AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 7 String Guitars 2026

Q: Are 7-strings hard to play?

They require a bit more finger strength and reach, especially when playing lower tunings. It's a learning curve, but not insurmountable - start slow and build up your calluses.

Q: What's the best wood for a 7-string guitar?

Mahogany is a popular choice for its warm low-end response, but maple offers more clarity and brightness. Ultimately, it's more about the overall build and pickup selection than the wood itself.

Q: Do I need to change my amp for a 7-string?

Possibly. That low B string demands more headroom from your amp. You might notice muddiness or clipping if your amp isn't up to the task - a clean, powerful amp is your best bet.

Q: What are the common tunings for 7-string guitars?

Standard tuning is B-F#-B-E-A-D-G. Dropping to B standard (B-F#-B-E-A-D#-G) is extremely common for heavier styles. Experiment and find what works for you.

Q: Are extended range guitars just for metal?

Not at all. While they're popular in metal and djent, the expanded range opens up possibilities for all genres - jazz, progressive rock, even blues if you're feeling adventurous.

The top pick is Ibanez RGRB720 Iron Label ($1,086). Harley Benton R-457MN LH WH gives you the most for the money at $190. Ibanez K7YIN / K7RGA24M2 James "Munky" Shaffer Signature leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 89 models across 13 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 19, 2026

89models in this chart

13brands

$1,270median price

12price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 7 String Guitars

Price

Skill level

Use

Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

Ibanez RGRB720 Iron Label
RGRB720-BKF · Ibanez
24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
The RGRB720-BKF is a serious 7-string workhorse built for modern metal and progressive players. That Wizard II neck is a dream to shred on, and the DiMarzio pickups deliver plenty of aggression. It’s a fantastic option if you need a versatile, high-performance instrument without the premium price tag of some boutique models.
Pros
- Nyatoh body delivers a tight, focused low-end response.
- Wizard II neck profile offers incredibly fast, comfortable playability.
- DiMarzio Activators provide high-output, modern aggressive tones.
Cons
- Nyatoh body, while good, lacks the tonal complexity of mahogany.
- Matt finish can be prone to fingerprints and requires more frequent cleaning.
77AudioFu
Index
- Demand86
- Lineup26
- Price95
- Specs88
- Maker100
↓ 15.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
$1,278 · Aug 17$1,086 now

$1,086€965 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Jackson JS Series JS22-7 DKA HT Dinky Archtop with Amaranth Fretboard
JS22-7 RR Satin Black · Jackson
34 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale673 mm (26.5")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyPoplar body
The JS22-7 RR is a solid entry point into 7-string guitars, especially for players getting into heavier genres. The compound radius really helps with shredding, and those pickups provide plenty of gain. It’s a great option for beginner to intermediate players who want a modern, aggressive sound without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- Bolt-on maple neck offers snappy response and easy playability.
- High-output humbuckers deliver aggressive, modern metal tones.
Cons
- Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and may need upgrading.
- Poplar body can be prone to finish checking with extreme temperature changes.
73AudioFu
Index
- Demand95
- Lineup51
- Price50
- Specs63
- Maker76
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$303 now

$303€269 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Ibanez GRG7221QA Gio
GRG7221QA-TKS · Ibanez
41 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyPoplar body
The GRG7221QA-TKS is a solid choice for beginner to intermediate players looking to explore 7-string territory. It offers a comfortable neck, decent pickups, and a striking aesthetic at a very accessible price point – a great entry into extended range guitars.
Pros
- Quilted maple top adds visual flair and a touch of brightness
- GRG7 neck profile is comfortable and fast for modern playing styles
- Infinity R pickups deliver a surprisingly powerful and versatile output
Cons
- New Zealand pine fretboard can be a bit softer than rosewood or ebony
- Poplar body might lack the resonance of mahogany for some players
73AudioFu
Index
- Demand100
- Lineup26
- Price57
- Specs63
- Maker100
↓ 2.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
$358 · Aug 17$350 now

