Best Fanfret Guitars for Advanced 2026
So, you're looking at fanfret guitars? Good. You're not satisfied with the status quo, and you're probably chasing something beyond just a wider reach - you want a different feel, different harmonic complexity. But fanfret isn't a magic bullet; it's a tool, and it's got a learning curve. This isn't for the bedroom beginner; we're talking about guitars for players who already know their way around the fretboard and are ready to push their playing further.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best fanfret guitars in 2026 are Strandberg Boden Prog NX 6 Plini Edition (top pick), Strandberg Boden Original NX 7 Charcoal for tighter budgets, and Strandberg Boden Prog NX 7 Deep Blue for pros — selected from 15 options across 2 brands, priced $2,198–$3,188, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Strandberg Boden Prog NX 6 Plini Edition
by
Strandberg
Progressive Metal
Modern Design
Comfortable Performance
Key Feature:
This Boden Prog NX is a seriously well-made instrument, clearly designed for modern progressive playing. The multiscale design really opens up the tonal possibilities, and the Suhr pickups are a winning combination for clean clarity and searing high-gain sounds. It's ideal for players who want a versatile, high-performance guitar with a unique aesthetic.
PROS
- • Exceptional build quality with tight fretwork and solid hardware.
- • Suhr pickups deliver a versatile, articulate, and powerful tone.
- • The multiscale design enhances clarity and intonation across the extended range.
- • Plini's signature moon inlays add a unique aesthetic and personalized touch.
CONS
- • The mahogany body can contribute to a relatively heavy feel, especially with hardware.
- • The Richlite fingerboard, while durable, lacks the traditional feel of rosewood.
- • The EGS Rev 7 tremolo system has a learning curve for some players.
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 553434
$3,189
#2
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Strandberg Boden Original NX 7 Charcoal
by
Strandberg
Technical Music
Ergonomic Playing
Comfortable Performance
Key Feature:
This Boden NX 7 is a serious instrument for the modern player. The fan fret system makes those low strings surprisingly accessible, and the Fluence pickups give you a huge sonic palette, from glassy cleans to aggressive high-gain tones. It's a fantastic choice for progressive rock, metal, or anyone who wants a comfortable, high-performance 7-string.
PROS
- • Swamp ash chambering delivers surprising resonance and comfortable stage weight.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups offer a versatile range of modern and vintage tones.
- • The fan fret design drastically improves playability across the extended range.
- • Strandberg’s EGS Rev 7 bridge provides exceptional tuning stability and sustain.
CONS
- • The unique fan fret design takes some getting used to for traditional players.
- • Birdseye maple fretboard can feel slightly rough compared to smoother options.
- • The premium-priced tag puts it out of reach for many aspiring players.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 517278
$2,749
#3
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Strandberg Boden Prog NX 7 Deep Blue
by
Strandberg
Comfortable Performance
Progressive Metal
Technical Music
Key Feature:
The Boden Prog NX 7 is a beast of a guitar – seriously modern and incredibly playable. The fan fret design really opens up the sonic possibilities on a 7-string, and the Fishman pickups handle everything from soaring leads to chunky rhythms. This is a top-tier instrument ideal for progressive metal, fusion, and players wanting a unique, high-performance experience.
PROS
- • Swamp Ash body delivers resonant, balanced tone with excellent sustain.
- • Carbon-reinforced roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and feel.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups offer versatile tonal options from aggressive to articulate.
- • EGS Rev7B tremolo system provides smooth, controlled vibrato without tuning instability.
CONS
- • Headless design takes getting used to for traditional players; intonation can be tricky initially.
- • The Deep Blue finish, while striking, might be a fingerprint magnet for some users.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 605299
$2,914
#4
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Strandberg Boden Prog NX 6 Deep Blue
by
Strandberg
Comfortable Performance
Ergonomic Playing
Modern Design
Key Feature:
This Boden Prog NX 6 is a seriously well-built instrument. The fanfret design and multi-scale length really expand the sonic possibilities and intonation across the neck. It's a premium-priced guitar perfect for progressive players, session musicians, or anyone wanting a modern, versatile, and exceptionally stable playing experience.
PROS
- • Swamp ash/maple combo delivers a resonant, articulate, and balanced tone.
- • Carbon-reinforced EndurNeck provides exceptional stability and a smooth feel.
- • Suhr SSH+ and SSV pickups offer a versatile range of modern and vintage tones.
