The 45 Best 7 String Guitars: From Entry-Level to Pro Models

Add a new dimension to your playing with a 7-string guitar, where extra low notes and extended reach open up new creative possibilities. This roundup compares the best 7-string guitars, from versatile workhorses to high-output beasts, helping you find the perfect instrument for your sound.

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Reviews

ESP M-1007HT 7-String Electric Guitar

This stunning black fade 7-string guitar combines exceptional playability with sturdy construction, thanks to its neck-thru-body design and ultra-thin maple neck. The Fishman Fluence pickups deliver impressive sonic flexibility, with a tone control system that lets you shape your sound in detail. While some users have noted issues with the specific pickup model's clarity, many others praise its responsive feel and versatile tone.

Donner 7-String Solid Body Electric Guitar

This versatile solid body electric guitar pairs a generous 24 copper-nickel frets with an H-H pickup system that excels in rock tones while remaining adaptable to diverse musical styles. Its sleek C-shape maple neck and poplar body construction deliver clear, punchy sound with remarkable accuracy thanks to the string-through fixed bridge. The durable DK-white matte finish, achieved through 30 polishing processes, protects the instrument while enhancing its premium appearance.

Schecter C-7 Deluxe 7-String Electric Guitar

Combining a bolt-on maple neck with active EMG pickups, the Schecter C-7 delivers impressive performance with a comfortable C-shape profile. The double-cutaway basswood body, featuring a gloss finish and 24 extra-jumbo frets, provides a responsive platform for 7-string exploration. Players appreciate its solid construction and reliable tuning, though some may prefer deeper customization options.

Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin 7-String Electric Guitar

Combining cutting-edge Fishman Fluence pickups with a neck-through swamp ash body and jumbo frets, the Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin delivers unrivaled playability and tone. The ultra-thin 'C' shaped neck invites aggressive techniques like two-handed tapping and sweep-picking, while the 24 extra-jumbo frets and compound radius fingerboard span 12-16" provide exceptional feel and control across all strings. The carbon fiber reinforced construction ensures lasting durability for the most intense performances.

Schecter Omen Elite-7 Electric Guitar: See-Through Blue Burst

This Schecter Omen Elite-7 transforms raw aggression into precision-engineered sound. The see-through blue burst finish hints at the powerhouse inside - a guitar that blends searing humbucker tones with insane playability. Every note rings with crystal clarity thanks to Schecter Diamond Heretic pickups, while the bolt-on maple neck and 24 jumbo frets ensure lightning-fast tracking through the most complex solos. Built for warriors who demand both style and substance, this 7-string delivers studio precision and concert-level tone.

Ernie Ball Music Man Kaizen 7-String Electric Guitar

Tosin Abasi's signature instrument combines innovative features like the Infinity Radius fretboard and multi-scale neck for unprecedented comfort and versatility. The custom-wound humbuckers and sophisticated tremolo system deliver signature tone while the lightweight construction keeps playability impeccable. Every detail has been engineered to push the boundaries of modern guitar design.

ESP Buz McGrath BUZ-7 7-String Electric Guitar

This 7-string neck-through-body guitar combines powerful Fishman Fluence pickups with a comfortable alder body and figured quilted maple top. The precision-machined maple/walnut neck and ebony fingerboard deliver incredible playability, while the Floyd Rose bridge ensures insane sustain and tuning stability.

ESP SCT 607B Stephen Carpenter Signature 7-String Baritone Electric Guitar

This powerful baritone guitar combines elite components like Sperzel locking tuners and Fishman Fluence pickups to deliver unprecedented tuning stability and tone versatility. The three-piece maple neck and alder body construction generates incredible sustain, while the 27" scale length and extra-jumbo frets unlock the full potential of its seven strings. Whether you're nailing intricate metal riffs or crushing fat, distorted chords, this guitar delivers the performance and durability you'd expect from a $3,500 instrument.

Jackson x Series DKAF7 7-String Electric Guitar

This Jackson 7-string guitar combines stellar build quality with surprisingly affordable pricing. The customized multi-scale neck provides exceptional playability, while Jackson Uncovered humbuckers deliver monstrous tone. Reviews consistently praise its remarkable versatility and solid construction, making it a standout choice for both new and experienced players.

