If you’re searching for some of the best guitars for drop D & drop C tunings, don’t worry – you’ve come to the right place! In today’s article, I’m going to highlight 10 of the coolest and most affordable models available on the market right now. Hopefully, today’s guide will help you to find your next guitar!
To be honest, finding the right guitar for drop and alternate tunings isn’t that easy. Not all guitars are good for that kind of style of playing. Nevertheless, it’s still possible to find a few great models that don’t cost thousands of dollars.
That’s why I decided to create a list of 10 best guitars for drop D & drop C tunings! Feel free to check it out below and scroll down to the next section if you’d like to hear how they all sound. The sound demos are included in there as well. Most of these guitars are suitable for both amateurs and more advanced guitarists.
Best Guitars For Drop D & Drop C Tunings – List
| Ibanez GRG121 | See on Amazon | Thomann |
| Squier Contemporary Active Jazzmaster | See on Amazon | Thomann |
| ESP LTD EC-256 | See on Amazon | Thomann |
| Epiphone Les Paul Special VE | See on Amazon | Thomann |
| Schecter 432 C-6 Deluxe | See on Amazon | Thomann |
| Fender Limited Edition Player Telecaster | See on Amazon | – |
| Ibanez GRX70QA | See on Amazon | Thomann |
| Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster | See on Amazon | – |
| Jackson JS22 Dinky | See on Amazon | Thomann |
| Squier Cabronita Baritone Telecaster | See on Amazon | Thomann |
1. Ibanez GRG121
Ibanez GRG 6 is a really cool and affordable electric guitar suitable for both beginner and more intermediate guitarists. What’s interesting, this is one of the cheapest guitars offered by this brand. Still, the low price doesn’t mean that this guitar is bad.
What’s so special about that model? Well, the manufacturer equipped this guitar with two powerful ceramic-magnet humbuckers, which offer a lot of versatility when it comes to tone. Both of these pickups sound great and they’re not too muddy. This is a really important feature, especially for lovers of alternate tunings!
It is also worth mentioning that the GRG121 also features a really comfortable and slim neck. As a result, this guitar is perfect for shredding! Surely, all fans of rock and metal are going to appreciate it.
Undoubtedly, Ibanez GRG121 is one of the best cheap guitars for drop D and drop C tunings. That’s why I have no hesitation in recommending this model to all guitarists who are searching for a reliable and inexpensive guitar.
Here’s the sound demo – feel free to check it out.
2. Squier Contemporary Active Jazzmaster
Squier Contemporary Active Jazzmaster is an another proof that a great electric guitar doesn’t have to cost thousands of dollars. This particular model features a really interesting look, a great tone and it’s available in a relatively low price.
The guitar features a poplar body and a C-shaped maple neck, which feels really comfortable. What’s important, Squier decided to equip this model with two SQR ceramic humbucking pickups, which offer a really powerful tone. It’s not a common feature in cheaper Jazzmasters, so it definitely makes that guitar really interesting.
In addition, the guitar has a Tune-O-Matic bridge with a stopbar tailpiece, which guarantees tuning stability. This is really important, especially for all the lovers of drop D and drop C tunings!
Personally, I’m a huge fan of that guitar. There’s something really cool about that color and the matching headstock. It will be really tough to beat that model at this price level. Although it’s not a Fender, it definitely deserves a lot of attention.
Here’s the sound demo.
3. ESP LTD EC-256
ESP LTD EC-256 is one of the best and most popular electric guitars suitable for Drop D and Drop C tunings. This is a great and a really versatile instrument that can be used in a really wide range of genres. Still, the vast majority of guitarists use it for shredding.
Why is it so cool? Most importantly, the guitar features two great-sounding ESP Designed LH-150 passive pickups. On top of that, it’s made of really good materials – the guitar has a mahogany body and a very comfortable mahogany neck. On top of that, there’s a roasted Jatoba fingerboard. This selection of woods guarantees an amazing quality.
When it comes to pricing, it’s a bit more expensive than two previous guitars, but it’s definitely worth it. The EC-256 model can be used by both amateur and more advanced musicians as well. Whether you want to start your musical journey or you want to find a good and reliable guitar for gigging, this guitar won’t disappoint you.
Here’s the sound demo.
4. Epiphone Les Paul Special VE
Epiphone Les Paul Special VE is an another great guitar that doesn’t cost thousands of dollars. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest guitars on today’s list! Although it may not be the best for more advanced players, it’s certainly perfect for all the amateurs.
The guitar features a lightweight poplar body and a very comfortable mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard. It looks and feels absolutely fantastic! If you’re a lover of vintage guitars, you’ll also appreciate the vintage worn finish.
What’s important, the manufacturer equipped this guitar with two open-coil humbuckers, which offer a lot of versatility when it comes to tone. Whether you’re into blues, country, rock or metal, this guitar won’t disappoint you.
Considering the low price, it’s definitely one of the best guitars for drop D and drop C tunings. If you’re on a really tight budget, you should definitely give this model a chance.
Here’s the sound demo.
5. Schecter 432 C-6 Deluxe
Schecter 432 C-6 is an another example of a really solid and affordable guitar suitable for drop D and drop C tunings. Again, this model proves that you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to find a good and reliable gear.
