AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Fanfret Guitars for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Strandberg Plini Signature Boden Prog NX 6 ($3,025). Schecter Omen Elite-7 gives you the most for the money at $940. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 19 models across 7 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Strandberg Plini Signature Boden Prog NX 6
Boden Prog NX 6 Plini Edition · Strandberg
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- BodyMahogany body
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.
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.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 6.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$3,249 · Aug 14$3,025 now$3,025€2,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Strandberg Guitars Per Nilsson Signature Boden Singularity NX 7
Singularity NX 7 Pitch Black · Strandberg
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- Strings7-string
- BodyBasswood body
This guitar feels solid because the neck is roasted and reinforced with titanium. The multi-scale body helps you play every string cleanly without buzzing. It works well for players who want a tight low end and clear highs. The headless design makes it easy to tune quickly. This is a great choice for anyone needing a reliable seven-string that stays in tune.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck resists warping over time
- Titanium reinforcement adds structural rigidity
- Multi-scale length improves intonation across strings
Cons
- Headless design requires more string tension
- Satin finish shows fingerprints easily
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,585 now$3,585€3,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Strandberg Boden Metal NX 7 Tremolo
Boden Metal NX 7 Tremolo BK · Strandberg
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyBasswood body
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.
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.
59AudioFu
Index↓ 4.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$2,688 · Aug 14$2,576 now$2,576€2,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
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.
Cons
- The semi-hollow construction might introduce unwanted feedback at high volumes.
- The premium-priced tag places it out of reach for many players.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$2,800 · Aug 14$2,688 now$2,688€2,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Strandberg Guitars Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo
Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK · Strandberg
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- BodyBasswood body
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.
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.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 8.3%since Aug 14$2,442 · Aug 14$2,240 now$2,240€1,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Strandberg Guitars Salen Classic NX 6 Tremolo HH
Sälen Classic 6 Tremolo Black · Strandberg
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
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.
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.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$2,240 now$2,240€1,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Schecter Omen Elite-8 Multiscale
Omen Elite-8 MS Charcoal · Schecter
20 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width56 mm (2.2")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- Strings8-string
- BodyMahogany body
The Omen Elite-8 MS Charcoal is a seriously cool 8-string for players wanting extended range without the usual headaches. The multiscale design really shines, making those lower strings sing with clarity, and the mahogany top gives it a surprisingly warm, modern tone. This is a great choice for progressive metal, djent, or anyone exploring the 8-string world.
Pros
- Mahogany/Poplar burl combo delivers rich, resonant low-end warmth.
- Thin 'C' neck profile is exceptionally comfortable for extended playing.
- Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved clarity and intonation.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make it somewhat heavier than lighter alternatives.
- Diamond Heretic pickups are decent, but lack high-end nuance for cleaner tones.
84AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$1,119 now$1,119€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Schecter Omen Elite-7
Omen Elite-7 MS Black Cherry · Schecter
35 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels solid thanks to its mahogany body and maple burl top. The thin neck makes it easy to play, while the fixed bridge keeps the strings tight. It is a premium-priced choice for players who want a 7-string that sounds focused and stays in tune.
Pros
- Mahogany body paired with maple burl top for solid resonance
- Thin C neck profile offers easy access for all players
- Schecter Diamond Heretic pickups deliver tight, focused tone
Cons
- Multiscale scale length may confuse new string stretchers
- Heavy hardware can add significant weight to the guitar
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$940 now$940€839 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Fingerboard radius406 mm (15.98")
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Schecter PT-7 MS Black Ops is a seriously impressive 7-string – the multiscale design really makes a difference in playability across all those lower strings. The Fishman Fluence pickups are a huge win, offering a wide range of tones from tight, modern sounds to thicker, more vintage voicings. It's a great option for progressive metal players, djent enthusiasts, and anyone needing extended range with a premium feel.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end response.
- Fishman Fluence pickups offer incredible clarity and versatile tonal shaping.
- Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved playability and intonation.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make it feel a bit weighty for some players.
- The thin C neck profile might not suit those preferring thicker, vintage-style necks.
71AudioFu
Index↑ 1.9%since Aug 14$1,627 · Aug 14$1,657 now$1,657€1,479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Schecter PT-8 MS Black Ops Left-Handed
PT-8 MS Black Ops · Schecter
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Fingerboard radius406 mm (15.98")
- Strings8-string
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Schecter PT-8 MS Black Ops is a beast for modern metal and progressive players who want extended range and precise articulation. The multiscale design really shines with 8 strings, minimizing string flop and maximizing clarity. It's a premium-priced instrument that feels incredibly well-built and offers a surprisingly versatile tonal palette thanks to those Fishman pickups.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain; a serious foundation.
- Fishman Fluence pickups offer versatile, articulate tones.
- Multiscale design optimizes string tension across 8 strings.
Cons
- The mahogany body contributes to a notably heavy feel.
- Limited pickup switching can restrict tonal exploration.
68AudioFu
Index↓ 4.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$1,881 · Aug 14$1,792 now$1,792€1,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 19 fanfret guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Ibanez RGMS8PB-CBSIbanez · 2 finishes64↓ 18.7%$682€609$682€609Check ↗
- 12
Schecter C-8 SLS Elite Evil Twin MultiscaleC-8 MS SLS Elite Evil Twin SBK · Schecter61Stable$2,128€1,899$2,128€1,899Check ↗
- 13
Cort KX307MS Open Pore BlackCort · 2 finishes56↓ 7.0%$447€399$447€399Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton R-457FFB Roasted MultiScaleHarley Benton · 2 finishes50Stable$257€229$257€229Check ↗
- 15
Ibanez RGMS7-BK MultiscaleIbanez48Stable$600€535$600€535Check ↗
- 16
Solar Guitars A1.6FDPB-FF Flame Purple BurstSolar Guitars48Stable$1,344€1,199$1,344€1,199Check ↗
- 17
Legator Ninja N7FSS BKLegator · 2 finishes48↑ 27.6%$1,400€1,249$1,400€1,249Check ↗
- 18
Legator Ghost G6FSS PURLegator42↑ 11.1%$1,344€1,199$1,344€1,199Check ↗
- 19
Legator Ghost G7FSS PURLegator41↑ 13.7%$1,400€1,249$1,400€1,249Check ↗
Fanfret Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 26 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,344 — half of all fanfret guitars here cost less.
median of 17 models · 24–24
median of 15 models · 350 mm (13.78")–508 mm (20")
median of 20 models · 7-string–8-string
most common · 25 models
How to choose the best fanfret guitars
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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 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 26 fanfret 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 fanfret guitars harder to intonate?
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.
Do I need new strings?
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.
Can I just slap a fanfret conversion kit on any guitar?
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.
Will a fanfret guitar automatically make me a better player?
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.
Which model is best for a player comfortable with shredding and tapping?
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.
