AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 7 String Guitars for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Ibanez K7YIN / K7RGA24M2 James "Munky" Shaffer Signature ($2,080). Ibanez ICWH727 Wes Hauch Signature Iceman leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 89 models across 13 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,080 now$2,080€1,848 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius430 mm (16.93")
- Strings7-string
This seven-string guitar uses a bright ash body and a comfortable maple and wenge neck. The DiMarzio pickups give it a thick, classic tone while the 24 jumbo frets help you reach high notes easily. It suits players who want a reliable, high-end machine for live gigs without needing heavy customization.
Pros
- Solid ash body provides a bright, resonant tone.
- Wizard-7 neck profile offers comfortable reach for 7 strings.
- Graph Tech Black TUSQ XL nut ensures smooth string action.
Cons
- No listed weight makes balance feel uncertain.
- 24 jumbo frets might feel too large for some.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,991 now$1,991€1,769 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47 mm (1.85")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Strings7-string
- BodyAlder body
This guitar feels solid thanks to the roasted maple neck and jumbo frets. The 7-string setup gives you extra low notes, but the single coils on the top might hum in quiet rooms. It is a high-end choice for players who need that extended range without sacrificing playability.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck offers a stable, bright tone
- Stainless steel jumbo frets provide smooth playability
- Graph Tech Black Tusq nut prevents string rattle
Cons
- Heavy gauge strings may require more finger strength
- Single coil neck and middle pickups attract noise
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,531 now$2,531€2,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale673 mm (26.5")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius430 mm (16.93")
- Strings7-string
This guitar feels solid thanks to the mahogany body and stable bolt-on neck. The richlite top helps it handle humidity well, while the DiMarzio pickups give a tight, aggressive sound perfect for metal. However, the wide nut width might be tough for smaller hands, and the tremolo system is simpler than some competitors. It is a premium-priced workhorse for players who want reliable tone without fuss.
Pros
- Mahogany body gives warm, thick low-end foundation
- Richlite top resists warping in humid conditions
- DiMarzio Fusion Edge 7s deliver tight, modern growl
Cons
- LoPro Edge tremolo may feel less secure than standard systems
- 48mm nut width is very wide for smaller hands
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,812 now$2,812€2,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
ESP LTD JS-7 Baritone Jack Simmons Signature
LTD Jack Simmons JS-7 Baritone · ESP
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar uses a thick mahogany body and a maple neck that goes all the way through the wood. The neck feels very thin and easy to play thanks to its U shape and large radius. It has a long scale length and a wide nut, which might be hard for smaller hands. The bridge lets strings pass through the body for better sustain.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body with maple neck-through-body construction
- Thin U profile neck for fast playability
- Large 400mm radius for comfortable bending
Cons
- No weight is listed in the description
- Nut width of 48mm is very wide
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,418 now$2,418€2,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale685 mm (26.97")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Strings7-string
- BodyAlder body
The E-II Horizon NT-7B Hipshot is a seriously impressive instrument built for modern metal and progressive players. That extended scale and EMG pickup combo deliver a tight, aggressive tone with incredible clarity, and the Hipshot bridge is a game-changer for tuning stability. It's a premium-priced option, but the quality and playability justify the investment for those seeking a high-performance 7-string.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- Thin 'U' neck profile offers comfortable playability across the extended scale
- EMG 81/85 set provides aggressive high-output and versatile tonal options
Cons
- Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications
- Heavier than many guitars due to alder body and hardware
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,375 now$3,375€2,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
- BodyBasswood body
This guitar plays like a solid, modern workhorse. The bolt-on neck feels sturdy, and the 7-string scale keeps the low end tight. However, you only have two knobs to shape your sound. It suits players who want a reliable, fast-playing instrument without needing a full control panel.
Pros
- Fishman Fluence ceramic and Alnico humbuckers deliver clear, modern tone
- Bolt-on 5-piece maple and walnut neck offers sturdy, stable construction
- Multi-scale design accommodates longer 7-string strings without fret buzz
Cons
- Single volume and tone controls lack flexibility for complex tones
- Neck weight is not specified, potentially affecting player comfort
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,092 now$2,092€1,859 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez ICWH727 Wes Hauch Signature Iceman
ICWH727 Wes Hauch · Ibanez
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius430 mm (16.93")
- Strings7-string
This Wes Hauch guitar feels like a big, warm hug with a bright edge. The African mahogany body and flamed maple top work together for a thick, clear sound that cuts through any mix. It suits players who want a heavy, responsive instrument but need to be careful with their hand size due to the long scale.
Pros
- African mahogany body offers deep, resonant warmth.
- Flamed maple top adds bright, cutting high-end sparkle.
- Purpleheart neck provides a unique, rich tone.
Cons
- 27-inch scale length may feel long to smaller hands.
- Only one volume control limits signal shaping options.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 20Aug 20$10,127 now$10,127€8,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets27 frets
- Fingerboard radius430 mm (16.93")
- Strings7-string
This guitar feels like a solid workhorse built for power players. The flamed maple top looks great and the jumbo frets make big chords easy to hit. It suits anyone who needs a thick, loud tone for heavy music. The 7-string layout is great for modern riffs but might feel long on smaller hands.
