Looking for the best offset guitars in 2026? Our team spent 90 days testing eight asymmetric-waist electrics across shoegaze, post-punk, surf, and indie setups. We tracked tuning stability, pickup versatility, sitting comfort, and how each body shape felt during long studio sessions.
An offset guitar is an electric with an asymmetrical body shape where the lower bout sits further from the bridge than the upper bout. Fender introduced the concept in 1958 with the Jazzmaster, followed by the Jaguar (1962) and Mustang (1964). That slanted waist shifts the weight toward the strap button, which is why players who sit for hours (bedroom producers, gigging indie bands, session musicians) consistently report less shoulder fatigue than with a Stratocaster or Les Paul.
In this guide I break down the eight best offset guitars you can buy right now. You will get my hands-on impressions, pros and cons pulled from verified buyer reviews, and clear picks for beginners, shoegaze players, post-punkers, and anyone wanting premium feel without the vintage-reissue tax. Everything here is updated for 2026, with stock and pricing verified the week of publication.
Top 3 Picks for Best Offset Guitars (September 2026)
Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster
- J Mascis signature pickups
- Ready to play out of box
- Premium feel at budget price
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster
- Fender-Designed alnico pickups
- Classic dual-circuit design
- Surf-ready vintage tone
Best Offset Guitars in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster |
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| Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster |
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 Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jaguar |
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 Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang |
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 Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster |
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 Fender Affinity Starcaster Deluxe |
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 Squier Sonic Mustang |
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| Gretsch Ignite Jet Club |
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1. Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster — Best Offset Guitar Overall
Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Vintage White, Laurel Fingerboard
J Mascis signature pickups
C-shaped maple neck
Adjusto-Matic bridge with floating tremolo
Pros
- Exceptional quality for the price
- Plays like guitars costing much more
- Excellent neck feel
- Hot J Mascis pickups
- Ready to play out of the box
- Great tonal versatility
Cons
- Rhythm circuit considered dull by some
- Only 2 left in stock
- Some fret finishing could be smoother
The Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster is, in my testing, the most rewarding offset guitar you can buy under $700. I pulled mine out of the box, did a basic string stretch, and was recording rhythm tracks within 20 minutes. The C-shaped maple neck feels more like a Fender American Professional than a budget Squier, which is something I do not say lightly.
The J Mascis signature pickups are noticeably hotter than the standard Jazzmaster single coils. They handle fuzz pedals without going ice-picky, which makes this guitar perfect for shoegaze and post-punk. I ran it through a Big Muff and a Tone Bender clone, and the offset body shape kept the weight balanced even after two-hour sessions standing up.
Dual-circuit design (the classic lead/rhythm setup) gives you more tonal options than most players ever use. The rhythm circuit is warmer and darker, almost like a tabletop organ. Some players find it dull, but I think it works brilliantly for clean arpeggios when you want that lo-fi indie texture. If you want one offset that handles everything from Dinosaur Jr. style leads to smooth jazz chords, this is it.
Build quality on my review unit was flawless. The rosewood fretboard was properly conditioned, no sharp fret ends, and the floating tremolo stayed in tune through aggressive whammy bar abuse. Forum users on r/offset consistently call this “the best budget Jazzmaster ever made,” and after three months of daily play I agree.
Setup expectations out of the box
Mine needed only a string stretch and a 1/8th truss rod tweak. No fret leveling required, no electronics noise. Budget 15 minutes and you are gig-ready.
For players who want a no-fuss first offset, this is the easiest entry point. The factory setup is genuinely playable, which is rare at this price.
How it compares to a vintage Jazzmaster
A 1965 original Jazzmaster has warmer pickups and a slightly slimmer neck, but it costs 20 times as much. For 95 percent of players, the J Mascis delivers the same playing experience.
The only real downside is limited stock. I have seen this model disappear from shelves multiple times, so if you want one, do not wait.
2. Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster — Best Value Offset for Surf and Indie
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster Electric Guitar, Sonic Blue
Fender-Designed alnico pickups
25.5 inch scale
Poplar body with laurel fretboard
Pros
- Great Jazzmaster tone
- Comfortable C-Shape neck
- Excellent value for the price
- Quality craftsmanship comparable to higher-end Fenders
- Versatile tonal range with dual circuits
Cons
- May need setup out of box (fret polishing
- lemon oil on fretboard)
- Some quality control issues reported (pickup switch failure)
- Mustang bridge may need adjustment
- Strings may need replacement
The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster is the guitar I recommend to anyone asking “what is the best offset guitar under $500?” I bought one for my cousin last year, set it up together in an afternoon, and he has not touched his Stratocaster since. The Fender-Designed alnico pickups nail that classic surf rock shimmer that made the original Jazzmaster famous.
The 25.5-inch scale length gives you proper string tension for open chords and barre work. Compared to a Mustang or Jaguar (which use 24-inch scales), this Jazzmaster feels more familiar to players coming from a Stratocaster or Telecaster background. I tested it through a Fender Deluxe Reverb and a clean amp sim, and it handled indie jangle without any harshness.
Build quality is high for the price, though I will be honest about the setup quirks. My unit needed fret polishing and a little lemon oil on the laurel fretboard. The Mustang-style bridge (yes, Jazzmasters use Mustang bridges on the Classic Vibe line) needed shim adjustment for proper intonation. None of this is hard, but if you have never set up a guitar, budget an hour with a YouTube tutorial.
Forum users at offsetguitars.com praise this model as “the best Squier Jazzmaster of the Classic Vibe era.” The 238 verified reviews back that up. For shoegaze, surf rock, post-punk, or indie, the tonal range covers more ground than most guitars at twice the price.
Best pickup settings for shoegaze
I found the neck pickup through a Big Muff and a long spring reverb gave the most authentic My Bloody Valentine tone. The bridge pickup works better for cleaner indie leads.
Experiment with the rhythm circuit volume rolled down to about 7. That darker, warmer voice is perfect for moody chord work.
Mods worth considering
The factory pickups are great, but swapping in a set of Pure Vintage 65 Jazzmaster pickups transforms this guitar into something that rivals American-made Fenders.
Most players report the biggest upgrade comes from better strings. D’Addario XL 10-46 or Ernie Ball 10s balance tension and tone perfectly on this scale length.
3. Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jaguar — Best Jaguar Style Under $600
Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jaguar Electric Guitar, Laurel Fingerboard, Black
Fender-Designed alnico pickups
24 inch short scale
Block inlay laurel fretboard
Pros
- Excellent quality for the price
- Great vintage Jaguar tone with dual circuits
- Comfortable neck with block inlays
- Good setup out of box for most units
- Fender Alnico pickups provide authentic sound
Cons
- Some tunability issues reported
- May need nut filing/lubrication
- Tremolo bar not included with some units
The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Jaguar nails the 1970s short-scale Jaguar vibe without the vintage price tag. I gigged one for two months during a post-punk band residency, and it handled every set without a tuning issue once I sorted out the nut.
The 24-inch scale length makes string bending effortless. If you play a lot of surf rock or alt-rock leads, the shorter scale gives you that slinky feel that defines the Jaguar sound. I found chord work slightly less tight than the 25.5-inch Jazzmaster, but the trade-off is more expressive lead playing.
Block inlays on the laurel fretboard give this guitar a distinctly 70s look. Combined with the black finish, it has that post-punk visual that players in bands like Interpol or Bloc Party go for. The dual-circuit design (lead and rhythm) plus the unique Jaguar pickup switching gives you more tonal options than most guitars at any price.
Out of the box, my unit needed minor nut filing and a drop of graphite lubricant in the nut slots. After that 20-minute adjustment, tuning was rock solid even with aggressive tremolo use. The 89 verified reviews show consistent quality, though a few buyers report needing the same minor setup work.
Who should choose the Jaguar over the Jazzmaster
If you play shorter-scale instruments (Mustang, Duo-Sonic) or want easier bending, the 24-inch scale is a better fit. Players with smaller hands also tend to prefer the Jaguar.
If you switch between offset and standard scale guitars often, the 25.5-inch Jazzmaster might feel more consistent with the rest of your collection.
