In today’s article, we’re going to have a deep look on the online guitar market and we’ll find the best guitar for reggae, ska and ska-punk genres. If you’re a frequent reader of my blog, you probably remember my recent article about the best reggae guitar amps. I received a few messages from you and you guys asked for my top recommendations on reggae guitars. Well, they are! The guitars recommended by me will be ideal for reggae, ska, ska-punk and all the other similar genres.
Undoubtedly, there are dozens of great guitars out there. What’s more, today’s market offers a lot of high-quality instruments in affordable prices. Nevertheless, making the right choice can be really challenging. There are just so many models out there! I gathered 10 amazing guitars to help you with making that choice. Some of them are really expensive (well, they are the best!), but there are a lot of guitars suitable for everyone’s budget. Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, you’ll definitely be able to save up for one of these guitars. Let’s start with a list – then we’ll move to more detailed overviews and sound samples.
Best Guitar For Reggae, Ska & Ska-Punk
| 1. | Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster | See on Amazon |
| 2. | Epiphone Les Paul Special | See on Amazon |
| 3. | Squier Starcaster | See on Amazon |
| 4. | Ibanez AS73 | See on Amazon |
| 5. | Fender American Professional Stratocaster | See on Amazon |
| 6. | PRS SE Custom | See on Amazon |
| 7. | Fender Player Telecaster | See on Amazon |
| 8. | Epiphone SG Special | See on Amazon |
| 9. | Gretsch GJ22T | See on Amazon |
| 10. | Squier J. Mascis Jazzmaster | See on Amazon |
Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster
For those who don’t know, Squier by Fender is one of the most popular guitar brands right now. They offer extremely affordable and high-quality guitars comparable with much more expensive Fenders. This Stratocaster will be ideal for both beginner and intermediate players. The comfortable C-shaped neck and three single coil pickups offer great playability and unique tone. In fact, this really versatile guitar will sound great in all genres, including reggae, ska and ska-punk. I have no hesitation in recommending this guitar and in my opinion it’s one of the best choices within that price level! Also, it’s available in a few different color versions. Classic look, great sound and decent price – who needs anything else?
Epiphone Les Paul Special
Another really popular guitar among amateur and more advanced players. You may think that Les Paul guitars are mainly used in rock n’ roll, but it’s not necessarily true. In fact, these guitars sound amazing in reggae genres too! What’s interesting, Bob Marley was frequently using a Les Paul Special guitar. Here’s a great story about this guitar on Reverb in case you’re interested! As you can see, the LP guitars are approved by the best. The model mentioned above is actually one of the cheapest guitars on my list. Basswood body, mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard offer a great tone and durability. Undoubtedly, you won’t be disappointed if you decide to pick that one!
Squier Starcaster
Absolutely unique hollow-body guitar. Personally, this is one of my favorites. It may not be the cheapest guitar on my list, but it features an extraordinary sound and attention to detail. The guitar is available in a walnut and 3-color sunburst version and it features a maple body and a maple neck with the vintage gloss finish. Undoubtedly, this guitar will be perfect for some chilled reggae sounds. In addition, I believe that this instrument will suit both lead and rhythm guitarists. What I also like about this model is that it’s not that popular. Since everyone’s playing Stratocasters and Les Pauls, it’s really good to differentiate yourself from the rest and use some other gear. The Starcaster will be a perfect choice for all-level guitarists. I’m sure about that!
Ibanez AS73
Another truly remarkable semi-hollow body guitar. In fact, I created a detailed comparison of this AS73 model with the similar Epiphone Dot 335. Long story short – this guitar is amazing. It’s really surprising that Ibanez offers a product of such high quality at this low price level. I would expect that guitar to be two or three times more expensive! The tobacco brown color definitely draws attention. In terms of sound, it’s really resonant, bright and punchy at times. Undoubtedly, this guitar will be ideal for ska, ska-punk and especially for reggae – it’s one of the best! Feel free to read my article mentioned above to see the sound sample and find out more about this guitar. Nevertheless, I highly recommend checking it out. It will be perfect for both amateur and more intermediate players.
Fender American Professional Stratocaster
It’s time for something more expensive and aimed at more professional players. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best Stratocasters in the market right now. And yes, it is really expensive. In my opinion, if your budget is high, this is the best guitar for reggae, ska and ska-punk. You will be totally satisfied with this instrument on both live and studio recordings. In fact, a lot of professional musicians use it on a daily basis during concert tours. If you’d like to find out more about this guitar and see why is it so special, I encourage you to check out my separate article specifically about this Fender American Professional Stratocaster. I have to admit it – this guitar is a dream. Amazing job, Fender!