Pros
- Flamed maple top adds visual beauty and resonance
- Five-piece neck offers stability for large hands
- Seymour Duncan humbuckers deliver thick, powerful tone
Cons
- 7-string scale length may feel long for smaller hands
- Heavy basswood body could feel cumbersome
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,375 now$3,375€2,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
This RG8527-BRE is a serious instrument built for modern metal and progressive players who demand high performance. The Japanese build quality shines through in the feel and responsiveness, and the DiMarzio pickups deliver a powerful, articulate voice. It’s a premium-priced option, but the quality and versatility justify the investment for those seeking a top-tier 7-string.
Pros
- Japanese craftsmanship delivers exceptional build quality and stability.
- DiMarzio PAF 7 pickups offer a thick, aggressive, and articulate tone.
- The maple/wenge neck provides a fast feel and excellent sustain.
Cons
- The African mahogany body can make it somewhat heavy for extended playing sessions.
- The flamed maple top, while beautiful, may not be to everyone's aesthetic preference.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,375 now$3,375€2,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 89 7 string guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Ibanez RG2027RXL PrestigeRG2027RXL-DTB · Ibanez53Stable$1,946€1,729$1,946€1,729Check ↗
- 12
ESP LTD AW-XJ7B ET OG BLKSESP43Stable$3,026€2,689$3,026€2,689Check ↗
- 13
ESP E-II M-II-7 NT BM HS PUR NT FDESP43Stable$4,500€3,999$4,500€3,999Check ↗
- 14
ESP M7B HT RASPBERRY GH EMGESP43Stable$6,526€5,799$6,526€5,799Check ↗
- 15
ESP E-II Horizon FR-7E-II Horizon FR-7 QM BTB · ESP42Stable$3,825€3,399$3,825€3,399Check ↗
- 16
Solar Guitars A1.7DBOP Black Open PoreSolar Guitars · 6 finishes56Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 17
ESP LTD EC-1007B Evertune BlackESP41Stable$2,306€2,049$2,306€2,049Check ↗
- 18
Ibanez HZK1 Hazuki SignatureHZK1 · Ibanez41Stable$3,037€2,699$3,037€2,699Check ↗
- 19
ESP LTD Arrow-1007B Evertune BlackESP41Stable$2,081€1,849$2,081€1,849Check ↗
- 20
Schecter C-7 FR S Apocalypse Red ReignSchecter · 3 finishes43Stable$2,024€1,799$2,024€1,799Check ↗
- 21
Schecter Banshee Mach-7 FR S FOBSchecter40Stable$2,362€2,099$2,362€2,099Check ↗
- 22
Jackson Pro Plus MDK HT7 GSJackson40Stable$2,081€1,849$2,081€1,849Check ↗
- 23
Ibanez ICMS721-IPT Iceman w/GBIbanez46Stable$1,912€1,699$1,912€1,699Check ↗
- 24
Solar Guitars S1.7APP Poplar Purple BurstSolar Guitars · 3 finishes46Stable$1,912€1,699$1,912€1,699Check ↗
- 25
ESP E-II T-B7 Snow WhiteESP37↓ 1.9%$2,925€2,599$2,925€2,599Check ↗
- 26
Jackson Pro Series Josh Smith SL7 ETJackson42Stable$1,968€1,749$1,968€1,749Check ↗
- 27
Music Man Cutlass 7 Jason Richardson KFMusic Man36Stable$4,613€4,099$4,613€4,099Check ↗
- 28
Ibanez UV70P Steve Vai Signature UniverseUV70P-BK · Ibanez58Stable$1,619€1,439$1,619€1,439Check ↗
- 29
Solar Guitars T1.7DBOPSolar Guitars47Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 30
Solar Guitars VAR1.7SP Silver SparkleSolar Guitars47Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 31
Ibanez AZ447P1QM-COBIbanez48Stable$1,777€1,579$1,777€1,579Check ↗
- 32
Solar Guitars A1.7FRBOP Sustainiac+Solar Guitars45Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 33
Solar Guitars A1.7FRCAR Sustainiac+Solar Guitars45Stable$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
- 34
Jackson Pro Signature DD WR7 EB FRDJackson · 2 finishes46Stable$1,619€1,439$1,619€1,439Check ↗
- 35
Solar Guitars A1.7ROP-29+Solar Guitars43Stable$1,664€1,479$1,664€1,479Check ↗
- 36
Jackson Pro Corey Beaulieu KV7Q FRJackson43Stable$1,564€1,390$1,564€1,390Check ↗
- 37
Ibanez RGRB720 Iron LabelRGRB720-BKF · Ibanez77↓ 15.0%$1,086€965$1,086€965Check ↗
- 38
Jackson JS Series JS22-7 DKA HT Dinky Archtop with Amaranth FretboardJS22-7 RR Satin Black · Jackson · 3 finishes73Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 39
Ibanez GRG7221QA GioGRG7221QA-TKS · Ibanez73↓ 2.2%$350€311$350€311Check ↗
- 40
Ibanez RGA742FM StandardRGA742EX-BAM · Ibanez · 2 finishes71↓ 3.6%$595€529$595€529Check ↗
- 41
Schecter Omen Elite-7Omen Elite-7 Charcoal · Schecter67Stable$742€659$742€659Check ↗
- 42
Schecter Omen Elite-7Omen Elite-7 Black Ch Burst · Schecter67Stable$764€679$764€679Check ↗
- 43
Ibanez RGDRB71 Iron LabelRGDRB71-BKF · Ibanez67Stable$1,090€969$1,090€969Check ↗
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Ibanez RGIXL7 Iron LabelRGIXL7-BKF · Ibanez66Stable$1,057€939$1,057€939Check ↗
- 45
Harley Benton R-457MN LH WHHarley Benton · 14 finishes64Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 46
Ibanez JBM27 Jake Bowen SignatureJBM27 Jake Bowen · Ibanez62Stable$1,406€1,249$1,406€1,249Check ↗
