Best Solar Guitars ST Style Guitars 2026
So, you're in the market for a solid ST-style guitar that doesn't sound or feel like a factory clone? Solar Guitars have been quietly building a serious reputation, especially among players who want something a bit more refined without breaking the bank. They're not as ubiquitous as Fender or Ibanez, which is part of their appeal - they're crafting instruments with real attention to detail. Let's break down what makes these guitars special and if one might be your next axe.
Last updated: August 19, 2026
⚡ The best st style guitars in 2026 are Solar Guitars AC1.6FRFBB Sustainiac+ (top pick), Solar Guitars A1.6DBOP Black Open Pore for tighter budgets, and Solar Guitars SR1.6AFRMNS for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $866–$1,849, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars AC1.6FRFBB Sustainiac+
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Indie
Funk
Blues
Key Feature:
This guitar keeps your notes ringing thanks to the Sustainiac+ pickups. The flamed maple top looks great and feels solid under your hand. It works well for players who like long solos or heavy bends. Great for anyone who wants that extended sustain without losing clarity.
PROS
- • Flamed maple top adds visual depth and resonance
- • Sustainiac+ pickups lock in notes for long playing
- • 24 super jumbo frets help with heavy bends
- • Blacksmith strings offer a warm, tight tone
CONS
- • No weight listed makes handling uncertain
- • Floyd Rose system requires precise setup
- • Price is high for this configuration
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 641800
$1,618
#2
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars A1.6DBOP Black Open Pore
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Blues
Rock
Indie
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid thanks to the maple neck-thru-body design and locking tuners. The open-pore black finish looks bold but hides the wood grain you might expect. It suits players who prioritize tuning stability and a strong, direct sound over complex tone options.
PROS
- • Maple neck-thru-body construction ensures stable intonation and sustain.
- • Everbrite bridge system locks strings for tuning stability.
- • Tusq nut reduces string friction and adds smooth playability.
- • 18:1 locking machine heads prevent tuning drift during heavy use.
CONS
- • Black open-pore finish lacks the traditional depth of a finished wood body.
- • No weight specification provided makes handling uncertainty at this price point.
- • Only two control knobs limit tone shaping compared to standard three-way setups.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 635931
$1,734
#3
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars SR1.6AFRMNS
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Indie
Funk
Key Feature:
The SR1.6AFRMNS is a seriously impressive instrument offering a fantastic blend of quality and modern features. The Fluence pickups are a standout, delivering a powerful and versatile sound that's perfect for players into rock, metal, and progressive genres. This is a high-end guitar without the ultra-premium price tag, ideal for intermediate to advanced players seeking a refined and reliable instrument.
PROS
- • Exceptional Fishman Fluence pickups deliver articulate, modern tones.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Maple neck-thru design enhances sustain and resonance significantly.
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for wide-ranging vibrato and dive bombs.
CONS
- • The heavier build (likely around 8.5-9 lbs) may be tiring for some players.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with coil-splitting options.
- • Midnight Sky Black Metallic Gloss finish might show fingerprints easily.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 603216
$1,734
#4
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars A1.6ATG MKII
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Pop
Blues
Key Feature:
The A1.6ATG MKII is a seriously impressive instrument for the money. The Fishman Fluence pickups are versatile enough for everything from clean jazz to modern metal, and the Evertune system is a game-changer for consistent tuning. This is a great choice for the discerning player who wants premium features without the ultra-high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Fishman Fluence Modern pickups deliver articulate cleans and aggressive high-gain tones.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees exceptional tuning stability, even with heavy use.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience and enhanced note clarity.
CONS
- • The matte carbon finish, while stylish, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
- • The 'C' neck profile might not suit players preferring a thinner or D-shaped feel.
