What is a 7-String Electric Guitar?
Editor’s Note: 7-String Electric Guitars: A Comprehensive Guide
After analyzing the market and gathering valuable insights, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you understand the world of 7-string electric guitars. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your musical journey, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions.
Key Differences: 6-String vs. 7-String Electric Guitars
| Feature | 6-String | 7-String |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 6 | 7 |
| Lowest String | E | B |
| Tonal Range | Lower Mid-Range to High-Range | Extended Lower Mid-Range to High-Range |
| Playing Style | Suitable for a wide range of genres | Primarily used in metal, progressive rock, and jazz |
Main Article Topics
- Benefits of a 7-String Electric Guitar
- Challenges of Playing a 7-String Electric Guitar
- Choosing the Right 7-String Electric Guitar
- Tips for Playing a 7-String Electric Guitar
- Conclusion
1. Extended Range
The extended range of 7-string electric guitars is a defining characteristic that sets them apart from their 6-string counterparts. The additional low B string extends the tonal range downward, providing guitarists with access to deeper, richer notes.
This extended range opens up a world of new possibilities for guitarists. They can explore lower registers, create unique chord voicings, and expand their melodic horizons. The low B string adds weight and depth to riffs and solos, allowing guitarists to create a more powerful and resonant sound.
The wider tonal range of 7-string electric guitars makes them particularly well-suited for genres that emphasize low-end power and sonic exploration, such as metal, progressive rock, and jazz fusion. However, their versatility extends beyond these genres, as guitarists in various styles are discovering the expressive capabilities of the extended range.
Here are some specific examples of how the extended range of 7-string electric guitars is used in practice:
- Metal guitarists use the low B string to create crushing riffs and add depth to their solos.
- Progressive rock guitarists explore complex chord voicings and extended scales that span the entire range of the guitar.
- Jazz fusion guitarists use the low B string to create walking bass lines and add a funky edge to their playing.
Understanding the significance of the extended range is crucial for guitarists who want to harness the full potential of 7-string electric guitars. It opens up new avenues for creativity and expression, empowering guitarists to push the boundaries of their music.
Key Insights:
- The extended range of 7-string electric guitars provides access to lower notes, expanding the tonal range.
- This extended range enables new chord voicings, melodic possibilities, and sonic exploration.
- 7-string electric guitars are particularly well-suited for genres that emphasize low-end power and sonic exploration.
2. Genre Versatility
Contrary to the common perception of 7-string electric guitars being exclusively suited for metal music, they exhibit remarkable versatility that extends beyond this genre. Their unique sonic capabilities and extended range have attracted guitarists from a wide array of musical styles.
- Progressive Rock and Metal: 7-string guitars have become a staple in progressive rock and metal subgenres, where their extended range and low-end power enhance complex riffs, intricate solos, and atmospheric soundscapes.
- Jazz Fusion: Jazz fusion guitarists utilize the 7-string’s extended range to create harmonically rich chord voicings, explore exotic scales, and execute lightning-fast solos that blend jazz harmony with rock and funk influences.
- Blues and Country: While less common, 7-string guitars have also found their way into blues and country music. Their extended range allows guitarists to add depth and complexity to traditional blues scales and country licks.
- Experimental and Avant-Garde: The sonic versatility of 7-string guitars appeals to experimental and avant-garde guitarists who seek to push musical boundaries. They employ extended techniques, unconventional tunings, and innovative playing styles to create otherworldly soundscapes.
The genre versatility of 7-string electric guitars underscores their adaptability and the limitless creative possibilities they offer. Guitarists across various genres are embracing the extended range and unique tonal qualities of these instruments, contributing to the evolution of musical expression.
3. Technical Playing
The extended range of the 7-string electric guitar presents a unique set of technical challenges that demand greater proficiency and dexterity from guitarists. The additional low B string requires precise finger placement and stretching, particularly during fretting and picking.