$350€311 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Ibanez RGA742FM Standard
RGA742EX-BAM · Ibanez
16 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
This guitar fits a budget-friendly 7-string player who wants a sturdy build. The meranti body and bolt-on neck make it solid, while the wide nut helps with comfort. You get thick sound from the two humbuckers, but the plastic nut and heavy hardware are weak points.
Pros
- Affordable 7-string guitar with solid meranti body
- Bolt-on construction ensures stable neck angle
- Large nut width provides comfortable playability
Cons
- Plastic nut lacks the durability of bone
- Black hardware can scratch easily
71AudioFu
Index
- Demand76
- Lineup41
- Price61
- Specs88
- Maker100
↓ 3.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
$618 · Aug 17$595 now

$595€529 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Ibanez K7YIN / K7RGA24M2 James "Munky" Shaffer Signature
K7YIN · Ibanez
20 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
This guitar has a special thick body that sounds great. The two humbuckers give you a strong, clear tone for heavy playing. It feels solid with a bolt-on neck and big frets. This fits players who want a unique sound and reliable tuning without extra wiring.
Pros
- Nyatoh body gives a unique, thick resonant tone
- DiMarzio Blaze humbuckers deliver aggressive, clean power
- Lo-Pro Edge 7 tremolo offers smooth, stable vibrato
Cons
- 25.5 inch scale length may feel long for some hands
- No electronics options listed, so output is fixed
71AudioFu
Index
- Demand81
- Lineup41
- Price50
- Specs88
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$2,080 now

$2,080€1,848 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Schecter Omen Elite-7
Omen Elite-7 Charcoal · Schecter
38 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale673 mm (26.5")
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
The Omen Elite-7 Charcoal is a seriously capable 7-string, offering a lot of performance for the money. It’s a great choice for players diving into extended-range riffing, from modern metal to djent, who want a comfortable neck and punchy pickups without breaking the bank. The aesthetic is also quite striking with that burl poplar top.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for a full sound.
- Diamond Heretic pickups deliver high-output, modern rock and metal tones.
- Thin 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for extended sessions.
Cons
- Rosewood fretboard may require occasional oiling to prevent dryness.
- Bolt-on neck construction isn't favored by players seeking a vintage sustain.
67AudioFu
Index
- Demand98
- Lineup26
- Price50
- Specs50
- Maker76
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$742 now

$742€659 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Schecter Omen Elite-7
Omen Elite-7 Black Ch Burst · Schecter
38 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale673 mm (26.5")
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
The Omen Elite-7 is a solid choice for modern players wanting 7-string capabilities without a premium price tag. The neck profile is a real winner for shredders, and the Diamond Heretics offer a surprisingly versatile range of tones from crunchy rhythm to searing leads. This guitar is perfect for metalheads and progressive rock enthusiasts looking for a reliable workhorse.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for a powerful tone.
- Thin 'C' neck profile is comfortable and fast, ideal for technical playing.
- Diamond Heretic pickups deliver high-output, modern rock and metal tones.
Cons
- Rosewood fretboard can be prone to fret buzz if not properly leveled.
- Burl poplar top, while visually appealing, adds minimal tonal contribution.
67AudioFu
Index
- Demand98
- Lineup26
- Price50
- Specs50
- Maker76
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$764 now

$764€679 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Ibanez RGDRB71 Iron Label
RGDRB71-BKF · Ibanez
22 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale673 mm (26.5")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
This RGDRB71 is a serious contender for modern players—particularly those into progressive metal and djent. The roasted maple neck and DiMarzio pickups offer a fast, aggressive response with great clarity, and the 7-string versatility opens up a whole new world of riffing. It's a well-built instrument offering a lot of performance for the price.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- DiMarzio Activator 7s deliver high-output, modern metal tones.
- Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing surface.
Cons
- Nyatoh body, while functional, lacks the resonance of mahogany or alder.
- Wizard II neck profile can be too thin for players preferring a thicker feel.
67AudioFu
Index
- Demand84
- Lineup26
- Price50
- Specs75
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$1,090 now

$1,090€969 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Ibanez RGIXL7 Iron Label
RGIXL7-BKF · Ibanez
22 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyNyatoh body
This Ibanez RGIXL7 is a shredder's dream – seriously fast and responsive. The Fusion Edge 7 pickups give you that modern, aggressive tone perfect for metal and progressive rock. It's a fantastic option for players wanting 7-string power without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Nitro Wizard neck offers exceptional speed and playability.
- DiMarzio Fusion Edge 7 pickups deliver high-output, modern tones.
- Ebony fretboard provides a smooth, fast playing surface and sustain.
Cons
- Nyatoh body offers decent resonance but isn’t as premium as mahogany.
- Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain compared to set-neck designs.
66AudioFu
Index
- Demand84
- Lineup26
- Price50
- Specs63
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$1,057 now

$1,057€939 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Harley Benton R-457MN LH WH
Harley Benton
Not on Reverb yet14 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
This left-handed R-457MN is a seriously impressive value for the money. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price point, and those pickups have a definite aggressive edge. It's perfect for budding metalheads and rock players looking for a 7-string without a huge investment.
Pros
- Solid poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- Bolt-on maple neck offers snappy response and comfortable, familiar feel.
- Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver thick, aggressive tones ideal for modern metal and rock.
Cons
- ABS nut can be a weak point; upgrading to Tusq or bone is recommended.
- Poplar body, while good, lacks the premium sustain of mahogany or basswood.
64AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup100
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker93
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$190 now

$190€169 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗

All 89 7 string guitars

Sort

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

11
Ibanez RGR762AHBF PrestigeRGR762AHBF-WK · Ibanez

Index 64Stable
64
Stable$1,991€1,769
$1,991€1,769Check ↗
12
Ibanez JBM27 Jake Bowen SignatureJBM27 Jake Bowen · Ibanez

Index 62Stable
62
Stable$1,406€1,249
$1,406€1,249Check ↗
13
Ibanez RG7420EX StandardRG7420EX-BKF · Ibanez

Index 59Stable
59
Stable$683€607
$683€607Check ↗
14
Schecter Sunset 7 ExtremeSunset -7 Extreme SB · Schecter

Index 58Stable
58
Stable$1,281€1,138
$1,281€1,138Check ↗
15
Ibanez UV70P Steve Vai Signature UniverseUV70P-BK · Ibanez

Index 58Stable
58
Stable$1,619€1,439
$1,619€1,439Check ↗
16
Ibanez ICTB721 Iceman Iron LabelICTB721-BKF · Ibanez

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$1,439€1,279
$1,439€1,279Check ↗
17
Solar Guitars A1.7DBOP Black Open PoreSolar Guitars · 6 finishes

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$1,799€1,599
$1,799€1,599Check ↗
18
Ibanez AZ24047 PrestigeAZ24047-BK · Ibanez

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$2,531€2,249
$2,531€2,249Check ↗
19
Ibanez RGDR4327R PrestigeRGDR4327R-NTF · Ibanez

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$2,812€2,499
$2,812€2,499Check ↗
20
Ibanez RG7421EXL Standard Left-HandedRG7421EX-BKF · Ibanez

Index 54↓ 2.8%
54
↓ 2.8%$584€519
$584€519Check ↗
21
Schecter Damien-7 MultiscaleDamien 7 Multiscale SB · Schecter

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$1,045€929
$1,045€929Check ↗
22
ESP LTD JS-7 Baritone Jack Simmons SignatureLTD Jack Simmons JS-7 Baritone · ESP

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$2,418€2,149
$2,418€2,149Check ↗
23
ESP E-II Horizon NT-7B HipshotESP

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$3,375€2,999
$3,375€2,999Check ↗
24
Ibanez RGD7521PBRGD7521PB-DSF · Ibanez

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$899€799
$899€799Check ↗
25
Ibanez RGA217P1PBDRLIbanez

