What Is A 7 String Guitar And Why Should You Play One?

A 7 string guitar is simply a guitar with seven strings instead of the standard six, offering an extended lower range and expanded sonic possibilities, and you can unlock these possibilities right here at guitarplayers.net. This opens up new creative avenues for guitar players of all styles. If you’re ready to explore new sounds and expand your musical horizons, dive into our comprehensive resources, lessons, and a vibrant community at guitarplayers.net. Find the perfect extended range guitar that will change the way you play.

1. What Exactly Is a 7 String Guitar?

A 7 string guitar is a guitar with seven strings, offering a wider tonal range, especially in the lower frequencies, compared to the standard six-string guitar. This extended range allows guitarists to play heavier riffs, create richer harmonies, and explore unique sonic textures. Let’s delve into the specifics, history, and benefits of this intriguing instrument.

1.1. Defining the 7 String Guitar

A 7 string guitar is easily identifiable by its additional string, usually tuned lower than the standard E string on a six-string. This added string typically extends the guitar’s range downwards, offering new possibilities for bass lines, chord voicings, and soloing.

Standard Tuning: The most common tuning for a 7 string guitar is B-E-A-D-G-B-e. This means the seventh string is tuned to B, providing a low, rumbling tone.
Extended Range: The extra string allows guitarists to play riffs and chords that would be impossible on a standard six-string, opening up new creative avenues.
Versatility: While often associated with metal and djent genres, the 7 string guitar is versatile enough for jazz, blues, rock, and even classical music.

1.2. A Brief History of the 7 String Guitar

The 7 string guitar has a rich history, with various forms appearing across different musical traditions.

Early Development: The earliest versions of the 7 string guitar can be traced back to the Russian guitar, which gained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries. This instrument was typically tuned to an open G chord.
Jazz Pioneers: In the early 20th century, jazz guitarists like George Van Eps began experimenting with 7 string guitars to expand their harmonic and melodic possibilities.
Modern Metal: The 1990s saw a resurgence in the popularity of the 7 string guitar, driven by metal bands like Korn and Fear Factory, who used the instrument to create heavier, more aggressive sounds.
Contemporary Use: Today, the 7 string guitar is used across many genres, from progressive metal to jazz fusion, showcasing its adaptability and appeal.

1.3. Exploring the Sonic Landscape

The extended range of the 7 string guitar opens up a world of sonic possibilities that are not easily achievable on a standard six-string guitar. Here’s how it enhances different aspects of playing:

Deeper Rhythms: The low B string provides a foundation for heavier, more powerful rhythms. This is especially useful in genres like metal, where a deep, resonant tone is essential.
Broader Harmonies: The added range allows for richer and more complex chord voicings. Guitarists can create fuller sounds with more depth and texture.
Expanded Melodies: Soloing on a 7 string guitar opens up new melodic possibilities. The extended range allows for seamless transitions between high and low registers, creating more dynamic and interesting solos.
Unique Textures: The combination of higher and lower frequencies creates unique sonic textures that can add depth and character to any musical style.

1.4. Prominent 7 String Guitar Players

Numerous guitarists have embraced the 7 string guitar and pushed its boundaries. Here are a few notable players and their contributions:

Guitarist	Genre	Notable Contributions
George Van Eps	Jazz	Pioneered the use of the 7 string guitar in jazz, expanding harmonic possibilities.
Steve Vai	Rock/Metal	Popularized the 7 string guitar in rock and metal, known for innovative techniques and virtuoso playing.
Tosin Abasi	Progressive	Innovator in progressive metal, using the 7 and 8 string guitars to create complex rhythms and intricate melodies.
John Petrucci	Progressive	Known for his technical proficiency and use of the 7 string guitar in Dream Theater, blending progressive elements with heavy metal.
Dino Cazares	Metal	Founding member of Fear Factory, instrumental in bringing the 7 string guitar to the forefront of the industrial metal scene.
Charlie Hunter	Jazz Fusion	Known for his unique approach to the 7 string guitar, often playing bass lines and chords simultaneously.
Ron Eschete	Jazz	Master of solo jazz guitar, utilizing the 7 string to create full arrangements with walking bass lines, chords, and melodies.
Bucky Pizzarelli	Jazz	Renowned for his traditional jazz playing, Bucky Pizzarelli was among the more popular jazz guitarists to embrace the 7-string guitar, favoring the Benedetto models like the Bambino 7.