Developing the necessary technical proficiency for 7-string guitar playing involves dedicated practice and exercises that focus on:
- Finger Independence: Isolating and strengthening each finger of the fretting hand to facilitate clean fretting and accurate string picking.
- String Skipping: Practicing techniques that involve skipping strings while picking, which is essential for executing complex patterns and arpeggios.
- Alternate Picking: Mastering alternate picking techniques to maintain speed and accuracy while transitioning between strings.
- Chord Voicings: Expanding chord knowledge and developing the ability to create voicings that utilize the extended range of the guitar.
- Tapping and Legato: Incorporating tapping and legato techniques to enhance speed, fluidity, and expressiveness.
Overcoming these technical challenges unlocks the full potential of the 7-string electric guitar. Guitarists who invest the time and effort to develop their technical proficiency are rewarded with the ability to execute complex passages, explore innovative playing styles, and push the boundaries of their musical expression.
Key I
nsights:
- The 7-string electric guitar demands greater technical proficiency and dexterity due to its extended range.
- Developing technical proficiency requires dedicated practice and exercises that focus on finger independence, string skipping, alternate picking, chord voicings, and tapping/legato techniques.
- Mastering these techniques unlocks the full sonic potential of the 7-string electric guitar and enables guitarists to explore complex and innovative playing styles.
4. Chord Voicings
The extended range of the 7-string electric guitar opens up a world of new possibilities for chord voicings and harmonies. The additional low B string provides guitarists with a wider tonal palette to work with, allowing them to create chords that are richer, deeper, and more complex.
- Expanded Voicings: The extra string allows guitarists to create chord voicings that span a wider range of notes. This can result in chords that are more harmonically interesting and dissonant, adding a new level of depth to the music.
- Unique Inversions: The additional string also makes it possible to create unique inversions of chords that are not possible on a 6-string guitar. These inversions can provide a fresh and unexpected sound, adding variety to chord progressions.
- Extended Harmony: The low B string extends the harmonic range of the guitar, making it possible to create chords that have a more extended and resonant sound. This is especially useful for creating atmospheric and ambient textures.
- New Chord Types: The extra string also opens up the possibility of creating entirely new types of chords that are not possible on a 6-string guitar. These chords can have a unique and distinctive sound, adding a new dimension to the guitarist’s sonic arsenal.
The exploration of new chord voicings and harmonies is one of the most exciting and rewarding aspects of playing the 7-string electric guitar. It allows guitarists to push the boundaries of their musical expression and create truly unique and innovative sounds.
5. Scale Exploration
The extended range of the 7-string electric guitar opens up a world of new possibilities for scale exploration and melodic development. The additional low B string provides guitarists with access to a wider range of notes, allowing them to play scales that are more expansive, exotic, and expressive.
One of the most significant benefits of the extended range is the ability to play scales that span multiple octaves. This can create a more expansive and epic sound, which is perfect for genres such as metal, progressive rock, and jazz fusion. Additionally, the extra string allows guitarists to play scales that are more harmonically complex. These scales can add a new level of depth and sophistication to the music.
Here are some specific examples of how 7-string guitarists are using the extended range to explore new scales and melodic possibilities:
- Metal guitarists are using the low B string to create crushing riffs and add depth to their solos. They are also exploring new scales that incorporate the low B string, such as the Phrygian Dominant scale and the Lydian Augmented scale.
- Progressive rock guitarists are using the extended range to create complex and atmospheric soundscapes. They are experimenting with scales that are based on Eastern music, such as the Raga scale and the Bhairav scale.
- Jazz fusion guitarists are using the extended range to explore new harmonic possibilities. They are creating scales that combine elements of jazz harmony with rock and funk influences.
The exploration of new scales and melodic possibilities is one of the most exciting and rewarding aspects of playing the 7-string electric guitar. It allows guitarists to push the boundaries of their musical expression and create truly unique and innovative sounds.
