What is a 7 string baritone guitar?
Editor’s Note:7 string baritone guitars are a relatively new type of guitar that has gained popularity in recent years, offering a unique and versatile sound that sets them apart from traditional six-string guitars.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to 7 string baritone guitars that will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not this type of guitar is right for you.
| Feature | 7 String Baritone Guitar | Traditional 6-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 7 | 6 |
| String tuning | Typically tuned an octave below the standard guitar tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E) | Typically tuned to standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) |
| Scale length | Longer than a traditional guitar, typically around 27-30 inches | Shorter than a 7 string baritone guitar, typically around 24-25.5 inches |
| Sound | Deeper, richer, and more resonant sound due to the longer scale length and lower tuning | Brighter, twangier, and more traditional sound |
Now that you have a basic understanding of 7 string baritone guitars, let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits that they offer:
- Extended range: The 7th string on a 7 string baritone guitar extends the range of the instrument, allowing you to play lower notes that are not possible on a traditional six-string guitar.
- Unique sound: The longer scale length and lower tuning of a 7 string baritone guitar give it a unique and distinctive sound that is perfect for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and blues.
- Versatility: 7 string baritone guitars are incredibly versatile instruments that can be used for a wide range of musical styles. They can be used for rhythm playing, lead playing, and even fingerstyle playing.
If you’re looking for a guitar that offers a unique and versatile sound, then a 7 string baritone guitar may be the perfect choice for you. With its extended range, unique sound, and versatility, a 7 string baritone guitar can help you take your playing to the next level.
1. Extended range
The extended range of 7 string baritone guitars is one of their most distinctive features. With seven strings instead of six, these guitars allow you to play lower notes than you could on a traditional six-string guitar. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for guitarists, especially those who play in lower tunings or who want to explore extended range techniques.
- Versatility: The extended range of 7 string baritone guitars makes them extremely versatile instruments. They can be used for a wide variety of musical styles, from metal to rock to blues.
- Extended range techniques: The extended range of 7 string baritone guitars allows guitarists to explore extended range techniques, such as drop tunings and down-tuning.
- Low tunings: 7 string baritone guitars are ideal for playing in low tunings. The longer scale length and heavier strings help to keep the guitar in tune even when it is tuned down to drop C or even lower.
The extended range of 7 string baritone guitars is a major advantage for guitarists who want to explore new sounds and techniques. If you’re looking for a guitar that can give you a wider range of sonic possibilities, then a 7 string baritone guitar is definitely worth considering.
2. Unique sound
The unique sound of 7 string baritone guitars is one of the things that sets them apart from traditional six-string guitars. This distinctive sound is due to a combination of factors, including the longer scale length and lower tuning of these guitars.
- Longer scale length: The scale length of a 7 string baritone guitar is longer than that of a traditional six-string guitar, typically around 27-30 inches. This longer scale length gives the strings more time to vibrate, which results in a deeper, richer sound.
- Lower tuning: 7 string baritone guitars are typically tuned an octave below the standard guitar tuning, to B-E-A-D-G-B-E. This lower tuning gives the guitar a darker, more resonant sound.
The combination of these two factors gives 7 string baritone guitars their unique and distinctive sound. This sound is perfect for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and blues. Whether you’re looking for a guitar that can deliver heavy riffs or soaring solos, a 7 string baritone guitar is a great option.
3. Versatility
The versatility of 7 string baritone guitars is one of their most appealing features. Unlike traditional six-string guitars, which are often associated with a specific genre or style of music, 7 string baritone guitars can be used for a wide range of musical styles, from metal to rock to blues.
This versatility is due to a combination of factors, including the extended range, unique sound, and playing techniques that are possible on 7 string baritone guitars.
The extended range of 7 string baritone guitars gives guitarists access to lower notes that are not possible on traditional six-string guitars. This makes them ideal for playing in drop tunings or for exploring extended range techniques. The unique sound of 7 string baritone guitars, which is characterized by its depth and resonance, is also well-suited for a variety of musical styles.
Finally, the playing techniques that are possible on 7 string baritone guitars allow guitarists to create a wide range of sounds and textures. This makes them a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of musical styles.
Here are some examples of how 7 string baritone guitars have been used in different musical styles:
- Metal: 7 string baritone guitars are often used in metal music, as they can provide the low end and heaviness that is characteristic of the genre.
- Rock: 7 string baritone guitars can also be used for rock music, as they can provide a unique and distinctive sound that can help to set a band apart from the crowd.
- Blues: 7 string baritone guitars can also be used for blues music, as they can provide a deep and resonant sound that is perfect for the genre.
As you can see, 7 string baritone guitars are a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of musical styles. If you’re looking for a guitar that can give you a wide range of sonic possibilities
, then a 7 string baritone guitar is definitely worth considering.