These guitarists have demonstrated the versatility of the 7 string guitar, inspiring countless others to explore its potential.

1.5. Seven-String Guitar Construction and Design

The construction and design of a 7 string guitar share many similarities with its six-string counterpart but include specific considerations to accommodate the additional string. These factors influence the instrument’s playability, tone, and overall performance.

Neck Width and Profile:
- The neck of a 7 string guitar is wider to accommodate the extra string. This increased width can affect playability, especially for players with smaller hands.
- Neck profiles vary, with some designed to be flatter and wider to facilitate easier access to all strings. Common profiles include C, D, and U shapes.
Scale Length:
- Scale length refers to the distance from the nut to the bridge. Seven-string guitars often have longer scale lengths (e.g., 25.5 inches to 27 inches) to maintain proper tension and intonation of the low B string.
- A longer scale length helps prevent the low B string from sounding muddy or floppy, ensuring clarity and sustain.
Body Wood and Construction:
- The choice of body wood affects the guitar’s overall tone. Common woods include mahogany, alder, ash, and basswood.
- Mahogany provides warmth and sustain, while alder and ash offer a balanced tonal response. Basswood is lightweight and produces a focused sound, often favored in high-gain applications.
- Body construction techniques, such as solid-body, chambered, or semi-hollow, also influence tone and resonance.
Pickups and Electronics:
- Pickups are crucial for capturing the guitar’s sound. Seven-string guitars often feature high-output humbucker pickups designed to handle the extended low-end frequencies.
- Active pickups provide a strong, clear signal with enhanced clarity, while passive pickups offer a more organic and dynamic response.
- Electronics, including potentiometers and capacitors, affect the tone and responsiveness of the controls.
Bridge and Hardware:
- The bridge is a critical component for transferring string vibrations to the body. Seven-string guitars may feature fixed bridges, tremolo systems, or multi-scale bridges.
- Fixed bridges offer stability and sustain, while tremolo systems allow for vibrato effects. Multi-scale bridges (fanned frets) optimize string tension across all strings, improving intonation and playability.
- Hardware materials, such as steel or brass, affect the guitar’s tonal characteristics and durability.
Fretboard Material and Radius:
- Fretboard materials, such as rosewood, maple, or ebony, influence the feel and sound of the guitar. Rosewood offers warmth, maple provides brightness, and ebony delivers a smooth, articulate response.
- The fretboard radius (curvature) affects comfort and playability. Common radii range from 9.5 inches to 16 inches, with flatter radii facilitating easier bending and faster playing.

Understanding these construction and design elements can help guitarists choose a 7 string guitar that suits their playing style and tonal preferences.

2. What Are the Advantages of Playing a 7 String Guitar?

Playing a 7 string guitar offers several distinct advantages that can enhance a guitarist’s musical expression. From expanding the tonal range to creating unique chord voicings, the 7 string guitar provides opportunities for innovation and creativity.

2.1. Expanded Tonal Range

The most obvious advantage of a 7 string guitar is its expanded tonal range. The additional string, typically tuned to B, extends the lower frequencies, allowing for deeper, more resonant tones.

Lower Frequencies: The low B string provides a foundation for heavier rhythms and more powerful riffs, essential for genres like metal and djent.
Richer Harmonies: The extended range allows for richer and more complex chord voicings, adding depth and texture to your playing.
Versatility: The expanded range isn’t just for heavy music; it can also be used to create unique textures and harmonies in jazz, blues, and other genres.

2.2. Unique Chord Voicings

The 7 string guitar allows for chord voicings that are impossible on a standard six-string. This opens up new possibilities for creating interesting and innovative harmonies.

Fuller Chords: You can create fuller, more complete chords by utilizing the low B string, adding depth and richness to your sound.
Inverted Chords: The extended range allows for easier access to inverted chords, providing more harmonic options and smoother transitions.
Creative Expression: Experimenting with different chord voicings can lead to unique and innovative sounds that set you apart from other guitarists.

2.3. Enhanced Soloing Capabilities

Soloing on a 7 string guitar offers new possibilities for melodic expression. The extended range allows for seamless transitions between high and low registers, creating more dynamic and interesting solos.

