Looking Beyond the Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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You might be searching for monoprice cali classic electric guitar alternatives because its specific build does not match your needs. The Monoprice Cali Classic features a solid body, maple neck, and SSS pickup configuration. These specs provide a standard, full-size instrument with 22 frets. It targets beginners who want a straightforward, no-frills design. However, you may need different dimensions or pickup types. Some players prefer a shorter scale length or a different fretboard material. Others want a complete kit with included accessories rather than just the guitar. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their core specifications overlap with the original. They share the solid body construction and six-string layout. Each option offers distinct variations in size, weight, or hardware. You can compare these specs to find the right fit. This guide helps you evaluate options based on practical data. You will see how each model differs in physical attributes and target audience. This allows you to make an informed choice without guessing.
Our top pick: Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black.
How Each Alternative Compares
Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Electric Guitar Kit
The Soulmate kit swaps the Cali Classic’s SSS pickups for an HSS configuration. This adds a humbucker in the bridge position for thicker tones. It includes a tremolo bridge, offering vibrato capabilities the Monoprice lacks. The neck radius and fret count are not specified here, but the 39-inch scale length is slightly shorter than the standard 25.5 inches. This kit suits beginners wanting versatility and included accessories. You trade the Cali Classic’s classic single-coil clarity for broader tonal options and expressive hardware.
Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar, Black
The Tostar guitar features P90 pickups instead of the standard single-coils found on the Monoprice. This change provides a unique, mid-range heavy tone distinct from the Cali Classic’s bright sound. The dimensions differ significantly, with a width of 13 inches compared to the Monoprice’s 17 inches. The scale length is listed as 39.4 inches, which may affect playability and string tension. This model targets intermediate players seeking stage visibility and P90 character. You give up the familiar SSS layout for a more aggressive tonal profile and compact body width.
KGD Relic SG-Style Electric Guitar
The KGD Relic uses mahogany body wood instead of the unspecified body material in the Monoprice. Mahogany offers warmer, resonant tones compared to the Cali Classic’s likely brighter maple construction. It features a rosewood fretboard, contrasting with the Monoprice’s maple or rosewood options. The weight is specified at 9.37 pounds, providing a sense of heft not detailed in the original specs. This SG-style guitar suits players seeking rich, warm tones and tuning stability. You trade the classic Strat-style SSS configuration for a dual-humbucker mahogany build with distinct aesthetics.
LyxPro 39" SB Series LP Style Electric Guitar
The LyxPro LP-Style guitar replaces the SSS pickups with dual humbuckers. This provides a thicker, higher-output sound compared to the Cali Classic’s single-coils. It features an arched-top mahogany body, differing from the Monoprice’s solid body construction. The dimensions are listed as 3.35 inches wide and 1.57 inches high, suggesting a thicker neck profile. This green-finished instrument suits players wanting classic LP specifications. You give up the versatile single-coil tones for a heavy, sustained sound typical of Les Paul-style guitars with rotary controls.
LyxPro CS 30" Electric Guitar Kit
The LyxPro 30-inch kit is designed for small-framed beginners, unlike the full-size Monoprice Cali Classic. Its compact 30-inch scale length offers easier playability for smaller hands. The dimensions are listed as 30 inches in width, height, and length, indicating a significantly smaller body. This kit includes essential accessories, similar to the Soulmate option. It suits younger players or those with smaller physiques. You trade the standard 25.5-inch scale and full-size body for a portable, beginner-friendly instrument with a distinct size advantage for smaller players.
IYV ISMR-200 6-String Solid Body Electric Guitar
The IYV ISMR-200 offers a straightforward solid body build similar to the Monoprice Cali Classic. It features a 6-string configuration and black finish, matching the original’s basic aesthetic. The specs are minimal, focusing on standard construction without complex features. This CNC-made instrument suits players who prioritize reliability and standard specifications. You receive a comparable full-size solid body guitar with a focus on essential build quality. The lack of detailed tonal or dimensional specs suggests a no-frills approach, similar to the Cali Classic’s simple SSS configuration and maple neck construction.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black
Best for: beginners seeking classic single-coil tone
- Neck Material
- maple
- Pickup Configuration
- SSS
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Hand Orientation
- right-handed
- Body Type
- solid
- Number of Frets
- 22
View on Amazon: Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black Affiliate link
The Monoprice Cali Classic is a full-size, solid-body electric guitar designed for right-handed players. It features a maple neck and a 22-fret rosewood or maple fretboard. The instrument uses three single-coil pickups in an SSS configuration. With a 25.5-inch scale length, it offers standard tension and playability. This model suits beginners and experienced players seeking a no-frills, affordable instrument for practice or casual playing.
