AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 7 String Guitars for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Jackson JS Series JS22-7 DKA HT Dinky Archtop with Amaranth Fretboard ($303). Harley Benton R-457MN LH WH gives you the most for the money at $190. Schecter Omen Elite-7 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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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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$303 now$303€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$190 now$190€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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↓ 2.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$358 · Aug 17$350 now$350€311 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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↓ 3.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$618 · Aug 17$595 now$595€529 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width50.8 mm (2")
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
- BodyPoplar body
This MultiScale-7 is a surprisingly capable instrument for the price. The multi-scale design really shines in keeping the lower strings tight and intonated, and the pickups handle aggressive playing well. It's an excellent choice for budget-conscious players exploring extended-range music like djent or progressive metal, who want a modern feel without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Purple heart fingerboard offers a unique feel and surprisingly snappy response.
- HBZ Custom pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate high-gain tone, versatile for metal.
- Multi-scale design improves intonation and string tension across the extended range.
Cons
- Poplar body, while functional, lacks the resonance of more premium tonewoods.
- Bolt-on neck construction can feel less integrated than set-neck designs.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale647.7 mm (25.5")
- Strings7-string
- BodyBasswood body
The MH-17KIT BLK is a fantastic entry point into 7-string playing. It's lightweight, comfortable, and the pickups surprisingly deliver a lot of punch for the price. Perfect for beginners or players on a budget who want to explore extended range without sacrificing playability.
Pros
- Roasted jatoba fretboard offers excellent stability and a smooth playing feel.
- Thin 'U' neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles.
- LH-100 pickups deliver a surprisingly powerful and versatile modern tone.
Cons
- Passive electronics limit tonal shaping options compared to active systems.
- Basswood, while lightweight, lacks the sustain of mahogany or other denser woods.
40AudioFu
Index↓ 1.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$290 · Aug 17$287 now$287€255 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$742 now$742€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyMeranti body
The RG7421EX-BKF is a solid choice for players wanting a 7-string with serious shred capabilities. The slim neck and powerful pickups make it ideal for modern metal and progressive genres, while the Jatoba fingerboard offers a unique feel. It's a well-built instrument that punches well above its price point, perfect for gigging musicians or aspiring virtuosos.
Pros
- Meranti body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- Wizard II-7 neck profile is incredibly fast and comfortable for extended playing.
- Quantum 7 pickups deliver a high-output, modern tone with good clarity.
Cons
- Matt polyurethane finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while fast, lacks the sustain of a set-neck design.
54AudioFu
Index↓ 2.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$601 · Aug 17$584 now$584€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyMeranti body
The RG7420EX-BKF is a fantastic entry point into the 7-string world. It's built for players who want a shred-friendly neck, powerful pickups, and a tremolo system that can handle aggressive playing—perfect for metalheads and progressive rock enthusiasts on a budget.
Pros
- Meranti body delivers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- Wizard II-7 neck profile is exceptionally fast and comfortable for extended playing.
- Quantum 7@+ pickups offer high output and clarity for modern metal and progressive genres.
Cons
- Matt polyurethane finish, while cool, can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
- Jatoba fretboard, though durable, can feel slightly harder than rosewood or ebony.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$683 now$683€607 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted Burst
Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted Burst · Harley Benton
Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius355.6 mm (14")
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
The Amarok-7 is a seriously impressive offering for the price. It's got a warm, solid foundation from the mahogany, boosted by those EMG pickups for a modern edge. This guitar is a great fit for players who want a 7-string with a premium feel and a versatile range of tones without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end frequencies.
- EMG Retro Active pickups provide high-output, modern aggression.
- Graphite nut ensures excellent tuning stability and sustain.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make the guitar feel somewhat heavy, especially with a tremolo.
- Master volume/tone controls limit tonal shaping flexibility.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$618 now$618€549 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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Harley Benton MultiScale-7 TPB BundleHarley Benton25Stable$348€309$348€309Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted B w/CaseHarley Benton47Stable$640€569$640€569Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton MultiScale-7 BBB BundleHarley Benton24Stable$348€309$348€309Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton45Stable$629€559$629€559Check ↗
- 15
Ibanez RGMS7PB-CBSIbanez49↓ 6.2%$685€609$685€609Check ↗
- 16
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKNT Flame Bur w/CaseHarley Benton41Stable$640€569$640€569Check ↗
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Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKNT Flame w/BagHarley Benton40Stable$629€559$629€559Check ↗
- 18
ESP LTD M-207B DX STBLK SatinESP · 2 finishes46Stable$719€639$719€639Check ↗
- 19
Schecter Omen Elite-7 See Blue BurstSchecter43Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
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Schecter Omen Extreme 7 STBLKSchecter40Stable$742€659$742€659Check ↗
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Schecter Diamond Omen 7 Extreme BCHSchecter40Stable$742€659$742€659Check ↗