Seamless Transitions: You can easily move between high and low notes without having to change positions, creating smoother and more fluid solos.
Extended Range Solos: The added range allows for solos that explore a wider range of frequencies, adding depth and complexity to your playing.
Unique Textures: Combining high and low notes in your solos can create unique textures and sounds that are not possible on a standard six-string.

2.4. Adaptability to Different Genres

While often associated with metal, the 7 string guitar is versatile enough for many genres. Its expanded range and unique sonic capabilities make it a valuable tool for guitarists in jazz, blues, rock, and even classical music.

Metal and Djent: The low B string provides the heavy, resonant tones that are essential for these genres.
Jazz: The extended range allows for richer harmonies and more complex chord voicings, perfect for jazz guitarists.
Blues: The 7 string guitar can add depth and texture to blues riffs and solos, creating a unique and powerful sound.
Rock: The added range and versatility make it a valuable tool for rock guitarists looking to expand their sonic palette.
Classical: Though less common, some classical guitarists utilize extended-range guitars to perform pieces originally written for instruments with a wider range or to explore new compositions.

2.5. Versatility in Musical Styles

The versatility of a 7 string guitar extends beyond specific genres, making it adaptable to various musical styles. Whether you’re playing solo, accompanying a vocalist, or performing in a band, the 7 string guitar can enhance your musical expression.

Solo Performance: The extended range allows you to create full, dynamic arrangements with bass lines, chords, and melodies all played on one instrument.
Accompaniment: The 7 string guitar can provide a solid foundation for vocalists or other instrumentalists, adding depth and texture to the overall sound.
Band Performance: The added range and versatility make it a valuable asset in a band setting, allowing you to create unique and powerful arrangements.

2.6. Extended Harmonic Possibilities

The 7 string guitar significantly broadens harmonic possibilities compared to a standard six-string. This extension allows guitarists to explore more complex chord voicings and create richer, fuller arrangements.

Complex Chord Voicings:
- The additional string enables the creation of complex chord voicings that span a wider range, adding depth and color to your playing.
- Guitarists can experiment with inversions and voicings that would be physically impossible on a six-string, opening new avenues for harmonic exploration.
Deeper Bass Lines:
- The low B string facilitates the playing of deeper, more resonant bass lines directly on the guitar.
- This is particularly useful in solo performances or smaller ensembles where a separate bass instrument might not be present.
Intervallic Exploration:
- The extended range allows for greater exploration of intervals, enabling guitarists to create unique melodic and harmonic textures.
- Unconventional intervals can add dissonance and tension, leading to more expressive and emotionally charged music.
Chord Melodies:
- The 7 string guitar is perfect for playing chord melodies, where the guitarist plays both the melody and harmony simultaneously.
- This technique allows for rich, self-contained arrangements that showcase the instrument’s full potential.
Harmonic Experimentation:
- With the expanded range, guitarists can experiment with advanced harmonic concepts such as polytonality, modal interchange, and extended harmonies.
- This experimentation can lead to innovative and groundbreaking musical creations.

2.7. Adaptability for Different Playing Styles

The design and features of a 7 string guitar make it highly adaptable for various playing styles, whether you prefer fingerstyle, pick-style, or tapping techniques.

Fingerstyle:
- The wider neck of a 7 string guitar can accommodate fingerstyle playing, allowing for greater independence and control over each string.
- Fingerstyle players can utilize the extended range to create intricate arrangements with bass lines, chords, and melodies all played simultaneously.
Pick-Style:
- Pick-style players can benefit from the added low end for heavy riffs and powerful rhythms.
- The extended range also allows for more dynamic and expressive lead playing, with seamless transitions between high and low registers.
Tapping:
- The 7 string guitar is well-suited for tapping techniques, providing a wider canvas for creating complex and virtuosic passages.
- Tapping allows guitarists to play multiple notes simultaneously, creating unique textures and harmonies.
Hybrid Picking:
- Hybrid picking, which combines pick and fingerstyle techniques, is enhanced by the 7 string guitar’s versatility.
- Guitarists can use a pick for rhythm and power while using their fingers for intricate melodies and harmonies.
Slide Guitar:
- While less common, the 7 string guitar can also be used for slide guitar playing. The extended range allows for deeper, more resonant slide tones.

