AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Solar Guitars ST Style Guitars 2026
The top pick is Solar Guitars A1.6DBOP Black Open Pore ($1,671). Solar Guitars S by Solar SB4.6FRFBR FRD gives you the most for the money at $423. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 12 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAsh body
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.
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.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,671 now$1,671€1,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
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
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
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$947 now$947€849 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
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
Cons
- Open pore finish, while aesthetically pleasing, requires more careful maintenance
- Ebony fingerboard can be brittle and susceptible to dryness without proper care
41AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,393 · Aug 17$1,337 now$1,337€1,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
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.
Cons
- Candy Apple Red paint may chip easily.
- No specific weight listed for the full guitar.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,671 now$1,671€1,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
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
Cons
- No weight listed makes handling uncertain
- Floyd Rose system requires precise setup
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,560 now$1,560€1,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings7-string
- BodyAlder body
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.
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.
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,560 now$1,560€1,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
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.
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.
40AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 17$1,671 · Aug 17$1,671 now$1,671€1,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
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.
Cons
- The matte carbon finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be a fingerprint magnet.
- Fixed bridge limits tremolo/vibrato options, a consideration for some players.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,002 now$1,002€899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
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.
Cons
- Alder body may make it slightly heavier than some players prefer.
- Ebony fingerboard can be prone to dryness, requiring regular maintenance.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,448 now$1,448€1,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius356 mm (14.02")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This guitar feels solid with its mahogany body and rosewood fingerboard. The flame maple top and custom pickups give it a bright, punchy tone that cuts through a mix. It suits players who want a reliable ST-style instrument with a licensed Floyd Rose for easy bending. The simple controls keep things straightforward while the bolt-on neck ensures sturdy construction.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for your playing style.
Cons
- Only volume and tone controls limit customization options significantly.
All 12 ST style guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Solar Guitars A2.6Canibalismo+Solar Guitars36Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 12
Solar Guitars S by Solar AB4.6C CBMSolar Guitars34Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
ST Style Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 1,452 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,448 — half of all ST style guitars here cost less.
median of 1,115 models · 41.9 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 1,317 models · 635 mm (25")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 725 models · 21–24
most common · 1,308 models
How to choose the best ST style guitars
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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 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 17 ST style guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 1,452 in the category). 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 Solar guitars just Fender clones?
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.
What's the deal with the roasted maple neck?
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.
How do the Solar pickups compare to standard Fender pickups?
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.
Are Solar guitars gig-ready out of the box?
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.
What's the warranty like?
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.
