If you're looking for a high-quality electric guitar that will provide you with a classic sound, you may want to consider investing in a classic electric guitar. Classic electric guitars come in a range of styles and designs, and many guitar enthusiasts consider them to be some of the best sounding guitars of all time. However, when searching for the best classic electric guitars, it's important to consider a few factors.
One crucial factor to keep in mind when looking for a classic electric guitar is the quality of its build. Ensure that the guitar is made with high-quality materials such as solid wood and has excellent craftsmanship for maximum durability. You should also consider the guitar's tone and playability, as these are critical factors that will affect your playing experience.
If you're in the market for a new classic electric guitar, you may be wondering which factors you should consider. Are you looking for a vintage-style guitar, or do you want something with modern features? How much are you willing to spend? And, what type of music do you play? By answering these questions and doing your research, you'll be on your way to finding the best classic electric guitar for your playing preferences and needs.
10 Best Classic Electric Guitars
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This product is ideal for musicians who want an acoustic-electric nylon string classical guitar with a thinline design and included bag.
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2
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The product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality, natural-looking electric guitar with a maple fingerboard.
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3
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Ideal for beginners who want a quality Stratocaster-style guitar with vintage sound and looks at an affordable price.
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4
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The electric guitar is ideal for professional musicians seeking a high-quality, lightweight, and beautifully-designed instrument with excellent sound quality.
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5
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Ideal for musicians looking for a versatile hollowbody electric guitar with a vintage-style Bigsby tremolo and walnut finish.
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6
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Ideal for beginners and intermediate players looking for a full-size electric acoustic guitar with a thin body and quality materials.
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7
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The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality acoustic-electric guitar with a cutaway design.
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8
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The product is ideal for musicians who play rock, blues, and jazz genres due to its features.
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9
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This product is ideal for professional and aspiring guitar players who prefer both acoustic and electric features in a classical style.
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10
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This product is ideal for beginner guitar players who want a versatile instrument with a full range of tone.
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1. Ortega Nylon Thinline 6-String Guitar With Bag

The RCE125SN Thinline Acoustic/Electric Nylon String Guitar from the Family Series is a top-of-the-line instrument that delivers exceptional sound quality and playability. It comes with a bag for easy transportation and storage.
Crafted with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, this guitar produces rich, warm tones with excellent projection. The natural satin finish gives it a timeless, classic look that will never go out of style.
The mahogany neck has a satin finish and is paired with a walnut fretboard and bridge, as well as maple binding and ABS purfling. With a full body scale of 650 mm, 85 mm thinline body depth, 48 mm nut width slim neck, and 19 frets, this guitar is designed to provide maximum comfort and playability.
The RCE125SN features a 2-way truss rod and chrome plated tuning machines with pearl buttons. It also boasts fan bracing and a 12-hole bridge, which provides a greater break angle for a cleaner, crisper sound and faster string replacement. The Venetian cutaway allows for easy access to the upper frets.
Equipped with the Ortega MagusPro preamp/pickup system with built-in tuner, this guitar is perfect for live performances and recording sessions. The preamp/pickup system captures the full, rich sound of the guitar, and the built-in tuner ensures that you're always in tune.
2. Squier Classic Vibe 60s Thinline Telecaster Electric Guitar, Natural, Maple Fingerboard

The Telecaster Thinline model has been an iconic guitar for decades, and now Fender has taken it a step further with their 100% designed Thinline model. Drawing inspiration from the 1960s-era, this guitar is a true masterpiece.
Equipped with Fender-designed alnico pickups, the Thinline model delivers crisp and clear tones that are perfect for any playing style. Additionally, the vintage-tint gloss neck finish not only adds to the guitar's aesthetic appeal, but also ensures that the neck is smooth and comfortable to play.
The Thinline model is adorned with nickel-plated hardware, which gives it an elegant and professional look. This hardware is also designed to last, so you can enjoy playing your guitar for years to come.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner, the Thinline model is perfect for all hand orientations, making it a versatile instrument.
3. Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster Electric Guitar, 3-Color Sunburst, Laurel Fingerboard