Each of these playing styles is enhanced by the 7 string guitar’s unique features, making it a versatile instrument for guitarists of all backgrounds.

3. Are There Any Drawbacks to Playing a 7 String Guitar?

While the 7 string guitar offers many advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. These can range from physical challenges to adjustments in technique and equipment.

3.1. Physical Challenges

Playing a 7 string guitar can present some physical challenges, especially for guitarists who are used to playing a standard six-string.

Wider Neck: The wider neck of a 7 string guitar can be difficult to navigate, especially for players with smaller hands.
Increased Finger Stretch: Reaching for chords and notes on the wider neck can require more finger stretch, which can be tiring or even painful for some players.
Heavier Instrument: 7 string guitars are often heavier than six-string guitars, which can be uncomfortable during long practice sessions or performances.

3.2. Technical Adjustments

Switching to a 7 string guitar requires some technical adjustments. You may need to adapt your playing style and technique to accommodate the extra string and wider neck.

Muting: Muting the extra string can be challenging, especially when playing fast or complex passages.
Picking Technique: You may need to adjust your picking technique to avoid accidentally hitting the extra string.
Chord Voicings: Learning new chord voicings and adapting existing ones to the 7 string guitar can take time and effort.

3.3. Equipment Considerations

Playing a 7 string guitar may require some additional equipment considerations, such as specialized strings and amplifiers.

Strings: 7 string guitars require specialized strings that are designed to handle the lower frequencies and longer scale length.
Amplifiers: You may need to use an amplifier that is designed to handle the extended low-end frequencies of a 7 string guitar.
Pickups: Upgrading the pickups on your 7 string guitar can improve its tone and performance, especially if you are playing in a band or recording.

3.4. Learning Curve

There is definitely a learning curve involved when transitioning to a 7 string guitar. It takes time and practice to become comfortable with the instrument and to fully utilize its potential.

New Fingerings: Learning new fingerings for chords and scales can be challenging, especially if you have been playing a six-string for many years.
Muting Techniques: Mastering muting techniques to control the extra string takes practice and patience.
Adapting Existing Skills: Adapting your existing guitar skills to the 7 string guitar can be a slow and gradual process.

3.5. Potential for Muddy Tone

One potential issue with 7 string guitars is the risk of a muddy or unclear tone, particularly on the low B string. This can be due to several factors, including string gauge, scale length, and pickup selection.

String Gauge:
- Using strings that are too light can result in a floppy, undefined tone on the low B string.
- Experimenting with different string gauges is crucial to finding the optimal balance between playability and clarity.
Scale Length:
- Shorter scale lengths may not provide sufficient tension for the low B string, leading to a muddy sound.
- Longer scale lengths (26.5″ to 27″) can improve string tension and clarity but may require some adjustment in playing technique.
Pickup Selection:
- Not all pickups are created equal when it comes to handling the extended low end of a 7 string guitar.
- High-output humbuckers with tight bass response are often preferred for their ability to maintain clarity and definition.
Amplifier Settings:
- Improper amplifier settings can exacerbate the issue of a muddy tone.
- Adjusting the EQ to reduce excessive bass frequencies and boost clarity can help improve the overall sound.
Playing Technique:
- Excessive muting or improper fretting can also contribute to a muddy tone.
- Focusing on clean, precise playing is essential for achieving a clear and defined sound on the 7 string guitar.

3.6. Increased Cost of Gear

Another practical consideration is the increased cost associated with 7 string guitars and related gear. Seven-string instruments often command higher prices than their six-string counterparts.

Guitar Cost:
- Seven-string guitars tend to be more expensive due to the specialized design and construction required to accommodate the additional string.
- High-quality materials and craftsmanship can further increase the price.
String Cost:
- Seven-string guitar strings are typically more expensive than six-string sets.
- Experimenting with different brands and gauges to find the optimal tone and feel can add to the overall cost.
Amplifier and Effects:
- Specialized amplifiers and effects pedals may be necessary to properly amplify and process the extended low-end frequencies of a 7 string guitar.
- These specialized components can represent a significant investment.
Maintenance and Repair:
- Repairs and maintenance on a 7 string guitar may be more costly due to the complexity of the instrument.
- Finding qualified technicians with experience working on 7 string guitars may also be challenging.
Accessories:
- Additional accessories such as cases, straps, and cables may also be more expensive for 7 string guitars.
- These costs can add up over time, making it important to budget accordingly.

Despite these potential drawbacks, many guitarists find that the advantages of playing a 7 string guitar outweigh the challenges, making it a worthwhile investment in their musical development.

4. What Are the Different Types of 7 String Guitars?

The world of 7 string guitars is diverse, with models designed for various playing styles and genres. Understanding the different types of 7 string guitars can help you choose the right instrument for your needs.

4.1. Solid Body 7 String Guitars

Solid body 7 string guitars are the most common type, known for their sustain, clarity, and versatility. They are popular among rock, metal, and progressive guitarists.

Construction: These guitars feature a solid piece of wood for the body, which contributes to their sustain and focused tone.
Pickups: Solid body 7 string guitars often come with high-output humbucker pickups, which are designed to handle the extended low-end frequencies.
Examples: Ibanez RG7, Schecter Hellraiser C-7, ESP LTD EC-407.

4.2. Semi-Hollow Body 7 String Guitars

Semi-hollow body 7 string guitars combine the sustain of a solid body with the warmth and resonance of a hollow body. They are popular among jazz, blues, and fusion guitarists.

Construction: These guitars feature a solid center block with hollow wings, which provides a balance of sustain and resonance.
Pickups: Semi-hollow body 7 string guitars often come with humbucker or P-90 pickups, which provide a warm, articulate tone.
Examples: Ibanez Artcore AS737, Schecter Corsair 7, Chapman ML1 Hybrid 7.

4.3. Hollow Body 7 String Guitars

Hollow body 7 string guitars offer a warm, resonant tone that is perfect for jazz and blues. They are less common than solid body or semi-hollow body guitars but are still favored by some players.

Construction: These guitars feature a fully hollow body, which provides a warm, resonant tone with plenty of sustain.
Pickups: Hollow body 7 string guitars often come with humbucker or single-coil pickups, which provide a vintage-style tone.
Examples: Benedetto Bravo 7, Sadowsky Jim Hall Model 7, Eastman AR807.

4.4. Multi-Scale (Fanned Fret) 7 String Guitars

Multi-scale 7 string guitars feature a fanned fret design, which optimizes the scale length for each string. This results in improved intonation, string tension, and overall playability.

Construction: These guitars feature a fanned fret design, with the bass strings having a longer scale length than the treble strings.
Benefits: Multi-scale guitars provide improved intonation, string tension, and playability, especially on the lower strings.
Examples: Dingwall NG-2 7, Strandberg Boden Prog 7, Agile Pendulum 7.

4.5. Extended Range Guitars

Within the realm of 7 string guitars, there are models designed with extended range capabilities, catering to guitarists who require even more versatility. These instruments often feature additional strings or innovative designs to push the boundaries of traditional guitar playing.

8-String Guitars:
- While technically not 7 string guitars, 8-string models build upon the 7 string design by adding an additional low string, typically tuned to F#.
- These instruments cater to genres like djent and progressive metal, where extremely low tunings and extended range are essential.
Baritone Guitars:
- Baritone guitars feature a longer scale length than standard guitars, providing increased string tension and clarity in lower tunings.
- While they typically have six strings, baritone guitars can be adapted for 7 string configurations to further enhance their low-end capabilities.
Hybrid Instruments:
- Some manufacturers offer hybrid instruments that combine features of 7 string guitars with other elements, such as MIDI controllers or alternate pickup configurations.
- These innovative designs cater to experimental musicians seeking to push the boundaries of traditional guitar playing.

These different types of 7 string guitars offer a wide range of options for guitarists of all styles and genres. Whether you’re looking for a solid body for heavy metal, a semi-hollow body for jazz, or a multi-scale for improved playability, there is a 7 string guitar out there for you.

4.6. Acoustic 7 String Guitars

Acoustic 7 string guitars offer a unique sonic palette, blending the natural resonance of acoustic instruments with the extended range of 7 string configurations. These guitars are favored by fingerstyle players, classical guitarists, and those seeking a warm, intimate tone.