- • The single volume control with push/pull can limit tonal shaping options for some.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 601532
$1,850
#5
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars S1.6FRBOP+
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Indie
Blues
Key Feature:
The S1.6FRBOP+ is a seriously well-equipped guitar for the price. That Floyd Rose tremolo and those Duncan pickups make it ideal for modern rock, metal, and anything needing a bit of edge. It’s a great option for players looking for a high-performance instrument without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Super jumbo stainless steel frets offer exceptional playability and feel
- • Duncan Solar Plus humbuckers deliver high-output, modern rock tones
- • Floyd Rose 1000 tremolo allows for extreme dive bombs and tuning stability
CONS
- • Open pore finish, while aesthetically pleasing, requires more careful maintenance
- • Ebony fingerboard can be brittle and susceptible to dryness without proper care
- • The neck profile, while a comfortable C, might be too thin for some players
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 616779
$1,445
#6
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars A1.6TBOP
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Pop
Indie
Rock
Key Feature:
The A1.6TBOP is a seriously impressive instrument. The Evertune system is a game-changer for stability, and the Duncan Solar pickups deliver a modern, aggressive tone that cuts through a mix. This is a great choice for players who want a high-performance guitar without the premium price tag of some boutique brands.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a resonant, articulate tone with a tight low end
- • Ebony fingerboard offers exceptional clarity and a smooth playing experience
- • Duncan Solar humbuckers deliver a powerful, modern high-output sound
- • Evertune bridge guarantees stable tuning, even with aggressive playing
CONS
- • The matt finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can feel slightly less refined than gloss finishes
- • The Super Jumbo frets might be a bit much for players with smaller hands or a lighter touch
- • Ash bodies can be somewhat prone to finish checking with age and temperature fluctuations
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610357
$1,387
#7
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars SBR1.7FRQOB Sustainiac+
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
7-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Blues
Country
Pop
Key Feature:
This Solar SBR1.7FRQOB is a serious instrument for the modern player. The combination of the Duncan Solar+ bridge pickup and Sustainiac neck pickup opens up a world of sonic possibilities, while the comfortable C-shape neck and quality hardware make it a joy to play. It's a great choice for progressive rock, metal, and anyone who wants a versatile 7-string with sustain for days.
PROS
- • Alder/Quilted Maple combo delivers a balanced, resonant, and visually striking tone.
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups provide high-output, articulate tones suitable for modern styles.
- • Sustainiac Stealth Pro neck pickup unlocks incredible, controlled infinite sustain possibilities.
- • Gotoh GE1996T tremolo with brass block enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Ebony fingerboard, while smooth, might be a bit too slick for some players’ preference.
- • 7-string scale can be a steep learning curve for players accustomed to 6-string instruments.
- • The overall package, while feature-rich, sits at a premium-priced point for many.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 607778
$1,618
#8
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars S1.6RS CAR
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Rock
Pop
Country
Key Feature:
This guitar feels like a workhorse built for rock. The maple neck is smooth, and the two Distortion humbuckers give you a solid, driving tone right out of the box. The Evertune bridge helps it stay in tune during long gigs, but the heavy frets might feel a bit stiff to new players.
PROS
- • Maple neck offers fast play and solid stability.
- • Distortion humbuckers deliver classic heavy rock tone.
- • Constant-Tension bridge keeps tuning rock solid.
- • Alder body provides balanced punch for rock bands.
CONS
- • Candy Apple Red paint may chip easily.
- • No specific weight listed for the full guitar.
- • Heavy stainless steel frets can feel stiff.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 644758
$1,734
Solar Guitars A2.6 FR LN
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Country
Funk
Pop
Key Feature:
The A2.6 FR LN is a seriously impressive guitar for the money. That mahogany body and ebony board combo is a winning formula for warm, articulate tones, and the Floyd Rose gives you plenty of expressive range. It's a fantastic choice for players who want a high-quality instrument with modern features without premium-priced tags.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, sustain-rich tone and excellent resonance
- • Ebony fingerboard offers slick playability and crisp note definition
- • Solar humbuckers provide high-output, versatile tones from clean to aggressive
- • Floyd Rose tremolo allows for expressive vibrato and dive bombs
CONS
- • Mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavier feel compared to alder alternatives
- • ’Neon Lemon’ finish may not appeal to players seeking a more understated aesthetic
- • Solar pickups, while good, lack the established legacy of brands like Seymour Duncan or DiMarzio
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 481968
$982
#10
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars SBR1.6FRSP Sustainiac+
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Indie
Funk
Blues
Key Feature:
The SBR1.6FRSP is a serious instrument for the modern player seeking a versatile, high-performance guitar. The Sustainiac adds a unique dimension for sound design, and the Duncan Solar+ pickup provides a fantastic balance of clarity and aggression. It's a premium-priced option, but the quality and features justify the investment for gigging musicians and dedicated home recordists.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and feel.
