7 string guitar guide

Delving into the world of extended-range instruments, the seven-string guitar offers a broadened sonic palette and unique expressive capabilities for musicians.

What is a 7-String Guitar?

A 7-string guitar, as the name suggests, features an additional string compared to the standard six-string instrument. This extra string is typically tuned to a lower pitch, most commonly a low B, extending the guitar’s range significantly downwards.

Historically, 7-string guitars have roots in jazz and classical music, but they’ve experienced a resurgence in popularity within modern genres like metal and progressive rock. The added string isn’t simply about having a lower note; it unlocks new harmonic possibilities, chord voicings, and melodic ideas.

These guitars are built similarly to 6-strings, but often with adjustments to the neck and body to accommodate the increased string tension and wider neck width. They provide a versatile platform for both rhythm and lead playing, appealing to guitarists seeking expanded creative horizons.

Why Choose a 7-String? – Benefits & Applications

The primary benefit of a 7-string guitar is its extended range, allowing for deeper bass tones and more complex chord voicings without relying on down-tuning. This is particularly valuable for genres demanding heavy, low-end riffs.

Beyond metal, the 7-string opens doors to unique jazz harmonies and intricate chord melodies. It facilitates easier access to certain scales and modes, streamlining complex passages. The extra string also encourages creative exploration, pushing players beyond traditional guitar patterns.

Applications range from providing a fuller sound in a band context to offering solo guitarists a wider sonic palette. It’s ideal for composers seeking fresh harmonic textures and for players wanting to stand out with a distinctive sound.

Understanding the 7th String

Exploring the lowest register, the seventh string fundamentally alters the guitar’s tonal landscape, introducing new possibilities for bass response and harmonic depth.

Tuning Options for the 7th String

The most common tuning for the seventh string is B standard, dropping the lowest string to B. This provides a powerful low-end extension, favored in metal and progressive genres. However, several other options cater to diverse musical styles and preferences.

Drop A tuning (tuning the 7th string to A) offers an even heavier sound, popular among djent and extreme metal players. Standard C (C standard) is another viable choice, providing a balance between low-end power and manageable string tension. Some guitarists even experiment with alternate tunings like A# standard or lower, depending on their desired tonal characteristics.

Consider the overall tuning of the guitar when selecting a 7th string tuning. Matching the 7th string’s tuning to the existing strings ensures harmonic consistency and avoids excessive tension or slack. Experimentation is key to finding the tuning that best suits your playing style and musical goals.

String Gauge Considerations for a 7-String

Choosing the correct string gauge is crucial for playability and tone on a 7-string guitar. The added low B string requires a heavier gauge to maintain adequate tension and prevent floppiness. A typical set might include a .010-.059 gauge, but this varies based on tuning and scale length.

For lower tunings like Drop A, heavier gauges (e.g., .011-.60 or .012-.62) are necessary to avoid excessive slack. Conversely, higher tunings might allow for slightly lighter gauges. Consider the overall balance of the set; you want consistent tension across all strings;

Experimentation is vital. Heavier gauges offer a fuller tone and better intonation but can be harder to bend. Lighter gauges are easier to play but may sound thinner. String material (nickel-plated steel, stainless steel) also impacts tone and feel, so explore different options to find your ideal setup.

Guitar Types & Construction

Seven-string guitars come in diverse forms, from purpose-built designs to modified six-strings, each impacting playability, tone, and overall instrument feel.

Extended Range Guitars vs. Converted 6-Strings

Choosing between a guitar specifically designed as a seven-string versus converting a six-string involves several considerations. Extended range guitars are built from the ground up, accounting for the added tension and scale length requirements of the seventh string.

This typically results in a more stable and resonant instrument, with optimized neck reinforcement and bracing. Converted guitars, while often more affordable, may require modifications like neck shimming or truss rod adjustments to handle the increased stress.

These modifications aren’t always permanent solutions and can potentially compromise the guitar’s long-term structural integrity. Furthermore, converted guitars may exhibit intonation issues or a less comfortable playing experience due to the altered scale length and string spacing. Ultimately, a dedicated extended-range instrument generally offers superior performance and reliability.

Neck Profiles & Scale Lengths – What to Look For

The neck profile and scale length significantly impact playability on a seven-string. Longer scale lengths (typically 26.5” to 28”) are common to maintain string tension and clarity with the added low B string.

Neck profiles vary – from thin “C” shapes for speed to thicker “U” or “V” shapes for a more substantial feel. Consider your hand size and playing style. A flatter radius (16” or 20”) can facilitate easier bending across all seven strings.

Pay attention to the neck joint construction; a set-neck or neck-through design often provides better sustain and access to higher frets. Experiment with different profiles if possible, as personal preference is key. A comfortable neck is crucial for extended playing sessions and unlocking the instrument’s full potential.