The guitar features a basswood body and a really comfortable maple neck. There’s also a Tune-O-Matic bridge with the string-through body. And what’s important, the guitar is equipped with a set of powerful Schecter Diamond Plus humbuckers. Certainly, all lovers of rock and metal will appreciate the versatile sound of these pickups.
Overall, Schecter 432 C-6 looks, feels and sounds like a much more expensive guitar. It definitely stands out from other similar guitars at this price level. That’s why I have no hesitation in recommending this model to all musicians who are searching for a great instrument for shredding in alternate tunings!
Here’s the demo.
6. Fender Limited Edition Player Telecaster
Fender Player Telecaster is a truly legendary guitar. This Mexican-made model is suitable for both amateur and more advanced musicians. Whether you’re just starting out or if you’re searching for a guitar for gigging and recording, the Player Tele is an excellent choice.
Some people think that Fender guitars aren’t the best for drop tunings, but the truth is that all the Telecasters usually work very well for drop D and drop C. Especially when you mix them with a set of really thick strings!
The Player Telecaster offers a lot of versatility when it comes to tone. Although it doesn’t feature humbuckers, it can still be efficiently used for heavier tones. And what’s important, the Player Tele looks and feels absolutely fantastic.
When it comes to pricing, it’s not that cheap. But to be honest, it’s totally worth it. If you’re searching for a high quality piece of gear, you should definitely give this Telecaster a chance.
Here’s the sound demo.
7. Ibanez GRX70QA
Ibanez GRX70QA is an another cheap guitar that works really good for drop D and drop C tunings. This is actually one of the cheapest models offered by this legendary manufacturer of guitars.
The GRX70QA model is made specifically for all fans of rock and metal. It features a poplar body and a very comfortable and thin maple neck. But most importantly, the guitar has a HSH pickup setting, which offers a lot of versatility when it comes to tone. This is an absolute game-changer, especially if you’re into alternate tunings.
On top of that, the guitar looks fantastic from the outside too. This quilted maple top in sunburst color is not for everyone, but I’m sure that a lot of guitar players are going to absolutely love it.
Considering its price, it’s definitely one of the best budget guitars for drop tunings. I highly recommend checking it out!
Here’s the demo.
8. Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster
Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster is an another very cool guitar suitable for drop D and drop C tunings. If you’re a fan of the band called Dinosaur Jr., you should definitely take some time to check out this signature model of J Mascis!
The quality of this instrument can be easily compared with some of the more expensive Mexican-made Fenders. Squier makes a lot of great guitars, but this is actually one of their coolest models. The guitar features two single-coil pickups which offer a lot of versatility. Whether you’re into blues, rock, indie or metal – it’s an excellent choice.
I have to admit that I’m a big fan of that guitar – I just love everything about it! Unique look, awesome sound, high versatility and a relatively low price – it’s pretty much all that matters, right?
I have no hesitation in recommending this model to any guitarist who’s searching for an amazing, inexpensive and reliable electric guitar suitable for drop tunings. This is one of the best Squier guitars out there.
Here’s the sound demo.
9. Jackson JS22 Dinky
Jackson JS22 Dinky is an another example of a killer guitar which is actually inexpensive. This popular model looks, sounds and feels absolutely great and it’s suitable for both beginners and more advanced players.
Why is it so cool? Well, if you like rock and metal music, you’re probably aware that Jackson is a really reputable manufacturer of guitars for these genres. That being said, their gear is reliable, so if you’re searching for the best cheap guitar for drop D and drop C tunings, this guitar won’t disappoint you.
I’m sure that a lot of guitarists are going to love it. Considering its low price, it’s definitely one of the coolest guitars on today’s list.
Here’s the sound demo.
10. Squier Cabronita Baritone Telecaster
Squier Cabronita Baritone Telecaster is one of the most interesting guitars on today’s list. This is a baritone guitar, so it naturally sounds different than all the other electric guitars mentioned earlier. That being said, it works perfectly for lower tunings.
The guitar is a part of Squier’s Paranormal Series, which promotes unique and often weird-looking guitars. This particular model almost looks like a regular Telecaster, but it definitely features a way different tone.
Although baritone guitars are not for everyone, all guitarists should at least try to play them once. If you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind guitar for drop D and drop C tunings, you should definitely check out the Cabronita Telecaster.
Here’s the sound demo.
FAQ
Is Drop D tuning bad for your guitar?
No, Drop D tuning is not bad for your guitar – you can safely use it without the risk of damaging your instrument.
What string gauge is the best for Drop D and Drop C tunings?
If you’re using a guitar with a regular 25.5″ scale neck, you should definitely try using the 10-52 or 11-54 strings for Drop D and Drop C tunings.
What strings are the best for drop tunings?
If you’re searching for good strings for drop tunings, you should definitely stick to the most reputable brands such as Ernie Ball, D’Addario, Elixir and Fender.
Do you need thicker strings for drop tunings?
Yes, thicker strings are better for drop tunings.
Summary
As you can see, the market is full of interesting guitars that are suitable for drop D and drop C tunings. What’s more, most of these models are totally affordable! I’m sure that no matter which model you decide to choose, you won’t be disappointed.
Which guitar do you think is best for alternate tunings? Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, I’m really interested to hear your thoughts!
Thanks for checking out today’s guide, hopefully it was helpful. If you enjoyed this article, you may also like:
