The world of guitar playing is diverse, with instruments tailored to various styles and sounds. Among them, the seven-string guitar stands out, particularly in genres like metal and its subgenres. If you’re wondering “whats the purpose of a seven string guitar”, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into why guitarists choose to add that extra string and how it expands their sonic possibilities.
Expanding the Low-End: Drop Tunings and Beyond
One of the primary reasons musicians gravitate towards seven-string guitars is to effortlessly access lower registers. For genres like metalcore, death metal, and djent, the ability to play in drop tunings is crucial. Imagine tuning down to Drop A (A-E-A-D-G-B-E) and still retaining your high E string. This is a significant advantage, offering a heavier, deeper sound without sacrificing the higher notes.
For players who frequently use very low tunings, a 7-string can eliminate the need for constant retuning. If your music often ventures into Drop B or Drop C, a 7-string guitar tuned to Drop A can be easily adapted using a capo. This versatility saves time and keeps the tonal character consistent, especially as 7-string guitars often feature longer scale lengths, like the 26.5-inch scale (compared to a 24.75″ Les Paul scale), which helps maintain string tension and clarity in lower tunings.
Maintaining High Notes in Low Tunings
Traditionally, tuning a standard six-string guitar down to very low tunings can compromise the higher notes. As you lower the pitch, the higher strings become slacker and less resonant. However, with a seven-string, you gain an extra low string without losing the familiar high E. This is particularly beneficial for guitarists who utilize the full fretboard range and want to retain access to higher notes even when playing in low tunings. With 24 frets and a high E string, a seven-string guitar provides an extended range in both directions.
Playability and Adaptation
While the wider neck of a seven-string might seem daunting initially, many players find the transition surprisingly smooth. Spending even a couple of hours with a seven-string can be enough to become comfortable with the feel. Think of it as playing in Drop A but with an added high E string – the familiar six-string layout is still there, just with more sonic territory. Adapting fully might take a week or two, but the expanded sonic palette is well worth the adjustment. The wider neck can even offer a different perspective on your playing and open up new creative avenues.
Genre Versatility Beyond Metal
While synonymous with metal, the seven-string guitar’s applications extend beyond heavy genres. Acoustic guitarists can utilize the extended lower range for richer, fuller barre chords and fingerpicking patterns. Even in genres outside of metal, the deeper tones can add a unique dimension. Think of the “slow-reggae-metal” sound – the low strings and harmonics of a seven-string can excel in creating those textures.
Furthermore, the seventh string offers flexibility. If you find yourself not using it frequently, you can simply choose to ignore it or even experiment with alternative tunings for that string, such as adding a high A instead of a low B. The beauty of the seven-string lies in its adaptability to your individual playing style and musical needs.
Conclusion: Exploring New Sonic Territories
Ultimately, the purpose of a seven-string guitar boils down to expanding your sonic horizons. It provides access to lower frequencies without sacrificing higher notes, offers tuning versatility, and can be applied across various genres. The best way to understand its purpose is to experience it firsthand. Try out a seven-string and discover how it can enhance your playing and inspire new musical ideas.