Index 53↓ 20.8%
53
↓ 20.8%$1,426€1,267
$1,426€1,267Check ↗
26
Ibanez RG2027RXL PrestigeRG2027RXL-DTB · Ibanez

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$1,946€1,729
$1,946€1,729Check ↗
27
Solar Guitars A2.7CLN CanibalismoSolar Guitars · 3 finishes

Index 52↓ 5.3%
52
↓ 5.3%$1,012€899
$1,012€899Check ↗
28
Ibanez RGMS7PB-CBSIbanez

Index 49↓ 6.2%
49
↓ 6.2%$685€609
$685€609Check ↗
29
Ibanez A527-NSHIbanez · 2 finishes

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$2,092€1,859
$2,092€1,859Check ↗
30
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted BurstAmarok-7 BKRD Quilted Burst · Harley Benton · 2 finishes

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$618€549
$618€549Check ↗
31
Schecter Hellraiser Hybrid C-7Hellraiser Hybrid C-7 TBB · Schecter

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$1,462€1,299
$1,462€1,299Check ↗
32
Solar Guitars S1.7C+Solar Guitars · 3 finishes

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$1,687€1,499
$1,687€1,499Check ↗
33
Ibanez AZ447P1QM-COBIbanez

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$1,777€1,579
$1,777€1,579Check ↗
34
Ibanez ICWH727 Wes Hauch Signature IcemanICWH727 Wes Hauch · Ibanez

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$10,127€8,999
$10,127€8,999Check ↗
35
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted B w/CaseHarley Benton

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$640€569
$640€569Check ↗
36
Solar Guitars T2.7FBB-Flame Black BurstSolar Guitars

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$1,012€899
$1,012€899Check ↗
37
Ibanez RGD721FA-WUFIbanez

Index 47↓ 1.8%
47
↓ 1.8%$1,214€1,079
$1,214€1,079Check ↗
38
Solar Guitars A1.7FRCLN CanibalismoSolar Guitars

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$1,462€1,299
$1,462€1,299Check ↗
39
Solar Guitars T1.7DBOPSolar Guitars

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$1,799€1,599
$1,799€1,599Check ↗
40
Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin SBKSchecter · 3 finishes

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$1,799€1,599
$1,799€1,599Check ↗
41
Solar Guitars VAR1.7SP Silver SparkleSolar Guitars

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$1,799€1,599
$1,799€1,599Check ↗
42
ESP LTD M-207B DX STBLK SatinESP · 2 finishes

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$719€639
$719€639Check ↗
43
Ibanez QX527PB-ABSIbanez

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$1,339€1,190
$1,339€1,190Check ↗
44
Jackson Pro Signature DD WR7 M FYJackson · 2 finishes

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$1,574€1,399
$1,574€1,399Check ↗
45
Ibanez ICMS721-IPT Iceman w/GBIbanez

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$1,912€1,699
$1,912€1,699Check ↗
46
Ibanez SFS727 Stephan ForteIbanez

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$3,375€2,999
$3,375€2,999Check ↗
47
Ibanez RG8527-BREIbanez

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$3,375€2,999
$3,375€2,999Check ↗
48
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$629€559
$629€559Check ↗
49
Sterling by Music Man John Petrucci JP70 SBKSterling by Music Man · 2 finishes

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$899€799
$899€799Check ↗
50
Hagstrom Krona-7 SBKHagstrom · 3 finishes

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$1,180€1,049
$1,180€1,049Check ↗
51
Sterling by Music Man Kaizen 7 FMPSSterling by Music Man · 2 finishes

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$1,293€1,149
$1,293€1,149Check ↗
52
Solar Guitars A1.7FRCAR Sustainiac+Solar Guitars

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$1,687€1,499
$1,687€1,499Check ↗
53
Solar Guitars A1.7FRBOP Sustainiac+Solar Guitars

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$1,799€1,599
$1,799€1,599Check ↗
54
Harley Benton MultiScale-7 TPBHarley Benton · 2 finishes