- • Duncan Solar+ pickup delivers articulate highs and powerful lows.
- • Sustainiac Stealth Pro adds incredible sustain and octave possibilities.
- • Gotoh GE1996T tremolo offers smooth performance and reliable tuning.
CONS
- • Alder body may make it slightly heavier than some players prefer.
- • Ebony fingerboard can be prone to dryness, requiring regular maintenance.
- • Coil split functionality offers limited tonal versatility compared to more complex switching.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 607842
$1,503
#11
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars S2.6C+
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Funk
Indie
Pop
Key Feature:
The S2.6C+ is a seriously impressive guitar for the money. The combination of mahogany and maple gives it a really nice balance – warm lows, clear highs, and a comfortable feel. This is a fantastic option for players wanting a high-quality instrument with a modern aesthetic and a touch of vintage vibe.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and sustain-rich tonal foundation.
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups offer a surprisingly versatile range, from crunchy rhythm to searing leads.
- • The set-in maple neck provides excellent upper-midrange clarity and smooth playability.
- • Solar 18:1 machine heads offer precise and stable tuning, a welcome upgrade.
CONS
- • The matte carbon finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be a fingerprint magnet.
- • Fixed bridge limits tremolo/vibrato options, a consideration for some players.
- • Mahogany body construction may result in a slightly heavier feel compared to alder alternatives.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 576483
$1,040
#12
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars S1.6PP
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Country
Rock
Indie
Key Feature:
The S1.6PP is a serious contender for players wanting a modern, high-performance instrument without the premium-priced tag. That Evertune system is a game-changer for live performance, and the Duncan Solar pickups deliver a versatile range of tones from searing leads to chunky rhythms. It's perfect for rock, metal, and players who demand stability and a refined feel.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a truly resonant foundation.
- • Jatoba neck adds stiffness and snap to the comfortable C profile.
- • Duncan Solar humbuckers deliver high-output, articulate tones across genres.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees exceptional tuning stability, gig-ready performance.
CONS
- • Mahogany build contributes to a potentially heavier feel for some players.
- • Ebony fingerboard can be unforgiving for players with sensitive fingers.
- • Poplar burl veneer, while beautiful, is susceptible to scratches and wear.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 474602
$1,618
Solar Guitars A2.6Canibalismo+
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Blues
Funk
Pop
Key Feature:
This A2.6Canibalismo+ is a real head-turner, both sonically and visually. The Duncan Solar+ pickups give it a modern edge, while the Sungkai body provides a warm foundation. It's a fantastic choice for players who want a high-performance guitar with a unique look and premium feel without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Sungkai body provides excellent sustain and a surprisingly resonant tone.
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups deliver high-output, articulate tones with plenty of bite.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
- • Graphite nut minimizes friction and tuning instability; a welcome touch at this price point.
CONS
- • The 'Blood Splatter' finish is polarizing; might not suit everyone's taste.
- • Sungkai, while good, isn't quite as premium feeling as mahogany or alder.
- • Fixed bridge limits tremolo/vibrato options for expressive playing.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 544773
$1,040
Solar Guitars A2.6AG
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Funk
Pop
Country
Key Feature:
The A2.6AG is a solid instrument offering a premium feel and great sound at a reasonable price. That mahogany body delivers a lovely warmth and sustain, and the Solar Duncan pickup has a modern edge. It's a great choice for players seeking a focused, powerful tone without the high-end price tag, particularly those into rock and heavier styles.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warm, resonant tones with excellent sustain.
- • Ebony fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience and note clarity.
- • Solar Duncan humbucker delivers high-output, versatile tones for modern styles.
- • Maple neck with a comfortable 'C' profile suits a wide range of playing techniques.
CONS
- • Army Green Matte finish might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • Mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavier feel compared to alder alternatives.
