AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Fanfret Guitars for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton R-457FFB Roasted MultiScale ($257). Strandberg Plini Signature Boden Prog NX 6 leads the high end. 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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- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Strings7-string
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This R-457FFB is a seriously impressive package for the price. The roasted maple neck and multiscale design make it surprisingly comfortable to play, and the pickups have plenty of bite for modern metal and progressive genres. It's a fantastic entry point into the world of 7-string guitars for players looking for a versatile and affordable instrument.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- Multiscale design improves playability across 7 strings.
- Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver aggressive, modern high-output tones.
Cons
- Poplar body may lack the resonance of more premium woods.
- Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and may benefit from upgrades.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$257 now$257€229 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 width52.3 mm (2.06")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
This KX307MS is a serious contender for players wanting a modern, 7-string experience. The multiscale design makes complex chords and sweeping a breeze, while the mahogany and Power Bar pickups give you a thick, powerful tone perfect for progressive metal and djent. It’s a really well-built instrument at a very accessible price point.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a pleasing sonic foundation.
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- Power Bar humbuckers offer high-output, versatile tones for modern styles.
Cons
- Open pore finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be less protective than a gloss finish.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the resonance of a set-neck design.
56AudioFu
Index↓ 7.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$481 · Aug 14$447 now$447€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width55 mm (2.17")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings8-string
- BodyNyatoh body
The RGMS8PB-CBS is a seriously playable 8-string that won't break the bank. The multiscale design makes playing those low strings surprisingly comfortable, and the pickups have a modern, aggressive tone that cuts through a mix. This is a great option for progressive metal and djent players looking for a versatile and well-built instrument.
Pros
- Nyatoh/Poplar burl combo delivers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- Wizard III neck offers exceptional playability, especially for extended range playing.
- Multiscale design minimizes string tension inconsistencies across 8 strings.
Cons
- Nyatoh body, while resonant, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or alder.
- Mono-Rail bridge, while functional, isn't ideal for extreme tremolo use.
64AudioFu
Index↓ 18.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$839 · Aug 14$682 now$682€609 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 ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyNyatoh body
This RGMS7-BK is a serious contender for modern players needing 7 strings. The multiscale design makes it surprisingly easy to play, even for those new to extended range instruments, and the Array pickups deliver a powerful, articulate sound that cuts through the mix. It's a great choice for metalheads and progressive players looking for a versatile and affordable instrument.
Pros
- Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- Maple/Walnut neck provides excellent stability and a fast, comfortable feel.
- Array-7 MS pickups deliver a modern, high-output sound with clarity.
Cons
- Nyatoh body, while good, isn't as premium feeling as mahogany or basswood.
- Mono Rail bridge, while functional, isn’t as feature-rich as a Floyd Rose.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$600 now$600€535 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 ↗ -
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 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 ↗
All 19 fanfret guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Schecter C-8 SLS Elite Evil Twin MultiscaleC-8 MS SLS Elite Evil Twin SBK · Schecter61Stable$2,128€1,899$2,128€1,899Check ↗
- 12
Strandberg Boden Metal NX 7 TremoloBoden Metal NX 7 Tremolo BK · Strandberg59↓ 4.2%$2,576€2,299$2,576€2,299Check ↗
- 13
Strandberg Guitars Per Nilsson Signature Boden Singularity NX 7Singularity NX 7 Pitch Black · Strandberg58Stable$3,585€3,199$3,585€3,199Check ↗
- 14
Strandberg Guitars Salen Classic NX 6 Tremolo HHSälen Classic 6 Tremolo Black · Strandberg56Stable$2,240€1,999$2,240€1,999Check ↗
- 15
Solar Guitars A1.6FDPB-FF Flame Purple BurstSolar Guitars48Stable$1,344€1,199$1,344€1,199Check ↗
- 16
Legator Ninja N7FSS BKLegator · 2 finishes48↑ 27.6%$1,400€1,249$1,400€1,249Check ↗
- 17
Strandberg Sälen Jazz NX NaturalStrandberg45↓ 4.0%$2,688€2,399$2,688€2,399Check ↗
- 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
A Fanfret's custom scale length can be a boon or a burden. Beginners need a shorter scale (24.75" or 25.5") to minimize string tension and make bending easier - a longer scale can feel unwieldy. Action setup is critical; a high action will kill your motivation faster than anything.
Neck Profile
This is huge. A thin, fast neck is generally easier for beginners, but some might find it feels a little flimsy. A chunkier neck provides more to grip, but requires more finger strength. Finding a comfortable profile is key, and that's where trying before you buy (or a generous return policy) is essential.
Pickup Voicing
Don't get bogged down in humbucker vs. single-coil debates. Beginners need a versatile pickup setup - something that can cover clean tones for practicing chords and slightly overdriven sounds for some simple riffs. Avoid anything overly scooped or with a weird, idiosyncratic voicing; you want to learn fundamentals, not fight your gear.
Body Ergonomics
Fanfret's claim to fame is body comfort. While this is a huge selling point, it's subjective. A body shape that feels great in a YouTube video might feel awkward in your hands. Pay attention to balance - a head-heavy guitar will be tiring to play for extended periods.
Complexity of Controls
Fewer knobs are better. Don't go for a model with a million switches and push-pull pots. A straightforward volume and tone control setup allows you to focus on learning technique, not deciphering wiring diagrams. Overcomplicating things early on will just be overwhelming.
Buying guide
So, you're looking at a Fanfret guitar? Smart move - they're a cool concept, but the learning curve can be a bit steeper for a total beginner. The idea of custom scale lengths and tailored ergonomics is fantastic, but you need a guitar that's playable first, before you start chasing sonic perfection. Let's break down which Fanfret models are actually beginner-friendly and what to look for - because a fancy guitar that's a pain to play is just expensive frustration.
Fanfret's are a premium product, and you're paying for the customizability. The biggest corner they cut is often in the hardware - the tuners might be a bit basic, and the bridge could be a step down from what you'd find on a similarly priced traditional guitar. Don't sweat the hardware too much initially; you can always upgrade later.
Focus on finding a model with a comfortable neck and a good, usable pickup voicing. And seriously, try to play one before you buy it - the ergonomics are too subjective to rely on online reviews alone.
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 worth the money for a beginner?
They can be, but it's not a slam dunk. The customizability is wasted on someone still learning the basics. However, if the ergonomics genuinely improve your comfort and motivation, it can be worth it. Just don't expect it to magically make you a better player.
What scale length should a beginner Fanfret have?
Stick with 24.75" or 25.5". Shorter scales are easier to play, and the custom scale length benefit is less crucial when you're first starting out. 25" is good for a slightly more modern feel, while 24.75" will give you a warmer, rounder tone.
Can I return a Fanfret if I don't like it?
Absolutely - Fanfret has a generous return policy. Take advantage of it! It's crucial to find a guitar that feels right in your hands, and that's something you can't fully assess online.
I'm worried about string tension. Will a Fanfret be harder to play?
It depends. A shorter scale Fanfret will actually have lower string tension than a standard guitar, making it easier to play. However, a longer scale will be tighter, so choose wisely and consider lighter gauge strings.
Should I upgrade the pickups on my Fanfret right away?
No. Focus on learning to play first. The stock pickups are probably fine for getting started, and upgrading them is a relatively expensive modification. Besides, you might not even know what kind of pickup voicing you prefer until you've played for a while.
