000 bucks if it was an LP or a Fender. Such a high quality instrument!

    • @sidrolf
      @sidrolf 3 года назад

      @@konstantingeorgiev7521 I wanted to buy it but it was prohibitively expensive compared to the 311

    • @Jose-xl9xt
      @Jose-xl9xt 3 года назад +1

      I have the Pacifica 212 and I am very happy with it so far... I have to say I'm starting my electric guitar journey, so I am not that experienced to compare with other guitars

  • @TomoFujitaMusic
    @TomoFujitaMusic 5 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you for sharing!

  • @zacharymicah
    @zacharymicah 3 года назад +5

    Both of my Ibanez RG's, 6 and 7 string were both around $250 each, they're both hardtail, and they're both string thru body which is a huge sell for me. That added tension for sustain is awesome.

  • @trl6913
    @trl6913 Год назад +1

    Darrell, can you review/compate the Epi es-335 to EPI ES-339 PRO???
    150 year anniversary for Epi's Sound next year...
    I'm a 60s blues kid and EVERY blues kid NEEDS a semi-hollow!!!
    I'm battling a Terminal Illness, Aortic Dissection twice leaving me 10 bypasses in me and they chopped me down to 1 1/4 legs 5hus I can't stand up so I have to play sitting down which brought me to Epi's ES- 339 vintage sunburst. What's your thoughts???

  • @gianniskatsios8033
    @gianniskatsios8033 3 года назад +6

    I have a Yamaha Pacifica 212 and it's been a great beginner guitar. Really comfortable to play and it's hss with a coil split , so paired with my Boss Katana Mk II i have unlimited range. And i bought the guitar+amp for exactly 500€ so it was great deal.

  • @wbfaulk
    @wbfaulk Год назад +1

    The low-end Gretsches do *not* have Filtertron pickups. They have generic PAF-style humbuckers in a case that's vaguely Filtertron-like.

  • @thesambehindtheslaughter8843
    @thesambehindtheslaughter8843 3 года назад +5

    The gretsch with the p90 in metallic mint plays so well. Sounds amazing. Feels amazing. Highly recommend

  • @azubaer5240
    @azubaer5240 3 года назад +1

    @darrell braun guitar there are many awesome guitars under 500 fron jackson and Esp LTD..... You should review some jacksons and LTDs

  • @Abeuss
    @Abeuss 3 года назад +4

    I’ve still got my rg from 2006, I still love it. It was $400 I think. There weren’t as many colors back then. I think Ibanez gives you a lot for the price.

  • @dmlled
    @dmlled 2 года назад +1

    You mention Samick elsewhere. I'd say, at the lower price range, Greg Bennett Ultramatic and Avion are superb bets too. Another option: Second hand Korean guitar of "any brand" + some set up. Career guitars are nice.

    • @philipellulle1072
      @philipellulle1072 22 дня назад

      Yes!!! I have 4 samick greg bennett and 2 are avion 7!!!

  • @alanwalker1698
    @alanwalker1698 3 года назад +3

    Darrel, the new Epiphone Special and Junior guitars are an outstanding choice for P90 guitars.

  • @recordedanemone6399
    @recordedanemone6399 6 месяцев назад +1

    I mostly agree, but I think the cv tele also has a lot going for it as well ngl. I daily one with some mods, including Seymour Duncan pickups, bronze saddle, and bone nut, and dare i say, it's almost perfect

  • @averageguitarist3631
    @averageguitarist3631 3 года назад +4

    Cort guitars are a wonderful value; then again, they're the oem for the pair of Ibanez mentioned

    • @jrc480
      @jrc480 3 года назад +1

      I picked up a Cort Action PJ bass. It is beautiful & easy to play.

  • @thetownspeople6486
    @thetownspeople6486 3 года назад +1

    Any Wolf or All In One guitars should have been on this list. All but 2 or 3 models are at $500 and at $500 you get a hard shell case. You can get them even cheaper if you pass on the case. These guitars are better than any Epiphone or Squire hands down. I’m not a big fan of either Squire or Epiphone and I find them both lazy picks on this list. Just because they’re owned by Fender and Gibson they’re on the list. No thanks. There’s too many new or less heralded companies making better affordable guitars than Epiphone or Squire. I love that Gretsch. I don’t have one but I’m thinking I should.

  • @prohunter717
    @prohunter717 3 года назад +6

    Would've liked to see some love given to Jackson. They got some pretty decent budget guitars and has a nice variety as well.

    • @mikehurley5052
      @mikehurley5052 2 года назад +1

      Agreed, i just got a new JS22 in blue, awesome.

    • @prohunter717
      @prohunter717 2 года назад +1

      @@mikehurley5052 , congrats man. Looks like a pretty sweet guitar.
      Since I was feeling adventurous, I went with the JS32 DKA in Natural Oil. For the money, amazing guitar.
      You might wanna look at changing the pickups in the long-run though. Stocks are fine but I always felt them a bit lacking.