This electric guitar boasts a design that is exclusively created by the renowned Fender brand, ensuring top-notch quality and performance. Drawing inspiration from the classic Stratocaster models of the 1960s, this guitar features a retro yet stylish appearance that will impress any music enthusiast.
Equipped with Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups, this guitar produces a rich and authentic sound that is perfect for a wide range of music genres. The vintage-tint gloss neck finish adds to the guitar's classic vibe, while the nickel-plated hardware enhances its durability and longevity.
This guitar is not limited to right-handed players only, as it is also available in a left-handed version. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned musician, this guitar is easy to play and will help you achieve your desired sound effortlessly.
4. Lark Tele Electric Guitar: Modernist Fine Instrument

Introducing the Latitudes Guitar, a high-quality instrument designed for modernist music enthusiasts. This guitar features a thin nitrocellulose paint Alder body that enhances its resonance and provides a robust, tonal foundation.
The ergonomic stage-friendly shape of the guitar is combined with a unique Latitude C Neck that boasts a comfortable 42mm nut width and modern 9.5” fretboard radius, minimizing your hand movement and providing a playing experience closer to that of a superior electric guitar.
The neck of the guitar is made of baked maple with a rosewood fingerboard, and it features jumbo 2.9mm frets that lie on top of the neck. The fretboard is non-through cut, which enhances the texture of the wood and the stainless steel frets. These jumbo frets make it easier for your fingers to move smoothly and seamlessly when you play.
The makers of Latitudes Guitar have a love for guitars, and their goal is to minimize their global impact. The nitrocellulose paint used in this guitar can help you achieve the classic old guitar style that you love while supporting their mission.
This guitar comes with 1 volume, 1 tone, and a 3-way switch, as well as 15:1 tuners and chrome hardware. The scale of the guitar is 648mm, making it a perfect fit for modernist music styles.
5. Gretsch G5420t Electromatic Classic Hollowbody Single-Cut Electric Guitar With Bigsby – Walnut Stain

Introducing the Hollowbody Electric Guitar with Maple Top, an exceptional instrument that boasts unparalleled sound quality and striking design. This guitar features a sleek and stylish walnut stain finish that adds a touch of elegance to its appearance. The Bigsby B60 Vibrato system is also included, enabling players to create unique and expressive sounds that truly stand out.
Equipped with two humbucking pickups, this guitar produces a rich and powerful tone that is perfect for a wide range of music genres. The Laurel Fingerboard and Maple Neck offer a comfortable and smooth playing experience, allowing players to effortlessly glide across the frets with ease.
Crafted with precision and attention to detail, this guitar is built to last and is sure to exceed your expectations. Whether you're a professional musician or a beginner, this guitar is an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their playing experience.
With its superior craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and exceptional design, the Hollowbody Electric Guitar with Maple Top is a must-have for any guitar enthusiast. Experience the difference for yourself and take your playing to the next level.
6. Tario's 39" Electric Cutaway Classical Guitar

Introducing TARIO’s Electric Cutaway Classical Guitar, a high-quality instrument that boasts traditional Spanish craftsmanship and modern features. This guitar features a top made of Spruce and Mahogany back and sides, with an Okoume neck and a Laurel fingerboard.
The GLC-231TCED NA delivers a sweet, bright, and balanced tone that is superior in response and powerful in resonance, allowing for detailed expressions. The 52mm wide Laurel fingerboard provides more space between the strings, making it easier to strike the exact strings, especially when playing complicated chords.
The unique neck design and low string height make it comfortable for any strummer to play a classical nylon guitar. This guitar is perfect for players of all skill levels, providing a comfortable playing experience that will enhance their skills and creativity.
Additionally, TARIO’s Electric Cutaway Classical Guitar comes with a 4-band build with tuner, allowing for easy tuning and adjustments to achieve the perfect sound. This feature makes it a great choice for performances, recording, and jamming sessions.
7. Washburn Classical C5ce Cutaway , Acoustic Electric Guitar

