AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Fanfret Guitars Under $2,000 2026
The top pick is Schecter Omen Elite-8 Multiscale ($1,119). Harley Benton R-457FFB Roasted MultiScale gives you the most for the money at $257. Schecter PT-8 MS Black Ops Left-Handed leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 12 models across 6 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.
-
Schecter Omen Elite-8 Multiscale
Omen Elite-8 MS Black Cherry · 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 is a serious contender for players wanting 8-string versatility without the extreme price tag. The multiscale design makes those low strings surprisingly playable, and the Diamond Heretic pickups deliver the modern metal tones you’d expect. This is a fantastic option for progressive metal and djent players seeking a quality, well-built instrument.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant foundation for a powerful tone.
- Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved playability and intonation across 8 strings.
- Diamond Heretic pickups offer high-output, modern tones suitable for metal and progressive genres.
Cons
- Rosewood fretboard might feel a bit dry to some, requiring occasional conditioning.
- Poplar burl top, while visually striking, can be prone to minor cosmetic imperfections.
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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
- 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 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 ↗ -
- 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 width43 mm (1.69")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyMahogany body
The A1.6FDPB-FF is a seriously impressive instrument for the money. The fan fret design really opens up the sonic possibilities, and the roasted maple neck feels fantastic. It's a great choice for players who want a modern, versatile sound with a touch of visual flair, especially those venturing into progressive rock or metal.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and feel.
- Flamed maple top adds stunning aesthetics and a touch of clarity.
- Solar-FF humbuckers deliver a powerful, articulate, modern tone.
Cons
- The fan fret design may require a short adjustment period for some players.
- Mahogany body can contribute to a heavier overall instrument.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$1,344 now$1,344€1,199 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 12 fanfret guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
Fanfret Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 19 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,119 — half of all fanfret guitars here cost less.
median of 15 models · 43 mm (1.69")–56 mm (2.2")
median of 17 models · 7-string–8-string
most common · 18 models
most common · 5 models
How to choose the best fanfret guitars
Neck Profile
Fanfret necks can be tricky; a comfortable profile is crucial. Look for something that feels natural in your hand, especially considering the varying fret spacing. A thick C or D profile tends to work well, but ultimately, it's a personal preference.
Fretwork & Setup
This is critical. Sloppy fretwork on a fanfret guitar is a nightmare - buzzing, intonation headaches, and a generally frustrating playing experience. Factor in the cost of a professional setup if the guitar doesn't play flawlessly out of the box.
Pickup Voicing
Fanfret guitars often lean towards a more articulate, defined sound. The pickups need to complement that - think Alnico 5s for a balanced response, or hotter pickups if you're into heavier tones, but be wary of overly harsh high frequencies.
Hardware Quality
Tuners, bridges, and overall build quality matter. Cheap hardware will lead to tuning instability and a feeling of fragility, especially on a guitar with a non-traditional design. Solid locking tuners are a plus.
Construction & Wood Choices
Mahogany bodies often provide warmth and sustain, while maple can add clarity and brightness. The interaction of the woods will affect the guitar's overall tonal character. Don't expect premium figured woods at this price point; expect solid, functional construction.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're chasing that fanned-fret vibe - wider spacing at the nut, tighter spacing at the bridge - without emptying your bank account. It's a smart move; those guitars offer a really unique feel and a surprisingly versatile tonal palette. But finding a good fanfret under $2000 takes some digging. We're going to cut through the hype and look at what's actually worth your money, because let's be honest, some of these guitars are just asking for trouble down the line.
At this budget, you're likely making some compromises. Expect bolt-on necks instead of set-necks, and potentially lower-grade hardware. The biggest thing to watch for is the fan angle - a more gradual fan often feels more comfortable, but a steeper fan can offer a wider range.
Don't be afraid to buy used; you can often snag a higher-end model for less if you're patient.
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 19 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 learn on?
Initially, yes. The different fret spacing takes some getting used to, especially if you're coming from a standard guitar. However, many players find the increased comfort and improved intonation more than make up for it once they adapt.
Can I easily re-fret a fanfret guitar?
It's doable, but more complex than a standard fret job. The fan angle requires precise fret placement, so it's best left to experienced luthiers. It's more expensive, too.
What's the deal with intonation on fanfret guitars?
Intonation is more critical on fanfret guitars because of the varying scale lengths. A proper setup is essential. Some guitars have adjustable saddles to compensate, which is a huge plus.
Are fanfret guitars only for extended range guitars?
Absolutely not! While they're common in 7-string and 8-string guitars, fanfret guitars are fantastic for 6-string players too, offering improved ergonomics and a unique tonal character.
What's the difference between a gradual and a steep fan?
A gradual fan (e.g., 6.5" to 7.25") feels more like a standard guitar, with a less drastic change in fret spacing. A steeper fan (e.g., 7.25" to 10") offers a wider range but requires more adaptation.