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$336€299
$336€299Check ↗
55
Schecter Omen Elite-7 See Blue BurstSchecter

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$730€649
$730€649Check ↗
56
Solar Guitars A2.7Canibalismo+Solar Guitars

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,068€949
$1,068€949Check ↗
57
Jackson Pro MM Jugg HT 7 Sig YellowJackson

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,214€1,079
$1,214€1,079Check ↗
58
Schecter Sunset -7 Extreme Grey GhostSchecter

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,237€1,099
$1,237€1,099Check ↗
59
Jackson Pro MM Jugg HT 7 P CHLRN BRSTJackson

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,349€1,199
$1,349€1,199Check ↗
60
Jackson Pro MM Jugg HT 7 SLVR BLK BRSTJackson

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,349€1,199
$1,349€1,199Check ↗
61
Jackson Pro Series Mark Heylmun RR24-7Jackson

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,349€1,199
$1,349€1,199Check ↗
62
Jackson Pro Corey Beaulieu KV7Q FRJackson

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,564€1,390
$1,564€1,390Check ↗
63
Solar Guitars A1.7ROP-29+Solar Guitars

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,664€1,479
$1,664€1,479Check ↗
64
ESP LTD AW-XJ7B ET OG BLKSESP

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$3,026€2,689
$3,026€2,689Check ↗
65
ESP E-II M-II-7 NT BM HS PUR NT FDESP

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$4,500€3,999
$4,500€3,999Check ↗
66
ESP M7B HT RASPBERRY GH EMGESP

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$6,526€5,799
$6,526€5,799Check ↗
67
Jackson X Series Surfcaster HT7 MET BKJackson

Index 42↓ 1.0%
42
↓ 1.0%$854€759
$854€759Check ↗
68
Jackson Pro Series Josh Smith SL7 ETJackson

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$1,968€1,749
$1,968€1,749Check ↗
69
ESP E-II Horizon FR-7E-II Horizon FR-7 QM BTB · ESP

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$3,825€3,399
$3,825€3,399Check ↗
70
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKNT Flame Bur w/CaseHarley Benton

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$640€569
$640€569Check ↗
71
Cort KX707 Evertune Open Pore BlackCort

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$1,180€1,049
$1,180€1,049Check ↗
72
Epiphone Matt Heafy Les Paul Custom Origins 7-StringMatt Heafy LP Cust. 7 Bone Wh. · Epiphone

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$1,327€1,179
$1,327€1,179Check ↗
73
ESP LTD Arrow-1007B Evertune BlackESP

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$2,081€1,849
$2,081€1,849Check ↗
74
ESP LTD EC-1007B Evertune BlackESP

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$2,306€2,049
$2,306€2,049Check ↗
75
Ibanez HZK1 Hazuki SignatureHZK1 · Ibanez

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$3,037€2,699
$3,037€2,699Check ↗
76
ESP LTD MH-17KIT BLKESP

Index 40↓ 1.2%
40
↓ 1.2%$287€255
$287€255Check ↗
77
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKNT Flame w/BagHarley Benton

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$629€559
$629€559Check ↗
78
Schecter Omen Extreme 7 STBLKSchecter

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$742€659
$742€659Check ↗
79
Schecter Diamond Omen 7 Extreme BCHSchecter

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$742€659
$742€659Check ↗
80
Ibanez RGD71ALMS-BAMIbanez

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$1,270€1,129
$1,270€1,129Check ↗
81
Jackson Pro Plus MDK HT7 GSJackson

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$2,081€1,849
$2,081€1,849Check ↗
82
Schecter Banshee Mach-7 FR S FOBSchecter

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$2,362€2,099
$2,362€2,099Check ↗
83
Legator Ninja N7SS BKLegator

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$899€799
$899€799Check ↗
84
Cort KX507MS Pale Moon EbonyCort

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$955€849
$955€849Check ↗
85
ESP E-II T-B7 Snow WhiteESP