Construction and Materials:
- Acoustic 7 string guitars typically feature a hollow body made from tonewoods such as spruce, mahogany, or rosewood.
- The choice of tonewoods influences the guitar’s overall tone, with spruce providing brightness, mahogany offering warmth, and rosewood delivering a balanced response.
Bracing Patterns:
- Bracing patterns, such as X-bracing or fan bracing, are crucial for shaping the guitar’s tone and structural integrity.
- Different bracing patterns can emphasize certain frequencies or enhance the guitar’s projection.
Neck and Fretboard:
- The neck of an acoustic 7 string guitar is typically wider than that of a six-string model to accommodate the additional string.
- Fretboard materials such as ebony or rosewood offer a smooth playing surface and contribute to the guitar’s overall tone.
String Spacing:
- String spacing is carefully considered to ensure comfortable playability for both fingerstyle and pick-style players.
- Wider string spacing may be preferred by fingerstyle players, while narrower spacing may suit those who use a pick.
Amplification:
- Some acoustic 7 string guitars come equipped with built-in pickups and preamps for amplification.
- These systems allow players to plug into an amplifier or PA system for live performance or recording.

Acoustic 7 string guitars provide a versatile and expressive option for guitarists seeking a unique sonic experience.

5. How to Choose the Right 7 String Guitar for You?

Choosing the right 7 string guitar can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision.

5.1. Playing Style and Genre

Your playing style and the genre of music you play will influence the type of 7 string guitar that is right for you.

Metal: If you play metal, you will likely want a solid body 7 string guitar with high-output humbucker pickups.
Jazz: If you play jazz, you may prefer a semi-hollow or hollow body 7 string guitar with warmer-sounding pickups.
Progressive: If you play progressive music, you may want a multi-scale 7 string guitar with versatile pickups and a comfortable neck.

5.2. Budget

Your budget will also play a role in determining which 7 string guitar you can afford.

Entry-Level: Entry-level 7 string guitars can be found for under $500, but they may not have the same quality or features as more expensive models.
Mid-Range: Mid-range 7 string guitars typically range from $500 to $1500 and offer a good balance of quality and features.
High-End: High-end 7 string guitars can cost upwards of $1500 and offer the highest quality materials, craftsmanship, and features.

5.3. Features and Specifications

Consider the features and specifications that are important to you, such as the type of wood, pickups, bridge, and neck profile.

Wood: Different types of wood will affect the tone and sustain of the guitar.
Pickups: Choose pickups that are appropriate for the genre of music you play.
Bridge: Consider whether you want a fixed bridge or a tremolo system.
Neck Profile: Choose a neck profile that is comfortable for your hand size and playing style.

5.4. Brand and Reputation

Consider the brand and reputation of the guitar manufacturer. Some brands are known for producing high-quality 7 string guitars that are reliable and durable.

Ibanez: Ibanez is a popular brand among metal and progressive guitarists, known for their high-quality 7 string guitars.
Schecter: Schecter is another popular brand, known for their versatile and affordable 7 string guitars.
ESP LTD: ESP LTD produces a range of 7 string guitars, from entry-level to high-end models, that are popular among metal and rock guitarists.

5.5. Scale Length and String Tension

Scale length and string tension are crucial factors to consider when choosing a 7 string guitar, as they significantly impact playability and tone.

Scale Length:
- Scale length refers to the distance from the nut to the bridge, influencing string tension and intonation.
- Longer scale lengths (26.5″ to 27″) provide greater string tension, resulting in a clearer, more defined tone, especially on the low B string.
- Shorter scale lengths (25.5″) may be more comfortable for some players but can result in a looser, muddier tone on the low B string.
String Tension:
- Proper string tension is essential for optimal playability and tone.
- Too little tension can result in a floppy, undefined sound, while too much tension can make the guitar difficult to play.
- Experimenting with different string gauges and tunings can help achieve the desired string tension.
Multi-Scale Guitars:
- Multi-scale guitars, also known as fanned-fret guitars, address the issue of string tension by using different scale lengths for different strings.
- This design provides optimal tension and intonation across all strings, resulting in improved playability and tone.
Ergonomics:
- Consider the overall ergonomics of the guitar, including neck profile, body shape, and weight.
- A comfortable and ergonomic instrument will allow you to play for longer periods without fatigue.