The Washburn C5CE is a classical guitar that is designed to deliver a full and rich tone, thanks to its high-quality spruce top. This top is known for its excellent level of resonance, which helps to create a warm and vibrant sound. In addition, the guitar is equipped with a Washburn EVT active pickup system, which includes an onboard tuner for added convenience.
The back and sides of the guitar are made from catalpa wood, which complements the spruce top perfectly and helps to create the exact classical tone that you would expect from a guitar of this caliber. The guitar also features quarter sawn scalloped Sitka Spruce bracing, which further improves the overall tone and projection of the instrument.
To ensure that the Washburn C5CE delivers a smooth and full tone, the guitar comes with Addario EJ46 Pro-Arte hard tension nylon strings. These strings are known for their durability and playability, making them the perfect choice for beginners and experienced players alike. Additionally, the strings are easy on the fingers, which means that you can play for hours without experiencing any discomfort or pain.
8. Capricorn Fusion Guitar: Solid, Rounded, Roasted, Rock.

The MUSI Capricorn Fusion electric guitar is a top-notch Superstrat that boasts impressive performance and style. This guitar is crafted from high-quality materials, with an alder body and roasted maple neck that ensure great resonance and sustain. The compound radius of 10”-14” and rounded-end stainless steel frets make it easy to bend strings and provide long-lasting durability.
The Capricorn Fusion electric guitar also features a 2 Points Tremolo bridge and Staggered Locking Tuners, which offer excellent tuning stability. Additionally, the bone nut that is 42mm wide and slim C neck measuring 20.5mm at the first fret and 22mm at the 12th fret provide comfort and ease of playing.
One of the standout features of this guitar is the MUSI FlexBucker B pickup. This pickup delivers a wide range of sounds suitable for any music genre. Whether you’re playing jazz, rock, or anything in between, this guitar has got you covered.
9. Cordoba C4-Ce Edge Burst Cutaway Classical Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Guitar, Iberia Series

Introducing the top-of-the-line classical acoustic guitar with exceptional features – the Solid African Mahogany Top Guitar. This instrument boasts a solid African mahogany top that delivers a rich and warm tone, perfect for any genre of music.
Equipped with a Fishman Sonitone classical piezo, this guitar produces a natural and authentic acoustic sound for an unparalleled playing experience. It also has a maple binding that adds a touch of elegance to the overall design of the guitar.
The guitar's bridge material is made of Pau Ferro, which is known for its high durability and resistance to wear and tear. The satin finish also adds to the guitar's durability and longevity, ensuring that it remains in top-notch condition for years to come.
With a 50mm nut width, this guitar offers a comfortable playing experience for both beginners and seasoned musicians. The nut width is wide enough to accommodate fingerpicking styles, while still being narrow enough for comfortable chord playing.
The Solid African Mahogany Top Guitar is a must-have for any musician who values quality, durability, and exceptional sound. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this guitar is sure to exceed your expectations. Order yours today and take your music to the next level!
10. Indio Classic Guitar – Perfect For Beginners.

