Looking to take your guitar playing to the next level? In the search for the perfect 7 string guitar, you may find yourself overwhelmed with options. Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore new sounds or a seasoned guitarist wanting to expand your range, this guide will help you navigate the world of 7 string guitars with ease — from the different types and styles available to the factors you should consider before making a purchase.
Understanding 7 String Guitars
What Is a 7 String Guitar?
A 7 string guitar features an additional low B string, extending the range of the instrument beyond the traditional 6 strings. By adding the low B string, the guitar can produce lower notes, allowing for greater versatility and depth in playing. This extra string is typically placed below the low E string and is tuned to B, resulting in a tuning of B-E-A-D-G-B-E from low to high.
History and Evolution
The concept of a 7 string guitar dates back to the early 19th century, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that it gained significant popularity in modern music. The original intention behind the instrument was to give guitarists a way to achieve lower and heavier tones without down-tuning, opening up new playing techniques and expanded possibilities in composition. Over the years, 7 string guitars have become synonymous with genres such as metal, progressive rock, and jazz fusion. Influential guitarists like Steve Vai, John Petrucci, and Tosin Abasi have played a pivotal role in popularizing the instrument and pushing its boundaries.
Advantages of Playing a 7 String Guitar
- Extended range: The extra low B string adds depth and richness to your playing. It allows for lower tunings and a wider range of notes, making it ideal for heavy and progressive styles.
- Greater chord voicings: The low B string opens up new possibilities for fuller, more complex chords.
- Enhanced soloing ability: The extra string extends the instrument’s range for solos, allowing guitarists to reach lower notes and explore new melodic possibilities.
- Versatility: While commonly associated with heavy genres, a 7 string guitar is versatile enough for jazz, blues, and fusion. Its expanded range invites experimentation across styles.
- Unique sound: The extended range and low B string give the instrument a distinct, powerful tone — heavier and more aggressive than a traditional 6 string guitar.
Considerations Before Buying a 7 String Guitar
Skill Level and Playing Style
If you’re a beginner or unfamiliar with extended range guitars, it may help to start on a 6 string guitar and transition to a 7 string as you grow more comfortable. If you’re an intermediate or advanced player looking to explore new musical territory, a 7 string guitar can be an excellent addition to your collection.
Budget
7 string guitars come in a wide range of prices, from affordable options to high-end models. Establish a budget that aligns with your financial capabilities and your expectations for the instrument.
Body Style and Shape
Common body styles for 7 string guitars include solid-body, semi-hollow, and hollow-body designs. Each has its own sonic characteristics and ergonomic considerations, so experimenting with different body styles helps you find what feels and sounds best.
Neck Profile and Scale Length
Consider neck shape, thickness, and width. Shorter scale lengths may be more comfortable for smaller hands, while longer scale lengths offer more tension and a tighter feel.
Pickups and Electronics
Different pickup configurations — humbuckers, single-coils, or a combination — provide a wide range of tones. Understanding your preferred pickup styles and how they shape your sound will guide your decision.
Bridge Type and Tuning Stability
Different bridge designs affect playability, string tension, and tuning stability. Common bridge types include fixed bridges, tremolo systems, and multi-scale bridges, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Wood Type and Tonal Characteristics
Popular tonewoods include mahogany, maple, alder, ash, and rosewood. Each wood has its own sonic qualities, producing variations in sustain, brightness, warmth, and resonance.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
Researching reputable brands with positive customer feedback helps ensure you’re investing in a quality instrument that will meet your expectations.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Body contouring, weight distribution, and neck comfort all matter for long playing sessions. Playing multiple guitars in person helps you find the one that feels most comfortable in your hands.
Visual Appeal and Aesthetics
While not a primary concern for everyone, finding a guitar that matches your personal style can enhance your playing experience and make you more likely to pick it up and play.
Types of 7 String Guitars
Solid-Body Electric Guitars
Solid-body electrics are the most common type of 7 string guitar. Their solid bodies, made from various woods, deliver strong sustain and tone, and they are versatile across a wide range of genres.
Semi-Hollow and Hollow-Body Guitars
These guitars excel at warm, resonant tones with increased harmonics. They have a distinctive look and are popular among jazz, blues, and fusion guitarists.
Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Acoustic-electric 7 string guitars combine traditional acoustic qualities with built-in electronics, ideal for players who want to perform acoustically while retaining the option to plug into an amplifier or PA system.