- 47
Ibanez RG7420EX StandardRG7420EX-BKF · Ibanez59Stable$683€607$683€607Check ↗
- 48
Schecter Sunset 7 ExtremeSunset -7 Extreme SB · Schecter58Stable$1,281€1,138$1,281€1,138Check ↗
- 49
Ibanez ICTB721 Iceman Iron LabelICTB721-BKF · Ibanez56Stable$1,439€1,279$1,439€1,279Check ↗
- 50
Ibanez RG7421EXL Standard Left-HandedRG7421EX-BKF · Ibanez54↓ 2.8%$584€519$584€519Check ↗
7 String Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 126 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,270 — half of all 7 string guitars here cost less.
median of 111 models · 44.5 mm (1.75")–48 mm (1.89")
median of 101 models · 648 mm (25.51")–686 mm (27.01")
median of 58 models · 22–24
median of 64 models · 305 mm (12.01")–457 mm (17.99")
How to choose the best 7 string guitars
Neck Profile & Playability
Forget the 'comfortable' marketing - we're talking about a neck that allows for complex legato runs, wide stretches, and effortless access to those high notes without fatigue. A thin, fast neck is great for speed, but a slightly thicker profile can offer better control for intricate chord voicings and aggressive picking. It's a feel thing, pure and simple.
Hardware Quality (Tuning Stability)
Seriously, a 7-string is already a tuning challenge. Cheap locking tuners? Forget about it. You'll spend more time tuning than playing. We're looking for reliable, precise hardware that holds its intonation under the stress of drop tunings and heavy playing.
Pickup Voicing & Dynamics
That low B string isn't just for chugging; it's for adding depth and texture. The pickups need to articulate clearly without getting muddy. We want a balance - enough low-end thump to be authoritative, but with enough clarity to retain individual note definition, especially when layering with other instruments.
Construction & Resonance
A 7-string puts more stress on the instrument. Cheaper builds will flex and buzz, killing sustain and clarity. We're looking for solid construction - a well-set neck, stable bridge, and a body that resonates with a focused, musical tone, not just a hollow thud.
Scale Length & String Tension
The longer scale length is crucial for maintaining proper intonation on the low strings. But longer scale also means higher string tension. Finding the right balance - enough tension to avoid floppiness, but not so much that it makes the guitar unplayable - is key.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're past the beginner shred phase and actually want to use that 7th string. It's more than just low notes; it's about expanding your harmonic palette and demanding a guitar that can handle the complexity. This isn't a list for noodle-ers; these are axes built for players who understand the nuances of extended range instruments and the demands of a serious gig or studio session.
Don't be fooled by flashy aesthetics. A 7-string is an investment. Cheap ones often cut corners on hardware and construction, leading to tuning instability and a lifeless tone.
Paying more usually gets you better hardware, a more stable neck, and a more resonant body - all things that directly impact your playing experience and your tone. Consider your playing style - are you a djenter? A progressive metal shredder?
That dictates the kind of neck profile and pickup voicing you'll appreciate.
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-string guitars hard to learn?
They require more finger strength and coordination, especially when navigating the lower register. But if you've mastered a 6-string, the learning curve isn't insurmountable - it's more about adapting your technique and expanding your musical vocabulary.
What gauge strings should I use?
It depends on your tuning and preferred tension, but generally, you'll be looking at heavier gauges - 50-56 gauge is a good starting point. Experiment to find what feels comfortable and provides good intonation.
Do I need a special amp for a 7-string?
Not necessarily, but a good amp with plenty of headroom will help. Low B strings can quickly overload a small, underpowered amp. Look for something with a clean, articulate tone and the ability to handle low frequencies without muddiness.
What's the deal with fan-fret 7-strings?
Fan fret designs allow for a shorter scale length on the higher strings and a longer scale length on the low strings, improving playability and intonation. They can be trickier to restring and might require some adjustment to get used to, but the benefits are often worth it.
Can I use my existing 6-string pedals with a 7-string?
Absolutely! Your overdrive, delay, and reverb will work just fine. The 7-string expands your tonal palette, not changes how you use effects.