5.6. Playability and Comfort

Playability and comfort are paramount when selecting a 7 string guitar. A guitar that feels good in your hands will inspire you to play more often and explore new musical horizons.

Neck Profile:
- The shape and thickness of the neck (neck profile) greatly influence playability.
- Common neck profiles include C, D, U, and V shapes, each offering a different feel.
- Consider your hand size and playing style when choosing a neck profile.
Fretboard Radius:
- The fretboard radius (curvature of the fretboard) affects comfort and playability, especially when bending notes.
- Flatter radii (e.g., 16″) facilitate easier bending, while more curved radii (e.g., 9.5″) may feel more comfortable for chording.
Fret Size:
- Fret size impacts playability and tone.
- Larger frets (e.g., jumbo frets) make bending easier and provide a more articulate tone, while smaller frets may feel more comfortable for some players.
Action:
- Action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard.
- Lower action makes the guitar easier to play but can result in fret buzz, while higher action provides a cleaner tone but requires more effort to play.
Weight and Balance:
- The weight and balance of the guitar affect comfort during long playing sessions.
- A well-balanced guitar will sit comfortably in your lap or on a strap, reducing fatigue.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose a 7 string guitar that is perfect for you. Be sure to try out different guitars before making a final decision, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice from experienced guitarists or music store staff.

6. What Are Some Popular 7 String Guitar Models?

There are many excellent 7 string guitar models available, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Here are some popular models to consider.

6.1. Ibanez RG7421

The Ibanez RG7421 is a popular entry-level 7 string guitar that offers excellent value for the price.

Features: Solid body, maple neck, rosewood fretboard, dual humbucker pickups, fixed bridge.
Pros: Affordable, versatile, comfortable to play.
Cons: Stock pickups may need to be upgraded.

6.2. Schecter Omen Elite 7

The Schecter Omen Elite 7 is a mid-range 7 string guitar that offers excellent playability and tone.

Features: Solid body, maple neck, rosewood fretboard, Schecter Diamond Plus humbucker pickups, fixed bridge.
Pros: High-quality components, versatile tone, comfortable neck.
Cons: May be too expensive for some beginners.

6.3. ESP LTD EC-407

The ESP LTD EC-407 is a high-quality 7 string guitar that is popular among metal and rock guitarists.

Features: Solid body, mahogany neck, rosewood fretboard, EMG 81-7/707 humbucker pickups, fixed bridge.
Pros: Powerful tone, excellent sustain, comfortable neck.
Cons: May be too aggressive for some genres.

6.4. Jackson Pro Series Dinky DK7

The Jackson Pro Series Dinky DK7 is a high-performance 7 string guitar designed for shredding.

Features: Solid body, maple neck, ebony fretboard, Seymour Duncan Nazgûl/Sentient humbucker pickups, Floyd Rose tremolo.
Pros: Fast neck, excellent playability, versatile tone.
Cons: Floyd Rose tremolo can be difficult to set up.

6.5. Strandberg Boden Prog 7

The Strandberg Boden Prog 7 is a modern, innovative 7 string guitar that is known for its lightweight design and ergonomic features.

Features: Chambered body, maple neck, rosewood fretboard, Fishman Fluence Modern humbucker pickups, headless design.
Pros: Lightweight, ergonomic, versatile tone.
Cons: Unique design may not appeal to everyone.

6.6. Kiesel Guitars

Kiesel Guitars offers a wide range of custom-built 7 string guitars known for their high quality, versatility, and customization options.

Customization Options:
- Kiesel Guitars allows players to customize virtually every aspect of their 7 string guitar, including body wood, top wood, neck profile, fretboard material, pickups, and finish.
- This level of customization ensures that each guitar is tailored to the player’s exact preferences and playing style.
High-Quality Materials:
- Kiesel Guitars uses only the finest materials in their instruments, ensuring exceptional tone, playability, and durability.
- Premium tonewoods such as alder, mahogany, maple, and walnut are carefully selected for their sonic properties.
Innovative Designs:
- Kiesel Guitars is known for its innovative designs, including multi-scale (fanned fret) instruments and headless guitars.
- These designs enhance playability, ergonomics, and tone, providing players with a unique and modern playing experience.
Versatile Tone:
- Kiesel Guitars offers