Best 7 String Guitars for Advanced 2026
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.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 7 string guitars in 2026 are Music Man Cutlass 7 Jason Richardson KF (top pick), ESP LTD Arrow-1007B Evertune Black for tighter budgets, and ESP E-II Horizon NT-7B Hipshot for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $1,824–$4,508, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
2/10
Music Man Cutlass 7 Jason Richardson KF
by
Music Man
Modern Rock
Extended Range
Djent
Key Feature:
Jason Richardson's Cutlass 7 is a seriously impressive instrument—a modern metal machine with surprising versatility. The roasted maple neck and high-output pickups make it ideal for progressive metal and djent players, but the coil-splitting feature opens up a surprising range of clean tones. It's a premium-priced axe, but the build quality and playability justify the investment for the right player.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and feel.
- • Custom 7 humbuckers deliver a tight, modern high-gain tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience.
- • Floating tremolo allows for expressive vibrato without tuning instability.
CONS
- • The light ash body can make it a bit headstock-heavy.
- • Kokiri Forest finish, while striking, might not appeal to all players.
- • High-end price point puts it out of reach for many.
⭐
4.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 598344
$4,509
#2
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
ESP LTD Arrow-1007B Evertune Black
by
ESP
Extended Range
Djent
Progressive Rock
Key Feature:
The Arrow-1007B is a seriously impressive baritone 7-string. The Evertune system is a game-changer for locking in drop tunings, and the Fluence pickups offer a surprisingly versatile palette – from tight modern metal to surprisingly warm cleans. This is a great option for progressive metal players or anyone wanting to explore the lower registers with a comfortable and well-built instrument.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for a powerful low-end.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups deliver exceptional clarity and a wide range of tones.
- • Evertune bridge ensures consistent tuning stability, even with aggressive playing.
- • Extra Thin U neck profile promotes fast, comfortable playing, especially for extended sessions.
CONS
- • The extended scale length (27") might feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- • Mahogany body contributes to a potentially heavier instrument; neck dive could be an issue.
- • Limited pickup switching options compared to some other 7-string guitars in its class.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 584657
$2,089
#3
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
ESP E-II Horizon NT-7B Hipshot
by
ESP
Extended Range
Progressive Rock
Jazz Fusion
Key Feature:
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
- • Hipshot bridge enhances tuning stability and allows for easy string changes
CONS
- • Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications
- • Heavier than many guitars due to alder body and hardware
- • Active pickups may not appeal to players preferring passive electronics
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 593757
$3,299
#4
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
3/10
ESP E-II Horizon FR-7 QM BTB
by
ESP
Jazz Fusion
Modern Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
This E-II Horizon FR-7 is a serious instrument built for modern metal and progressive players. The combination of mahogany, quilted maple, and those EMG pickups delivers a powerful, articulate sound with incredible sustain. It’s a step up from entry-level 7-strings, offering professional-grade quality and playability at a premium-priced point.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides excellent sustain and warmth.
- • Quilted maple top adds stunning visual appeal and clarity.
- • EMG 57/66 set delivers high-output, modern aggressive tones.
- • Gotoh locking tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability.
CONS
- • The extended scale length (648mm) might be uncomfortable for players with smaller hands.
- • Mahogany body contributes to a relatively heavy instrument.
- • Limited tonal flexibility compared to coil-splitting or more versatile pickup configurations.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 434445
$3,739
#5
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
ESP LTD SN1007 Baritone HT Fire
by
ESP
Progressive Rock
Extended Range
Metal
Key Feature:
This SN1007 is a serious instrument for players diving into extended range music. The baritone scale really lets those low notes breathe, and the Fluence pickups offer a surprisingly wide palette of tones, from tight and modern to warm and vintage. It's a premium-priced option built for progressive metal, djent, and anything that needs a thunderous low end.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers resonant, articulate low-end response.
- • Roasted maple/purpleheart neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups provide versatile, high-output tonal options.
- • Hipshot bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain for extended range.
CONS
- • Baritone scale limits versatility for standard tuning applications.
- • The thin 'U' neck profile may not suit players preferring a thicker feel.