- • EGS Pro Rev7B tremolo system provides smooth, controlled vibrato without tuning instability.
CONS
- • Fanfret design can present a steeper learning curve for some players initially.
- • The headless design may require adjustments to playing ergonomics and strap setup.
- • Deep Blue finish, while beautiful, may show fingerprints and require careful maintenance.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 605298
$2,804
#5
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Strandberg Boden Prog NX 7 Charcoal
by
Strandberg
Ergonomic Playing
Progressive Metal
Modern Design
Key Feature:
This Boden Prog NX 7 is a seriously impressive instrument. The fan fret design and chambered body make it surprisingly comfortable and resonant, and those Fishman Fluence pickups give you a huge range of tones, from glassy cleans to aggressive modern sounds. It’s a fantastic choice for progressive metal players and anyone looking for a high-performance 7-string with a unique feel.
PROS
- • Swamp ash chambering provides excellent resonance and manageable weight.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups deliver versatile, modern tones with incredible clarity.
- • Richlite fretboard offers a smooth, consistent playing experience with good durability.
- • Strandberg’s ergonomic design and fan fret system significantly improve playability.
CONS
- • The fan fret system requires a slightly different playing technique and setup.
- • Charcoal Black finish, while striking, may show fingerprints and grime easily.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 517285
$2,749
#6
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Strandberg Sälen Jazz NX Natural
by
Strandberg
Progressive Metal
Ergonomic Playing
Technical Music
Key Feature:
This Sälen Jazz NX is a seriously cool instrument. The fan fret system makes it surprisingly easy to play across the extended range, and the Suhr pickups deliver a modern, articulate sound that’s perfect for players seeking a semi-hollow with a bit more bite – think jazz fusion, progressive rock, or even heavier styles. It’s a high-end option that really delivers on both playability and tone.
PROS
- • Mahogany chambered body delivers warmth and resonance, a welcome semi-hollow tone.
- • Suhr Thornbucker pickups provide a versatile, high-output modern voice.
- • Strandberg’s fan fret system enhances playability across the extended scale range.
- • Rosewood fingerboard offers a comfortable, familiar feel with stainless steel frets.
CONS
- • The semi-hollow construction might introduce unwanted feedback at high volumes.
- • The premium-priced tag places it out of reach for many players.
- • While versatile, the Thornbucker pickups may not suit all vintage or clean-tone purists.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 527580
$2,749
#7
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Strandberg Boden Prog NX 6 Charcoal
by
Strandberg
Modern Design
Comfortable Performance
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The Boden Prog NX 6 Charcoal is a seriously impressive instrument. The fan fret system and ergonomic design make it a joy to play, and those Suhr pickups give you a wide range of tones from tight, modern sounds to warm, vintage growl. This is a fantastic choice for progressive players and anyone seeking a unique, high-performance guitar.
PROS
- • Swamp ash chambering provides excellent resonance and surprisingly light weight
- • Suhr SSH+/SSV combo delivers versatile, articulate, high-output tones
- • Richlite fretboard offers a smooth, consistent playing experience with minimal maintenance
- • Strandberg’s ergonomic design and multi-scale fan fret system enhance playability significantly
CONS
- • The unique fan fret design requires some adjustment for players accustomed to traditional guitars
- • Charcoal Black finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges
- • The Strandberg EGS Tremolo, while functional, might not appeal to players seeking locking tremolo systems
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 517283
$2,739
#8
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Strandberg Boden Prog NX 6 Natural Flame
by
Strandberg
Ergonomic Playing
Extended Range
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
The Boden Prog NX 6 is a seriously well-built instrument. That fan fret design really extends the usable range while maintaining comfortable string tension – it’s a joy to play. If you’re a progressive player or just want a guitar that's versatile and feels incredible, this is a fantastic option.
PROS
- • Swamp ash chambering delivers excellent resonance and comfortable weight.
- • Flamed maple top provides stunning aesthetics and added upper-midrange clarity.
- • Suhr pickups offer articulate, dynamic tones suitable for modern and vintage styles.
- • Strandberg EGS Rev 7 tremolo provides smooth, stable vibrato performance.
CONS
- • Fan fret design may not appeal to players accustomed to traditional scale lengths.