Pros
- Solid body construction with a classic double-cutaway design
- Maple neck paired with rosewood or maple fretboard options
- Three standard single-coil pickups for versatile tone
- Includes a gig bag for transport and storage
Cons
- Limited to single-coil pickups, lacking humbucker versatility
- Right-handed orientation only, not suitable for lefties
- No included effects or active electronics for tone shaping
Good fit if
- You want a traditional single-coil sound for blues or rock
- You prefer a standard scale length for familiar string tension
- You need a durable solid body for stage or studio use
Skip if
- You require a left-handed instrument for comfortable playing
- You need humbucker pickups for high-gain metal tones
- You seek an active pickup system for enhanced output
Verdict: Monoprice Cali Classic SSS Electric Guitar delivers reliable single-coil tones for players who value simplicity and standard build quality. It fits beginners and intermediate players seeking a straightforward instrument without complex electronics.
Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Electric Guitar Kit
Best for: Beginners wanting complete HSS starter kit
- Body Material
- solid wood
- Neck Material
- Canadian maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- HSS
- Hand Orientation
- right-handed
- Body Type
- solid body
View on Amazon: Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Electric Guitar Kit Affiliate link
This 39-inch solid body electric guitar features an HSS pickup configuration with two single-coils and one humbucker. It has a Canadian maple neck and rosewood fingerboard. The kit includes a 15w amplifier, bag, and accessories. It suits beginners and intermediate players seeking a complete starter setup with tremolo bridge capabilities.
Pros
- HSS pickup configuration for versatile tones
- Canadian maple neck with rosewood fingerboard
- Includes 15w amplifier and accessories
- Tremolo bridge with whammy bar
Cons
- Solid wood body lacks specific tonewood details
- Right-handed orientation only
- No Bluetooth connectivity for digital features
Good fit if
- You want a complete starter kit with amplifier
- You prefer HSS pickup versatility
- You are a beginner or intermediate player
Skip if
- You need left-handed configuration
- You require specific tonewood specifications
- You prefer passive-only electronics
Verdict: Soulmate 39" HSS Electric Guitar Kit offers a complete package for beginners. It suits players wanting versatile HSS tones and included accessories. The tremolo bridge adds expressive capabilities for intermediate growth.
Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar, Black
Best for: Intermediate players seeking P90 tone and stage visibility
- Body Material
- Poplar
- Neck Material
- Canadian Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Purpleheart
- Pickup Configuration
- P90 S-S
- Hand Orientation
- right-handed
- Body Type
- solid body
View on Amazon: Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar, Black Affiliate link
This Tostar solid body electric guitar features a poplar body and a Canadian maple neck. It uses a P90 S-S pickup configuration with a 3-way switch for tone selection. The 22-fret purpleheart fingerboard and TOM bridge offer stability. It includes closed tuners and glow-in-the-dark markers. This instrument suits beginners and intermediate players seeking a reliable practice or gigging tool.
Pros
- P90 S-S pickup configuration for versatile tone
- TOM bridge with dedicated tailpiece for tuning stability
- Glow-in-the-dark fret markers for stage visibility
- 1:18 closed tuners for precise tuning
Cons
- Poplar body is less resonant than mahogany
- Bolt-on neck may reduce sustain compared to set necks
- No active electronics or onboard preamp
Good fit if
- You want a guitar with glow-in-the-dark fret markers
- You prefer the tone of P90 pickups over humbuckers
- You need a durable instrument for live performances
Skip if
- You require a set neck for maximum sustain
- You prefer mahogany or ash body materials
- You need active electronics for high gain
Verdict: Tostar 39" Black Electric Guitar offers stable tuning and unique visibility features for intermediate players. It fits those who value P90 clarity and stage-ready aesthetics over premium tonewoods.