Schecter Omen 7 Electric Guitar

The Schecter Omen 7 blends premium features like a maple neck and rosewood fretboard with Schecter Diamond Plus pickups for exceptional tone. Its through-body TOM bridge delivers incredible sustain and clarity, while the 15:1 Schecter tuners maintain perfect pitch throughout intense performances. The gloss black finish pairs sleek aesthetics with the solid build quality you'd expect from a much more expensive instrument.

ESP EC-257 7-String Electric Guitar

This affordable 7-string guitar from ESP combines impressive sound quality with a comfortable mahogany body and neck. The roasted jatoba fingerboard and extra-jumbo frets make it a joy to play, while the ESP-designed pickups deliver exceptional versatility. Whether you're a hobby musician or a seasoned player transitioning to extended range guitars, the EC-257 delivers pro-level performance without breaking the bank.

Schecter Demon 7 Electric Guitar

The Schecter Demon-7 delivers monster tone and killer looks in a package that won't break the bank. Those active humbuckers pack a serious punch while the 24 extra-jumbo frets give you plenty of room to shred. While some initial setup tweaks might be necessary, the finished product nails the classic Schecter sound with its smooth basswood body and glossy black finish.

Sterling by Music Man John Petrucci JP70 7-String Guitar

The JP70 stands out as a versatile 7-string guitar that delivers exceptional playability and tone right out of the box. With its modern design elements like ceramic pickups and a recessed tremolo system, it handles both rhythm and lead parts with ease, though some users have noted minor ergonomic considerations. Built from quality materials like maple neck and rosewood fretboard, this Sterling guitar combines thoughtful design with practical features like locking tuners and a comfortable cutout design, making it a solid choice for 7-string enthusiasts.

Ernie Ball Music Man Jason Richardson Signature Cutlass 7-String Guitar

This Jason Richardson signature guitar combines premium roasted maple neck and fingerboard with a striking buckeye burl top and custom ceramic humbuckers. The super thin C-shaped neck boasts incredible playability, while the advanced modern tremolo system allows for precise tuning control. The Majora purple finish adds a vibrant touch to this already impressive instrument.

Sterling by Music Man John Petrucci 7-String Electric Guitar

This stunning 7-string guitar combines premium roasted maple neck construction with a solid mahogany body for exceptional playability. The signature John Petrucci design features custom inlays and a 24-fret neck with medium jumbo stainless steel frets, while the powerful DiMarzio pickups deliver a wide range of aggressive tones.

Martin 000JR-10E Acoustic-Electric Guitar

The Martin 000-Jr10E Shawn Mendes Signature Electro Acoustic brings together expert craftsmanship and remarkable tonal clarity in a package that feels incredibly responsive under your fingers. The sapele back and sides combined with FSC-certified Sitka spruce create a guitar that projects beautifully while feeling incredibly balanced and comfortable to play – even when your fingers are exploring those higher frets. The compensated white Tusq saddle and high-performance neck taper ensure your notes sing clearly whether you're fingerpicking or strumming away, making this more than just a signature model – it's a genuine step forward in Martin's electro-acoustic lineup.

Schecter Damien Platinum-7 Electric Guitar

The Schecter Damien Platinum 7-string brings serious tone to the table with its EMG humbuckers and ultra-accessible neck design, while its satin black finish with platinum accents gives it a distinct look that doesn't overwhelm the playing experience. Players have praised its exceptional build quality, with many noting the perfect balance between performance and affordability. Whether you're into metal, djent, or just love the feel of a well-made seven-string, this guitar delivers in spades.

Jackson JS32-7 DKA 7 String Electric Guitar

From its Jackson High-Output pickups to its 24 jumbo frets, every detail of this 7-string archtop guitar has been engineered for modern metal. The poplar body and amaranth fingerboard provide a lightweight yet responsive platform, while the dual Jackson humbuckers deliver the heavy tones you'd expect from a guitar built to rock. While some may find minor imperfections in the finish, the pristine playing feel and outstanding build quality make it clear why this guitar has earned high praise from players who've customized and toured with it.