The Indio Classic guitars are an excellent choice for beginners or as a practice guitar for experienced players. These guitars are equipped with easy-to-play satin necks that offer a fast playing experience and full sounding pick-ups that produce a quiet and rich tone.
The Indio Classic guitars have industry-standard features and sizes that are similar to those found in guitars manufactured by big-name companies, but at a much lower price point. The Cali Classic model, for instance, features 22 frets, a 25.5" scale, and a 9.5" radius, which makes it an ideal choice for players who prefer a certain feel or style.
One of the main advantages of the Indio Classic guitars is their versatility. With the large open cavity, you can easily customize your guitar to your liking. You can change the pick-ups or the pots to create a tone that suits your playing style. Additionally, the guitar's aftermarket hardware can be easily replaced without damaging the primary piece.
Monoprice, the manufacturer of the Indio Classic guitars, stands behind their products with a 1-year replacement warranty, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, you can send it back for a full refund.
Best Classic Electric Guitars FAQs
How do classic electric guitars compare to modern electric guitars?
Classic electric guitars and modern electric guitars have significant differences, from the materials used to the design and technology. Classic electric guitars are usually made of solid wood, have a thicker neck profile, and a smaller fretboard radius. They also have a simpler design and fewer features compared to modern electric guitars. Classic electric guitars have a unique tone that is warm, mellow, and rich, which is largely due to the materials used in their construction.
On the other hand, modern electric guitars are made of a wider range of materials, including synthetic materials, and have a thinner neck profile and larger fretboard radius. They have more advanced features, such as digital effects, pickups, and tone controls. Modern electric guitars produce a more versatile sound, with a wider range of tones and effects.
Ultimately, the choice between a classic or modern electric guitar depends on personal preference, playing style, and musical genre. Classic electric guitars are ideal for vintage rock, blues, and jazz, while modern electric guitars are great for heavy metal, contemporary rock, and experimental music.
What are some famous songs that were played on classic electric guitars and which guitar was used?
There are countless famous songs that were played on classic electric guitars, but here are some notable examples:
1. "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin – Jimmy Page played a 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard.
2. "Purple Haze" by Jimi Hendrix – Hendrix played a Fender Stratocaster.
3. "Layla" by Derek and the Dominos – Eric Clapton played a Gibson Les Paul Custom.
4. "Sweet Child O' Mine" by Guns N' Roses – Slash played a Gibson Les Paul Standard.
5. "Sultans of Swing" by Dire Straits – Mark Knopfler played a 1961 Fender Stratocaster.
Each of these songs has a distinct sound and style, but they all showcase the versatility and power of classic electric guitars. These guitars have become iconic not only for their sound, but also for their influence on music and culture.
What are the differences between a Fender Stratocaster and a Gibson Les Paul?
The Fender Stratocaster and the Gibson Les Paul are two of the most iconic electric guitars in the world, and they have distinct differences that set them apart from each other.
Firstly, the Stratocaster has a more curved body shape, while the Les Paul has a more rectangular shape. The Stratocaster has a bolt-on neck, while the Les Paul has a set neck, which gives it a thicker and warmer sound. The Stratocaster has three single-coil pickups, while the Les Paul has two humbucker pickups, which give it a heavier and more distorted sound.
Another difference is the bridge. The Stratocaster has a tremolo bridge, which allows for vibrato, while the Les Paul has a fixed bridge, which gives it a more sustain and stability. The Stratocaster also has a five-way pickup selector switch, while the Les Paul has a three-way switch.
In terms of playability, the Stratocaster has a thinner neck and a flatter fingerboard, which makes it easier to play fast and intricate passages. The Les Paul has a thicker neck and a more curved fingerboard, which can be more comfortable for some players.
Ultimately, the choice between a Stratocaster and a Les Paul comes down to personal preference and the style of music you play. Both guitars have their own unique sound and feel, and they have been used by countless musicians across different genres.
What are the key features to look for in a classic electric guitar?
When looking for a classic electric guitar, there are several key features you should keep in mind:
1. Body shape and weight: Classic electric guitars typically have a solid body made of wood, such as mahogany, ash, or alder. The shape of the body can affect the tone and feel of the guitar, so it's important to choose a shape that feels comfortable to you. Additionally, the weight of the guitar can be a factor in how comfortable it is to play for extended periods of time.
2. Pickups: The pickups on an electric guitar are responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal that can be amplified. Classic electric guitars often feature single-coil or humbucker pickups, each with their own unique tonal characteristics. Consider the type of music you'll be playing and choose pickups that suit your style.
3. Neck and fretboard: The neck and fretboard of a guitar can greatly affect playability. Look for a neck profile that feels comfortable in your hand and a fretboard that allows for easy string bending and playing in higher positions.
4. Hardware: The hardware on a guitar includes the bridge, tuners, and other components that affect the guitar's tuning stability and intonation. Classic electric guitars often feature a fixed bridge or a vintage-style tremolo bridge. The tuners should be sturdy and easy to use.