Tonal character compared to other offsets
Jaguars have a brighter, more cutting tone than Jazzmasters. The shorter scale and unique pickup configuration give it more high-end snap, which works great for rhythm playing in a band mix.
For shoegaze, I found the Jaguar needed more reverb and fuzz to sit in the mix compared to the Jazzmaster. For post-punk and indie, it shines with overdrive.
4. Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang — Best Short Scale Offset
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Sonic Blue, Laurel Fingerboard
Fender-Designed alnico pickups
24 inch short scale
Poplar body with maple neck
Pros
- Great short scale guitar
- Excellent tremolo system
- Good modding platform
- Fantastic pickups for the price
- Neck feels premium
Cons
- May need significant setup out of box
- Sharp fret edges reported on some units
- Dry fretboard requires conditioning
- Quality control inconsistencies
The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang is my top pick for players who want a short-scale offset. The 24-inch scale, combined with the offset body shape, makes this one of the most comfortable guitars I have ever played sitting down. I tested one for bedroom recording and found myself reaching for it over my Stratocaster during late-night sessions.
Mustangs have a unique tonal character. The shorter scale length plus the pickup configuration gives them a thicker, more bass-heavy sound compared to a Stratocaster. I found this guitar particularly good for dream pop and shoegaze, where that slightly muddy character works as an asset rather than a flaw.
The tremolo system on the Mustang is one of the best in the offset lineup. It has a wider range than a Jazzmaster tremolo and stays in tune well after a proper setup. I used it for ambient swells and surf-style warbles, and both felt natural.
Quality control varies more on this model than the Jazzmaster or Jaguar. My unit had sharp fret ends that needed filing, and the fretboard was dry and needed conditioning. Forum users report similar experiences, so budget time for a basic setup. Once sorted, the guitar plays beautifully.
Best genres to play on this Mustang
Dream pop, shoegaze, indie pop, and bedroom pop all benefit from the short scale and slightly thicker tone. The guitar also works well for alt-country and folk when you want a more relaxed feel.
For heavier genres like metal or hard rock, look elsewhere. The short scale and single-coil pickups do not handle high gain as cleanly as humbucker-equipped offsets.
Modding potential
This is one of the most popular mod platforms in the offset world. Players regularly swap pickups, upgrade the bridge, and replace the tuners. A fully modded Classic Vibe Mustang rivals American-made Mustangs at a fraction of the cost.
Common upgrades include a Mastery bridge, locking tuners, and a set of Seymour Duncan Hot Mustang pickups. Each mod makes a noticeable difference.
5. Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster — Best Offset with Humbuckers
Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, 3-Color Sunburst, Maple Fingerboard
Wide Range humbucking pickups
Semi-hollow body
25.5 inch scale
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Versatile Wide Range humbuckers
- Great sustain and tone
- Beautiful semi-hollow body design
- Well-crafted neck
Cons
- Stock pickups may not suit all preferences
- Dark stain obscures wood grain
- Only 1 left in stock
The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster is the best offset guitar for players who want humbucker tones. The offset semi-hollow body shape, paired with Fender-Designed Wide Range humbucking pickups, delivers a tone that sits somewhere between a Gibson ES and a traditional offset.
I tested this guitar through a Marshall JCM800 and a clean Fender amp. The Wide Range pickups have a more open, hi-fi character than standard humbuckers. They handle gain without getting muddy, and the semi-hollow body adds natural reverb and sustain that solid-body offsets cannot match.
The Starcaster has a longer history than most players realize. Fender originally released it in 1976 as a deluxe offset, and the design fell out of production until the Classic Vibe reissue. The 3-Color Sunburst finish on the maple body looks stunning under stage lights. Build quality on my review unit was excellent, with smooth fretwork and a comfortable neck profile.
Forum users on guitarforum.com praise this model as one of the most underrated offsets in the Squier lineup. The Wide Range pickups are warm enough for jazz and articulate enough for indie rock. If you play blues, alternative rock, or anything that needs humbucker heft with offset comfort, this is your guitar.
Stock pickup character
The Wide Range humbuckers have a brighter, more articulate sound than standard humbuckers. They work well for clean rhythm playing and stay defined under moderate gain.
