AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 7 String Guitars Under $2,000 2026
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 RGR762AHBF Prestige leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 69 models across 12 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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- 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↓ 15.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,278 · Aug 17$1,086 now$1,086€965 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Jackson JS Series JS22-7 DKA HT Dinky Archtop with Amaranth Fretboard
JS22-7 Dinky AH SB · Jackson
34 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale673 mm (26.5")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyPoplar body
This Dinky is a solid entry point into 7-string playing, especially for metal and progressive rock. The bolt-on neck provides a snappy feel, and the pickups deliver a good dose of aggression. It’s a great option for beginners or players on a budget who want a versatile, playable 7-string.
Pros
- Poplar body offers surprisingly good resonance for the price point.
- Maple neck with scarf joint improves upper fret access and stability.
- Jackson humbuckers deliver a crunchy, modern high-gain tone.
Cons
- The poplar body can feel a little less resonant compared to mahogany.
- Amaranth fretboard can be a bit slippery for some players, especially with sweat.
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
- 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 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")
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$764 now$764€679 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,090 now$1,090€969 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,057 now$1,057€939 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
- 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 ↗
All 69 7 string guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Ibanez JBM27 Jake Bowen SignatureJBM27 Jake Bowen · Ibanez62Stable$1,406€1,249$1,406€1,249Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez RG7420EX StandardRG7420EX-BKF · Ibanez59Stable$683€607$683€607Check ↗
- 13
Schecter Sunset 7 ExtremeSunset -7 Extreme SB · Schecter58Stable$1,281€1,138$1,281€1,138Check ↗
- 14
Ibanez UV70P Steve Vai Signature UniverseUV70P-BK · Ibanez58Stable$1,619€1,439$1,619€1,439Check ↗
- 15
Ibanez ICTB721 Iceman Iron LabelICTB721-BKF · Ibanez56Stable$1,439€1,279$1,439€1,279Check ↗
- 16
Solar Guitars A1.7DBOP Black Open PoreSolar Guitars · 6 finishes56Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 17
Ibanez RG7421EXL Standard Left-HandedRG7421EX-BKF · Ibanez54↓ 2.8%$584€519$584€519Check ↗
- 18
Schecter Damien-7 MultiscaleDamien 7 Multiscale SB · Schecter54Stable$1,045€929$1,045€929Check ↗
- 19
Ibanez RGD7521PBRGD7521PB-DSF · Ibanez53Stable$899€799$899€799Check ↗
- 20
Ibanez RGA217P1PBDRLIbanez53↓ 20.8%$1,426€1,267$1,426€1,267Check ↗
- 21
Ibanez RG2027RXL PrestigeRG2027RXL-DTB · Ibanez53Stable$1,946€1,729$1,946€1,729Check ↗
- 22
Solar Guitars A2.7CLN CanibalismoSolar Guitars · 3 finishes52↓ 5.3%$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
- 23
Ibanez RGMS7PB-CBSIbanez49↓ 6.2%$685€609$685€609Check ↗
- 24
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted BurstAmarok-7 BKRD Quilted Burst · Harley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$618€549$618€549Check ↗
- 25
Schecter Hellraiser Hybrid C-7Hellraiser Hybrid C-7 TBB · Schecter48Stable$1,462€1,299$1,462€1,299Check ↗
- 26
Solar Guitars S1.7C+Solar Guitars · 3 finishes48Stable$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
- 27
Ibanez AZ447P1QM-COBIbanez48Stable$1,777€1,579$1,777€1,579Check ↗
- 28
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted B w/CaseHarley Benton47Stable$640€569$640€569Check ↗
- 29
Solar Guitars T2.7FBB-Flame Black BurstSolar Guitars47Stable$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
- 30
Ibanez RGD721FA-WUFIbanez47↓ 1.8%$1,214€1,079$1,214€1,079Check ↗
- 31
Solar Guitars A1.7FRCLN CanibalismoSolar Guitars47Stable$1,462€1,299$1,462€1,299Check ↗
- 32
Solar Guitars VAR1.7SP Silver SparkleSolar Guitars47Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 33
Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin SBKSchecter · 3 finishes47Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 34
Solar Guitars T1.7DBOPSolar Guitars47Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 35
ESP LTD M-207B DX Crimson SatinESP · 2 finishes46Stable$719€639$719€639Check ↗
- 36
Ibanez QX527PB-ABSIbanez46Stable$1,339€1,190$1,339€1,190Check ↗
- 37
Jackson Pro Signature DD WR7 M FYJackson · 2 finishes46Stable$1,574€1,399$1,574€1,399Check ↗
- 38
Ibanez ICMS721-IPT Iceman w/GBIbanez46Stable$1,912€1,699$1,912€1,699Check ↗
- 39
Harley Benton Amarok-7 BKRD Quilted w/BagHarley Benton45Stable$629€559$629€559Check ↗
- 40
Sterling by Music Man John Petrucci JP70 SBKSterling by Music Man · 2 finishes45Stable$899€799$899€799Check ↗
- 41
