AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 7 String Guitars for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Jackson JS Series JS22-7 DKA HT Dinky Archtop with Amaranth Fretboard ($298). Harley Benton R-457MN LH WH gives you the most for the money at $189. Ibanez RG7420EX Standard leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 87 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 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 KV Satin Black · Jackson
36 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale673 mm (26.5")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyPoplar body
You get a King V style 7-string guitar with a poplar body, a bolt-on maple neck and two high-output humbuckers. It suits you if you want a 7-string with a long 26.5 inch scale and 24 jumbo frets. Expect a simple control layout with just volume, tone and a 3-way switch.
Pros
- Poplar body with a bolt-on maple neck and amaranth fingerboard
- Two Jackson high-output 7-string humbuckers for heavy playing
- 24 jumbo frets with pearloid piranha tooth inlays
Cons
- Only volume, tone and a 3-way toggle switch for controls
- Ships without a case or bag
77AudioFu
Index↓ 7.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$323 · Aug 17$298 now$298€267 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$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyPoplar body
This is a 7-string electric guitar with a poplar body, a quilted maple top, and a maple neck. It has two Infinity R humbuckers, a 648 mm scale, and 24 Jumbo frets, so it suits you if you want to play lower tunings and want plenty of frets to work with. It has a black-hardware, transparent black sunburst look that many players will like.
Pros
- Quilted maple top over a poplar body gives it a striking look
- Maple neck paired with a New Zealand pine fretboard
- Two Infinity R humbuckers with an F107 bridge
73AudioFu
Index↓ 2.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$355 · Aug 17$347 now$347€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 is a seven-string electric guitar with a Meranti body, a maple neck and a jatoba fingerboard. You get two Quantum 7 humbuckers, a volume and tone control, and a 5-way switch, so you can pick from several pickup combinations. It suits you if you want a seven-string guitar with a 25.5" scale and 24 jumbo frets.
Pros
- Meranti body with a bolt-on 3-piece maple neck
- Jatoba fingerboard with white off-set dot inlays
- Two Quantum 7 humbucker pickups with a 5-way switch
Cons
- Plastic nut rather than a bone or metal nut
71AudioFu
Index↓ 3.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$613 · Aug 17$591 now$591€529 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width50.8 mm (2")
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardPurpleheart fingerboard
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.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$334 now$334€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$288 · Aug 17$285 now$285€255 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$596 · Aug 17$579 now$579€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.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$678 now$678€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$613 now$613€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width50.8 mm (2")
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardPurpleheart fingerboard
This Harley Benton MultiScale-7 is a seriously impressive package for the price. The multi-scale design and custom pickups really set it apart, offering a surprisingly versatile sound from modern metal to djent. It's perfect for players wanting a 7-string experience without the premium-priced tag – especially those who appreciate a comfortable neck and a bit of visual flair.
Pros
- Burled maple top adds visual flair and slight resonance.
- Okoume/Nato neck provides a comfortable, stable playing platform.
- HBZ Custom Wound pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate high-gain tone.
Cons
- Poplar body can feel a little 'soft' and prone to dents with heavier use.
- Bolt-on neck construction lacks the sustain of a set-neck design.
26AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$345 now$345€309 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 87 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 BBB BundleHarley Benton26Stable$345€309$345€309Check ↗
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Schecter Diamond Omen 7 Extreme BCHSchecter47↓ 15.8%$620€555$620€555Check ↗
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Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted B w/CaseHarley Benton47Stable$635€569$635€569Check ↗
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Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton45Stable$624€559$624€559Check ↗
- 15
Ibanez RGMS7PB-CBSIbanez49↓ 6.2%$680€609$680€609Check ↗
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Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKNT Flame Bur w/CaseHarley Benton41Stable$635€569$635€569Check ↗
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Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKNT Flame w/BagHarley Benton40Stable$624€559$624€559Check ↗
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ESP LTD M-207B DX STBLK SatinESP · 2 finishes46Stable$713€639$713€639Check ↗
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Schecter Omen Elite-7 See Blue BurstSchecter43Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
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Ibanez RGRB720 Iron LabelRGRB720-BKF · Ibanez77↓ 15.0%$1,077€965$1,077€965Check ↗
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Ibanez K7YIN / K7RGA24M2 James "Munky" Shaffer SignatureK7YIN · Ibanez · 2 finishes72Stable$2,063€1,848$2,063€1,848Check ↗
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Schecter Omen Elite-7Omen Elite-7 Black Ch Burst · Schecter70Stable$758€679$758€679Check ↗
- 23
Ibanez RGDRB71 Iron LabelRGDRB71-BKF · Ibanez68Stable$1,082€969$1,082€969Check ↗
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Schecter Omen Elite-7Omen Elite-7 Charcoal · Schecter66Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
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Ibanez RGIXL7 Iron LabelRGIXL7-BKF · Ibanez66Stable$1,048€939$1,048€939Check ↗
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Ibanez RGR762AHBF PrestigeRGR762AHBF-WK · Ibanez64Stable$1,975€1,769$1,975€1,769Check ↗
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Solar Guitars A1.7LN Canibalismo+Solar Guitars · 6 finishes61↓ 18.5%$1,227€1,099$1,227€1,099Check ↗
- 28
Ibanez JBM27 Jake Bowen SignatureJBM27 Jake Bowen · Ibanez60Stable$1,395€1,249$1,395€1,249Check ↗
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Solar Guitars A2.7CSolar Guitars · 3 finishes59↓ 16.7%$744€666$744€666Check ↗
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Ibanez UV70P Steve Vai Signature UniverseUV70P-BK · Ibanez58Stable$1,607€1,439$1,607€1,439Check ↗
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Schecter Sunset 7 ExtremeSunset -7 Extreme SB · Schecter55Stable$1,271€1,138$1,271€1,138Check ↗
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Ibanez RGA217P1PBDRLIbanez55↓ 20.8%$1,415€1,267$1,415€1,267Check ↗
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Ibanez RG2027RXL PrestigeRG2027RXL-DTB · Ibanez55Stable$1,930€1,729$1,930€1,729Check ↗
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Ibanez AZ24047 PrestigeAZ24047-BK · Ibanez55Stable$2,511€2,249$2,511€2,249Check ↗
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ESP E-II Horizon NT-7B HipshotESP55Stable$3,348€2,999$3,348€2,999Check ↗
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Ibanez ICTB721 Iceman Iron LabelICTB721-BKF · Ibanez54Stable$1,428€1,279$1,428€1,279Check ↗
- 37
ESP LTD JS-7 Baritone Jack Simmons SignatureLTD Jack Simmons JS-7 Baritone · ESP53Stable$2,399€2,149$2,399€2,149Check ↗
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Schecter Damien-7 MultiscaleDamien 7 Multiscale SB · Schecter52Stable$1,037€929$1,037€929Check ↗
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Ibanez RGD7521PBRGD7521PB-DSF · Ibanez51Stable$892€799$892€799Check ↗
- 40
Ibanez RGDR4327R PrestigeRGDR4327R-NTF · Ibanez51Stable$2,790€2,499$2,790€2,499Check ↗
- 41
Ernie Ball Music Man Jason Richardson Signature Cutlass HT 7Cutlass 7 Jason Richardson KF · Music Man51Stable$4,577€4,099$4,577€4,099Check ↗
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Ibanez A527-NSHIbanez · 2 finishes49Stable$2,076€1,859$2,076€1,859Check ↗
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Solar Guitars S1.7C+Solar Guitars · 3 finishes48Stable$1,674€1,499$1,674€1,499Check ↗
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Ibanez AZ447P1QM-COBIbanez48Stable$1,763€1,579$1,763€1,579Check ↗
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Ibanez ICWH727 Wes Hauch Signature IcemanICWH727 Wes Hauch · Ibanez48Stable$10,047€8,999$10,047€8,999Check ↗
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Solar Guitars T2.7FBB-Flame Black BurstSolar Guitars47Stable$1,004€899$1,004€899Check ↗
- 47
Ibanez RGD721FA-WUFIbanez47↓ 1.8%$1,205€1,079$1,205€1,079Check ↗
- 48
Solar Guitars A1.7FRCLN CanibalismoSolar Guitars47Stable$1,450€1,299$1,450€1,299Check ↗
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Solar Guitars T1.7DBOPSolar Guitars47Stable$1,785€1,599$1,785€1,599Check ↗
- 50
Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin SBKSchecter · 3 finishes47Stable$1,785€1,599$1,785€1,599Check ↗
7 String Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 124 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,227 — half of all 7 string guitars here cost less.
median of 108 models · 44.5 mm (1.75")–49.5 mm (1.95")
median of 102 models · 648 mm (25.51")–686 mm (27.01")
median of 59 models · 22–24
median of 66 models · 350 mm (13.78")–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 124 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.