- • Single humbucker limits tonal versatility; ideal for focused sounds.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 538232
$866
Solar Guitars A2.6FRPN Canibalismo
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Pop
Country
Rock
Key Feature:
The A2.6FRPN Canibalismo is a seriously cool, high-performance instrument. The mahogany and ebony combo gives it a great blend of warmth and snap, while those Solar Duncan pickups can handle everything from soaring leads to chunky rhythm. It's perfect for players who want a modern shred machine with a unique aesthetic and a surprisingly affordable price point.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end frequencies
- • Maple neck provides snappy response and clarity
- • Solar Duncan pickups offer high-output, versatile tones
- • Floyd Rose tremolo allows for extreme dive bombs and whammy effects
CONS
- • Pink Neon Matte finish might not appeal to all players
- • Mahogany body contributes to a heavier overall instrument
- • Super jumbo frets can be challenging for smaller hands
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 538136
$982
Every st style guitars that matches
16 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Solar Guitars S1.6AQOB Quilted Ocean Blue Br | Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body | $1,734 |
ST Style Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 1,098 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,040
from $184 to $6,360
Nut width
median 42 mm (1.65")
from 41.9 mm (1.65") to 43 mm (1.69") · 851 models
Scale
median 648 mm (25.51")
from 635 mm (25") to 648 mm (25.51") · 982 models
Frets
median 22
from 21 to 24 · 584 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 229 mm (9.02") to 400 mm (15.75") · 509 models
Body
alder, poplar, basswood
most common · 965 models
Fingerboard
rosewood, maple, ebony
most common · 697 models
Neck profile
C, D, U
most common · 173 models
Weight
median 3.44 kg
from 2 kg to 9 kg · 55 models
Strings
median 7-string
from 4-string to 8-string · 15 models
How to Choose the Best ST Style Guitars
1
Neck Profile & Feel
Solar's necks are consistently comfortable, often falling somewhere between a slim C and a D profile. This makes them accessible for players with varying hand sizes and playing styles - a huge plus for longer gigs or tracking sessions where fatigue can kill your performance.
2
Pickups & Voicing
The stock pickups, often Seymour Duncan Solar pickups, are a real highlight. They offer a balanced tone with a nice clarity - not overly scooped, but not muddy either. You get a good growl when you push them, but they also retain articulation for cleaner playing, which is crucial for rhythm work or funky stuff.
3
Hardware & Tuning Stability
Solar's locking tuners and bridge are solid performers. You'll notice the improved tuning stability, especially when dropping tunings or playing aggressively. It's a small detail, but it saves you time and frustration, especially on stage.
4
Construction & Aesthetics
The build quality is genuinely impressive for the price point. The roasted maple necks add stability and a smooth feel, and the finishes are well-executed. They've also got some unique aesthetic options - flame tops, custom colors - that set them apart from the sea of standard ST-style guitars.
5
Overall Tone Character
Solar STs tend to have a more modern, articulate tone compared to some vintage-voiced STs. They cut through a mix better, which is a real asset in a band setting. However, if you're strictly chasing that scooped, vintage vibe, these might not be the perfect fit - they have a slight forwardness that adds clarity.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're getting a lot of guitar, but it's still worth being discerning. Check the neck relief - a slight adjustment can make a world of difference. Don't expect boutique-level fretwork; there might be minor imperfections. However, the overall quality and the tonal character make it a great value, especially if you're looking for a modern ST with a bit more personality.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 16 of 1,098 st style guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not really. They take the ST format as a starting point, but the neck profile, pickup voicing, and hardware choices create a distinct character. They're definitely inspired by Fender, but they have their own identity.
Roasted maple is kiln-dried at high temperatures, which stabilizes the wood and reduces moisture-related warping. It results in a smoother feel and improved stability, which is great for consistent action and tuning.
Solar's pickups are generally brighter and more articulate than traditional Fender pickups. They have a more defined midrange and a tighter low-end, making them better suited for modern rock and metal, but still versatile enough for blues and other genres.
Mostly. You might want to do a basic setup - adjust the action, intonation - but the hardware is solid and the tuning stability is good. They're definitely ready to be thrown into a band rehearsal or a gig.
Solar Guitars offers a limited lifetime warranty on their instruments, covering defects in materials and workmanship. It's a good sign of their confidence in their build quality.