- • Swamp ash body, while resonant, can be prone to finish checking.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 584689
$2,199
#6
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Schecter Banshee Mach-7 Evertune FOB
by
Schecter
Extended Range
Modern Rock
Progressive Rock
Key Feature:
This Banshee Mach-7 Evertune is a serious instrument for players who want a modern, high-performance 7-string. The Evertune system is a game-changer for live performance or anyone who hates constantly tuning, and those Lundgren pickups just scream. It's ideal for metalheads, progressive players, or anyone wanting a shred-ready axe.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers resonant, balanced tone with excellent sustain
- • Lundgren M7 pickups offer high-output, articulate performance, great for modern genres
- • Roasted maple/purpleheart neck is exceptionally stable and fast playing
- • Evertune bridge guarantees consistent tuning, even with aggressive playing
CONS
- • The ultra-thin neck profile might not suit players preferring a thicker feel
- • Flamed maple top, while visually appealing, adds to the guitar's overall weight
- • The compound radius fretboard may take some getting used to for traditionalists
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 518369
$2,199
#7
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
ESP LTD EC-1007B Evertune Black
by
ESP
Metal
Progressive Rock
Modern Rock
Key Feature:
The EC-1007B is a seriously impressive 7-string, built for modern metal and progressive players. The Evertune system is a game-changer for tuning stability, and the Fluence pickups cover a surprising amount of ground. It’s a premium-priced instrument that delivers pro-level performance and feel.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides rich, warm sustain and a balanced tonal foundation.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups deliver versatile, high-output tones with excellent clarity.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees perfect tuning stability, even with heavy riffing.
- • Thin 'U' neck profile offers comfortable playability and fast access across the fretboard.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction contributes to a noticeably heavier overall instrument.
- • Macassar ebony fingerboard can be prone to dryness, requiring occasional maintenance.
- • The push/pull tone control limits tonal shaping compared to more traditional setups.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 584621
$2,177
#8
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars S1.7APP Poplar Purple Burst
Metal
Progressive Rock
Jazz Fusion
Key Feature:
This S1.7APP is a seriously impressive 7-string – the build quality is top-notch, and those Fishman pickups give you a huge range of tones from aggressive modern metal to surprisingly clean voicings. It's a great choice for progressive metal players and anyone wanting a 7-string with exceptional tuning stability and a premium feel, though the weight might be a factor.
PROS
- • Mahogany/Poplar construction delivers a warm, resonant, and articulate tone.
- • Fishman Fluence Modern pickups offer incredible versatility and high-output clarity.
- • Evertune bridge ensures exceptional tuning stability under heavy playing.
- • Ebony fretboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
CONS
- • The poplar burl top, while beautiful, can be prone to minor cosmetic imperfections.
- • Mahogany body contributes to a relatively heavy feel, potentially tiring for some players.
- • The 'C' neck profile might not suit players preferring a flatter or thicker neck.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 530308
$1,869
#9
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
ESP LTD AW-XJ7B ET OG BLKS
by
ESP
Jazz Fusion
Djent
Progressive Rock
Key Feature:
This AW-XJ7B is a serious instrument built for modern metal and progressive players. The extended scale really allows those low frequencies to sing, while the Evertune keeps things locked in. It’s a premium-priced option that delivers a lot of performance and a unique voice.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers resonant, articulate low-end response.
- • Evertune bridge maintains tuning stability under heavy baritone use.
- • Thin 'U' neck profile promotes fast, comfortable playing across 27” scale.
- • Dimarzio D-Activator 7 pickups offer a modern, high-output sound.
CONS
- • Swamp ash construction can make it somewhat prone to finish checking.
- • 27” scale necessitates heavier gauge strings, potentially limiting versatility.
- • Black open grain satin finish shows every fingerprint and requires diligent care.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 608688
$2,958
#10
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
ESP E-II T-B7 Black Satin
by
ESP
Metal
Progressive Rock
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This E-II T-B7 is a seriously well-built 7-string, purpose-built for modern metal and progressive rock. The neck-thru design and EMG pickups deliver a powerful, focused tone, and the hardware is top-notch. It's a premium-priced instrument perfect for players who demand quality and aggressive tones without going full custom shop.