7-String Jackson Rhoads JS32T Electric Guitar

This Jackson JS32T packs concert-ready tone into a surprisingly comfortable package that won't break the bank. The all-mahogany body provides rich, warm sustain with that signature Jackson bite, while the 24-jumbo frets and compound-radius fingerboard make it a breeze to shred those insane lead runs. The dual high-output humbuckers might need a little EQ love, but once you dial them in, you're golden - whether you're nailing blistering solos or laying down solid rhythm parts.

Ibanez RG550 Electric Guitar

This high-performance RG550 packs premium features like a 5pc Super Wizard neck and three humbuckers into an iconic double-cutaway basswood body. The result is a versatile axe that nails everything from crystal-clear cleans to searing leads, while Ibanez's renowned Edge tremolo keeps it incredibly stable and responsive. The maple fretboard adds brightness and articulation to every note, making this more than just another fancy guitar - it's a serious tool for any player who demands the best.

Ibanez RG550 Desert Sun Yellow 7 String Electric Guitar

This guitar pairs classic rock tones with modern comfort through its basswood body and five-piece Super Wizard neck. The Ibanez V7, S1, and V8 pickups offer versatile sound, and the Edge tremolo system maintains tone consistency during intense performances.

Ibanez RG2027XL 7-String Electric Guitar

This Ibanez Prestige RG2027XL brings serious attitude with its dark tide blue finish and chambered basswood body that cuts through any mix. The dual humbuckers deliver screaming tone with easy coil splitting, while the locking tremolo system keeps your tuning locked in during the wildest bends. Playability is through the roof with those jumbo stainless frets and a 27-inch scale length that feels surprisingly natural under your fingers.

Jackson X Series Warrior WRX24

At first glance, the Jackson X Series Warrior WRX24 commands attention with its striking double-cutaway body and sharp satin-black finish. But what really sets this guitar apart is how it translates that aggressive aesthetic into serious metal firepower.

Full Size Right Handed Deep Red Electric 6 String Guitar

With its solid hardwood body and maple neck, this heavy metal-style guitar delivers exceptional playability and tone right out of the box. The deep red finish and chrome controls add a striking visual appeal that turns heads, while the 24-fret maple neck and low action make it comfortable to play even the highest reaches of the fretboard. Whether you're a beginner looking to rock or an experienced player seeking your next great sound, this guitar combines quality construction with remarkable value.

Solo JEK-7 7-String DIY Electric Guitar Kit

If you're ready to craft your own custom 7-string electric guitar, the Solo JEK-7 DIY kit provides a professional foundation. With the challenging woodworking already handled by factory experts, you'll focus on assembly with included step-by-step instructions. The result combines maple neck, rosewood fretboard, and ash/maple/rosewood construction into a playable instrument you built yourself.

Ibanez QX527PENTF 7-String Electric Guitar

From the groundbreaking Q series that reimagines Ibanez's legacy, the QX527 takes technical innovation to new heights with its revolutionary 8-degree slanted frets and custom Q58 humbuckers. The Ebony fretboard lends a bright, snappy tone with plenty of sustain, while the Pale Moon Ebony top and Nyatoh body deliver rich midrange depth. At its core, this guitar pushes boundaries to answer guitarists' evolving needs, whether they're exploring complex techniques or seeking fresh tonal possibilities.

Ibanez GA35TCE Classical Guitar

This slim dreadnought delivers big sound in a manageable package, with a spruce top and mahogany construction that projects rich tones whether you're strumming around the campfire or plugging in for a show. The thinline body design makes it a breeze to play, while the built-in preamp system keeps setup simple with its included tuner and XLR output. Whether you're a seasoned player looking for your next acoustic addition or a newcomer to the nylon-string world, this Ibanez stands out for its exceptional sound quality and build.

