7 Best Electric Guitars Under $1500
You’ve saved up a decent chunk of change, and now you’re ready to get a pretty snazzy guitar without breaking the bank.
And guess what?
With $1500, you can snag some of the best guitars on the market that pros even turn to for their gigs.
1. Fender American Performer Stratocaster
The Classic That Never Fades.
Starting the list with a bang, this Fender model is the embodiment of American craftsmanship.
- Tonality: Thanks to Yosemite single-coil pickups, expect a versatile sound, perfect for blues, rock, or even funk. The “Greasebucket” tone system lets you cut treble without muddiness.
- Neck & Playability: It features a modern “C” shaped neck with a 9.5-inch radius fingerboard, ensuring buttery smooth playability.
- Aesthetic & Finish: This Strat is eye candy! Available in various finishes, it showcases a beautiful alder body.
2. Fender American Performer Telecaster
America’s Workhorse.
Few guitars are as versatile and iconic as the Telecaster.
- Tonality: Yosemite single-coil pickups give that classic Tele twang with a bit of modern edge.
- Neck & Playability: A modern “C” shaped neck with jumbo frets makes it great for all playing styles.
- Aesthetic & Finish: Classic Tele look with a few contemporary finishes makes it suitable for stage and studio.
3. G&L Legacy USA
Leo’s Refined Vision.
From the minds of Leo Fender and George Fullerton, G&L offers instruments with top-tier features that do not break the bank.
- Tonality: CLF-100 Alnico single coils provide a bright and punchy tone, versatile for many styles.
- Neck & Playability: Modern classic neck profile with medium jumbo frets offers a blend of comfort and performance.
- Aesthetic & Finish: Classic looks with some innovative tweaks. The finishes are always stunning on G&L guitars.
4. Schecter C-1 SLS Elite
Modern Player’s Dream.
For those venturing into progressive and heavier territories, Schecter’s offerings are hard to beat.
- Tonality: Fishman Fluence Modern humbuckers provide a wide tonal palette, from vintage warmth to modern aggression.
- Neck & Playability: Ultra-thin neck with compound radius fingerboard is a shred enthusiast’s dream.
- Aesthetic & Finish: With a flame maple top and several eye-catching finishes, it’s both a player’s and a showman’s guitar.
5. Ibanez RG Premium RG1120PBZ
Shred In Style.
The RG series has long been a favorite among shredders, and this Premium model elevates the game.
- Tonality: DiMarzio Covered Fusion Edge pickups cater to a vast array of genres, especially rock and metal.
- Neck & Playability: Wizard 11-piece neck is slim and fast, paired with a Monotune bridge for stable tuning.
- Aesthetic & Finish: Sporting a poplar burl top with a beautiful finish, it’s as much a treat to the eyes as to the ears.
6. ESP LTD EC-1000
Modern Tones with a Classic Design.
The EC series from LTD is known for blending traditional aesthetics with modern hardware and electronics.
- Tonality: Depending on the model, it’s equipped with either EMG or Seymour Duncan pickups, offering versatile and powerful tones.
- Neck & Playability: Thin U-shaped neck, combined with a smooth ebony fretboard, provides a great playing experience.
- Aesthetic & Finish: While retaining the single-cutaway look, the available finishes give it a unique identity.
7. Jackson Pro Series Soloist SL2Q MAH
A Shredder’s Paradise.
For those who want to venture into high-speed playing territories, Jackson’s Soloist is the ticket.
- Tonality: Seymour Duncan Distortion Mayhem pickups provide a punchy and clear output, ideal for metal and hard rock.
- Neck & Playability: Compound-radius fingerboard and through-body neck construction ensure comfort and sustain.
- Aesthetic & Finish: With a quilt maple top and sharkfin inlays, it’s built to grab attention.