Best Solar Guitars Heavy Guitars 2026
So you're hunting for a shred machine that doesn't sound like a budget axe? Been there. Solar Guitars have been quietly building a serious reputation for delivering high-end features and tone at a price point that doesn't require a second mortgage. They're not a household name yet, but if you're chasing that modern metal tone and need a guitar that can handle a serious gig, you owe it to yourself to check them out.
Last updated: July 15, 2026 • Next update: July 22, 2026
⚡ The best heavy guitars in 2026 are Solar Guitars AB1.6FRMNS Sustainiac+ (top pick), Solar Guitars T2.6BLOP-27+ for tighter budgets, and Solar Guitars X1.6SVART+ for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $988–$1,758, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars AB1.6FRMNS Sustainiac+
Metal
Hard Rock
Metalcore
Key Feature:
This AB1.6FRMNS is a serious instrument built for modern metal and progressive rock players. The Sustainiac is a game-changer, and the Duncan Solar+ pickup delivers a tight, aggressive tone. It's a premium-priced option that delivers a lot of value for the money, especially if you crave that infinite sustain and a comfortable neck profile.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- • Duncan Solar+ bridge pickup delivers high-output, articulate tones.
- • Sustainiac Stealth Pro adds incredible harmonic sustain and versatility.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 provides reliable, wide-ranging tremolo action.
CONS
- • The alder body contributes to a slightly heavier feel for extended playing.
- • The single Duncan Solar+ pickup may limit tonal flexibility for some.
- • The roasted maple fingerboard can feel a little slick for some players.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 605372
$1,429
#2
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars T2.6BLOP-27+
Metal
Metalcore
Progressive
Key Feature:
This T2.6BLOP-27+ is a seriously cool baritone guitar. The extended scale and Duncan Solar+ pickups give it a unique, thick, and powerful voice that's perfect for modern metal, djent, or anyone wanting a deeper, more resonant tone. It's a premium-priced instrument, but delivers a lot of bang for your buck.
PROS
- • Sunkai body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups deliver a powerful, modern high-output tone.
- • 27' scale adds a unique low-end extension and looseness.
- • PPS nut minimizes friction and improves tuning stability.
CONS
- • The extended scale length may be challenging for players with smaller hands.
- • The matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to fingerprints.
- • Limited pickup versatility may not suit all playing styles.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 576454
$989
#3
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars X1.6SVART+
Djent
Metalcore
Progressive
Key Feature:
The X1.6SVART+ is a seriously well-equipped guitar for the price. It's a fantastic choice for players who want a modern, high-gain sound with rock-solid tuning stability, especially if you’re into heavier genres or appreciate a shorter scale length for easier chording. The build quality feels surprisingly premium, and the Duncan Solar+ pickups really deliver.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups provide a modern, high-output sound with clarity.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees consistent tuning stability under any playing conditions.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and a tight low-end response.
CONS
- • The 24.75” scale length might feel cramped for players used to longer scales.
- • Carbon Matte finish can be a fingerprint magnet, requiring frequent cleaning.
- • The heavier build (likely around 9 lbs) may be tiring for extended playing sessions.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 576647
$1,264
#4
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars E1.6SVART+
Metal
Progressive
Metalcore
Key Feature:
This E1.6SVART+ is a seriously impressive instrument. The Duncan Solar+ pickups give you a modern, high-gain tone with surprising clarity, and the Evertune bridge is a game-changer for staying in tune. It’s a fantastic choice for players seeking a modern metal/rock machine with a comfortable feel and exceptional stability.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups provide high-output, articulate crunch and clarity
- • Evertune bridge guarantees exceptional tuning stability, even with heavy playing
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and rich tone
CONS
- • The 24.75in scale might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales
- • Carbon Matte finish can be a fingerprint magnet, requiring frequent cleaning
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many guitarists
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 576642
$1,429
#5
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars V1.6 Canibalismo
Metal
Djent
Metalcore
Key Feature:
The Canibalismo V1.6 is a beast – seriously powerful and built to shred. That Evertune system is a game-changer for locking in your tuning, and the Duncan Solar pickups deliver a modern, aggressive tone perfect for metal and progressive rock players. It’s a premium-priced instrument that’s going to get you noticed.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Seymour Duncan Solar humbuckers deliver high-output, modern aggression.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees consistent tuning stability, gig after gig.