KGD Relic SG-Style Electric Guitar
Best for: players seeking warm mahogany tone and stability
- Body Material
- mahogany
- Neck Material
- mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- rosewood
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Body Type
- solid body
- Nut Width
- 42mm
View on Amazon: KGD Relic SG-Style Electric Guitar Affiliate link
This KGD Relic model features a solid mahogany body and neck paired with a rosewood fretboard. It includes classic Alnico humbucking pickups for a warm, high-output tone. The fixed bridge ensures stable intonation, while the 42mm nut width offers a comfortable playing width. Weighing 9.37 pounds, it is a solid-body instrument designed for reliable performance in both studio and live settings.
Pros
- Mahogany body and neck construction for balanced tone
- Rosewood fretboard for smooth playing feel
- Alnico humbucking pickups for high output
- Fixed bridge for stable intonation and sustain
Cons
- Heavier build at 9.37 pounds
- Fixed bridge limits tremolo flexibility
- SG shape may feel less balanced than other styles
Good fit if
- You want a warm, woody tone from mahogany
- You prefer a fixed bridge for tuning stability
- You like the classic SG body shape
Skip if
- You need a lightweight instrument for long gigs
- You require tremolo bar flexibility
- You prefer a thinner neck profile
Verdict: KGD Relic SG Style Mahogany Electric Guitar is a solid choice for players seeking rich, warm tones and tuning stability. It suits those who appreciate the classic SG aesthetic and mahogany resonance.
LyxPro 39" SB Series LP Style Electric Guitar
Best for: players wanting a green dual-humbucker LP build
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Pickup Configuration
- Humbucker
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Hand Orientation
- Right Handed
- Body Type
- Solid Body
View on Amazon: LyxPro 39" SB Series LP Style Electric Guitar Affiliate link
This 39-inch solid-body electric guitar features a mahogany body and set-in mahogany neck with a green finish. It is equipped with two humbucking pickups, rotary volume and tone controls, and a three-way pickup selector switch. The package includes two picks and an instruction guide, making it suitable if you want a classic dual-humbucker setup for practice.
Pros
- Mahogany solid body with set-in mahogany neck
- Dual humbucker pickup configuration with 3-way toggle
- Sealed tuners designed to resist dust buildup
- Dedicated rotary volume and tone control knobs
Cons
- Dual humbucker setup lacks single-coil switching options
- Package does not include a gig bag or instrument strap
Good fit if
- You prefer a mahogany body and set-neck construction over bolt-on designs.
- You want a dual-humbucker pickup layout with independent tone and volume controls.
- You are looking for a green LP-style 39-inch solid-body electric guitar.
Skip if
- You prefer single-coil pickups for brighter chime and cut.
- You want a starter package that includes a padded gig bag.
Verdict: LyxPro 39-Inch SB Series LP-Style Guitar suits players seeking an arched-top mahogany build with dual humbuckers and classic rotary controls. It delivers standard set-neck LP specifications in a distinct green finish.
LyxPro CS 30" Electric Guitar Kit
Best for: small-framed beginners
- Body Material
- Paulownia Wood
- Neck Material
- Canadian Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- Single-coil
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Hand Orientation
- Right-handed
View on Amazon: LyxPro CS 30" Electric Guitar Kit Affiliate link
The LyxPro 30" kit targets beginners with a compact, lightweight build. It features a Paulownia wood body and a Canadian maple neck for easy handling. The rosewood fretboard and single-coil pickups provide a bright tone. You get 22 frets and a 5-way switch for versatile sound control. This set includes essential accessories like picks and a cable to start playing immediately.
Pros
- Paulownia wood body for lightweight durability
- Canadian maple neck with rosewood fretboard
- Single-coil pickups with 5-way switch
- Includes 6 picks and learning guide
Cons
- 30-inch scale is short for adults
- Single-coil pickups lack humbucker power
- Amplifier not included in the kit
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight instrument for practice
- You are a small-framed player
- You want a complete starter set
Skip if
- You require a full-size 25.5-inch scale
- You prefer high-output humbucker tones
- You already own an amplifier
Verdict: LyxPro 30" Electric Guitar Kit suits small players seeking a portable, beginner-friendly instrument with essential accessories included.
IYV ISMR-200 6-String Solid Body Electric Guitar
Best for: Standard 6-string solid body players
- Number of Strings
- 6-String
- Body Type
- Solid Body
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: IYV ISMR-200 6-String Solid Body Electric Guitar Affiliate link
The IYV ISMR-200 is a 6-string solid body electric guitar finished in black. It features CNC machine construction for consistent manufacturing. This model is designed for players seeking a standard configuration. The solid body provides a stable platform for various playing styles. It suits beginners and intermediate players looking for a reliable instrument.
