Peavey
Since 1965
Peavey Electronics was founded in 1965 by Hartley Peavey in Meridian, Mississippi—a teenager who built his first amplifier at 15 and spent years being rejected by every music dealer in the South before succeeding on pure determination. Peavey became a vertically integrated manufacturing powerhouse, producing amplifiers, guitars, basses, PA systems, and accessories under one roof in Mississippi. The EVH Wolfgang collaboration with Eddie Van Halen (1996-2004) produced one of the most iconic guitars of the 1990s. While Peavey is best known for amplifiers like the legendary 5150/6505, its guitar lineup—from the budget Raptor to the premium HP2—delivers American-engineered instruments at working-musician prices.
61
Years in Business
5M+
Guitars Sold
$100M+
Annual Revenue
Complete Peavey Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Peavey guitars.
Peavey Price Overview
Peavey covers a wide range of instruments from entry-level to professional models. Typical used prices vary by condition, series and year. Higher-end USA models and limited editions retain value better than mass-market lines, while rare or vintage pieces often command significant premiums.
When evaluating value, consider originality (pickups, hardware), structural condition (neck, frets, finish) and documentation (serials, receipts, setup reports). Price dispersion across platforms is common; local stores offer service and inspection, whereas online marketplaces provide broader selection and price transparency.
For detailed buying advice, model comparisons and condition-based pricing, read the full guide linked above.
Market Overview
Average Price
$420
+4% vs last year
eBay Listings
2,100
Active listings
Sold This Month
380
+5% vs last month
Price Range
$50-$3,000
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Peavey Timeline
Peavey Electronics Founded
Hartley Peavey founded the company in Meridian, Mississippi, initially building amplifiers in his basement.
T-60 Guitar Launch
Introduced the T-60—one of the first guitars manufactured with CNC machinery, featuring innovative design and American quality at affordable prices.
Patriot & Milestone Series
Expanded guitar lineup with the Patriot and Milestone series, establishing Peavey as a full-range instrument maker.
5150 Amp Collaboration
Co-developed the legendary 5150 amplifier with Eddie Van Halen, creating one of the most influential high-gain amps in rock history.
EVH Wolfgang Debuts
Launched the EVH Wolfgang guitar with Eddie Van Halen—featuring basswood body, maple cap, Floyd Rose, and the innovative d-Tuna device.
EVH Partnership Ends
Eddie Van Halen departed to start his own EVH brand. The Wolfgang design influence continued across the industry.
HP2 Series Introduction
Released the HP2 (Hartley Peavey 2) series as Peavey's premium USA-made electric guitar platform.
Invective Amp Series
Launched the Invective amp series with Misha Mansoor of Periphery, expanding into modern progressive metal.
Vandenberg Series
Introduced the Vandenberg series with guitarist Adrian Vandenberg, featuring classic rock-oriented designs.
6505 Legacy Continues
The 6505 amplifier (formerly 5150) remains Peavey's flagship, with the guitar lineup supporting the amp-centric brand identity.
Complete Peavey Product Lineup
Peavey: Built in Mississippi by Hartley Peavey's determination since 1965
HP2 Series
Premium USA-made electric guitars
Mahogany body, USA-made at ~$1,999
Premium appointments at ~$1,499
Vandenberg Series
Classic rock-inspired designs
Adrian Vandenberg collaboration at ~$799
V-shape design at ~$599
Raptor Series
Entry-level and student guitars
HSS student guitar at ~$199
Upgraded student at ~$249
Vintage/Collectible Models
Discontinued models with collector value
Premium 1996-2004 collectible
Import 1996-2004 version
Historic 1977 CNC pioneer
1990s shred-era classic
Bass Guitars
Peavey bass instruments
Reliable bass at ~$249
Premium active bass
Classic Peavey bass tone
"Peavey: Built in Mississippi by Hartley Peavey's determination since 1965"
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
EVH Wolfgang Buying Guide
The Collectible Giant
Peavey EVH Wolfgang guitars (1996-2004) are increasingly collectible. USA models command $1,500-$3,000; Standard imports $500-$1,000. Eddie Van Halen's legacy drives steady appreciation
USA vs Standard
USA Wolfgangs feature American-made construction with premium woods and hardware. Standards are import builds with similar specs. USA models are significantly more collectible and tonally superior
d-Tuna Device
The innovative d-Tuna drops the low E to D while keeping the Floyd Rose locked. Verify it functions correctly on used models—it's the Wolfgang's signature feature
Current Models Guide
HP2 Premium Value
The HP2 at ~$1,499-$1,999 delivers USA-made quality at a price that undercuts most American competitors. Low brand premium means more guitar per dollar
Amp-Centric Brand
Peavey guitars are designed to pair with Peavey amps—especially the 6505 series. If you already own a 6505/Invective, a Peavey guitar completes an optimized signal chain
Raptor for Beginners
The Raptor Plus at ~$199 is a legitimate starter guitar with HSS pickups and tremolo. Better built than most $200 guitars thanks to Peavey's manufacturing experience
Vintage Peavey Guide
T-60 Renaissance
The 1977 T-60—one of the first CNC-made guitars—has become a cult favorite. Used prices at $400-$800 are rising as collectors recognize its historical significance and excellent build quality
Predator Sleeper
1990s Predator models at $150-$350 are undervalued shred guitars. Decent pickups, fast necks, and Floyd Rose tremolos—great mod platforms for budget players
Mississippi Pride
USA-made Peavey instruments carry genuine American manufacturing heritage. The Meridian, Mississippi facility has produced millions of instruments—quality is consistent and well-documented