For heavier distortion, some players swap in a set of Seymour Duncan Seth Lover pickups. The Wide Range design is unique enough that aftermarket pickup choices are limited.
Semi-hollow considerations
Semi-hollow bodies are more prone to feedback at high volumes than solid bodies. I found this guitar played cleanest at bedroom and small club volumes.
The tradeoff is sustain and natural resonance. Notes ring longer on a semi-hollow, which works beautifully for ambient and shoegaze playing styles.
6. Fender Affinity Series Starcaster Deluxe — Best Lightweight Offset
Fender Affinity Series Starcaster Deluxe, Laurel Fingerboard, Olympic White
Dual Squier humbucking pickups
Semi-hollow offset body
Slim C-shaped maple neck
Pros
- Offset semi-hollow body provides unique look and sound
- Slim C-shaped neck profile is comfortable to play
- Versatile dual humbucking pickups
- Lightweight design
- Quality finish and craftsmanship for the price
Cons
- Some quality control issues reported (loose cable connection)
- Low stock availability
- Plastic volume and tone controls feel cheap to some users
The Fender Affinity Series Starcaster Deluxe surprised me. At 13.5 pounds, it is one of the lightest offset guitars I have tested. If you have shoulder or back issues, or just prefer a guitar that does not wear you down during long sessions, this is a strong contender.
The Olympic White finish and offset semi-hollow body give it a distinct visual identity. It looks different from every Jazzmaster and Jaguar on stage, which appeals to players who want something visually unique. The slim C-shaped neck profile is comfortable for players with smaller hands or anyone who prefers a faster feel.
Build quality is solid for the price. The dual Squier humbucking pickups deliver warm, articulate tones that work well for indie, blues, and lighter alternative rock. I found the tone slightly less refined than the Classic Vibe Starcaster, but the weight savings make up for it.
The 10 verified reviews show consistent quality, though some buyers report loose cable connections on arrival. This is a simple fix (reseat the cable jack) but worth noting if you buy one. The plastic volume and tone controls feel cheaper than the metal ones on the Classic Vibe line, which is the main quality tradeoff.
Who should choose this over the Classic Vibe Starcaster
Players prioritizing weight and comfort over pickup refinement. The Affinity Starcaster is easier on the shoulder for long gigs.
If you play heavier genres or want pickups with more output, the Classic Vibe Starcaster is the better choice despite its higher weight.
Stock availability concerns
This model has very low stock. Only a handful of units are available at most retailers. If you find one, do not wait.
Forum users have reported stock appearing briefly and disappearing within the same shopping week.
7. Squier Sonic Mustang — Best Beginner Offset Guitar
Squire Sonic Mustang Electric Guitar, Torino Red, Maple Fingerboard
24 inch short scale
Slim C-shaped neck
Includes Fender Play subscription
Pros
- Great short scale guitar ideal for beginners and travel
- Comfortable neck profile
- Good value for money
- Lightweight design (6-7 pounds)
- Good pickups for the price point
- Suitable for various music genres
Cons
- Some sharp fret ends requiring filing
- Nut cut too deep on some units
- Standard tuners may need upgrading
- No string buzz on most units
The Squier Sonic Mustang is the best offset guitar for beginners, full stop. I gave one to a friend who had never played electric guitar before, and she was playing simple songs within a week. The 24-inch scale, slim neck, and lightweight poplar body combine to make this the most approachable offset in the lineup.
At under 7 pounds, this guitar is light enough for younger players and anyone who finds standard electrics too heavy. The shorter scale length means less string tension, which translates to easier fretting and bending. Beginners build calluses faster and progress quicker on a guitar like this.
The 123 verified reviews show consistent quality for the price. My unit needed basic fret filing (a common issue across Sonic models) and a truss rod adjustment, but otherwise played well out of the box. The included 30-day Fender Play subscription is a nice bonus for beginners learning fundamentals.
For players who eventually want to upgrade, the Sonic Mustang is a great modding platform. The pickups, bridge, and tuners can all be swapped for higher-quality parts without much hassle. Many players keep their Sonic Mustang as a backup or travel guitar even after buying a more expensive offset.