Hagstrom Krona-7 BCCHagstrom · 3 finishes45Stable$1,180€1,049$1,180€1,049Check ↗
- 42
Sterling by Music Man Kaizen 7 SBKSterling by Music Man · 2 finishes45Stable$1,293€1,149$1,293€1,149Check ↗
- 43
Solar Guitars A1.7FRCAR Sustainiac+Solar Guitars45Stable$1,687€1,499$1,687€1,499Check ↗
- 44
Solar Guitars A1.7FRBOP Sustainiac+Solar Guitars45Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 45
Harley Benton MultiScale-7 TPBHarley Benton · 2 finishes44Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 46
Schecter Omen Elite-7 See Blue BurstSchecter43Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 47
Solar Guitars A2.7Canibalismo+Solar Guitars43Stable$1,068€949$1,068€949Check ↗
- 48
Jackson Pro MM Jugg HT 7 Sig YellowJackson43Stable$1,214€1,079$1,214€1,079Check ↗
- 49
Schecter Sunset -7 Extreme Grey GhostSchecter43Stable$1,237€1,099$1,237€1,099Check ↗
- 50
Jackson Pro Series Mark Heylmun RR24-7Jackson43Stable$1,349€1,199$1,349€1,199Check ↗
7 String Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 103 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,045 — half of all 7 string guitars here cost less.
median of 89 models · 44.5 mm (1.75")–49.5 mm (1.95")
median of 82 models · 648 mm (25.51")–686 mm (27.01")
median of 49 models · 22–24
median of 52 models · 350 mm (13.78")–508 mm (20")
How to choose the best 7 string guitars
Neck Profile
A comfortable neck is crucial, especially when playing lower tunings. You'll be fretting tighter chords and deeper lows, so a neck that feels good for hours is non-negotiable. Look for something that isn't a super-thin shred neck or a chunky vintage profile - a moderate C or D shape is often a good compromise.
Pickup Voicing
7-strings live in a lower register, so pickups need to handle that without getting muddy. You'll want something with clarity and articulation - a bit of high-end sparkle is good, but avoid anything ice-picky. A humbucker set with decent output will be your friend, but listen for that midrange honk that helps you cut through a dense mix.
Hardware Quality
Tuners are essential. Cheap tuners mean constant retuning during gigs - a total pain. Locking tuners are a huge bonus for stability and ease of string changes, but decent standard tuners are acceptable if they hold pitch. The bridge needs to be stable too - avoid anything flimsy that'll warp or break under the tension of those low strings.
Construction & Finish
Solid body construction is preferable, but a well-built laminate can still be decent. Pay attention to fretwork - sharp fret ends are a dealbreaker. The finish doesn't affect tone, but a well-applied finish shows attention to detail and often indicates better overall build quality.
Sustain & Resonance
A 7-string needs to sustain. It's part of the appeal. Look for guitars with a well-set-up neck, a solid wood body (or a good laminate), and a bridge that transfers string vibrations efficiently. This is what gives you those long, singing notes - vital for progressive metal and djent.
Buying guide
Alright, so you want a 7-string without draining your bank account? It's totally doable, but you gotta know what to look for. Forget the shredder fantasy - we're talking about instruments that can actually gig, record, and hold their own without sounding like a cheap toy. This list focuses on getting you serious bang-for-your-buck in the under-$2000 range.
At this price point, you're trading off somewhere. You won't get boutique-level fretwork or exotic woods, but you can get a very playable and capable 7-string. Don't chase the 'looks' - focus on feel and functionality.
A good setup from a qualified tech is absolutely worth the investment - it'll transform a decent guitar into a great one. Be realistic about your needs - if you're just bedroom practicing, you can get away with more compromises than if you're gigging every weekend.
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 103 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 all 7-strings heavy?
Generally, yes. The longer scale and extra hardware add weight. Look for models with lighter woods if portability is a concern, but don't expect miracles.
What's the deal with extended scale lengths?
7-strings typically have a 28.5" scale length or longer. This is needed to keep the low B string from becoming a floppy mess. It affects string tension and feel - be prepared for a slightly different playing experience.
Can I use any pickups in a 7-string?
Technically, yes, but not all pickups are voiced for the low frequencies of a 7-string. High-output humbuckers are common, but make sure they have good clarity to avoid muddiness.
What about neck dive?
Longer necks are more prone to neck dive (the headstock drooping). Check reviews and videos to see if a particular model has this issue, and consider a neck strap with good support.
Is it worth getting a 7-string if I mostly play standard tuning?
Probably not. A 7-string is a specialized tool. If you're not planning on exploring dropped tunings or extended range compositions, you're better off with a 6-string.
