So, you want those glassy, rich clean tones that make your audience feel like they’re floating on a cloud, huh? But, let me guess, you’re getting overwhelmed by all the options out there.
I feel you. It’s tough out there.
Here are 7 best guitars for clean tones that will make your amp sing sweet lullabies. It’s a 100% subjective list though 😉
Best Guitars For Clean Tones – Quick Overview
Too busy to read? Here’s a summary.
- Best for Beginners: Ibanez AS-53 – Affordable, easy to play, and sounds surprisingly good.
- Best Value for Money: Fender Player Stratocaster – Classic, versatile, and everything you need without breaking the bank.
- Best for Pros: Gibson ES-335 Dot 60s Cherry – Nothing beats that rich Gibson clean tone.
- Most Versatile: PRS JM Silver Sky Maple VB – Beautiful clean tones with a modern twist.
- Best Semi-Hollow for Clean Tones: Gretsch G5422TG Electromatic WS – Sparkling cleans with that classic Gretsch jangle.
Fender Player Stratocaster
The Fender Player Stratocaster. I know, I know, it’s basically the most obvious choice on this list, but there’s a reason why the Strat is a classic. You can pretty much do anything with it, and it absolutely excels at clean tones.
Those bright, bell-like notes that just ring out forever? Yeah, that’s the Strat. Plus, it feels like a dream to play, and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg (looking at you, Gibson).
Key Features
- Body: Alder
- Neck & Fretboard: Maple with a matte finish
- Pickups: 3 New Player AlNiCo V single coils
- Controls: Volume, two-tone knobs, and a 5-way toggle switch
- Bridge: 2-point tremolo for some classic whammy action
Why I Recommend It
If you’re hunting for clean tones, the Player Strat has got you covered. The AlNiCo V single coils are the MVPs here, delivering a sparkling sound that’s super responsive.
Whether you’re noodling with some jazz chords or pulling out funky riffs, the Strat’s got your back. Oh, and let’s not forget that the 2-point tremolo lets you throw in some tasteful vibrato without sending your tuning into outer space.
Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster
The Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster is like that underrated indie band that only true fans appreciate. It’s a bit offbeat, a bit quirky, and boy does it deliver.
Named after J. Mascis from Dinosaur Jr. (a legend if you didn’t know), this Jazzmaster offers some of the sweetest, thickest clean tones out there. If you want something a little different from your standard Strat, this one’s for you.
Key Features
- Body: Basswood
- Neck: Maple, with Indian Laurel fretboard
- Pickups: 2 Jazzmaster single coils
- Controls: Lead and rhythm circuit with tons of versatility
- Bridge: Adjusto-Matic bridge with vintage-style tremolo
Why I Recommend It
The clean tones on this one are just… delicious. It’s a different flavor compared to the Strat—a little thicker, a little warmer, but still chimey. The rhythm circuit controls give you an insane amount of tonal variety, and that floating tremolo is so much fun to mess around with.
Plus, it’s super affordable, which means you can get great tones without eating instant noodles for the next six months.
I personally own this model and honestly – it’s sick. One of my favorite offsets for sure!
Ibanez AS-53
Alright, budget players, listen up. The Ibanez AS-53 is for you. It’s a semi-hollow that’s ridiculously affordable, but it still gives you a taste of that warm, airy clean tone that only a semi-hollow can produce.
No, it’s not going to compete with a $3k Gibson, but for the price? This thing kills it.
Key Features
- Body: Semi-hollow basswood
- Neck: Nyatoh with a Laurel fretboard
- Pickups: 2 Infinity R humbuckers
- Bridge: ART-ST bridge and tailpiece
- Colour: Tobacco Flat
Why I Recommend It
The value for money here is just absurd. Seriously, you’d expect a guitar like this to cost at least twice as much. It has that semi-hollow warmth, which makes it perfect for clean tones, jazz, and even blues.
It’s also super comfortable to play, and the Infinity R humbuckers provide a nice, clear output. Ideal for anyone just starting out or someone who doesn’t want to empty their wallet.
Gibson ES-335 Dot 60s Cherry
Now we’re talking serious business. The Gibson ES-335 is an icon. It’s pricey, but there’s a reason why pros swear by it. The clean tones are thick, full, and rich—think of every classic jazz or blues tone you’ve heard, and it probably came from an ES-335.
It’s also a looker, with that beautiful 60s Cherry finish. If you’re looking to invest in something truly special, this is it.
Key Features
- Body & Top: Maple
- Neck: Mahogany with a rosewood fretboard
- Pickups: 2 calibrated T-type humbuckers
- Bridge: ABR-1 bridge
- Includes Case: Yes, it better for the price
Why I Recommend It
There’s a reason why this guitar is on every „best clean tone” list out there. The semi-hollow design gives you that warm, full-bodied sound, while the T-type humbuckers add clarity and punch.
It’s honestly one of the best guitars I’ve ever played, and if you can afford it, you won’t be disappointed. I mean, it even comes with a case. For that price, you deserve a case.
Gretsch G5422TG Electromatic WS
The Gretsch G5422TG is here for those of you who want clean tones with a bit of jangle. Think of it as the perfect mix between classic rockabilly vibes and shimmering cleans. Plus, the gold hardware and walnut stain just scream cool.
And yes, it has a Bigsby tremolo, so you can do all your subtle pitch dips without losing tuning stability.