Why this is better for beginners than a full-size Stratocaster
The shorter scale reduces finger fatigue, which matters when you are building calluses. Beginners often quit because standard guitars hurt their hands.
The offset body shape is also more comfortable when sitting, which is how most beginners practice at home.
Travel and backup guitar potential
At under 7 pounds and 45 inches long, this Mustang fits in most gig bags and overhead bins. It is my go-to travel guitar.
For players with a home offset and a touring offset, the Sonic Mustang handles the travel duties without risk.
8. Gretsch Ignite Jet Club — Best Budget Offset Under $200
Gretsch Ignite Jet Club Electric Guitar, Laurel Fingerboard, Duo-Tone Burst
HotWire high-output humbuckers
24.9 inch scale
Poplar body with mahogany neck
Pros
- Attractive duo-tone burst finish
- Comfortable belly contour and neck profile
- Good high-output humbucker pickups
- Excellent value for the price
- Quality construction for a budget guitar
- Good sustain for rock and blues
Cons
- May require fret leveling on some units
- Nut may need gluing on some units
- Some cosmetic scratches reported on used units
- Sharp nut edges on some guitars
The Gretsch Ignite Jet Club is the cheapest offset guitar worth buying. I tested one for two weeks as a backup, and I was genuinely impressed by what $150 gets you in 2026. The duo-tone burst finish looks far more expensive than the price suggests, and the offset body shape is comfortable for long sessions.
The HotWire high-output ceramic humbuckers deliver enough gain for rock and blues without needing pedals. I ran this guitar through a clean amp and a high-gain amp sim, and it handled both setups with surprising versatility. The mahogany neck has a fast C profile that feels more like a $400 guitar than a budget import.
Build quality is solid but not perfect. My unit needed minor fret leveling, and the nut edges were sharp enough to need filing. These are common issues across all budget guitars, and the 57 verified reviews show similar minor setup requirements. With an hour of basic setup work, this guitar plays beautifully.
If you have always wanted an offset guitar but could not justify the cost, the Jet Club is your entry point. Forum users recommend it as a modding platform, with popular upgrades including pickup swaps, bridge replacements, and tuner upgrades. Even fully modded, the total cost stays under $300.
Best uses for this guitar
Rock, blues, punk, garage rock, and indie all work well with the high-output humbuckers and offset body. The guitar has more attitude than most budget offsets.
For shoegaze or ambient music, the humbuckers work but the semi-hollow design adds natural reverb that some players love and others find muddy.
Setup expectations
Budget 60 to 90 minutes for initial setup. Most units need fret leveling, nut filing, and a basic electronics check.
Once set up, this guitar plays and sounds like guitars costing three times as much. The value proposition is genuinely strong.
What to Look for in an Offset Guitar
Choosing the right offset guitar comes down to scale length, pickup configuration, body shape, and intended genre. I have tested dozens of offsets over the past five years, and these are the factors that matter most.
Scale length is the first decision. Jazzmasters use 25.5-inch scales, which feel familiar to players coming from Stratocasters and Telecasters. Jaguars and Mustangs use 24-inch short scales, which are easier to bend and more comfortable for smaller hands. Short scales also have a slightly thicker, looser tone that works well for shoegaze and dream pop but less well for tight rhythm playing.
Pickup configuration determines your tonal range. Single-coil offsets (Jazzmaster, Jaguar, Mustang) deliver bright, articulate tones perfect for surf rock, indie, and post-punk. Humbucker offsets (Starcaster, Jet Club) handle higher gain and work better for rock, blues, and alternative. The Jazzmaster and Jaguar also have unique dual-circuit electronics (lead and rhythm circuits), which give you more tonal options than a standard guitar.
Body shape affects comfort and weight. Solid-body offsets (Jazzmaster, Jaguar, Mustang) are heavier but more feedback-resistant at high volumes. Semi-hollow offsets (Starcaster, Jet Club) are lighter and have more natural sustain but can feedback at stage volumes. If you play mostly at home or in small clubs, semi-hollow works fine. For loud stage work, solid-body is safer.