4. Longer scale length
The scale length of a guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. A longer scale length gives the strings more time to vibrate, which results in a deeper, richer sound. This is why 7 string baritone guitars have a deeper, more resonant sound than traditional six-string guitars.
In addition to the deeper sound, a longer scale length also gives 7 string baritone guitars a tighter and more articulate sound. This is because the strings are under more tension, which prevents them from flopping around as much. This makes 7 string baritone guitars ideal for playing fast and technical passages.
Here are some of the benefits of a longer scale length:
- Deeper, richer sound
- Tighter, more articulate sound
- Improved sustain
- Better intonation
If you’re looking for a guitar with a deep, resonant sound and a tight, articulate response, then a 7 string baritone guitar with a longer scale length is a great option.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between 7 string baritone guitars and traditional six-string guitars:
| Feature | 7 String Baritone Guitar | Traditional 6-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 7 | 6 |
| String tuning | Typically tuned an octave below the standard guitar tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E) | Typically tuned to standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) |
| Scale length | Longer than a traditional guitar, typically around 27-30 inches | Shorter than a 7 string baritone guitar, typically around 24-25.5 inches |
| Sound | Deeper, richer, and more resonant sound due to the longer scale length and lower tuning | Brighter, twangier, and more traditional sound |
5. Lower tuning
The lower tuning of 7 string baritone guitars is one of the things that sets them apart from traditional six-string guitars. This lower tuning gives 7 string baritone guitars a deeper, richer, and more resonant sound. It also allows guitarists to play in lower registers, which can be useful for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and blues.
- Extended range: The lower tuning of 7 string baritone guitars gives them an extended range compared to traditional six-string guitars. This extended range allows guitarists to play lower notes, which can be useful for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and blues.
- Deeper sound: The lower tuning of 7 string baritone guitars gives them a deeper, richer, and more resonant sound. This deeper sound is perfect for genres that require a heavy, low end, such as metal and rock.
- Heavier strings: The lower tuning of 7 string baritone guitars requires heavier strings than traditional six-string guitars. These heavier strings help to keep the guitar in tune, even when it is tuned down to drop C or even lower.
- Different playing techniques: The lower tuning of 7 string baritone guitars requires different playing techniques than traditional six-string guitars. This is because the heavier strings require more force to fret and bend. Additionally, the lower tuning can make it more difficult to play fast and technical passages.
The lower tuning of 7 string baritone guitars is a major advantage for guitarists who want to explore new sounds and techniques. If you’re looking for a guitar that can give you a deeper, richer, and more resonant sound, then a 7 string baritone guitar is definitely worth considering.
6. Heavier strings
The lower tuning of 7 string baritone guitars requires heavier strings than traditional six-string guitars. This is because heavier strings have a higher tension, which helps to keep the guitar in tune when it is tuned down to a lower pitch. Heavier strings also produce a deeper, richer sound, which is ideal for genres such as metal and rock.
- Tighter tension: Heavier strings have a higher tension, which helps to keep the guitar in tune when it is tuned down to a lower pitch. This is important for 7 string baritone guitars, which are often tuned down to drop C or even lower.
- Deeper sound: Heavier strings also produce a deeper, richer sound. This is because heavier strings have a larger mass, which causes them to vibrate more slowly. This slower vibration produces a deeper, more resonant sound.
- Improved sustain: Heavier strings also have a longer sustain than lighter strings. This is because heavier strings have a higher mass, which helps them to maintain their vibration for a longer period of time.
- Different playing techniques: Heavier strings require different playing techniques than lighter strings. This is because heavier strings require more force to fret and bend. Additionally, the higher tension of heavier strings can make it more difficult to play fast and technical passages.
The heavier strings on 7 string baritone guitars are an important part of what gives these guitars their unique sound and feel. If you’re considering buying a 7 string baritone guitar, be sure to take the heavier strings into account. You may need to adjust your playing technique and use a heavier pick to get the best sound and feel out of your guitar.
7. Different playing techniques
The longer scale length and heavier strings on 7 string baritone guitars require different playing techniques than traditional six-string guitars. These differences include:
- Finger positioning: The longer scale length on 7 string baritone guitars means that the frets are further apart than on traditional six-string guitars. This can make it more difficult to reach the frets with your fingers, especially if you have small hands.
- String tension: The heavier strings on 7 string baritone guitars require more force to fret and bend. This can make it more difficult to play fast and technical passages.
- Picking technique: The heavier strings on 7 string baritone guitars also require a different picking technique. You may need to use a heavier pick and/or pick closer to the bridge to get the best sound and feel out of your guitar.