Key Features
- Body: Hollowbody Maple
- Pickups: 2x FT-5E FilterTron humbuckers
- Bridge: Adjusto-Matic bridge with Bigsby B60 tremolo
- Colour: Walnut Stain with gold hardware
Why I Recommend It
This guitar has so much character. The FilterTron pickups deliver a tone that’s both bright and punchy, making it ideal for cleans that pop.
The Bigsby tremolo is just the icing on the cake, giving you the ability to add some flair to your playing. Plus, let’s be honest, it just looks super classy.
Fender Vintera II 60s Thinline Telecaster
Looking for something that’s light as a feather and sounds like a chimey dream? The Fender Vintera II 60s Thinline Telecaster is a semi-hollow that brings all the clarity of a Tele but with extra warmth and resonance. It’s got a vintage vibe, and it’s perfect for clean tones that shimmer.
Key Features
- Body: Semi-Hollow Ash
- Pickups: 2 Vintage-style ’60s Tele single coils
- Neck: Bolt-on maple
- Bridge: 3-Saddle vintage-style bridge
- Colour: 3-Colour Sunburst
Why I Recommend It
The clean tones on this one are just magical. It’s super resonant because of the semi-hollow body, and the single coils add that Tele twang we all love.
Plus, it’s lightweight, which is a huge plus if you’re tired of heavy guitars breaking your back on stage. The 3-saddle bridge also adds to that vintage feel, making it a total dream for classic clean tones.
PRS JM Silver Sky Maple VB
Ah yes, the PRS Silver Sky, AKA the guitar that got John Mayer to ditch his Strats. This thing is a modern classic, with clean tones that are buttery smooth.
It’s got a bit more midrange compared to a traditional Strat, making it perfect if you want those cleans to cut through the mix without being too harsh.
Key Features
- Body: Alder
- Pickups: 3 635JM single coils
- Neck: Maple with a 635JM profile
- Bridge: PRS steel tremolo
Why I Recommend It
This guitar gives you all the Strat-like vibes with a bit more PRS magic sprinkled on top. It’s got modern appointments that make it comfortable, and the pickups are super articulate.
If you want something a bit different from the classic Strat but still in the same ballpark, this is the one. Plus, that Venetian Blue finish? Absolute eye candy.
IMO it’s one of the best guitars for clean tones out there.
My Ratings
Here’s a quick rundown of how I’d rate these guitars if I had to put numbers to them. Bear in mind that all these guitars are great—it’s just a matter of what fits your needs 😉
| Guitar | Clean Tone Rating (Out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Fender Player Stratocaster | 9 |
| Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster | 8.5 |
| Ibanez AS-53 | 8 |
| Gibson ES-335 Dot 60s Cherry | 10 |
| Gretsch G5422TG Electromatic WS | 9 |
| Fender Vintera II 60s Thinline | 8.5 |
| PRS JM Silver Sky Maple VB | 9.5 |
Check Out My YouTube Channels
If you found this article helpful and want to dive deeper into the world of guitars, make sure to check out my YouTube channels Best Guitars Now and Strefa Gitar.
I cover everything from gear reviews to playing tips and tricks. Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button, it really helps out the channel 😉
FAQ
Q: What makes a good guitar for clean tones?
A: Typically, single coils are great for cleans because of their clarity and brightness, but humbuckers can also work wonders for a warmer clean tone. It all depends on your style!
Q: Are semi-hollow guitars better for clean tones?
A: They can be! Semi-hollows add a natural resonance and warmth that solid bodies can’t quite match. But, if you’re after a super snappy, bright clean, solid bodies like a Strat might be the way to go.
Q: Does the type of wood really affect clean tones?
A: Absolutely! Different woods resonate differently. Alder and ash bodies are bright and balanced, while mahogany tends to add warmth and richness. It all comes down to the tonal character you’re after.
Q: What kind of strings are best for clean tones?
A: Lighter gauge strings (like .009s or .010s) tend to have a brighter and more articulate sound, which is great for clean tones. Brands like Ernie Ball or D’Addario make excellent strings for clean playing.
Q: How important is the amp for achieving clean tones?
A: Super important! A great clean guitar needs a great clean amp. Tube amps like the Fender Twin Reverb or solid-state amps like the Roland Jazz Chorus are legendary for their clean capabilities.
Q: Can pedals help improve clean tones?
A: You bet! A good compressor pedal can help even out your dynamics and add sustain, while a quality reverb pedal can give your cleans more depth. Don’t sleep on modulation pedals like chorus either—they can make your clean tone sparkle.
Q: Do pickup heights affect clean tones?
A: Yup! Adjusting the height of your pickups can dramatically change your tone. Lower pickups can produce a clearer and more dynamic sound, which is often ideal for clean tones.
Q: Should I use a pick or play fingerstyle for clean tones?
A: Both work great, but they give different textures. Fingerstyle gives a warmer, more intimate sound, while a pick gives more attack and brightness. Mixing both techniques can add nice variety to your clean playing.
Q: Does the fretboard material matter for clean tones?
A: It can! Maple fretboards often give a snappier, brighter response, while rosewood or laurel fretboards can add a bit of warmth. It’s a subtle difference, but worth considering if you’re chasing the perfect clean tone.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, there’s a guitar here for everyone that delivers amazing clean tones.
IMO, you really can’t go wrong with any of these, but make sure you pick the one that resonates (pun intended) with your style. Now, go forth and make those amps sing, my friend!
