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: June 24, 2026 • Next update: July 1, 2026
⚡ The best heavy guitars in 2026 are Solar Guitars V1.8SVART (top pick), Solar Guitars XF1.6FRFN for tighter budgets, and Solar Guitars V2.6LB Flame Lime Burst Matte for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $988–$1,648, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
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
#2
⭐
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
#3
⭐
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
#4
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars VAR1.6FRVC+
Progressive
Death Metal
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
The VAR1.6FRVC+ is a seriously well-built instrument. That maple/ebony neck feels fantastic, and the Duncan Solar+ pickups deliver a modern, aggressive tone perfect for metal and progressive rock. This is a fantastic option for players seeking a high-performance shred machine without the premium price tag of some boutique brands.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- • Maple/Ebony neck provides a snappy feel and clear upper-midrange articulation
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups offer high-output, articulate crunch and clarity
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for extreme dive bombs and stable tuning
CONS
- • The Vacillator finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging
- • At around 8.5 lbs, it’s a substantial instrument and may be fatiguing for some players
- • The 3-way switch limits tonal flexibility compared to coil-splitting options
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616772
$1,539
#5
⭐
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
#6
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars XF1.6FRFBR+
Djent
Death Metal
Progressive
Key Feature:
The XF1.6FRFBR+ is a serious instrument built for modern metal and progressive rock players. The combination of mahogany, maple, and those Duncan Solar+ pickups delivers a powerful, focused tone with excellent sustain. It’s a premium-priced option that offers a lot of bang for your buck in terms of hardware and overall quality.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for aggressive tones.
- • Seymour Duncan Solar+ pickups deliver high-output, articulate, modern rock sounds.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for extreme dive bombs and expressive vibrato.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
CONS
- • The mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavy feel, potentially tiring for some players.
- • The Trans Blood Red Matte finish, while striking, may be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
- • The 3-way pickup switch limits tonal flexibility compared to coil-splitting options.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 565518
$1,374
#7
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars A1.6SVART+
Death Metal
Metal
Djent
Key Feature:
The A1.6SVART+ is a serious contender for players wanting a modern, high-performance instrument. The Evertune system is a game-changer for stability, and those Duncan Solar+ pickups really deliver a powerful, focused sound. This is perfect for metalheads and progressive players who want a reliable, well-built guitar without the ultra-premium price tag.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant foundation for the pickups
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and speed for effortless playing
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups deliver high-output, articulate tones with surprising clarity
- • Evertune bridge guarantees consistent tuning stability under any playing condition
CONS
- • The alder body combined with the stainless steel frets results in a noticeably heavier instrument
- • The 'C' neck profile might not suit players preferring a flatter or vintage feel
- • While versatile, the humbucker configuration leans towards heavier genres; clean tones are possible but not a strong suit
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 592542
$1,429
#8
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars X1.6C
Progressive
Djent
Metal
Key Feature:
The X1.6C is a seriously capable heavy hitter. The Duncan-Solar pickups really deliver a modern, aggressive tone, and the build quality is surprisingly good for the price. This is perfect for metal and hard rock players wanting a premium feel without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Duncan-Solar humbuckers provide aggressive output and a modern high-gain voice.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and note clarity.
- • Set-through neck construction enhances sustain and provides a comfortable feel.
CONS
- • The matte black finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
- • The scale length (629mm) might feel slightly longer for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- • While versatile, the pickups lean towards heavier genres, limiting clean tones.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 561516
$1,209
#9
⭐
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
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars SBR1.6VC+ Vacillator Gloss
Metalcore
Death Metal
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
The SBR1.6VC+ is a seriously well-equipped instrument. The Evertune system is a huge plus for consistent tuning, and the Duncan Solar+ pickups give you a powerful, modern tone. This is a fantastic option for players who want a high-performance guitar without the absolute top-end price tag, particularly those into heavier genres and modern rock.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups deliver a modern, high-output tone.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees consistent tuning, a real game-changer.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
CONS
- • Alder body can make it feel a bit weighty for extended playing.
- • Plastic nut is a cost-saving measure, upgradeable for improved sustain.
- • The 5-way pickup switch limits tonal flexibility somewhat.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 595534
$1,319
#11
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars V1.6VW Wolfmaster
Djent
Metal
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
The Wolfmaster is a seriously impressive shred machine, built for modern metal and progressive rock players. Jonas Wolf's signature touch brings a focused, high-gain sound with a killer tremolo system. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of bang for your buck in terms of quality and playability.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and feel.
- • Fishman Fluence Modern bridge pickup delivers high-output, articulate tones.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo offers reliable, wide-ranging vibrato.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers smooth playability and a snappy response.
CONS
- • Alder body may contribute to a slightly heavier overall instrument.
- • Single volume control with push/pull limits tonal shaping options.
- • Vintage White finish, while attractive, can be prone to showing grime.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 576429
$1,429
#12
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars VAR2.6CLN Canibalismo
Progressive
Death Metal
Metal
Key Feature:
The VAR2.6CLN Canibalismo is a serious contender for players wanting a high-quality, metal-ready instrument. The Duncan Solar pickups deliver a modern, aggressive tone, and the build quality feels solid. It's ideal for heavier rock and metal players who appreciate a comfortable neck and a distinctive aesthetic.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Duncan Solar humbuckers provide high-output, articulate tones suitable for metal.
- • Maple neck with a comfortable C profile and rosewood fretboard offers excellent playability.
- • String-thru-body design enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • The 'Neon Canibalismo' finish might be polarizing; not everyone will love it.
- • At around 8.5 lbs, it's a hefty instrument – may be tiring for some.
- • While versatile, it's primarily geared toward heavier styles; clean tones are less inspiring.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 620812
$1,209
#13
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars A1.61FR Assassin
Hard Rock
Metal
Death Metal
Key Feature:
The A1.61FR Assassin is a serious contender for modern metal and progressive players. The neck-thru design and Nazgul pickup combination deliver a powerful, focused sound with excellent sustain. It’s a premium-priced instrument that offers a lot of bang for your buck in terms of components and playability.
PROS
- • Seymour Duncan Nazgul delivers aggressive high-output, modern metal tones.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and a slick, fast playing experience.
- • Neck-thru design provides excellent sustain and a comfortable, smooth transition.
- • GOTOH GE1996T tremolo system is reliable and offers smooth, accurate tuning.
CONS
- • Carbon matte finish can be prone to fingerprints and requires diligent cleaning.
- • Neck-thru design can make neck adjustments slightly more complex for some players.
- • The aggressive Nazgul pickup might limit versatility for cleaner, vintage tones.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 599523
$1,319
#14
⭐
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
#15
⭐
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
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.