PRS SE Custom
Another really cool guitar aimed mainly for more advanced players. Nevertheless, this PRS model will be also a stunning starter guitar. If you’re not looking for the cheapest available option, I encourage you to consider choosing that option. In fact, the PRS guitars are often used by professional reggae guitarists. For example, Jacob Hemphill (SOJA) uses a PRS Modern Eagle guitar. You can read the whole story about this guitar under this link. This guitar manufacturer creates really interesting and well-made guitars suitable for all level guitarists. Their attention to detail is remarkable. Undoubtedly, if you choose any PRS model that’s out there, you won’t regret it. That’s for sure!
Fender Player Telecaster
A really popular choice among blues, rock, reggae and punk guitarists. In fact, Telecasters are one of the most popular guitars in the world. They’re actually considered as iconic instruments with exceptional, thicker tone. If you’re into this kind of vintage vibe, you should totally check out this Player Telecaster. The Player Series is manufactured in Mexico and it’s one of the most affordable Fender guitars. Of course, there are much cheaper Squiers, but if you’re specifically looking for Fender – this is the cheapest option. Nevertheless, I think that Player Series is really comparable with Squier Classic Vibe or Squier Affinity Series. If you don’t care about having the Fender logo on your headstock, I actually recommend choosing the cheaper option – Squier. Although don’t get me wrong – it can still be considered as the best guitar for reggae, ska and ska-punk!
Epiphone SG Special
Frank Zappa, Angus Young, Eric Clapton – all of these guitarists often used or use the SG model. You may think that it’s not the best fit for reggae but trust me, it’s a really versatile guitar. I think that these two humbuckers will be particularly great for more punk genres (like ska-punk). The following Epiphone model is available in a classic vintage cherry color. It features a poplar body, a mahogany neck and a rosewood fingerboard. On top of that, it offers a SlimTaper D neck. In my opinion it’s a bit wider than a neck of a Stratocaster, so if you’re considering these two guitars, pick the SG if your hands are larger. Undoubtedly, it will be a solid choice for both amateur and more advanced players!
Gretsch GJ22T
Gretsch offers absolutely amazing guitars in decent prices. In fact, they’re one of the most popular manufacturers of semi-hollow and hollow body guitars. The following model features a body made of laminated maple, which results with high durability. On top of that, it has a nato wood neck and an anchored Adjusto-Matic bridge with a Bigsby. In fact, it’s the only guitar with the Bigsby on my list. If you’re looking for somethin really loud, powerful and comfortable, you should totally give this Gretsch a chance. In my opinion it will be ideal for reggae music!
Squier J.Mascis Jazzmaster
If you visit my blog from time to time, you are probably aware that I’m a huge fan of Jazzmasters. In my opinion, they have the most comfortable necks in the world! If you value comfortability and enjoyability, I highly recommend considering getting a Squier or Fender Jazzmaster. The following model is a signature of J. Mascis, a famous and reputable musician and lead guitarist of Dinosaur Jr. His guitar sounds absolutely amazing and in fact, it’s not that expensive. What’s more, the golden pickguard makes it look really expensive and posh. The sound and overall tone reminds is somewhere between a Stratocaster and Jaguar, so it’s really versatile. It will be perfect for ska, ska-punk and reggae music!
Which Guitar Would I Choose?
I hope that my short guide will help you with making the right choice! Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced guitarist, you will be really satisfied with all of these models. Although all of these guitars are awesome, here’s my verdict if it comes to price and your skill level:
- Best Cheap Guitar – Epiphone Les Paul Special
- Ideal Guitar For A Beginner – Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster
- Best Mid-Level Guitar – Fender Player Telecaster
- Perfect Guitar For A Pro – Fender American Professional Stratocaster
Nevertheless, no matter which one you choose, you’re going to love it! In addition, my recommendations above prove that you don’t have to spend a fortune on a guitar. Do you agree with my verdict? Let me know which guitar would you choose. The comment section below is waiting for you!
Let’s Play Some Reggae!
Thanks for checking out Best Guitars Now! And good luck with your reggae and ska journey. If you’d like to find out more about playing reggae, I included a really cool lesson below by Steve Golding. As you can see, he’s playing a Gibson SG guitar – maybe that indicates that you should check it out too :)!