Extended Range and Multiscale Guitars
Extended range and multiscale guitars push traditional design further with fan frets and additional strings, favored by players exploring low tunings and unique tonal possibilities.
Popular Brands of 7 String Guitars
Ibanez
Ibanez offers a wide range of 7 string models for various skill levels and playing styles, from the affordable RG series to premium Prestige and JEM models.
Schecter
Schecter’s extensive lineup is known for excellent build quality, versatile tones, and modern designs, with options for beginners through professionals.
ESP
ESP caters to professional guitarists across genres. Its 7 string guitars, such as the LTD and E-II series, are built with precision craftsmanship and provide exceptional playability and tone.
Jackson
Jackson has a rich history in heavy metal. Its 7 string models, including the Soloist and Dinky series, are popular among shredders and metal players who prioritize speed and precision.
PRS
PRS (Paul Reed Smith) guitars are celebrated for high-end craftsmanship and balanced tone. While primarily known for 6 string guitars, PRS also offers 7 string variations, such as the SE and Custom models.
Sterling by Music Man
Sterling by Music Man, a subsidiary of Ernie Ball Music Man, offers more affordable options, including the JP and JPX series designed in collaboration with John Petrucci.
Gibson
Gibson’s 7 string guitars, such as the Les Paul and SG models, are favored by players who appreciate the legendary Gibson sound with extended range capabilities.
Fender
Fender offers models like the Stratocaster and Telecaster in 7 string variations, a fresh take on timeless designs for guitarists seeking extended range.
Ernie Ball Music Man
Ernie Ball Music Man’s 7 string offerings, such as the John Petrucci Majesty and Jason Richardson Artist series, deliver top-tier playability, tone, and aesthetics.
Washburn
Washburn’s 7 string guitars cater to a variety of playing styles, from metal to jazz, and are known for affordability and reliability — an excellent choice for players on a budget.
Key Features to Look for in a 7 String Guitar
Extended Range and Low B String
Ensure the instrument has proper intonation, good string tension, and a well-constructed B string for optimal playability.
Neck Construction
Look for a neck that suits your preferences in thickness, shape, and material, considering stability, comfort, and how it supports your playing technique.
Fretboard Material and Radius
Common fretboard materials include rosewood, maple, and ebony. A flatter radius facilitates easier bending and shredding, while a more rounded radius may suit chord-based playing.
Tuning Machines and Stability
Look for high-quality tuning machines that offer smooth, precise adjustments. Locking tuners can help maintain tuning stability, especially with alternate tunings or aggressive techniques.
Bridge Options
The bridge is key to intonation, stability, and string action. Consider your playing style when choosing between fixed bridges, tremolo systems, and multi-scale bridges.
Pickups and Electronics
Choose pickups suited to your style of music, and check that onboard electronics such as tone controls and pickup selectors meet your tonal requirements.
Guitar Finish and Aesthetics
A finish and design that resonate with you personally can enhance your connection to the instrument.
Accessories and Included Extras
Some 7 string guitars come with gig bags, hard cases, extra string sets, or maintenance tools — added value that helps you get started right away.
Setting Up and Maintaining a 7 String Guitar
Adjusting Truss Rod and Neck Relief
Proper setup involves adjusting the truss rod to achieve the correct neck relief — the slight curvature of the neck that affects playability and string action. Consult professional guides or a guitar technician if you’re unfamiliar with truss rod adjustments.
Setting Action and Intonation
Adjusting the action means balancing comfortable string height against fret buzz, while intonation refers to pitch accuracy across the entire fretboard. Both may require specialized tools and the expertise of a professional guitar technician.
Changing Strings and Gauges
String changes follow a similar process to a 6 string guitar, but selecting the appropriate gauge matters more because of the extended range and lower tunings. Experiment with gauges to find the tension and feel that suit your playing style and desired tone.
Cleaning and Polishing the Guitar
Regularly clean the body, fretboard, and hardware using appropriate cleaning solutions or damp cloths, and polish the guitar to maintain its finish and protect it from dirt and oils.
Proper Storage and Humidity Control
Avoid extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations by storing the guitar in a hard case or a humidity-controlled room, and consider humidifiers or dehumidifiers in severe climates.
Playing Techniques and Tips for 7 String Guitars
Extended Range Chord Voicings
Experiment with different chord shapes and configurations that take advantage of the additional low B string, leading to richer, more complex chord progressions.