PROS
- • Neck-thru construction provides exceptional sustain and upper fret access
- • EMG 707/81-7 combo delivers aggressive, articulate high-gain tones
- • Ebony fretboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and note clarity
- • TonePros bridge ensures reliable tuning stability and intonation
CONS
- • The thin 'U' neck profile might not suit players preferring a thicker feel
- • Alder body, while resonant, contributes to a potentially heavier instrument
- • The active pickups require a power source, limiting versatility with passive amps
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 458164
$2,914
#11
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Schecter Banshee Mach-7 FR S FOB
by
Schecter
Progressive Rock
Jazz Fusion
Djent
Key Feature:
This Banshee Mach-7 is a serious instrument for players who want a modern, high-performance 7-string. The combination of the swamp ash, powerful Lundgren pickup, and Sustainiac system creates a unique and versatile platform for metal, progressive rock, and experimental music – it’s a real beast of a guitar.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers a resonant, articulate tone with excellent sustain
- • Lundgren M7 bridge pickup provides aggressive high-output performance
- • Carbon rods reinforce the neck, minimizing warp and improving stability
- • Sustainiac neck pickup offers unique, built-in infinite sustain possibilities
CONS
- • The ultra-thin inUin neck profile might not suit players preferring a thicker feel
- • Swamp ash can be prone to finish checking with aggressive tremolo use
- • Limited tonal versatility due to the single volume/tone control setup
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 487232
$2,309
#12
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
ESP E-II T-B7 Snow White
by
ESP
Djent
Extended Range
Modern Rock
Key Feature:
The E-II T-B7 Snow White is a serious instrument built for players who demand high performance. Its neck-thru design and active pickups deliver a modern, aggressive tone that cuts through any mix. This is a fantastic choice for progressive metal players or anyone who wants a premium 7-string experience without the extreme price tag of the flagship ESP models.
PROS
- • Neck-thru construction delivers exceptional sustain and a smooth upper fret access.
- • EMG 707/81-7 combo provides aggressive, high-output active tones for metal and beyond.
- • Ebony fretboard offers a fast, slick playing surface and a refined aesthetic.
- • Gotoh locking tuners and Tonepros bridge ensure tuning stability and reliable intonation.
CONS
- • Active pickups may not appeal to players seeking a more vintage or nuanced tone.
- • The extended scale length can be a challenge for players with smaller hands.
- • Snow White finish, while striking, may show every fingerprint and scratch.
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 413304
$2,914
#13
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Schecter Reaper - 7 Elite Blood Burst
by
Schecter
Modern Rock
Extended Range
Jazz Fusion
Key Feature:
This Reaper - 7 Elite is a serious instrument built for modern players. The multi-scale design and high-output pickups really shine for progressive metal and djent, while the mahogany top adds a touch of warmth. It's a premium-priced option that delivers a lot of performance for the money, especially if you’re after a shred-ready 7-string.
PROS
- • Khaya mahogany body delivers rich, resonant low-end frequencies.
- • Wenge neck-through provides exceptional sustain and balance.
- • San Andreas pickups offer high-output, articulate modern metal tones.
- • Multi-scale design optimizes string tension across all seven strings.
CONS
- • Ultra-thin C neck might not suit players preferring a thicker profile.
- • Ebony fingerboard can be prone to dryness requiring occasional maintenance.
- • Blood Burst finish, while striking, may not appeal to all tastes.
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 613609
$1,979
#14
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
6/10
Jackson Pro Series Josh Smith SL7 ET
by
Jackson
Jazz Fusion
Modern Rock
Extended Range
Key Feature:
Josh Smith’s signature SL7 ET is a serious instrument for modern players. The neck-through design and Bare Knuckle pickups deliver incredible sustain and a high-output, articulate tone, perfect for shredders and those needing a versatile 7-string for progressive metal and fusion. It’s a premium-priced offering that truly delivers on its promise of high-performance.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Bare Knuckle Impulse pickups offer a searing, articulate high-gain voice.
- • Caramelized maple neck-through design provides exceptional access and sustain.
- • EverTune bridge ensures reliable tuning stability and easy intonation adjustments.
CONS
- • Aquamarine finish might be polarizing for players seeking a more subtle aesthetic.
- • Ebony fingerboard can feel slick for some players, requiring adjustment or additives.
- • Neck-through construction can slightly increase overall guitar weight.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 562645
$1,825
#15
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars S1.7APB Poplar Burle
Jazz Fusion
Metal
Djent
Key Feature:
The S1.7APB is a seriously impressive instrument, offering a premium feel and tone at a competitive price point. That Evertune system is a game-changer for stability, and the Fishman pickups deliver a wide range of tones—from tight, modern sounds to thick, saturated leads. This guitar is perfect for progressive metal players and anyone seeking a high-performance 7-string with a unique aesthetic.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant foundation.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups offer exceptional clarity and versatility.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees stable tuning under any playing condition.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a fast, smooth playing experience.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can make it somewhat heavier than lighter guitars.
- • Poplar burl top is visually striking, but may have minor figuring variations.
- • The longer 26.5 in scale can feel unwieldy for players with smaller hands.
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 603550
$1,869
How to Choose the Best 7 String Guitars
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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 This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 15 7 string guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
Absolutely! Your overdrive, delay, and reverb will work just fine. The 7-string expands your tonal palette, not changes how you use effects.