- • Ebony fretboard offers a slick, fast playing experience with excellent note definition.
CONS
- • The blood splatter finish is undeniably polarizing; not for everyone’s taste.
- • Swamp ash construction results in a noticeably heavier instrument, potentially fatiguing.
- • 648mm scale length might feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scales.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 498706
$1,429
#6
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars V1.6FR SVART+ Carbon Black
Metalcore
Progressive
Djent
Key Feature:
The V1.6FR SVART+ is a serious instrument for players wanting a modern, aggressive tone and shred-ready feel. The Duncan Solar+ pickups really cut through, and the Floyd Rose tremolo allows for some wild expression. It's a great option for metal and progressive rock players seeking a premium-priced, versatile guitar.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups offer high-output, articulate performance
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo provides reliable, wide-ranging vibrato
- • Super jumbo stainless steel frets facilitate effortless, fast playing
CONS
- • Carbon black matte finish can be prone to fingerprint smudging
- • Set-neck construction, while great for tone, limits future modification options
- • The 18:1 locking tuners, while stable, feel a bit stiff initially
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 595547
$1,429
#7
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars VAR1.6FRGN
Progressive
Djent
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
The VAR1.6FRGN is a seriously well-equipped instrument. That Duncan Solar pickup set delivers a modern, aggressive tone, perfect for metal and progressive rock players who want a shred-ready platform with a premium feel. The Floyd Rose tremolo makes it a real beast for expressive playing.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Maple/Ebony neck offers a fast, smooth feel and bright upper-mids
- • Duncan Solar pickups deliver high-output, articulate tones for modern genres
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for extreme dive bombs and stability
CONS
- • The neon green finish might be polarizing for some players
- • Ebony fingerboards can be quite dense and may require more hydration
- • The longer 648mm scale might feel unwieldy for players used to shorter scales
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616777
$1,539
#8
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars V1.8SVART
Progressive
Metalcore
Metal
Key Feature:
The V1.8SVART is a serious contender for players wanting a high-quality, 8-string experience. The Duncan Solar pickups and Evertune system really shine when you're digging into modern metal and progressive rock, and the overall build feels incredibly solid. If you're looking for a premium-priced 8-string that’s ready to record or tear up the stage, this is a fantastic option.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant low-end and sustain.
- • Duncan Solar Humbuckers offer a high-output, modern aggressive tone.
- • Evertune bridge maintains tuning stability under heavy riffing and drop tunings.
- • Maple/Ebony neck provides excellent clarity and fast, comfortable playability.
CONS
- • The extended scale length (686mm) demands a larger reach for some players.
- • Carbon Matte finish can be susceptible to fingerprints and smudges.
- • Limited tonal versatility; primarily geared towards heavier music genres.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 591156
$1,649
#9
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars V1.6FRLB
Djent
Metal
Death Metal
Key Feature:
The V1.6FRLB is a seriously well-equipped instrument offering a lot of bang for your buck. The V-style design, coupled with the Floyd Rose tremolo, makes it ideal for players into heavier genres and those who love a little flair. The thin C neck profile is comfortable for extended playing sessions, too.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers rich, warm sustain and a powerful low-end
- • Continuous neck construction enhances resonance and improves upper fret access
- • Duncan Solar Alnico V pickups offer high-output, articulate tones
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo provides exceptional tuning stability and dive-bomb capabilities
CONS
- • The mahogany body contributes to a fairly substantial weight, may be tiring for some
- • Lime Burst Matte finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges
- • While versatile, the pickup voicing leans towards modern rock and metal styles
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 504543
$1,319
#10
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars XF1.6FRFN
Djent
Hard Rock
Death Metal
Key Feature:
The XF1.6FRFN is a serious contender for players wanting a modern, high-performance shred machine. That flamed maple top looks fantastic, the Duncan Solar pickups are surprisingly versatile for a high-gain instrument, and the Floyd Rose tremolo is rock solid. It's a great choice for metalheads and progressive players who appreciate a fast neck and a powerful, defined sound.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for aggressive tones.