Exploring Lower Register Melodies
The extra low B string opens up melodies in the lower register. Spend time exploring different positions and note patterns to use the extended range effectively.
Utilizing the Additional String in Solos
When soloing on a 7 string guitar, don’t neglect the additional low range provided by the extended range. Incorporate the low B string into your solos to add diversity and new melodic options.
Improvising and Soloing Techniques
Experiment with string skipping, tapping, sweeping, and legato to take advantage of the extended range and create solos that stand out.
Hybrid Picking and Fingerstyle Approaches
Consider hybrid picking — using a pick and fingers simultaneously — for intricate patterns, and explore fingerstyle approaches that use the extra string for added complexity and richness.
Recommended 7 String Guitars for Different Budgets
Budget-Friendly Options Under $500
Brands like Ibanez, Schecter, and Sterling by Music Man provide affordable 7 string guitars in this price range. Examples include the Ibanez RG7421, Schecter Omen-7, and Sterling by Music Man JP70.
Mid-Range Options Between $500 and $1000
In this bracket you can find improved build quality, better electronics, and enhanced overall performance. Consider models such as the ESP LTD MH-417, PRS SE SVN, and Jackson Pro Series Soloist SL7 — great features for the price, suitable for intermediate to advanced players.
High-End Options Above $1000
For professional-level instruments with top-tier construction and exceptional tone, brands like Ernie Ball Music Man, Gibson, and Fender produce high-end 7 string guitars. Notable models include the Music Man Majesty 7, Gibson Les Paul Standard 7, and Fender Jim Root Jazzmaster.
Tips for Testing and Choosing a 7 String Guitar
Visit a Local Guitar Store
Trying guitars in person lets you feel how they play and sound. Spend time testing different models for neck feel, playability, and overall tone.
Try Out Multiple Guitars
Don’t rush the decision. Comparing several guitars gives you a better sense of the options and increases your chances of finding the right one.
Seek Advice from Experienced Players or Instructors
If you’re new to 7 string guitars or feel overwhelmed, experienced players and instructors can offer valuable insights, recommendations, and personal experience.
Prioritize Playability and Sound Quality
Make sure the guitar feels comfortable and is easy to play, listen for a balanced and clear tone, and trust your instincts about what sounds and feels best.
Trust Your Own Preferences and Comfort
Ultimately, base your choice on how the guitar feels in your hands, whether it inspires you to play, and whether it matches your desired tone and style.
Frequently Asked Questions About 7 String Guitars
What is the purpose of a 7 string guitar?
It expands the range and tonal possibilities of the instrument. The added low B string allows for lower tunings and extended notes, making it ideal for heavier genres and new musical territory.
Can I play regular guitar music on a 7 string guitar?
Yes. The additional low B string doesn’t limit you to specific genres. You can play anything you would on a traditional 6 string guitar, with the added option of lower tunings and extra range.
How does tuning work on a 7 string guitar?
Tuning follows a similar process to a 6 string guitar, with the addition of the low B string. Common tunings include standard (B-E-A-D-G-B-E), drop A (A-E-A-D-G-B-E), and various other alternate tunings depending on the musical style.
Can I still use standard guitar accessories?
For the most part, yes — picks, straps, and cables work fine. Some accessories may need adjustment to accommodate the larger neck width and string spacing of a 7 string guitar.
Are 7 string guitars only suitable for metal and heavy music?
No. While they excel in those genres, they can be used across a wide range of styles, from jazz to blues to progressive rock.
How long does it take to adjust to playing a 7 string guitar?
It varies from person to person. If you already play a 6 string guitar, there is usually a short period of acclimation; with regular practice, most guitarists can adapt to the extended range within a few weeks to a few months.
Can I convert my existing 6 string guitar into a 7 string guitar?
Conversion is complex and typically requires professional modification: widening the nut, adding a new string, adjusting the bridge and pickup positions, and potentially modifying the neck. Consult a skilled luthier or guitar technician for such work.
Are there left-handed 7 string guitars available?
Yes. Brands like Ibanez, Schecter, and ESP provide left-handed options in their 7 string guitar lineups.
What are some popular bands that feature 7 string guitars?
Notable examples include Korn, Meshuggah, Dream Theater, Animals as Leaders, and Periphery, all of which showcase the versatility and unique sound of the instrument.
Do I need to learn new chords and scales?
It isn’t necessary, but exploring new voicings and scale patterns that take advantage of the additional range can open up new creative possibilities.