It is important to note that these different playing techniques are not necessarily more difficult than the techniques used on traditional six-string guitars. They are simply different. With a little practice, you can learn to play 7 string baritone guitar just as well as you can play a traditional six-string guitar.In fact, many guitarists find that the longer scale length and heavier strings on 7 string baritone guitars give them a unique and inspiring playing experience. The longer scale length gives th
e guitar a deeper, richer sound, and the heavier strings give it a tighter, more articulate sound. This combination of factors can make 7 string baritone guitars ideal for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and blues.If you’re looking for a guitar that can give you a unique and inspiring playing experience, then a 7 string baritone guitar is definitely worth considering.
8. More expensive
There are a few reasons why 7 string baritone guitars are typically more expensive than traditional six-string guitars. First, they require more materials to build. A 7 string baritone guitar has an extra string, a longer scale length, and a larger body than a traditional six-string guitar. This means that more wood, metal, and other materials are needed to build a 7 string baritone guitar.
Second, 7 string baritone guitars are more difficult to build than traditional six-string guitars. The longer scale length and the extra string make it more challenging to get the guitar to intonate properly. Additionally, the larger body of a 7 string baritone guitar makes it more difficult to assemble and finish.
Finally, 7 string baritone guitars are less common than traditional six-string guitars. This means that there is less demand for them, which can lead to higher prices. Additionally, the specialized skills required to build a 7 string baritone guitar mean that there are fewer luthiers who are able to build them.
Despite their higher price, 7 string baritone guitars offer a unique sound and playing experience that many guitarists find to be worth the investment. If you are looking for a guitar that can give you a deep, resonant sound with plenty of low end, then a 7 string baritone guitar is a great option.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between 7 string baritone guitars and traditional six-string guitars:
| Feature | 7 String Baritone Guitar | Traditional 6-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 7 | 6 |
| String tuning | Typically tuned an octave below the standard guitar tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E) | Typically tuned to standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) |
| Scale length | Longer than a traditional guitar, typically around 27-30 inches | Shorter than a 7 string baritone guitar, typically around 24-25.5 inches |
| Sound | Deeper, richer, and more resonant sound due to the longer scale length and lower tuning | Brighter, twangier, and more traditional sound |
| Price | Typically more expensive than traditional six-string guitars | Typically less expensive than 7 string baritone guitars |
9. Not as common
The relative scarcity of 7 string baritone guitars compared to traditional six-string guitars presents certain implications for their availability and accessibility.
- Limited availability: The lower production volume of 7 string baritone guitars means that they may not be as widely available as their six-string counterparts. This can make it more challenging for guitarists to find and purchase these instruments.
- Fewer retail options: The lower demand for 7 string baritone guitars translates to fewer retail outlets stocking them. Guitarists may need to search more extensively or consider online retailers to find the specific model or brand they desire.
- Custom orders: In some cases, guitarists may opt to have a 7 string baritone guitar custom-made by a luthier. This can provide greater flexibility in terms of design and specifications, but it also involves a longer waiting period and potentially higher costs.
Despite these challenges, the unique sound and extended range of 7 string baritone guitars continue to attract guitarists who are willing to invest time and effort in finding the right instrument. The growing popularity of this guitar type is gradually increasing its availability, making it more accessible to musicians.
10. Still evolving
The evolution of 7 string baritone guitars is an intriguing aspect of their development, as it offers insights into their unique characteristics and the ongoing process of refinement.
- Continuous Refinement: As the design and sound of 7 string baritone guitars are still in flux, manufacturers and luthiers are constantly experimenting with different materials, construction methods, and pickup configurations. This ongoing process aims to enhance the guitar’s overall performance, playability, and sonic capabilities.
- Player Feedback: Guitarists play a significant role in the evolution of 7 string baritone guitars, as their feedback and experiences help shape the instrument’s design and sound. Through online forums, social media, and direct interactions with manufacturers, guitarists share their insights, preferences, and suggestions, which influence the direction of future iterations.
- Diversifying Styles: The evolving nature of 7 string baritone guitars allows for greater diversity in musical styles and genres. As guitarists continue to explore the sonic possibilities of this instrument, new techniques and approaches emerge, expanding its versatility and appeal.
The ongoing evolution of 7 string baritone guitars is a testament to their potential and the passion of luthiers and guitarists alike. As the instrument matures, it is likely to continue captivating musicians with its unique sound and ever-expanding range of applications.
FAQs Regarding 7 String Baritone Guitars
This section addresses common queries and provides concise, informative responses to enhance understanding and dispel misconceptions about 7 string baritone guitars.
Question 1: What distinguishes 7 string baritone guitars from standard six-string guitars?
7 string baritone guitars possess several key differences compared to standard six-string guitars. These include an extended scale length, typically ranging from 27 to 30 inches, resulting in a deeper, more resonant sound. Additionally, they feature an extra low B string, extending the instrument’s range and allowing for exploration of lower notes.