Body Wood Choices & Their Impact on Tone

Body wood profoundly influences a 7-string’s tonal characteristics. Mahogany delivers warmth, sustain, and a mid-range focused sound, ideal for heavier genres. Alder offers a balanced tone with good clarity and resonance, suitable for versatile playing.

Ash, particularly swamp ash, provides bright highs, a scooped midrange, and excellent sustain. Basswood is lightweight and produces a neutral tone, often favored for its affordability and ease of modification.

Maple is frequently used as a top wood, adding brightness and definition. Consider the combination of woods; a mahogany body with a maple top, for example, blends warmth and clarity. The density and resonance of the wood contribute to the overall sonic signature of the instrument.

Playing Techniques for 7-String

Mastering the seventh string unlocks innovative techniques, demanding adaptation and exploration of new musical territories for enhanced creativity and expression.

Adapting Existing Chords & Scales

Transitioning from a six-string to a seven-string doesn’t necessitate abandoning familiar chord shapes and scales. Instead, it encourages a re-imagining of their application. Many standard chord forms can be directly translated, utilizing the added low B string to create fuller, more resonant voicings.

For scales, consider extending patterns downwards. For example, a familiar pentatonic scale shape can be shifted to incorporate notes on the seventh string, opening up lower register possibilities. However, be mindful of the wider fretboard spacing; adjustments to hand positioning and finger stretches will be necessary.

Experiment with inversions and different fingerings to discover new harmonic colors. The extra string provides opportunities to voice chords and scales in ways simply not possible on a six-string, fostering a unique sonic landscape. Don’t be afraid to explore!

New Chord Voicings & Harmonic Possibilities

The seventh string unlocks a universe of novel chord voicings previously unattainable. Explore utilizing the low B string as a pedal tone, creating a drone beneath complex chord structures for a weighty, atmospheric effect. Extended chords, like 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths, become easier to voice fully, adding richness and sophistication.

Diminished and augmented chords gain new dimensions with the expanded range. Experiment with wider intervals and unconventional fingerings to discover unique harmonic textures. The lower register allows for powerful, rumbling voicings, while higher positions offer shimmering, ethereal tones.

Consider incorporating open voicings that span the entire fretboard. The seven-string’s extended range encourages thinking beyond traditional chord shapes, leading to innovative and captivating harmonic progressions.

Palm Muting & Articulation on the Low String

Mastering palm muting on the seventh string is crucial for achieving tight, percussive rhythms, especially in heavier genres. The increased string tension requires a slightly different technique – a firmer, more controlled palm placement is often needed. Experiment with varying degrees of pressure to find the sweet spot between clarity and chunk.

Articulation on the low B string demands precision. Due to its lower frequency, sloppy playing is more noticeable. Focus on clean picking and accurate fretting. Utilize techniques like alternate picking and economy picking to maximize speed and definition.

Explore combining palm muting with other articulation techniques, such as string skipping and legato, to create dynamic and engaging rhythmic patterns. The low string’s resonance adds depth and power to any rhythmic figure.

Gear & Setup

Optimizing your equipment and guitar setup is vital for unlocking the full potential of a seven-string, ensuring optimal tone and playability.

Pickups Optimized for 7-String Guitars

Selecting the right pickups is crucial for a 7-string, as standard pickups often lack the necessary bandwidth to accurately capture the extended low frequencies. Active pickups, known for their high output and tight bass response, are a popular choice among metal and progressive players. They provide clarity and definition, even with heavily distorted tones.

However, passive pickups offer a more dynamic and organic sound, favored by jazz and fusion musicians. Look for pickups specifically designed for 7-strings, featuring wider pole pieces and optimized windings to accommodate the lower B string. Ceramic magnets generally deliver a brighter, more aggressive tone, while Alnico magnets provide a warmer, more vintage-inspired sound. Consider the tonal characteristics of your desired genre and playing style when making your selection; experimentation is key!

Amplification & EQ Settings for Extended Range

Amplifying a 7-string effectively requires equipment capable of handling the extended low end without sacrificing clarity. A full-range amplifier with a substantial speaker (12” or 15”) is highly recommended. When using traditional guitar amps, be mindful of the low-frequency response; excessive bass can muddy the mix.

EQ settings are vital. Often, a slight reduction in the lower-mid frequencies (around 250-500Hz) can tighten the low end and prevent boominess. Experiment with boosting higher frequencies (2-5kHz) to enhance articulation and cut through the mix. Utilizing a parametric EQ allows for precise frequency sculpting. Consider using a dedicated bass amplifier or a power amp designed for low frequencies for optimal results, especially in lower tunings.