Fender CC-60SCE Concert Acoustic Guitar

This concert-sized acoustic-electric guitar combines handsome looks with Fender's signature easy-play neck design, delivering a generous helping of tone from its solid spruce top. Thanks to its Mahogany construction and thoughtful feature set including a built-in Fishman preamp system, it bridged the gap between entry-level and pro-level instruments nicely for many reviewers. The dual-action truss rod and comfortable 12-inch radius walnut fingerboard make it a pleasure to play, whether you're strumming chords or fingerpicking melodies.

Ibanez RG7420EX 7-String Electric Guitar

Shredding through seven strings with ease, the Ibanez RG7420EX combines ultra-smooth playing with outrageous sustain. Its wizardly thin neck tears through the fretboard with zero compromise on power or precision, while the jumbo frets slice through even the fastest runs with ruthless efficiency. The entire guitar feels like an extension of your arm, whether you're nailing intricate solos or nailing down perfect tuning in mid-performance.

Ibanez GRG7221M 7-String Electric Guitar

Combining an ultra-thin maple neck with a poplar body, the Ibanez GRG7221 delivers impressive playability and sustain at an incredibly affordable price point. The 24 jumbo frets and classic double cutaway design make it a pleasure to shred, while the dual Ibanez STD pickups provide powerful tone for both rhythm and lead playing. Built to stay in tune consistently, this versatile 7-string is perfect for players exploring extended range possibilities or seeking a reliable backup instrument.

Ibanez RG7421PB 7-String Electric Guitar

The Ibanez RG7421PB combines premium construction with groundbreaking 7-string capabilities, featuring a lightweight mahogany body topped with figured poplar burl for visual impact. A jumbo-fretted jatoba fingerboard provides exceptional playability while proprietary Quantum pickups deliver massive tone with incredible clarity. The fixed bridge setup ensures bulletproof tuning stability across this powerful instrument.

Dean Dimebag from Hell CFH 7-String Electric Guitar

This USA-made Dean guitar brings Dimebag's signature style to life with its mahogany body andneck, and killer Seymour Duncan pickups that deliver that signature Pantera tone. The Floyd Rose bridge keeps it in tune for those aggressive playing techniques, while the bound rosewood fingerboard gives you that classic Dime grip. At just 12 pounds, it's surprisingly light for its size, and the attention to detail in the finish really makes it stand out.

Ibanez GRG7221QA 7-String Electric Guitar

This Ibanez GRG7221QA brings 7-string capability to players who might otherwise struggle with traditional extended-range guitars. Thanks to its bolt-on maple neck and jumbo frets, it feels more like a familiar 6-string while delivering the low-end prowess you'd expect from a 7-string setup. The guitar's poplar body and quilted maple top blend natural resonance with impressive tuning stability from its fixed bridge design. While some players might want more premium features, the GRG7221QA delivers solid performance and distinctive looks at a reasonable price point.

Ibanez RGR752AHBF 7-String Electric Guitar

This Japanese-made Ibanez Prestige 7-string blends expert craftsmanship with modern specs for serious players. The Wizard-7 neck combines maple and wenge woods for remarkable playability, while the Macassar ebony fretboard delivers precise articulation and sustain. The ash body provides bright tone with remarkable clarity, making this a standout choice for technical metal and high-gain playing.

Ibanez RGD71ALMS 7 String Electric Guitar

Ibanez elevated the seven-string game with the RGD71ALMS, where premium features meet performance. The nitro wizard neck and multi-scaled frets create an incredibly responsive playing surface, while Fishman Fluence pickups give you unparalleled tone control. The Schaller strap locks and Gotoh tuners ensure your setup stays perfect for hours of intense playing. This isn't just a guitar—it's a statement piece that combines stunning looks with top-tier construction and tone.

Ibanez QX527PB 7-String Electric Guitar

The Ibanez QX527PB combines remarkable playability with versatile tone, featuring a comfortable roasted maple neck and Q58 humbucking pickups that deliver clarity across the frequency spectrum. Its poplar burl top and nyatoh body provide both visual appeal and solid sustain, while the headless design with Mono Tune bridge ensures precise intonation and easy maintenance. The result is a lightweight 7-string guitar that handles complex techniques with ease and projects a rich, well-balanced sound.