Pros
- 6-string configuration
- Solid body construction
- CNC machine manufacturing
- Black finish
Cons
- No pickup type specified
- No hardware details provided
- No scale length mentioned
Good fit if
- You need a standard 6-string electric guitar
- You prefer a solid body design
- You want a black finished instrument
Skip if
- You require specific pickup configurations
- You need detailed hardware specifications
- You want a vintage relic finish
Verdict: IYV ISMR-200 Black Solid Body offers a straightforward build for players who prioritize standard specs. It fits those who want a reliable, CNC-made instrument without complex features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black | Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Electric Guitar Kit | Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar, Black | KGD Relic SG-Style Electric Guitar | LyxPro 39" SB Series LP Style Electric Guitar | LyxPro CS 30" Electric Guitar Kit | IYV ISMR-200 6-String Solid Body Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Material | not stated | solid wood | Poplar | mahogany | Mahogany | Paulownia Wood | not stated |
| Neck Material | maple | Canadian maple | Canadian Maple | mahogany | Mahogany | Canadian Maple | not stated |
| Fretboard Material | not stated | Rosewood | Purpleheart | rosewood | not stated | Rosewood | not stated |
| Pickup Configuration | SSS | HSS | P90 S-S | not stated | Humbucker | Single-coil | not stated |
| Number of Strings | 6 | not stated | not stated | 6 | 6 | 6 | not stated |
| Hand Orientation | right-handed | right-handed | right-handed | not stated | Right Handed | Right-handed | not stated |
| Body Type | solid | solid body | solid body | solid body | Solid Body | not stated | not stated |
| Number of Frets | 22 | 22 | 22 | not stated | not stated | 22 | not stated |
| Nut Width | not stated | not stated | not stated | 42mm | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Target Audience | Beginners | Beginners | Beginners | not stated | Beginners | Beginners | not stated |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Green | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 42 × 17 × 5 inches | 40.6 × 17.7 × 5.9 inches | 39.4 × 13 × 2.36 inches | 13 × 1.7 × 38.5 inches | 5.12 × 3.35 × 1.57 inches | 30 × 30 × 30 inches | not stated |
| Weight | not stated | not stated | not stated | 9.37 pounds | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | Full Size | 39 Inch Full Size | TJM-160M | not stated | 39" Right Handed | 30" Right Handed | not stated |
| Model | 610160 | 39 inch | TJM-160 SBK | K-JA | EGLP39GR | LYXEGST30B | ISMR-200 |
If you are also planning your studio space, compare dimensions across vari classic electric standing desk alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar has the best HSS pickup configuration for beginners?
The Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Electric Guitar Kit is the top choice for this setup. It features a humbucker in the bridge position alongside two single-coils. This configuration provides versatile tones suitable for various genres. The kit also includes a tremolo bridge for expressive playing capabilities.
What is the best electric guitar for small-framed players?
The LyxPro CS 30" Electric Guitar Kit is designed for smaller players. It measures 30 inches in length, width, and height. This compact size makes it portable and easier to handle for beginners with smaller frames. It comes as a complete kit with essential accessories included.
Which alternative offers a mahogany body with rosewood fretboard?
The KGD Relic SG-Style Electric Guitar features a mahogany body and rosewood fretboard. This combination delivers warm, rich tones with strong tuning stability. It is ideal for players seeking classic resonance and the distinctive SG aesthetic. The build focuses on solid wood materials for consistent sound.
Is there a green electric guitar option with dual humbuckers?
The LyxPro 39" SB Series LP Style Electric Guitar comes in a distinct green finish. It features an arched-top mahogany body with dual humbuckers. This setup provides the classic thick tone associated with Les Paul-style instruments. It includes standard rotary controls for versatile tonal adjustments.
Which guitar provides P90 pickups for intermediate players?
The Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar offers P90 pickups for clear, distinct tones. It is designed for intermediate players who value stage visibility and stable tuning. The black finish provides a unique aesthetic for live performance. It focuses on clarity and reliability over premium tonewoods.
What is the most straightforward solid body option without complex features?
The IYV ISMR-200 6-String Solid Body Electric Guitar offers a simple, reliable build. It is CNC-made for consistency and lacks complex electronic features. This makes it suitable for players who prioritize standard specifications. It is a no-nonsense instrument for those seeking a dependable standard 6-string setup.