What's up everybody? Adam here from Danville Music, and we're counting down our top five list of guitars you can get for under 500 bucks.

We get asked this all the time, so we put together a list of instruments that deliver serious value without breaking the bank.

Let's get into it!

And for those of you who still enjoy a good read, read on!

#5: Squier Affinity Series

Kicking off our list at number five, we have the Squier Affinity Series guitars. These are your classic Strat and Tele style guitars that are perfect for an entry-level player, but honestly, they are still totally usable instruments for anyone. They sound great, the price point is amazing, and they make a fantastic platform for future upgrades.

We regularly see these come through the shop, and after a professional setup, they play like guitars costing much more. They are a workhorse choice for students and a reliable backup for gigging musicians.

• Price: $249.99
• Find it here:
  • Stratocaster: https://danvillemusic.com/products/fender-squire-affinity-series-stratocaster-surf-green-guitar
  • Telecaster: https://danvillemusic.com/products/fender-squire-affinity-series-telecaster-3-color-sunburst-guitar

#4: Squier Classic Vibe Series

Coming in at number four is the Squier Classic Vibe series. This is a significant step up in vintage feel and tone. Whether you like the '50s or '60s era for your Strat or Tele, this is a great way to get a first electric guitar for a loved one, or even for yourself. The fit and finish on these consistently impress us and embarrass guitars that cost twice as much.

If you're looking for that authentic vintage Fender tone without the vintage price tag, the Classic Vibe series is where it's at. You get to choose the style that you want, from the chunky '50s necks to the smoother '60s profiles.

• Price: $449.99
• Find it here:
  • '50s Telecaster (White Blonde): https://danvillemusic.com/products/fender-squier-classic-vibe-50s-telecaster-white-blonde-guitar
  • '50s Telecaster (Butterscotch Blonde): https://danvillemusic.com/products/fender-squier-classic-vibe-50s-telecaster-butterscotch-blonde-guitar
  • '60s Stratocaster (Lake Placid Blue): https://danvillemusic.com/products/fender-squier-classic-vibe-60s-stratocaster-lake-placid-blue-guitar

#3: Yamaha FS830

For number three, we're switching to acoustics with the Yamaha FS830. If you're looking for a great beginner acoustic guitar, there's nothing better than the Yamaha FS series. The FS830 is a smaller-bodied guitar, which makes it incredibly comfortable to play, especially for new players or those with a smaller frame.

We can get the action low enough to where it's not a struggle, which is key to keeping new players practicing. It's a great first acoustic guitar, and we couldn't recommend it more highly for its comfort and beautiful tone.

• Price: $429.99
• Find it here: https://danvillemusic.com/products/yamaha-fs830-guitar

#2: Epiphone Les Paul Tribute

Our number two pick, the Epiphone Les Paul Tribute, is a fantastic guitar that delivers that iconic rock sound. You can get the sounds from Jimmy Page all the way through Les Paul himself. It's a very versatile guitar, and for the price, these things sound absolutely great.

This isn't just a copy; it's a legitimate rock machine that captures the magic of a real Les Paul without the hefty price tag. It gives you that authority and sustain that you expect from a Les Paul, making it a heavyweight contender in this price range.

• Price: $299.00
• Find it here: https://danvillemusic.com/products/epiphone-les-paul-tribute-heritage-cherry-sunburst-guitar

#1: PRS SE CE24

Okay, it's a tad over $500, but even so, for the number one guitar under(-ish) $500 on our list, Danville Music proudly presents the PRS SE CE24.

This guitar is a classic remake of the Core series PRS guitars, bringing that legendary PRS quality and playability to a more accessible price point. If you look up the PRS SE CE24 on any online forum, you'll just see rave reviews.

With its bolt-on neck for extra snap and incredible versatility, this guitar is a professional's secret weapon. It's a guitar that makes you question why you would need to pay more. It's definitely something you may want to put under the tree for your loved one this year.

• Price: $559.20 (for the SE Sandblasted CE 24 LTD)
• Find it here: https://danvillemusic.com/products/prs-se-sandblasted-ce-24-ltd-sandblasted-green-guitar-9605

Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change. Please check the Danville Music website for the most current pricing.

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