ESP LTD Javier Reyes JR-7 Faded Blue Sunburst 7-String Guitar

A seven-string and baritone scale guitar from ESP, built for Javier Reyes with a neck-through-body construction for extended reach. The quilted maple top and swamp ash body deliver powerful tone, while the Fisman Open Core humbuckers offer versatile sound options including coil-splitting and multiple voicings. The glow-in-the-dark side markers and locking tuners ensure precise intonation during intense performances.

Legator Charles Caswell 7 String Electric Guitar

This versatile 7-string guitar combines a Floyd Rose tremolo bridge and Seymour Duncan pickups to deliver the distinctive sound of Charles Caswell's signature tone. The LED Tesi Killswitch adds an innovative twist to its feature set, while gold hardware and a white grape finish make it a striking stage presence. Built for both style and performance, this guitar lets you channel the spirit of Berried Alive's Charles Caswell.

Agile Septor 727 7 String Electric Guitar

This agile 7-string natural finish guitar, sporting EMG pickups, lacks its truss rod cover - but that's the only notable omission. Its design and features suggest it's built for serious players who value performance over polish.

PRS SE Custom 24 7-String Electric Guitar

The PRS SE Custom 24 7-String packs premium PRS sound and playability into a guitar that won't break the bank. With that distinctive double-cutaway mahogany body and 24-fret maple neck, you're getting serious gear that feels right at home in your setup. Those PRS HFS and Vintage Bass humbuckers know how to make your solos sing, especially when you're nailing that 7-string stuff.

Skervesen Raptor 7 Baritone Guitar

This custom red and blue 7-string baritone guitar has become my go-to for those super low riffs, but it doesn't sacrifice tone when I want to shred some lead. The poplar burl top and ash body give it that classic look while keeping it surprisingly comfortable at just 7.8 lbs. The Lundgren M7 pickups really sing when I crank them through my amp, making every note sound massive.

Ibanez UV7-BK Steve Vai Signature Seven-String Universe Guitar

This rare black seven-string from Ibanez combines vintage Japanese craftsmanship with Steve Vai's signature green-dot fretboard design. The American basswood body and maple neck deliver classic rock tones, while the Di Marzio Blaze II pickups and locking_edge tremolo system give you precise control over your sound. Whether you're a Vai fan or just love classic 90s gear, this guitar packs serious playing satisfaction into its iconic design.

Schecter Sunset-7 Extreme 7-String Electric Guitar

The Schecter Sunset-7 Extreme combines a striking flamed maple Nyatoh body with an ultra-thin C neck for modern comfort, while its dual Schecter USA pickups deliverthe raw power and clarity rock and metal players demand. The premium construction, featuring stainless steel frets and a Diamond Hardtail bridge, ensures this guitaris both incredibly playable and built to last, with optional premium cases available to keep it protected on its journey from studio to stage.

Legator OT7T 7-String Electric Guitar

Alder-bodied with a roasted maple neck and 24 medium jumbo stainless steel frets, the Legator OT7T delivers premium craftsmanship in a sleek satin black finish. The Guitarmory Atlas pickups offer versatile tone shaping with their push/pull functionality, while the Gotoh 510 tremolo system provides solid tuning stability. MOP offset dot inlays and luminlay side dots enhance both playability and visual appeal in this7-string electric guitar.

Donner HUSH-I Portable Guitar

When you need to strum without disturbing others, this lightweight guitar delivers big sound through its built-in preamp. The ergonomic design reduces wrist fatigue, while the compact frame lets you practice anywhere - even in tight spaces like airplane overhead bins. With its durable build and reliable performance, it's earned high praise from travelers and students who appreciate its quiet operation and quick setup.

Buyer's Guide

The shift to a 7-string guitar represents an expansion beyond the traditional six-string setup, offering players additional low frequency capabilities. Understanding what makes these guitars unique is crucial for anyone considering this configuration.

Technical Specifications

7-string guitars typically feature a low 'C' string in addition to the standard EADGBE. This altered tuning requires specific considerations for neck design, string spacing, and bridge configuration. The added string adds weight and changes the guitar's center of balance, which can affect playability and instrument design.