6. String Tension
The addition of a lower string on a 7-string electric guitar significantly alters the overall string tension. This is because the thicker strings require more tension to achieve the same pitch as the thinner strings. As a result, the entire set of strings on a 7-string guitar is under greater tension than a 6-string guitar.
The increased string tension has several implications for 7-string guitarists. First, it can make the guitar more difficult to play, especially for beginners. The higher tension requires more finger strength to fret the strings, and it can also lead to fatigue over time.
Second, the increased string tension can affect the guitar’s tone. The tighter strings produce a brighter, more metallic sound than looser strings. This can be desirable for some genres of music, such as metal and hard rock, but it may not be suitable for other genres, such as jazz and blues.
Finally, the increased string tension can affect the guitar’s intonation. The higher tension can cause the strings to stretch more, which can lead to the guitar going out of tune more easily. This is especially important for guitarists who play in drop tunings, which can put even more tension on the strings.
Overall, the increased string tension on a 7-string electric guitar is a significant factor to consider when choosing and playing this instrument. Guitarists should be aware of the challenges and benefits of increased string tension before making a decision about whether or not a 7-string guitar is right for them.
Key Insights:
- The addition of a lower string on a 7-string electric guitar increases the overall string tension.
- Increased string tension can make the guitar more difficult to play and can affect the tone and intonation.
- Guitarists should be aware of the challenges and benefits of increased string tension before choosing a 7-string guitar.
Practical Applications:
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Increased string tension can make the guitar more difficult to play. | Use lighter gauge strings or tune the guitar to a lower pitch. |
| Increased string tension can affect the guitar’s tone. | Use different pickup configurations or EQ settings to compensate for the brighter sound. |
| Increased string tension can affect the guitar’s intonation. | Stretch the strings regularly and adjust the intonation as needed. |
7. Neck Radius
The neck radius of a guitar refers to the curvature of the fretboard. A flatter neck radius, as commonly found on 7-string electric guitars, offers several advantages that contribute to enhanced playability.
- Increased Comfort: A flatter neck radius conforms better to the shape of the hand, reducing strain and fatigue during extended playing sessions.
- Improved Speed: The f
latter surface allows for faster and more fluid movement of the fretting hand, facilitating complex and rapid passages. - Reduced Fret Buzz: A flatter neck radius reduces the likelihood of fret buzz, which occurs when the strings come into contact with the frets at unintended points, resulting in unwanted noise.
- Enhanced Intonation: A flatter neck radius improves the guitar’s intonation, ensuring that the notes played at different positions on the neck are in tune with each other.
The combination of these advantages makes a flatter neck radius a desirable feature for 7-string electric guitars, catering to the technical demands and playability requirements of the instrument.
8. Pickup Configurations
The extended range and tonal versatility of 7-string electric guitars demand unique pickup configurations to fully capture and articulate their sonic potential. These specialized pickup arrangements play a crucial role in shaping the instrument’s overall character and enabling guitarists to explore a wide spectrum of sounds.
- Humbucker-Single Coil Hybrids: Combining the power and warmth of humbuckers with the clarity and articulation of single coils, these hybrid pickups provide a versatile blend of tones. They excel in delivering rich, full-bodied sounds while retaining the clarity and definition required for intricate playing.
- Extended Range Humbuckers: Designed specifically for 7-string guitars, these humbuckers feature wider pole pieces and coils to accommodate the additional low B string. They offer a powerful, articulate sound with a tight low end and a clear, defined high end, making them ideal for heavy riffs and soaring solos.
- Multi-Coil Pickups: Incorporating multiple coils into a single pickup, these configurations provide even greater tonal versatility. By combining different coil combinations, guitarists can access a wide range of sounds, from classic single-coil tones to thick, humbucking tones.
- Piezo Pickups: Piezo pickups capture the natural acoustic vibrations of the guitar body, providing a unique and organic sound. They are often blended with magnetic pickups to add warmth and depth to the overall tone, or used independently for a more percussive and resonant sound.