5. Aesthetics: While not necessarily a key feature for everyone, the appearance of a guitar can be an important factor in choosing a classic electric guitar. Consider the finish, color, and overall design of the guitar and choose one that inspires you to play.
What are the top 10 classic electric guitars of all time?
There are many classic electric guitars that have made their mark in the music industry throughout the years. It can be difficult to narrow down to just 10, but here are some of the most iconic and influential electric guitars of all time:
1. Fender Stratocaster
2. Gibson Les Paul
3. Gibson SG
4. Fender Telecaster
5. Rickenbacker 360/12
6. Gretsch 6120
7. Gibson Flying V
8. Gibson ES-335
9. Ibanez JEM
10. Fender Jazzmaster
These guitars have been used by some of the most famous musicians in history and have played a crucial role in shaping the sound of rock and roll, blues, and other genres. Each guitar has its own unique characteristics and sound, making them stand out in their own way. Whether you're a professional musician or just a casual player, these classic electric guitars are definitely worth considering for your collection.
What is the most affordable classic electric guitar that still offers quality sound?
When it comes to affordable classic electric guitars that offer quality sound, there are a few options worth considering. One such option is the Squier Classic Vibe '50s Stratocaster. This guitar, made by Fender's budget brand Squier, is modeled after the iconic '50s Stratocaster and features a vintage-style tremolo system, three single-coil pickups, and a maple neck. It's known for its comfortable playability and classic Fender tone, all at a reasonable price point. Another option is the Epiphone Les Paul Studio. This guitar is modeled after the Gibson Les Paul and features two humbucker pickups, a mahogany body, and a rosewood fingerboard. It's known for its powerful sound and versatile tone, making it a great choice for rock and blues players on a budget. Ultimately, the best affordable classic electric guitar for you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style, but these two options are a great place to start.
What is the most expensive classic electric guitar and why?
The most expensive classic electric guitar is the Fender Stratocaster. The guitar was first introduced in 1954 and has since become an iconic instrument for musicians across genres. The price of a classic Fender Stratocaster can range anywhere from $10,000 to over $100,000, with some rare models selling for even more.
One reason for the high price of the Fender Stratocaster is its history and legacy. The guitar has been played by some of the most legendary musicians in history, including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Buddy Holly. Additionally, the Stratocaster has undergone various upgrades and changes over the years, making certain models even more rare and valuable.
Another reason for the high price of the Fender Stratocaster is the craftsmanship and materials used in its production. The guitar is made from high-quality woods and features intricate detailing and finishes. Additionally, the pickups and other electronic components are often custom-made and hand-wired, adding to the overall cost of the instrument.
In summary, the Fender Stratocaster is the most expensive classic electric guitar due to its iconic status, history, rarity, craftsmanship, and high-quality materials.
What makes a classic electric guitar the best?
A classic electric guitar is considered the best because of its unique sound, playability, and craftsmanship. The materials used in making the guitar, such as the tonewood, pickups, and hardware, contribute greatly to its overall sound quality. A classic electric guitar is made with attention to detail, using high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The design of a classic electric guitar is also crucial, with specific features like the neck shape, fretboard radius, and scale length, all affecting playability and comfort. A classic electric guitar offers a wide range of tonal options and can be used across different genres of music, making it a versatile instrument. Additionally, the history and legacy of classic electric guitars add to their allure, making them highly sought after by collectors and musicians alike. Overall, a classic electric guitar is the best due to its unique sound, playability, and craftsmanship, making it a prized possession for any guitarist.
Which classic electric guitar is the best for beginners?
There are several classic electric guitars that are great options for beginners. One of the most popular choices is the Fender Stratocaster. It has a versatile sound and is used by many famous guitar players. Another good option is the Gibson Les Paul, which has a warm and full tone. Both of these guitars have been around for decades and have stood the test of time. Other classic options include the Telecaster, SG, and ES-335. When choosing a guitar, it's important to consider your personal preferences and budget. It's also a good idea to try out different guitars in person to see which one feels the most comfortable and sounds the best to you. Ultimately, any of these classic electric guitars would be a great choice for a beginner looking to learn and grow as a musician.
Which classic electric guitar is the most iconic and why?
When it comes to iconic electric guitars, there are a few that immediately come to mind, but the most iconic one would have to be the Fender Stratocaster. Introduced in 1954, the Stratocaster has been used by countless musicians across genres such as rock, blues, and country. Its sleek double-cutaway design, comfortable contoured body, and three single-coil pickups provide a versatile sound that can range from clean and bright to gritty and distorted.
The Stratocaster's influence on popular music is immeasurable. It has been played by guitar legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, and its distinctive sound can be heard on countless classic rock and pop songs. The Stratocaster's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless design and versatility, making it the most iconic classic electric guitar of all time.