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: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026
#1
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars S2.6C+
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 576483
$989
#2
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars S1.6C+
Rock
Country
Funk
Key Feature:
The S1.6C+ is a seriously impressive guitar for the money. The combination of the alder body, ebony fingerboard, and those Duncan Solar+ pickups gives it a modern, powerful voice that's surprisingly versatile. This is a great choice for intermediate to advanced players seeking a high-performance instrument with excellent tuning stability.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Duncan Solar+ pickups deliver high-output, articulate tones across genres.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees exceptional tuning stability and effortless playability.
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast feel and contributes to a bright, clear tone.
CONS
- • The 648mm scale length might feel slightly longer for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- • Carbon Matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to fingerprints.
- • Premium-priced, potentially limiting accessibility for beginner guitarists.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 576478
$1,319
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars A2.6FRPN Canibalismo
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
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 538136
$989
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars S1.6FRBOP+
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
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 616779
$1,429
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars S1.6MS Signature
Blues
Rock
Funk
Key Feature:
Marcus Siepen's signature Solar is a serious instrument for players wanting a modern, versatile sound with incredible tuning stability. The Evertune system is a game-changer for live performance, and the Fluence pickups deliver a wide range of tones from soaring leads to chunky rhythms. This is a great choice for metal and progressive players looking for a premium-priced, high-performance guitar.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain; excellent resonance.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups offer versatile, modern tones with clarity.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees rock-solid tuning stability, gig-ready.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience.
CONS
- • Mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavier instrument.
- • Quilted maple top can sometimes mask the mahogany's natural tone.
- • The C neck profile may not suit players preferring a thinner, faster feel.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 592415
$1,869
#6
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars A2.6Canibalismo+
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.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 544773
$989
#7
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars A1.6ATG MKII
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 601532
$1,759
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars A1.6TBOP
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
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 610357
$1,539
#9
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars SBR1.6FRSP Sustainiac+
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.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 607842
$1,429
#10
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars SR1.6AFRMNS
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 603216
$1,649
#11
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars A2.6AG
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.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 538232
$879
#12
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars A1.6Vinter Pearl White Matte
Rock
Funk
Pop
Key Feature:
The A1.6 Vinter is a seriously impressive instrument. The Fluence pickups give you a wide range of tones, from glassy cleans to aggressive high-gain sounds, and the Evertune bridge is a game-changer for live performance. This is a great choice for players seeking modern features and a premium feel without going completely over the top.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- • Fishman Fluence pickups offer incredible clarity and high-output versatility
- • Evertune bridge ensures rock-solid tuning stability, gig-ready immediately
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience with defined note articulation
CONS
- • The matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can show fingerprints easily
- • The shorter scale length might feel cramped for players with larger hands
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many guitarists
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 505658
$1,649
#13
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Solar Guitars A2.6 FR LN
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 481968
$989
#14
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Solar Guitars S1.6PP
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.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 474602
$1,429
#15
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars S1.6AQOB Quilted Ocean Blue Br
Blues
Rock
Pop
Key Feature:
The S1.6AQOB is a seriously impressive instrument. The Fluence pickups give you a wide range of tones, from tight, modern rock to warmer, more vintage sounds, while the Evertune bridge keeps you perfectly in tune. It's a great choice for players wanting a high-quality, modern guitar with a gorgeous finish and excellent playability, especially those into heavier rock and metal.
PROS
- • Stunning quilted maple top provides exceptional visual appeal.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups deliver versatile, high-output tones.
- • Evertune bridge guarantees reliable tuning stability, gig-ready.
- • 5-piece maple neck offers excellent stability and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • Alder body may make it slightly heavier than some players prefer.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more pickup options.
- • Ocean Blue Burst finish might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 528321
$1,539
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.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on spec sheets here. We've spent hours playing these Solar ST-styles - through various amps, in rehearsal settings, and even thrown them into a few gigs to see how they hold up. Our evaluations are based on feel, tone, build quality, and how they perform in real-world scenarios, comparing them directly to other guitars in a similar price bracket.
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.