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Ibanez RGRB720 Iron LabelRGRB720-BKF · Ibanez77↓ 15.0%$1,086€965$1,086€965Check ↗
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Ibanez K7YIN / K7RGA24M2 James "Munky" Shaffer SignatureK7YIN · Ibanez · 2 finishes71Stable$2,080€1,848$2,080€1,848Check ↗
- 24
Schecter Omen Elite-7Omen Elite-7 Black Ch Burst · Schecter67Stable$764€679$764€679Check ↗
- 25
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 ↗
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Ibanez RGR762AHBF PrestigeRGR762AHBF-WK · Ibanez64Stable$1,991€1,769$1,991€1,769Check ↗
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Ibanez JBM27 Jake Bowen SignatureJBM27 Jake Bowen · Ibanez62Stable$1,406€1,249$1,406€1,249Check ↗
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Schecter Sunset 7 ExtremeSunset -7 Extreme SB · Schecter58Stable$1,281€1,138$1,281€1,138Check ↗
- 30
Ibanez UV70P Steve Vai Signature UniverseUV70P-BK · Ibanez58Stable$1,619€1,439$1,619€1,439Check ↗
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Ibanez ICTB721 Iceman Iron LabelICTB721-BKF · Ibanez56Stable$1,439€1,279$1,439€1,279Check ↗
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Solar Guitars A1.7DBOP Black Open PoreSolar Guitars · 6 finishes56Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
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Ibanez AZ24047 PrestigeAZ24047-BK · Ibanez55Stable$2,531€2,249$2,531€2,249Check ↗
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Ibanez RGDR4327R PrestigeRGDR4327R-NTF · Ibanez55Stable$2,812€2,499$2,812€2,499Check ↗
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Schecter Damien-7 MultiscaleDamien 7 Multiscale SB · Schecter54Stable$1,045€929$1,045€929Check ↗
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ESP LTD JS-7 Baritone Jack Simmons SignatureLTD Jack Simmons JS-7 Baritone · ESP54Stable$2,418€2,149$2,418€2,149Check ↗
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ESP E-II Horizon NT-7B HipshotESP54Stable$3,375€2,999$3,375€2,999Check ↗
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Ibanez RGD7521PBRGD7521PB-DSF · Ibanez53Stable$899€799$899€799Check ↗
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Ibanez RGA217P1PBDRLIbanez53↓ 20.8%$1,426€1,267$1,426€1,267Check ↗
- 40
Ibanez RG2027RXL PrestigeRG2027RXL-DTB · Ibanez53Stable$1,946€1,729$1,946€1,729Check ↗
- 41
Solar Guitars A2.7CLN CanibalismoSolar Guitars · 3 finishes52↓ 5.3%$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
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Ibanez A527-NSHIbanez · 2 finishes49Stable$2,092€1,859$2,092€1,859Check ↗
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Schecter Hellraiser Hybrid C-7Hellraiser Hybrid C-7 TBB · Schecter48Stable$1,462€1,299$1,462€1,299Check ↗
- 44
Solar Guitars S1.7C+Solar Guitars · 3 finishes48Stable$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
- 45
Ibanez AZ447P1QM-COBIbanez48Stable$1,777€1,579$1,777€1,579Check ↗
- 46
Ibanez ICWH727 Wes Hauch Signature IcemanICWH727 Wes Hauch · Ibanez48Stable$10,127€8,999$10,127€8,999Check ↗
- 47
Solar Guitars T2.7FBB-Flame Black BurstSolar Guitars47Stable$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
- 48
Ibanez RGD721FA-WUFIbanez47↓ 1.8%$1,214€1,079$1,214€1,079Check ↗
- 49
Solar Guitars A1.7FRCLN CanibalismoSolar Guitars47Stable$1,462€1,299$1,462€1,299Check ↗
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Solar Guitars T1.7DBOPSolar Guitars47Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
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
A thinner, more comfortable neck profile is crucial for beginners. Fat, shred-style necks can be a real workout, leading to fatigue and hindering your progress. Look for something in the C or D shape - easy to grip and navigate.
Scale Length
26.5" is pretty standard, but a slightly shorter scale (around 26") can make those lower strings easier to fret without excessive tension. It's a trade-off - you lose a tiny bit of low-end thump, but it's often worth it for playability.
Action & Setup
A low action (string height) is key to comfortable playing. Many budget 7-strings ship with high action, making them harder to play. Factor in the cost of a professional setup - it's a huge difference-maker.
Pickup Voicing
Harsh, scooped pickups are common in metal guitars, but they can be unforgiving for a beginner. Look for pickups with a bit more warmth and clarity - something that retains articulation even when you're still developing your technique. That ice-picky top end isn't your friend right now.
Hardware Quality
Tuners are critical. Cheap tuners will make keeping your 7-string in tune a nightmare, especially when downtuning. Decent locking tuners are a worthwhile investment - they make string changes easier too.
Buying guide
So, you're thinking about diving into the 7-string world? Awesome! It opens up a whole new range of low-end possibilities, perfect for modern metal, djent, and even some seriously chunky blues. But jumping into a 7-string as a beginner can be a bit overwhelming - the longer scale length, wider neck, and extra string all add a learning curve. Let's break down some guitars that won't beat you up while you're figuring out those drop A riffs.
Don't chase the looks - focus on playability. A 7-string is inherently more challenging than a 6-string, so starting with a guitar that's easy to handle is vital. Be prepared to spend a little extra on a setup; it's almost always necessary.
And remember, a slightly less flashy guitar that plays well will inspire you to practice more than a gorgeous one that fights you every step of the way.
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
Is a 7-string really worth it for a beginner?
It's a bigger commitment, no doubt. But if you're drawn to the lower tunings and expanded range, it can be incredibly rewarding. Just be patient with the learning curve.
What's the deal with 'extended range' guitars being so heavy?
The longer scale and beefier hardware add weight. It's something to consider if you'll be playing for long periods standing up. A neck strap is essential.
Can I use heavier gauge strings on a 7-string?
Absolutely, but be mindful of the neck's ability to handle the tension. Start with a lighter gauge and gradually increase as your technique improves.
What's the difference between a 7-string and a baritone guitar?
Both offer extended range, but 7-strings generally have a shorter scale than baritone guitars, making them easier to play. Baritones often have a more 'guitar-like' feel overall, but the 7-string is more common in modern metal.
I'm on a budget. What corners are usually cut on cheaper 7-strings?
Typically, you'll find lower-quality tuners, less refined hardware, and potentially a less comfortable neck profile. The pickups often lack clarity and can sound muddy - a good amp might help, but it's still a compromise.