Setting Up Your 7-String for Optimal Playability

Proper setup is crucial for a comfortable and responsive 7-string experience. Begin with neck relief – a slight forward bow is generally preferred. Adjust the truss rod incrementally to achieve this. String action should be set low enough for easy playing, but high enough to avoid buzzing, particularly on the lower strings.

Intonation is paramount, especially with the extended range. Carefully adjust the saddle positions to ensure accurate pitch across the fretboard; Pay close attention to the 7th string’s intonation, as it’s most prone to issues. A professional setup is recommended if you’re unfamiliar with these adjustments. Finally, ensure the nut slots are properly cut for the heavier gauge strings, preventing binding and tuning instability.

Genres & Artists Utilizing 7-String

The seven-string guitar thrives in diverse musical landscapes, championed by innovative artists pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories consistently.

Metal & Progressive Rock – The Core Genres

The seven-string guitar has become synonymous with modern metal and progressive rock, offering a deeper, more powerful sonic foundation for these genres. Its extended range allows for incredibly low riffs, complex chord voicings, and a generally heavier sound that perfectly complements the aggressive nature of metal.

Bands like Meshuggah pioneered the use of 7-strings, defining a unique polyrhythmic and djent-influenced style. Dream Theater, Animals as Leaders, and Periphery have also heavily embraced the instrument, showcasing its versatility in progressive compositions. The lower B string provides a substantial low-end presence, crucial for drop tunings and creating a wall of sound.

Beyond simply adding a low string, the 7-string encourages experimentation with extended harmonies and unconventional scales, pushing the boundaries of traditional metal songwriting. It’s a tool for sonic exploration, allowing guitarists to create textures and atmospheres previously unattainable.

Jazz & Fusion Applications of the 7-String

While often associated with heavier genres, the seven-string guitar is increasingly finding a home in jazz and fusion music. The added low string expands harmonic possibilities, allowing for richer chord voicings and deeper bass lines without relying on a separate bassist for every nuance.

Players are utilizing the extended range to explore altered dominant chords, complex extensions, and unconventional harmonic movements, creating a more sophisticated and colorful sound. The lower register also provides a unique textural element, adding depth and resonance to improvisations and compositions.

Artists are discovering that the 7-string facilitates a more self-contained approach to arranging, enabling solo guitar performances with a fuller, more orchestral quality. It’s a versatile instrument for those seeking to push the boundaries of jazz harmony and explore new sonic territories.

Notable 7-String Guitarists & Their Influence

Several guitarists have been pivotal in popularizing and defining the sound of the seven-string. Tosin Abasi of Animals as Leaders is arguably the most recognizable, showcasing incredible technical proficiency and innovative compositional approaches, inspiring countless players.

Jørgen Munkeby of Shining is another influential figure, blending jazz fusion with extreme metal, demonstrating the instrument’s versatility; Jeff Loomis, formerly of Nevermore, utilizes the 7-string for complex, melodic solos and intricate arrangements.

These artists, and others like Wes Hauch and Plini, have expanded the instrument’s vocabulary, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the guitar. Their influence extends beyond technique, inspiring a new generation to explore extended-range instruments and embrace unconventional musical ideas.

Resources & Further Learning

Explore online platforms and dedicated communities to refine your skills; numerous brands offer excellent instruments and learning materials for enthusiasts.

Online Lessons & Tutorials

The internet is brimming with resources for 7-string guitarists of all levels. Platforms like YouTube host countless free tutorials, covering everything from basic chord shapes and scale patterns to advanced techniques like sweep picking and tapping specifically adapted for the extended range.

Several subscription-based websites offer structured learning paths, providing comprehensive courses designed to take you from beginner to proficient. These often include downloadable tablature, backing tracks, and personalized feedback from instructors.

Look for lessons focusing on 7-string specific concepts, such as utilizing the low B string effectively, creating unique chord voicings, and navigating the wider fretboard. Don’t underestimate the value of learning songs by ear – this builds your musicality and understanding of the instrument. Consider joining online forums and communities to connect with other 7-string players and share knowledge.

Recommended 7-String Guitar Brands

Several brands consistently deliver high-quality 7-string guitars catering to diverse budgets and playing styles. Ibanez is a popular choice, renowned for its thin, fast necks and versatile pickup configurations, particularly the RG and Prestige series.

Schecter offers a wide range of 7-strings, from affordable models perfect for beginners to high-end instruments favored by professional metal players. ESP and its sub-brands, LTD, are also highly regarded for their craftsmanship and aggressive tones.

Jackson provides shred-focused 7-strings with comfortable playability and powerful pickups. For boutique options, explore brands like Kiesel and Mayones, known for their customizability and exceptional build quality. Consider your genre preferences and budget when selecting a brand, and always read reviews before making a purchase.