The choice of pickup configuration ultimately depends on the desired sound and playing style. Whether seeking aggressive distortion, pristine cleans, or anything in between, the unique pickup configurations available for 7-string electric guitars empower guitarists to tailor their sound and push the boundaries of their musical expression.
9. Body Styles
The body style of a 7-string electric guitar significantly impacts its tone, resonance, and playing feel. The two main body styles for 7-string guitars are solid-body and semi-hollow.
Solid-body guitars feature a solid body made of wood, typically mahogany, alder, or ash. This design provides a bright, articulate sound with excellent sustain and minimal feedback. Solid-body guitars are well-suited for genres that emphasize clarity and power, such as metal, hard rock, and progressive rock.
Semi-hollow guitars feature a hollow or semi-hollow body with a solid center block running through the middle. This design provides a warmer, more resonant sound with increased sustain and feedback compared to solid-body guitars. Semi-hollow guitars are well-suited for genres that require a more vintage or organic sound, such as jazz, blues, and classic rock.
The choice between a solid-body or semi-hollow 7-string guitar ultimately depends on the desired sound and playing style. Solid-body guitars offer a more aggressive, modern sound, while semi-hollow guitars offer a warmer, more vintage sound.
Key Insights:
- The body style of a 7-string electric guitar significantly impacts its tone, resonance, and playing feel.
- Solid-body guitars provide a bright, articulate sound with excellent sustain and minimal feedback, well-suited for genres like metal and hard rock.
- Semi-hollow guitars provide a warmer, more resonant sound with increased sustain and feedback, well-suited for genres like jazz and blues.
Practical Applications:
| Body Style | Tone | Resonance | Sustain | Feedback | Suitable Genres |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solid-body | Bright, articulate | Minimal | Excellent | Minimal | Metal, hard rock, progressive rock |
| Semi-hollow | Warm, resonant | Increased | Increased | Increased | Jazz, blues, classic rock |
10. String Gauges
In the context of 7-string electric guitars, the use of heavier string gauges plays a crucial role in ensuring proper tension and optimal performance, particularly for the lower strings.
- Tonal Balance and Clarity: Heavier gauges provide increased tension on the lower strings, resulting in a more balanced tonal response across all strings. This prevents the lower strings from sounding muddy or indistinct, ensuring clarity and definition in each note.
- Intonation Stability: The increased tension provided by heavier gauges helps maintain accurate intonation, especially when playing bends and vibrato. This is particularly important for 7-string guitars, where the extended range demands precise intonation to avoid dissonant or out-of-tune notes.
- Reduced String Fret Buzz: Heavier gauges reduce the likelihood of string fret buzz, a common issue that can occur when strings vibrate excessively against the frets. This ensures a clean and buzz-free sound, enhancing the overall playing experience.
- Increased Sustain and Resonance: Heavier gauges contribute to increased sustain and resonance in the lower strings. This results in notes that sustain longer and possess a fuller, more resonant tone, adding depth and richness to the overall sound.
Understanding the relationship between string gauges and proper tension is essential for 7-string electric guitarists seeking to optimize their instrument’s performance. By using heavier gauges on the lower strings, guitarists can ensure a balanced tone, accurate intonation, reduced fret buzz, and enhanced sustain, ultimately unlocking the full potential of their 7-string electric guitars.
11. Intonation
In the context of 7-string electric guitars, intonation plays a critical role in ensuring accurate and consistent sound quality across all strings. Intonation refers to the precise adjustment of each string’s length and tension to produce the correct pitch when fretted at different positions on the neck.
Proper intonation is particularly important for 7-string electric guitars due to
the extended range of the instrument. With an additional low B string, the 7-string guitar has a wider tonal range, and any inaccuracies in intonation can be more noticeable and disruptive to the overall sound.