- • Duncan Solar pickups deliver high-output, articulate performance across genres.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional speed and note definition.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo enables wide-ranging vibrato and dive bombs.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction results in a notably heavy instrument, potentially tiring.
- • Limited tonal versatility; leans heavily toward high-gain applications.
- • Push/pull tone control might feel a bit gimmicky for experienced players.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 620790
$1,539
#11
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars X1.6FRPN Canibalismo+
Death Metal
Hard Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
This Solar X1.6FRPN is a seriously hot-rodded shred machine. The combination of the alder body, powerful pickups, and Floyd Rose tremolo makes it ideal for modern metal and progressive rock players who want a unique look and a versatile, high-performance instrument.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a tight, focused low-end response.
- • Seymour Duncan Solar+ pickups provide high-output, articulate tones.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and sustain.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo enables wide-ranging vibrato and dive bombs.
CONS
- • The pink neon finish might not appeal to all players' tastes.
- • The 24.75” scale can feel a little cramped for players with larger hands.
- • The single volume control limits tonal shaping options.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 588940
$1,429
#12
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars V2.6Canibalismo+
Hard Rock
Metal
Metalcore
Key Feature:
The V2.6 Canibalismo+ is a serious shred machine built for aggressive players. That Sungkai body really sings, and the Duncan Solar+ pickups deliver a modern, high-gain sound. It's a premium-priced option that's perfect for metalheads and rock virtuosos wanting a well-built, powerful instrument.
PROS
- • Sungkai body provides excellent sustain and resonance.
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups deliver high-output, articulate tones.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a fast, smooth playing experience.
- • Tune-O-Matic bridge ensures reliable tuning stability and intonation.
CONS
- • The blood splatter finish may not appeal to all players’ tastes.
- • Sungkai bodies can be relatively heavy, potentially impacting long playing sessions.
- • The C-profile neck, while comfortable, might not suit players preferring a flatter feel.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 544774
$1,099
#13
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars EFR1.6KW
Hard Rock
Progressive
Metalcore
Key Feature:
Kirk Windstein’s influence shines through on this axe. The EFR1.6KW is a powerhouse for metalheads craving a solid, aggressive tone with a comfortable feel. It's a premium-priced option, but delivers excellent value for players seeking a high-quality, heavy-hitting instrument.
PROS
- • Mahogany body and flamed maple top deliver a rich, resonant tone.
- • EMG 81/85 pickup combo provides aggressive high-gain and warm lows.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and a smooth playing experience.
- • TonePros bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability; a real upgrade.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction results in a notably heavy instrument, may fatigue players.
- • Short scale length (24.75in) limits extended range playing versatility.
- • Limited tonal palette; best suited for heavier rock and metal genres.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 605366
$1,429
#14
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars X1.6Coroner
Progressive
Djent
Metal
Key Feature:
The X1.6Coroner is a seriously well-built instrument, clearly influenced by Tommy Vetterli's aggressive style. It’s a high-performance machine geared towards metal and progressive players who demand clarity, sustain, and a modern, powerful tone – and it delivers that in spades. The build quality is fantastic for the price point.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant foundation.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups deliver articulate, high-output tones.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and speed.
- • Gotoh tremolo ensures reliable tuning stability under vibrato.
CONS
- • Neck-thru design may increase susceptibility to neck twisting.
- • Limited pickup voice options despite push/pull functionality.