- • Richlite fretboard, while durable, lacks the traditional feel of rosewood or ebony.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 549290
$2,639
#9
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Legator Ghost G7FX-BM
by
Legator
Technical Music
Ergonomic Playing
Comfortable Performance
Key Feature:
The Ghost G7FX-BM is a serious instrument for the modern metal and progressive player. The multi-scale design really shines with the extended range, and those Fishman Fluence pickups offer a surprising amount of tonal flexibility beyond just high-gain shredding. It’s a premium-priced option, but the build quality and unique features justify the investment.
PROS
- • Birdseye top adds visual flair and slight sonic complexity.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups deliver a versatile, modern high-output tone.
- • Multi-scale design optimizes string tension and intonation across 7 strings.
- • Pale Moon ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
CONS
- • Headless design takes getting used to; lacks visual reference points.
- • Mahogany body contributes to a potentially heavier overall instrument.
- • Blood Moon finish may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 611947
$2,749
#10
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Strandberg Boden Metal NX 7 Tremolo BK
by
Strandberg
Technical Music
Modern Design
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
This Boden NX 7 is a serious instrument built for modern metal and progressive players. The fan fret design and Fishman pickups deliver incredible clarity and a wide tonal palette, while the headless design offers a unique aesthetic and tuning stability. It’s a premium-priced, high-performance guitar that’ll inspire aggressive and technical playing.
PROS
- • The Multi-scale length offers exceptional clarity and string tension consistency.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups provide a wide range of tones, from tight to articulate.
- • Richlite fingerboard is incredibly stable and provides a smooth playing experience.
- • The EndurNeck profile is comfortable and resists moisture-related issues.
CONS
- • The headless design can present a learning curve for players accustomed to traditional headstocks.
- • Basswood body, while lightweight, may lack the sustain of denser woods like mahogany.
- • The black granite finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 589065
$2,639
#11
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
5/10
Strandberg Boden Original NX 6 Charcoal
by
Strandberg
Modern Design
Extended Range
Technical Music
Key Feature:
The Boden NX 6 Charcoal is a seriously impressive instrument – the fan fret design really opens up the upper registers with incredible clarity and ease. Those Suhr pickups deliver a modern, high-gain sound with plenty of definition, making it perfect for progressive rock, metal, or anyone wanting a unique, ergonomic playing experience. It's an investment, but the feel and tone are something special.
PROS
- • Swamp ash chambering delivers surprising resonance and comfortable weight.
- • Suhr SSH+/SSV combo provides versatile, articulate high-gain tones.
- • Birdseye maple fretboard offers a unique feel and excellent note definition.
- • Strandberg EGS bridge ensures precise intonation and sustain.
CONS
- • Fan fret design limits versatility for certain playing styles or tunings.
- • Charcoal finish, while striking, may show fingerprints and smudges easily.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 517274
$2,639
#12
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Legator Ninja N7FX-GLX
by
Legator
Ergonomic Playing
Extended Range
Technical Music
Key Feature:
The Ninja N7FX-GLX is a serious instrument for the modern 7-string player. The multiscale design really shines, making those lower strings sing while maintaining clarity up the neck, and the Fluence pickups are incredibly responsive. It’s a premium-priced option best suited for players who want a high-performance, visually striking instrument for metal, progressive rock, and other demanding genres.
PROS
- • Buckeye burl top offers stunning visual appeal and unique grain patterns.
- • Fishman Fluence Modern pickups deliver a versatile, modern high-output tone.
- • Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved playability and intonation.
- • Legator Pro brass bridge enhances sustain and provides a warmer tonal character.
CONS
- • Ash body may be prone to finish checking with age and temperature changes.
- • Glaxay finish, while striking, could be a fingerprint magnet and require frequent cleaning.
- • Fixed bridge limits tremolo/vibrato options for players seeking that effect.
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 611941
$2,529
#13
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Strandberg Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK
by
Strandberg
Technical Music
Comfortable Performance
Modern Design
Key Feature:
This Boden Metal NX 6 is a seriously impressive instrument built for modern metal and progressive players. The fan fret design and Suhr pickups really open up a wide range of tonal possibilities while maintaining excellent clarity. It's a high-performance guitar that feels incredibly comfortable and inspires aggressive playing.
PROS
- • The Suhr Aldrich pickups deliver a modern, articulate high-gain tone.
- • EndurNeck construction ensures exceptional stability and resists humidity changes.
- • Multi-scale fanned fret design enhances clarity and intonation across the range.
- • Richlite fingerboard provides a smooth, consistent playing surface and durability.
CONS
- • The Boden Metal NX series is premium-priced, limiting accessibility for some players.