Necks on 7-strings often incorporate adjustable truss rods and reinforced construction to maintain stability under the increased tension. Bridge designs may include specialized string retainers to prevent the low 'C' from slipping out of tune.

Tuning and Setup

Mastering the 7-string tuning sequence (EADGBEC) demands practice and patience. The wider spacing between the low 'C' and the 'B' string can make intonation adjustments more complex during setup.

Players may need to experiment with different action settings and string height to achieve a comfortable playing height that prevents buzz while maintaining smooth string movement.

Musical Applications

7-string guitars excel in genres where extended low range is beneficial, including progressive metal, avant-garde metal, and certain fusion styles. Their capacity to produce lower frequencies can enhance the depth and complexity of riffs and solos.

The additional string provides composers with new harmonic possibilities, allowing for more complex chord structures and voicings than traditional six-string configurations.

Playability Considerations

The increased string length and mass can affect playing feel, particularly when transitioning from a standard 6-string. Players new to 7-strings may need time to adjust to altered hand positioning and finger stretching requirements.

Comfort is key, as incorrect set-up can lead to physical strain. Features like ergonomic neck shapes and well-designed strap buttons become especially important when carrying the additional weight of a 7-string.

FAQ

What are the main advantages of a 7-string guitar?

7-string guitars offer an extended low range, enabling musicians to achieve deeper bass notes that can't be reached on standard 6-string instruments. The additional string also provides expanded tonal possibilities and a broader sonic palette, making it particularly suitable for technical styles like metal, neo-prog, and jazz fusion.

Players often find that the 7th string's tension and tuning make the upper six strings feel more free and responsive, improving overall playability. The instrument's increased string count can also enhance harmonic overtones and rich sustain, giving solos and chords a fuller, more complex character.

What are the primary considerations when choosing between a 7-string guitar and a 7-string bass?

7-string guitars are generally preferred by musicians who need a higher range than offered by a 7-string bass but still want to maintain guitar-like playing feel and technique. Guitars typically have a more pronounced mid-range and brighter tone, making them ideal for lead playing and solos.

7-string basses, on the other hand, are designed for players who need the extended low range but don't want the extra tension of a guitar-friendly scale length. They often have thicker necks and more comfortable body shapes for bass playing, with a focus on low-end frequency response and playing comfort.

How do 7-string guitars compare in size and weight to standard 6-string guitars?

7-string guitars are usually only slightly longer than their 6-string counterparts, with the added string typically mounted on the low-E side. This slight increase in length adds about 1-2 inches to the overall scale, resulting in a noticeably heavier instrument that weighs between 10-20% more than a standard 6-string.

The increased mass can affect guitar's balance and playability, particularly noticeable when using heavier gauges on the new string. Players should consider their playing style and preference for weight when selecting a 7-string model.

What are the typical neck configurations for 7-string guitars?

The most common neck configurations are either a 24-fret fingerboard extending off the guitar's body or a 22-fret neck that attaches to the body. Both approaches are viable, with the extended fingerboard offering more space for complex finger techniques and the attached neck providing a more traditional guitar feel.

Some manufacturers offer neck-through designs with 24+ frets, combining the best aspects of both configurations for advanced players who need maximum sustain and articulation across the full range of the instrument.

How should a 7-string guitar's tuning machines be selected?

Players should opt for tuning machines with at least 21 teeth, as these provide sufficient durability for the thicker 7th string. High-quality machine heads with precise tuning capabilities are essential, especially for the lower tuning options where string stability is crucial.

Many 7-string players choose tuners with locked gears or dual-post designs to prevent string buzzing and ensure consistent intonation. Premium tuning machines also help maintain proper string tension and pitch stability across the instrument's expanded range.

Can any 7-string guitar be adapted to use alternate tunings?

Most 7-string guitars are designed with specific tuning compromises, making it challenging to switch between standard and alternate tunings without modifications. The guitar's neck relief, string spacing, and bridge setup are often optimized for specific tuning patterns.

Players considering alternate tunings should consult with a professional luthier to assess whether their instrument can safely accommodate the changes. Most manufacturers offer alternate tuning options through special neck architectures or string spacing adjustments to ensure optimal playability and longevity.