AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Fanfret Guitars for Professional 2026
The top pick is Strandberg Guitars Per Nilsson Signature Boden Singularity NX 7 ($3,585). Schecter PT-7 MS Black Ops gives you the most for the money at $1,657. 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 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 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 ↗ -
Schecter C-8 SLS Elite Evil Twin Multiscale
C-8 MS SLS Elite Evil Twin SBK · Schecter
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width54 mm (2.13")
- Strings8-string
- BodyAsh body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Schecter C-8 MS SLS Elite Evil Twin is a seriously impressive 8-string – the multiscale design makes those lower strings sing. The Fluence pickups are incredibly versatile, covering everything from djent to soaring melodies, and the build quality is top-notch. It's perfect for the modern progressive player or anyone wanting to explore the extended range without sacrificing playability or tone.
Pros
- Swamp ash body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
- Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved playability across 8 strings.
- Fishman Fluence pickups offer a versatile range of tones, from modern high-gain to warm cleans.
Cons
- The ultra-thin C neck profile might not suit players preferring a thicker feel.
- Weight can be substantial due to the swamp ash and multi-laminate neck-through construction.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$2,128 now$2,128€1,899 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 ↗ -
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 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius457 mm (17.99")
- Strings7-string
- BodyMahogany body
The Legator Ninja N7FSS BK is a seriously capable 7-string for players wanting modern high-gain tones and extended range. The multiscale design and active pickups offer a unique playing experience and a powerful sound—ideal for metal, progressive rock, and anyone needing that extra low-end grunt. It's a solid instrument at a competitive price point.
Pros
- Richlite fretboard offers a smooth, consistent playing experience with minimal maintenance.
- Active Legator Aftershock pickups deliver high-output, modern tones with clarity.
- Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, complemented by quilted maple’s visual appeal.
Cons
- Active pickups require a power supply, potentially limiting versatility and adding complexity.
- Bolt-on neck construction may not offer the same resonance as a set-neck design.
48AudioFu
Index↑ 27.6%since Aug 14$1,097 · Aug 14$1,400 now$1,400€1,249 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
Solar Guitars A1.6FDPB-FF Flame Purple BurstSolar Guitars48Stable$1,344€1,199$1,344€1,199Check ↗
- 12
Legator Ghost G7FSS PURLegator41↑ 13.7%$1,400€1,249$1,400€1,249Check ↗
- 13
Legator Ghost G6FSS PURLegator42↑ 11.1%$1,344€1,199$1,344€1,199Check ↗
- 14
Schecter Omen Elite-8 MultiscaleOmen Elite-8 MS Charcoal · Schecter · 3 finishes84Stable$1,119€999$1,119€999Check ↗
- 15
Schecter Omen Elite-7Omen Elite-7 MS Black Cherry · Schecter · 2 finishes81Stable$940€839$940€839Check ↗
- 16
Ibanez RGMS8PB-CBSIbanez · 2 finishes64↓ 18.7%$682€609$682€609Check ↗
- 17
Cort KX307MS Open Pore BlackCort · 2 finishes56↓ 7.0%$447€399$447€399Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton R-457FFB Roasted MultiScaleHarley Benton · 2 finishes50Stable$257€229$257€229Check ↗
- 19
Ibanez RGMS7-BK MultiscaleIbanez48Stable$600€535$600€535Check ↗
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; it's about how the longer scale and altered fret spacing affects your muscle memory. A fanfret that feels awkward will kill your speed and precision, especially in complex chord voicings or fast legato lines.
String Tension & Feel
The increased string tension at standard tuning is a real factor. Some players love the snap, others find it fatiguing. Experimenting with lighter gauge strings or alternative tunings is often necessary, and that affects the overall tone and feel.
Pickup Voicing & Response
Fanfret guitars often benefit from hotter pickups to compensate for the increased string tension. However, simply slapping high-output pickups on won't fix a poorly designed guitar; you need a voicing that complements the longer scale's inherent characteristics - often something with a bit more low-end thump to avoid sounding thin.
Construction & Hardware Quality
Let's be honest, some fanfret designs cut corners on hardware to keep costs down. Cheap tuners will fight you during a set, and a poorly built tremolo will sound like a rusty gate. Pro players need reliable gear that won't fail them mid-performance.
Learning Curve & Adaptation
It takes time to adapt to a fanfret. Your familiar fingerings won't immediately translate. Be prepared to spend some serious time practicing and re-learning some of your favorite licks - it's an investment, not a quick fix.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at fanfret guitars. They're not a fad anymore; serious players are using them. But they're not a magic bullet - a longer scale doesn't automatically equal better tone. This isn't about whether they look cool; it's about whether they'll actually improve your playing and hold up to the demands of a professional's life - gigs, tracking, the whole deal.
Don't jump into a fanfret just because it's 'different.' Try before you buy - seriously. Pay attention to the neck profile; a thick, unwieldy neck will negate any benefits. And be wary of overly aggressive fan shaping; subtle transitions are key for comfortable playing.
Spending a bit more on a well-made instrument with quality hardware is worth it - you're not just buying a guitar, you're buying reliability.
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, but it's manageable. The longer scale and varying fret lengths require more meticulous attention to intonation. A good setup from a qualified tech is essential.
Can I use any strings on a fanfret?
Technically, yes, but you'll likely need to experiment. Many pros use lighter gauge strings to compensate for the increased tension. It's a balancing act between feel and tone.
Do fanfret guitars sound different?
They can, but it's nuanced. The longer scale can provide more sustain and a slightly different harmonic profile - sometimes a bit more clarity, sometimes a bit more 'edge.' It's not a huge difference, but it's noticeable in a mix.
Are fanfret guitars difficult to repair?
Finding a tech comfortable working on them can be a challenge, especially for more complex designs. It's a good idea to research local luthiers before committing.
Are fanfret guitars worth the hype?
They're a tool, like any other guitar. If they fit your playing style and address a specific need - like extended range or a desire for a different feel - then absolutely. If you're just chasing a trend, you'll likely be disappointed.