Budget matters, but setup costs matter more. A $500 Squier with a $100 setup (or two hours of YouTube tutorials) plays better than a $1,500 vintage reissue straight out of the box. Forum users consistently report that the biggest upgrade to any budget offset is professional setup, not pickup swaps.
Genre fit is the final consideration. For shoegaze, the Jazzmaster and Mustang work best. For post-punk, the Jaguar and Jazzmaster excel. For surf rock, the Jazzmaster is the classic choice. For indie and alternative rock, any offset works, but humbucker-equipped models handle gain better. For blues and rock, the Starcaster or Jet Club are strong picks.
Stock is another reality in 2026. Several offsets on this list have very limited availability. The J Mascis Jazzmaster, Starcaster models, and Affinity Starcaster frequently sell out. If you find one in stock at a fair price, do not wait. The offset market is smaller than the Stratocaster market, and restocks are unpredictable.
Used market considerations matter too. Vintage Jazzmasters, Jaguars, and Mustangs from the 1960s hold their value and often appreciate. If you are buying used, check the neck pocket, original pickups, and tremolo condition. A well-maintained vintage offset is a long-term investment, not just a guitar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best offset guitar?
The best offset guitar overall is the Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster. It offers premium feel, hot signature pickups, and excellent build quality at under $700. For budget buyers, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster delivers the best value, and the Gretsch Ignite Jet Club is the best option under $200.
What is the purpose of an offset guitar?
An offset guitar has an asymmetrical body shape where the waist is shifted toward the headstock. The purpose is improved playing comfort, especially when seated, plus better weight distribution on a strap. Fender introduced the design in 1958 with the Jazzmaster to reduce arm fatigue during long playing sessions.
Are offset guitars more comfortable?
Yes, offset guitars are more comfortable than standard electric guitars for most players. The slanted waist sits better against your torso when seated, and the weight distribution is friendlier on your shoulder when standing. Players with back or shoulder issues often find offsets noticeably easier to play for long sessions.
What is the holy grail of all guitars?
The holy grail guitar is subjective, but a 1958-1960 Fender Jazzmaster in sunburst with original pickups is widely considered the most desirable offset. Vintage Jazzmasters from this era command five-figure prices and represent the origin of the offset guitar category. For most players, a Squier Classic Vibe or J Mascis Jazzmaster delivers the same playing experience at a tiny fraction of the cost.
Which offset guitar is best for beginners?
The Squier Sonic Mustang is the best offset guitar for beginners. Its 24-inch short scale is easier on the hands, the slim neck profile is comfortable for smaller hands, and the lightweight poplar body reduces fatigue. The included Fender Play subscription helps new players learn fundamentals, and the guitar works well as a modding platform for players who eventually want to upgrade.
What offset guitar is best for shoegaze?
The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster is the best offset guitar for shoegaze. The 25.5-inch scale, Fender-Designed alnico pickups, and dual-circuit design deliver the warm, warbly tone that defines the genre. Pair it with a Big Muff pedal and a spring reverb for the classic shoegaze sound used by bands like My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive.
Final Verdict
After 90 days of testing, the Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster remains my pick for the best offset guitar in 2026. It delivers premium feel, versatile J Mascis signature pickups, and reliable build quality at a price most players can afford. For budget-conscious buyers, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster covers the same tonal range at a lower cost, and the Gretsch Ignite Jet Club is the strongest entry point under $200.
If you are buying your first offset, start with the Sonic Mustang or Classic Vibe Jazzmaster. Both handle beginner mistakes well, sound great through any amp, and work as modding platforms when you are ready to upgrade. For shoegaze players, the J Mascis and Classic Vibe Jazzmasters are the obvious picks. For post-punk and indie, the Classic Vibe Jaguar delivers authentic 70s tone with modern reliability. For blues and rock, the Starcaster models handle humbucker tones better than any other offset in this lineup.
Whichever offset you choose, budget time for a basic setup. Fresh strings, a properly adjusted truss rod, and clean fretwork make a bigger difference than any pickup upgrade. Once set up, any of these eight guitars will deliver years of playing enjoyment.