Question 2: What genres of music are best suited for 7 string baritone guitars?
7 string baritone guitars excel in genres that benefit from their extended range and unique sound. These genres include metal, rock, and blues, where their low-end power and versatility can be fully realized. However, their adaptability extends beyond these genres, making them suitable for various musical styles.
Question 3: Are 7 string baritone guitars more challenging to play than traditional guitars?
While 7 string baritone guitars have a longer scale length and heavier strings, they are not inherently more challenging to play than traditional guitars. With proper technique and practice, guitarists can master the nuances of these instruments. However, the wider neck and increased string tension may require some adjustment for players ac
customed to six-string guitars.
Question 4: What are the advantages of using heavier strings on 7 string baritone guitars?
Heavier strings on 7 string baritone guitars contribute to their distinctive sound and playing feel. They provide increased tension, resulting in improved tuning stability, particularly when utilizing lower tunings. Additionally, heavier strings produce a fuller, richer tone, enhancing the guitar’s overall sonic capabilities.
Question 5: Why are 7 string baritone guitars typically more expensive than traditional guitars?
The cost of 7 string baritone guitars is influenced by several factors. Their extended scale length and extra string require more materials for construction. Additionally, the specialized craftsmanship and expertise necessary for their production contribute to their higher price point compared to traditional six-string guitars.
Question 6: Are there any notable drawbacks to using 7 string baritone guitars?
While 7 string baritone guitars offer unique advantages, they may not be suitable for all players. Their larger size and heavier strings can be physically demanding, especially during extended playing sessions. Additionally, their relative scarcity and higher cost may limit their accessibility for some guitarists.
These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of the key aspects and considerations surrounding 7 string baritone guitars. By understanding their unique characteristics, sonic capabilities, and potential drawbacks, guitarists can make informed decisions regarding whether these instruments align with their musical needs and preferences.
Transitioning to the next section, we will delve into the intricate details of 7 string baritone guitar construction, exploring the materials, craftsmanship, and design elements that contribute to their distinctive sound and playing experience.
Tips for Playing 7 String Baritone Guitars
Mastering the 7 string baritone guitar requires dedication and a refined technique. Here are a few tips to enhance your playing experience and unlock the instrument’s full potential:
Tip 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Extended Range
The additional low B string on a 7 string baritone guitar significantly expands its range. Take time to explore this extended range, experimenting with different notes, scales, and chords to discover its unique sonic possibilities.
Tip 2: Adjust Your Finger Positioning
The longer scale length of 7 string baritone guitars requires adjustments in finger positioning. Practice reaching the frets accurately, especially when transitioning between the standard six-string range and the extended low B string.
Tip 3: Develop a Strong Picking Technique
The heavier strings on 7 string baritone guitars demand a stronger picking technique. Use a heavier pick and experiment with different picking styles to achieve the desired tone and clarity.
Tip 4: Explore Different Tunings
7 string baritone guitars offer a wide range of tuning options. Experiment with various tunings to find the ones that best suit your musical style and playing preferences. Lower tunings, such as drop A or drop G, can unlock heavier and more resonant sounds.
Tip 5: Utilize Extended Techniques
The 7 string baritone guitar’s extended range and unique sound lend themselves to innovative playing techniques. Explore harmonics, tapping, and other extended techniques to expand your sonic vocabulary and create expressive musical passages.
Tip 6: Invest in a Quality Setup
A proper setup is crucial for optimizing the playability and performance of any guitar, including 7 string baritone guitars. A qualified technician can adjust the intonation, string height, and other factors to suit your playing style and preferences.
Tip 7: Practice Regularly
As with any instrument, consistent practice is essential for mastering the 7 string baritone guitar. Dedicate time each day to practice scales, chords, and songs to develop your technique and musical vocabulary.
By following these tips and dedicating yourself to practice, you can unlock the full potential of the 7 string baritone guitar and elevate your playing to new heights.
Conclusion
The 7 string baritone guitar has emerged as a unique and versatile instrument, offering a distinctive sound and extended range that has captivated guitarists across various genres. Its longer scale length, lower tuning, and extra low B string provide a deep, resonant sound that is particularly well-suited for metal, rock, and blues.
While 7 string baritone guitars require some adjustments in playing technique, their unique characteristics and sonic possibilities make them a rewarding instrument to master. By embracing the extended range, experimenting with different tunings, and refining their picking and finger positioning, guitarists can unlock the full potential of this exceptional guitar.
As the 7 string baritone guitar continues to evolve, it is poised to inspire new musical expressions and push the boundaries of guitar playing. Its versatility and adaptability make it a valuable addition to the arsenals of both seasoned musicians and aspiring guitarists.