    • @mikehurley5052
      @mikehurley5052 2 года назад +1

      @@prohunter717 I was impressed with the fit and finish on it, bound neck, perfect paint, agree about the pickups, but cheap guitar, neck is awesome. I love natural finishes too, i have a Pacifica 112 VFM in natural finish with coil split and Alnico 5 pickups.

  • @_Yep_Yep_
    @_Yep_Yep_ Год назад +1

    Id like to see you check out a sawtooth mt24 with the original floyd rose. I picked one up new for 275 bucks (Black Friday..they sold them all), and the amount of stuff slapped on to a good (but very vanilla) body/neck seems to be punching above its weight...for the price. The thing about it is that while i put a lot of thought into specs prior to the purchase, im so new to guitars that i cannot ascertain or appreciate what i have or where to take it when i get better. Sawtooth appears to have been a junky brand that has been steered to more thoughtful, robust designs over the past few years. For me, i was anticipating a Squire Contemporary Strat purchase around 400 bucks and think i came out with the Sawtooth MT24 for almost a third under budget. It would be neat to see someone besides GuitarMax give them a thoughtful review. Might be an eye opener at the price point or near 400 bucks, OR it might turn out to be a stinker. This channel does thoughtful reviews and gets all the important points covered. Parting shot: i think the Floyd model might be one of their "get them in the door" units for the company to build brand appreciation when they run sales events.

  • @jacobwarmack8751
    @jacobwarmack8751 2 года назад +3

    I love that your very realistic about the amount of money guitars are worth

  • @weedyguitarstudio1715
    @weedyguitarstudio1715 3 года назад +1

    It's so hard there is so many brotha but I'm a Lefty so I'm not so lucky lol still have a good Collection of 90 but have to take mainly the color there offering lol truth!!

  • @shanethackeray1988
    @shanethackeray1988 3 года назад +17

    Washburn make some incredible budget guitars with DiMarzio PU’s, many around the $500 mark, and DBZ make some nice budget guitars also.

  • @soulconnectedstudioproject4612
    @soulconnectedstudioproject4612 2 года назад +1

    I didn't like the rg from Ibanez. I have got the s521mol. Thats an awesome guitar. I also got the jem jr but i dont like the Ibanez trem systems.

  • @harigeorgeson5885
    @harigeorgeson5885 3 года назад +4

    Great content that’s informative as well. Plus your enthusiasm always shines through.

  • @santoshnivankar9618
    @santoshnivankar9618 Год назад +1

    TOP 5 BEST GUITAR FOR HEAVY METALS under 500 dollar

  • @judahsheck5577
    @judahsheck5577 3 года назад +4

    i’m hyped to watch this video!

  • @jamesreaves5534
    @jamesreaves5534 3 года назад +1

    What about the Harley Benton Fusion II and now for 2021 the Harley Benton Fusion III? Sapele Body (Mahogany derivative) Flame Maple Veneer Top, HSH Alnico 5 Pickups, Tusq XL Nut, Push/Pull Split Coil, 5 way Switch, 24 Medium Jumbo Stainless Steel Frets, 18:1 Locking Tuners Maple Neck/Ebony Fretboard = $295
    Roasted Flame Maple Neck/Fretboard = $395
    Floyd Rose 1000 W/Locking Nut = $445
    This is their Flagship Guitar with the
    Most features for the least money.
    God Bless!!
    Jimmy in NC....

  • @bkmeahan
    @bkmeahan 3 года назад +3

    Have a classic vibe jazzmaster and a thinline tele. great guitars. G & L has some amazing guitars in that same price range and kind of out of the blue, slick guitars are great. if they would do a slick guitar that wasn't relic'd i would buy it in a heartbeat

    • @DwightP980
      @DwightP980 11 месяцев назад +1

      My thoughts exactly! I'd buy a Slick SL57 if they'd do a non-aged line of them.

  • @weihuafischer6538
    @weihuafischer6538 Год назад +1

    I have the Ibanez RG and am looking to sell/trade it, not because I don't like it but because I like to try new gear. I only have one guitar out of a dozen that I will never sell, my Guild D50, not because of any sentimental reason or sound quality, but to replace I would have to spend the same amount to equal it.

  • @petestewart9439
    @petestewart9439 3 года назад +3

    Plus 1000 on the Gretsch, I added one of these to my collection a few weeks ago and every day it reminds me what it means to have fun playing a guitar.

  • @travisbartley58
    @travisbartley58 2 года назад +1

    Not you particularly review alot of crap that real musicians would never use from junk guitars and pedals. Your favorite musicians aren't using these products and neither should you.

  • @SidGogi
    @SidGogi 3 года назад +10

    IMO the sterling cutlass might have been a better choice than the strat or gretsch. It's more versatile and has locking tuners, roasted maple necks, and easy truss rod adjustment acess. One of the best "budget" guitars for sure.