Index 37↓ 1.9%
37
↓ 1.9%$2,925€2,599
$2,925€2,599Check ↗
86
Charvel Pro Mod Plus DK24-7 CLSTL SLKCharvel

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$1,462€1,299
$1,462€1,299Check ↗
87
Music Man Cutlass 7 Jason Richardson KFMusic Man

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$4,613€4,099
$4,613€4,099Check ↗
88
Harley Benton MultiScale-7 TPB BundleHarley Benton

Index 25Stable
25
Stable$348€309
$348€309Check ↗
89
Harley Benton MultiScale-7 BBB BundleHarley Benton

Index 24Stable
24
Stable$348€309
$348€309Check ↗

7 String Guitars by the numbers

Measured across all 126 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $1,270 — half of all 7 string guitars here cost less.

<$200$200–400$400–750$750–1.5k$1.5k–3k$3k–7.5k$7.5k+

Nut width48 mm (1.89")

median of 111 models · 44.5 mm (1.75")–48 mm (1.89")

Scale648 mm (25.51")

median of 101 models · 648 mm (25.51")–686 mm (27.01")

Frets24

median of 58 models · 22–24

Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")

median of 64 models · 305 mm (12.01")–457 mm (17.99")

How to choose the best 7 string guitars

Scale Length

A longer scale length (26.5" or more) is almost mandatory for a 7-string. It helps maintain string tension and prevents that floppy, muddy low-B. Shorter scales will just sound and feel awful, especially when dropping to B standard.

Neck Profile

A comfortable neck is crucial. The wider fretboard can feel cumbersome if the profile isn't right. Look for something that fits your hand - whether you prefer a slim C, a D shape, or something more modern.

Hardware Quality

Cheap tuners and a flimsy bridge will kill your tuning stability, especially when you're dealing with the increased string tension. Upgraded locking tuners are a worthy investment for serious players.

Pickup Voicing

That low B string needs a pickup that can handle it without sounding like mud. High-output pickups are common, but look for something with clarity and articulation - you want that low end to thump, not just rumble.

Construction & Fretwork

A well-built guitar will stay in tune better and feel more comfortable to play. Check the fret ends for sharpness, and make sure there are no buzzing issues up the neck - a sloppy fret job will be amplified on a 7-string.

Buying guide

So, you're looking at a 7-string, huh? Smart move. That extra low B string opens up a whole new world of chugging, extended range riffs, and seriously beefy low-end. But getting the right one isn't as simple as just adding a string - it's about finding an instrument built to handle the demands of that extra tension and low frequency rumble. Let's break down what you need to know.

Don't chase the cheapest 7-string you can find. Those guitars almost always cut corners somewhere - usually in hardware or build quality. A slightly more expensive instrument with decent hardware and a playable neck is going to be a much better investment in the long run.

Consider your tuning style - are you dropping to B standard? That adds even more tension, so a robust neck is essential.

How the AudioFu Index works

Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.

This chart covers 126 7 string guitars from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.

AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.

Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.

Questions

Are 7-strings hard to play?

They require a bit more finger strength and reach, especially when playing lower tunings. It's a learning curve, but not insurmountable - start slow and build up your calluses.

What's the best wood for a 7-string guitar?

Mahogany is a popular choice for its warm low-end response, but maple offers more clarity and brightness. Ultimately, it's more about the overall build and pickup selection than the wood itself.

Do I need to change my amp for a 7-string?

Possibly. That low B string demands more headroom from your amp. You might notice muddiness or clipping if your amp isn't up to the task - a clean, powerful amp is your best bet.

What are the common tunings for 7-string guitars?

Standard tuning is B-F#-B-E-A-D-G. Dropping to B standard (B-F#-B-E-A-D#-G) is extremely common for heavier styles. Experiment and find what works for you.

Are extended range guitars just for metal?

Not at all. While they're popular in metal and djent, the expanded range opens up possibilities for all genres - jazz, progressive rock, even blues if you're feeling adventurous.