- • Basswood body, while resonant, lacks the upper-midrange focus of mahogany.
- • Fan fret design might require a slight adjustment period for players unfamiliar with it.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 589061
$2,397
#14
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Strandberg Boden Metal NX 8 Blood Red
by
Strandberg
Extended Range
Comfortable Performance
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
This Boden NX 8 is a serious instrument built for modern metal and progressive players. The fan fret design and Fishman pickups deliver incredible clarity and extended range, while the EndurNeck ensures stability. It's a premium-priced option, but the performance and unique feel justify the investment for players seeking a cutting-edge 8-string.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and articulation from Fishman Fluence pickups.
- • The EndurNeck profile offers remarkable stability and playability.
- • Richlite fingerboard provides a smooth, consistent playing surface.
- • Multi-scale length maximizes string tension and extended range response.
CONS
- • The headless design isn't for everyone; re-stringing can be tricky.
- • Basswood body, while resonant, might lack the premium heft some prefer.
- • Blood Red finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 589067
$2,309
#15
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Strandberg Sälen Classic 6 Tremolo Black
by
Strandberg
Progressive Metal
Technical Music
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
The Sälen Classic 6 is a seriously cool, modern instrument. The fan fret system and headless design create a unique feel and extended range, while the Sandberg pickups deliver a powerful, focused tone ideal for progressive rock, metal, and fusion. It's a premium-priced option, but the playability and build quality are top-notch for players seeking a distinctive edge.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising warmth.
- • EndurNeck profile provides exceptional comfort and stability, minimizing neck dive.
- • Sandberg humbuckers deliver a tight, articulate high-gain sound with good clarity.
- • EGS Rev 7 tremolo provides smooth, reliable action and string lock functionality.
CONS
- • Birdseye maple fingerboard can feel slightly less smooth than a roasted maple option.
- • Headless design requires a learning curve for tuning and string changes.
- • Okoume body, while resonant, might be a bit less dense than alder for extreme high-gain applications.
⭐
4.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 556021
$2,199
How to Choose the Best Fanfret Guitars
1
Playability & Ergonomics
It's not just about reach. The altered string tension and geometry change how the guitar feels. We're assessing how easily you can navigate complex voicings and bends across the entire neck, and how the body shape complements the unusual fret layout.
2
Neck Profile & Fretwork
Advanced players are sensitive to the smallest nuances. A poorly executed neck profile or sloppy fretwork will be amplified on a fanfret. We're scrutinizing the feel in your hand, the clarity of notes, and the ease of getting clean, fast runs.
3
Pickup Voicing & Response
Fanfret guitars often benefit from pickups that offer a wider dynamic range and nuanced response. We're evaluating how the pickups handle subtle picking dynamics, articulate complex chords, and retain clarity when pushed into breakup or overdrive - crucial for cutting through a mix.
4
Hardware & Construction
Solid hardware is non-negotiable. A poorly built tremolo, cheap tuners, or flimsy nut will undermine the entire experience. We're looking for stability, tuning accuracy, and a build quality that can withstand the rigors of gigging.
5
Learning Curve & Adaptation
This isn't a drop-in replacement for your Strat. There's a period of adjustment as your muscle memory adapts. We're assessing how quickly a player can become comfortable and extract the guitar's full potential, and identifying common pitfalls.
Buying Guide
Fanfret guitars often come with a premium price tag, and for good reason - the engineering and craftsmanship are more demanding. Don't be swayed by flashy aesthetics; focus on the neck profile, fretwork, and overall build quality. Some manufacturers cut corners on hardware to keep costs down, which will impact sustain and tuning stability. Be prepared to spend time adjusting your technique; it's an investment in expanding your musical vocabulary.
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 fanfret 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
Generally, yes. The varying string lengths require a more meticulous approach to intonation. Be prepared to spend extra time tweaking it, and consider having a professional setup done.
Almost certainly. String gauges will need to be adjusted to account for the altered tension. Experiment to find what feels best, but expect to deviate from your usual choices.
Absolutely not. The neck angle, string spacing, and body geometry need to be carefully considered. It's a major modification best left to experienced luthiers.
No. It's a tool, not a shortcut. It can expand your tonal palette and playing options, but you still need to put in the practice.
The Ibanez Jobby77 is a solid starting point, but the Aroaz VX7 offers a more refined feel and a wider range of tonal options. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and neck profile.