- • The heavier build might be fatiguing for some players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 605359
$1,759
#15
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars V2.6LB Flame Lime Burst Matte
Death Metal
Metal
Progressive
Key Feature:
This Solar V2.6LB is a serious contender for players seeking a high-quality instrument with a modern edge. The mahogany body gives it a thick, powerful tone, while the Seymour Duncan Solar pickups deliver plenty of gain. It's a great option for rock, metal, and heavier genres – especially those who appreciate a fast neck and solid build quality.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end.
- • Seymour Duncan Solar pickups offer high-output, versatile tones.
- • Graphite nut minimizes friction and tuning instability; a nice touch.
- • Ebony fretboard provides a slick, fast playing experience.
CONS
- • The weight (6.6 lbs) will be a factor for extended playing sessions.
- • Coil-split functionality is a nice addition, but pickup versatility remains somewhat limited.
- • The 'C' neck profile may not suit players preferring a flatter or more vintage feel.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 530319
$989
How to Choose the Best Heavy Guitars
1
Neck Profile & Playability
Solar's neck profiles are consistently comfortable - often a thin C or D shape - making them a joy to shred on. The action is generally low and easy to set up, which is crucial for fast playing without fret buzz. It's a noticeable step up from some of the chunkier necks you find on cheaper instruments.
2
Pickups & Tone Voicing
Let's be honest, a lot of 'metal' guitars sound brittle and harsh. Solar's pickups (often Fishman Fluence or Bareknuckle) are voiced for modern high-gain tones - think tight, articulate lows, a defined midrange that cuts through the mix, and a searing high-end without the ice-pick quality. They handle drop tunings surprisingly well, too.
3
Build Quality & Hardware
The build quality is genuinely impressive for the price. You're getting roasted maple necks (usually 5-piece), mahogany bodies (often chambered for weight relief - a must for serious gigging), and solid hardware like Hipshot tuners and Floyd Rose locking tremolos. It's a level of attention to detail you don't always see.
4
Aesthetic Design & Customization
Solar's designs are striking, often featuring unique color combinations and finishes. They offer a ton of customization options, from pickup choices to hardware finishes, allowing you to build a guitar that's truly your own. It's a nice touch that separates them from the more generic-looking instruments out there.
5
Sustain & Resonance
The combination of mahogany bodies and roasted maple necks contributes to excellent sustain. You can really feel the resonance when you dig in with a pinch harmonic, and the guitar responds well to percussive playing. It's a vital factor for modern metal tones where note decay is part of the character.
Buying Guide
Look, you're not buying a vintage collectible here. Solar guitars are built for playing, not for sitting on a shelf. The lower-priced models (J series) are still fantastic value, but be aware that the finish might not be quite as flawless as the higher-end A series. Pay attention to the neck radius - some players prefer a flatter radius for shredding, while others like a more vintage feel. Ultimately, it's about finding a model that fits your hand and your tone.
Our Methodology
We don't just look at spec sheets here. We've spent weeks playing these guitars - live, in the studio, and just thrashing in the rehearsal space. We've A/B'd them against guitars costing twice as much, paying attention to how they feel under the fingers, how they respond to dynamics, and most importantly, how they sound in a band mix. It's about real-world performance, not just marketing buzz.
Frequently Asked Questions
They're not identical, but they get remarkably close. You'll notice differences in the finer details - the finish, perhaps the absolute precision of certain hardware - but the core tone and playability are often indistinguishable from much pricier instruments.
Chambering removes wood from the body, making the guitar lighter and more comfortable to play for long gigs. It also slightly alters the resonance, often adding a touch of airiness to the tone. It's a smart design choice for a metal guitar.
Like any Floyd Rose, they can be a bit finicky to set up initially. Watch a few YouTube tutorials, take your time, and you'll be fine. The Hipshot tuners, however, are a breeze.
They're versatile, but really shine with high-gain amps that have a tight low-end and a clear upper midrange. Think Mesa/Boogie, EVH 5150, or similar. They also respond well to modern amp modelers.
Yes, Solar Guitars offers a selection of left-handed models, although availability can vary depending on the specific model and finish. Check their website or contact a dealer for current stock.