    • @joshaustin1839
      @joshaustin1839 3 года назад +3

      I have the music man cutlass hss it is by far the best guitar I own and have ever played can't say enough good things about music man

    • @gavinw5469
      @gavinw5469 3 года назад

      I don't think it has stainless frets.

    • @ulcus...
      @ulcus... 3 года назад

      You'd be surprised how versatile the gretsch streamliners are ! Broadtron pickups are really great, fit and finish is great, I don't need anything else :D (Darrel got it wrong - these don't have filtertrons so they're not as chimey and bright, they're basically traditional humbuckers)

    • @SidGogi
      @SidGogi 3 года назад

      @@gavinw5469 oh yeah, you’re right. I meant to say locking tuners 😅

    • @gavinw5469
      @gavinw5469 3 года назад

      @@SidGogi it's all right!

  • @rome8180
    @rome8180 3 года назад +1

    Ibanez guitars are just so ugly to me. They look like they should be used exclusively to play hair metal. I'm sure they're great, but I'm far too shallow for that.

  • @cmet8280
    @cmet8280 3 года назад +3

    Would have loved to see a semi-hollow in there.

  • @travisbartley58
    @travisbartley58 2 года назад +1

    Your Glarry and Harley Benton videos are a bit like watching an Esteban info commercial.

  • @lifetastic4837
    @lifetastic4837 2 года назад +1

    My Advice Is To Buy off of EBay or Reverb, I’ve seen actual fender strats not squire for 500. I’m trying to get a Prs custom for 500 or a Paul’s guitar for 800

  • @2good2betrue3
    @2good2betrue3 3 года назад +3

    Whenever I watch videos like this, it always inspires me to play and buy some New guitars. Awesome choices as always Darrell.👍 Anyway I just want to chime in with regards to the best value guitar. It's the ever amazing value "Chibson" Les Paul. Players who don't want to be named swear by the craftmanship and most of all value for money.😂 For just $250, you can own a Lemon Burst 1959 Les Paul who plays like a dream and surprisingly stays in tune. Chibson FTW! 😂😂😂

    • @Kobby12
      @Kobby12 2 года назад

      Am from Ghana 🇬🇭..how do I get so to buy

  • @Hottub111
    @Hottub111 2 года назад +1

    Best guitar under 500 for my money/ GandL Fallout.. limited colors but killer guitar, thank me later

  • @ryanequalizer
    @ryanequalizer 3 года назад +1

    I always went to the Guitar Center played a lot of guitars...Ibanez is the worst when it comes to the tone... no clarity unimpressive low end, and sounds weak to compare to other big names.

  • @jamesp.rogers5156
    @jamesp.rogers5156 3 года назад +10

    I wish any of these would have been available 40 years ago when I was first learning to play guitar. I'm glad they are now though , because price won't keep anyone from picking up this great instrument and having a lifetime of fun and enjoyment . Thanks Darrell as always , I love these videos.

  • @Iknowonlywhatimtaught
    @Iknowonlywhatimtaught Год назад +1

    I would play a real dog as long as it played well. Looks are nice, but I can put my own makeup on. No need for a high priced cosmetics artist.

  • @DJBuglip
    @DJBuglip 3 года назад +11

    I got that Squier for $50 at a local pawn shop. Right now it's fully disassembled in preparation of stripping, sanding and priming. My kids are going to paint it and then I'm going to refinish it. Agreed, its a great guitar.

  • @brandonlouisb
    @brandonlouisb 2 года назад +2

    Went and bought a Cutlass CT30 HSS 10mins after watching this video. Can’t wait for it to come in. I’ll let y’all know if it arrived in good quality

    • @brandonlouisb
      @brandonlouisb 2 года назад

      It arrived in good quality and is absolutely phenomenal, does everything i want it to do and with excellence at that

  • @JedrekVRoscoe
    @JedrekVRoscoe 3 года назад +3

    I have that Gretsch with the P90, and it’s soooo good! The selector switch could use a little contact cleaner, but incredible besides that.

  • @sidrolf
    @sidrolf 3 года назад +3

    Hi Darrell, just wanted to thank you for your videos - they have shown me that you do not need to be mega rich or mega talented to learn the guitar, just passion and will. Thank you and bless you!

  • @brianpark492
    @brianpark492 2 года назад +1

    Great choices but I would put Eart in there somewhere. Ok maybe 6?

  • @edsonmontana
    @edsonmontana 3 года назад +3

    Saludos desde Mexico!🇲🇽

  • @sumi_plays_games
    @sumi_plays_games 3 года назад +10

    I really like this series of best guitars. Thank you.

  • @amovifa4525
    @amovifa4525 3 года назад +1

    I am pretty sure you showed the Sterling Cutlass ct50, which costs more than the ct30 and is more expensive than $500