Answering the buyer’s search for affordable double neck guitars, this guide highlights practical options that balance cost with build quality. Best for aspiring DIY builders, hobbyists seeking versatility, and players exploring both 6 and 12-string tones without breaking the bank. Below, you’ll find five carefully chosen models with clear pros, potential limitations, and who they suit best. A quick buying table at the start helps you compare core details at a glance.
| Product | Neck Type | Body Material | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Double Neck 12 String | 12-string & 6-string | Mahogany | DIY enthusiasts seeking unfinished bodies to customize |
| Fistrock Double Neck DIY Guitar & Bass Kit 6 String & 4 String | 6-string & 4-string | Mahogany | Players wanting a complete dual-instrument setup |
| IYV IDN-126 Double-Neck Solid Body Guitar | Double-neck solid body | Not specified | Compact, ready-to-play option for experimentation |
| TARIO Double Neck Lap Steel Guitar | Lap steel 6-string | Poplar wood | Slide players and unique tones |
| DIY Double Neck Guitarr Kits 12 String Right Handed | 12-string & 6-string | Unfinished | Budget builders wanting full customization |
Fistrock DIY Electric Guitar Kit Double Neck 12 String
Features include a mahogany body and twin mahogany necks with rosewood fingerboards, humbucker pickups, Tune-O-Matic bridge, and chrome die-cast machine heads. The kit comes unfinished for personalized finishes. Best for beginners who want a single box solution and the ability to customize the look. Limitation: assembly skill and soldering may be required for a finished instrument.
Who it’s best for: a beginner builder who wants a dual-voiced instrument (12-string plus 6-string) with room to personalize aesthetics and setup. Why selected: comprehensive parts in one box saves time sourcing components and supports DIY customization.
Fistrock Double Neck DIY Guitar & Bass Kit 6 String & 4 String
This kit provides a complete setup for both a 6-string and 4-string neck on a single Mahogany body, with rosewood fingerboard, humbucker pickups, and chrome hardware. It’s ideal for players who want a multi-instrument solution and enjoy building a professional-level dual-neck. Caution: as with DIY builds, expect soldering and assembly tasks beyond plug-and-play.
Who it’s best for: players seeking versatile dual instruments (guitar and bass) with a single box solution. Why selected: it covers both guitar and bass voices in one package, reducing separate purchases.
IYV IDN-126 Double-Neck Solid Body Guitar
Notes: This model emphasizes CNC manufacturing with computer programming to achieve its specifications. It presents a compact option for players wanting a ready-to-play double-neck without a heavy DIY process. A limitation to consider is the lack of detailed material specs in the listing, which may matter for players prioritizing tone wood and construction quality.
Who it’s best for: players who want a straightforward double-neck experience with consistent production methods. Why selected: a ready-to-play option that can reduce build-time for experimental tones and rhythm sections.
TARIO Double Neck Lap Steel Guitar
Construction features include a solid poplar body, double neck layout for lap steel play, and a 29-inch total length with a 20.75-inch scale. It’s best for slide players seeking a dual-neck option with a dedicated lap steel approach. Limitation: designed for lap steel technique, not standard electric guitar playing in a conventional neck setup.
Who it’s best for: slide guitar enthusiasts needing a distinct double-neck instrument. Why selected: offers a dual-neck lap steel configuration that expands tonal exploration beyond typical electric guitars.
DIY Double Neck Guitarr Kits Beginner Kits 12 String Right Handed
Features include a mahogany body and neck with unfinished surfaces for painting or staining, pre-drilled holes, and complete with strings and electric cord. The body is cut and sanded, ready for finishing, with blank peghead and adjustable truss rod. Best for budget builders who want full customization and a hands-on assembly experience. Caution: some tools and soldering may be required to complete assembly.
Who it’s best for: beginners who want a fully customizable double-neck with hands-on build experience. Why selected: strong value as an all-in-one DIY package, allowing full personalization from finish to hardware layout.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Cheap Double-Neck Guitars
What to evaluate first: your budget, preferred playing style, and whether you want an unfinished body for full customization or a ready-to-play instrument. A double-neck can be specialized; decide if you need a 12-string, a 6-string, or a mix with bass for variety.
Construction materials matter: mahogany bodies and maple or rosewood fingerboards influence tone and sustain. For lap steel variants, consider a solid wood body (poplar is common) and the tension of steel strings on a shorter scale.
DIY vs ready-to-play: DIY kits save money and offer customization but require tools, soldering, and electronics work. Ready-to-play double-necks are convenient but often less customizable and may carry higher costs.
Hardware quality and electronics: look for humbucker pickups and chrome machine heads for durability. Toggle and selector switches affect tonal options; ensure compatibility with your electronics plan.
Finish options and headstock: unfinished bodies require painting or staining. A blank headstock allows personalized artwork but may require additional finish work and setup time.
Support and documentation: comprehensive manuals and clear assembly instructions help ensure a smoother build. Consider brands with a track record of providing assembly guidance and replacement parts.
FAQ
- Do cheap double necks require professional setup? Some basic setup like truss rod adjustment, intonation, and nut filing may be needed; more complex electronics might require a tech.
- Are 12-string necks harder to play than 6-string necks? Yes, 12-string necks require greater finger strength and precision, particularly for intonation and chord shapes.
- Is a DIY kit worth it for beginners? It can be cost-effective and educational, but demands time, tools, and basic soldering knowledge.
- Can I customize the finish easily on unfinished bodies? Yes, with appropriate paints, sealers, and clear coats; follow recommended finishing steps and safety guidelines.
- Do double-neck guitars stay in tune reliably? Tuning stability depends on bridge, nut, string gauge, and setup; ensure proper nut slots and proper string winding.
- What should I prioritize if I’m new to double-necks? Focus on neck alignment, intonation, and electronics compatibility to ensure usable tonal options across both necks.