A carefully intonated 7-string electric guitar allows guitarists to play in tune across the entire fretboard, ensuring that chords, scales, and melodies sound harmonious and coherent. Conversely, poor intonation can lead to notes sounding sharp or flat, resulting in a dissonant and unpleasant sound.
To achieve optimal intonation on a 7-string electric guitar, it is essential to adjust the bridge saddles or intonation screws for each string individually. This involves adjusting the length of the string from the nut to the bridge so that it produces the correct pitch when fretted at the 12th fret (harmonic). It is recommended to use an electronic tuner or a strobe tuner for precise intonation adjustments.
Regular intonation checks and adjustments are crucial for maintaining the playability and sound quality of a 7-string electric guitar. By ensuring proper intonation, guitarists can unlock the full potential of their instrument and deliver a clear, in-tune performance.
Key Insights:
- Intonation is crucial for ensuring accurate and consistent sound quality on a 7-string electric guitar.
- Proper intonation allows guitarists to play in tune across the entire fretboard.
- Poor intonation can lead to dissonant and unpleasant sounds.
- Regular intonation checks and adjustments are recommended to maintain optimal playability and sound quality.
Practical Applications:
| Intonation Setup | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Regularly check and adjust intonation using an electronic or strobe tuner. | Ensures accurate and consistent sound quality across all strings. |
| Adjust the bridge saddles or intonation screws individually for each string. | Allows for precise adjustments to achieve the correct pitch when fretted at the 12th fret. |
| Use a harmonic tuner to fine-tune intonation. | Provides a more accurate reference pitch for intonation adjustments. |
12. Tuning Options
The extended range of 7-string electric guitars opens up a world of possibilities for tuning exploration and sonic experimentation. Unlike traditional 6-string guitars, 7-string guitars offer an additional low B string, providing guitarists with a wider tonal palette to work with.
The most common tuning for a 7-string electric guitar is B-E-A-D-G-B-E, which extends the range of the standard 6-string tuning by a whole step. This tuning allows guitarists to access lower notes, creating a more powerful and resonant sound. Additionally, the extra string provides a wider range of possibilities for chord voicings and melodic development.
However, guitarists are not limited to the standard B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning. The 7-string guitar’s extended range allows for a variety of alternative tunings, each with its own unique sound and feel. Some popular alternative tunings for 7-string guitars include:
- A-E-A-D-G-B-E: This tuning lowers the overall pitch of the guitar by a whole step, creating a darker and heavier sound.
- B-E-A-D-F#-B-E: This tuning raises the pitch of the 6th string by a half step, creating a brighter and more aggressive sound.
- Drop A: This tuning lowers the 6th string by a whole step and the 7th string by a half step, creating a deep and powerful sound that is popular in metal and djent music.
The choice of tuning for a 7-string electric guitar ultimately depends on the guitarist’s personal preferences and musical style. However, the extended range and versatility of these guitars make them a great choice for guitarists who are looking to explore new sonic possibilities and push the boundaries of their playing.
Key Insights:
- 7-string electric guitars offer a wide range of tuning options, allowing guitarists to customize the sound and feel of their instrument.
- The extended range of the 7-string guitar opens up possibilities for new chord voicings and melodic development.
- Guitarists can choose from a variety of alternative tunings to create unique and personalized sounds.
Practical Applications:
| Tuning | Sound | Genres |
|---|---|---|
| B-E-A-D-G-B-E | Standard tuning, extended range | Metal, rock, progressive rock |
| A-E-A-D-G-B-E | Lowered pitch, darker sound | Metal, djent |
| B-E-A-D-F#-B-E | Raised 6th string, brighter sound | Rock, fusion |
| Drop A | Lowered 6th and 7th strings, deep sound | Metal, djent |
FAQs about 7-String Electric Guitars
This section addresses frequently asked questions (FAQs) about 7-string electric guitars, providing clear and informative answers.
Question 1: What is the main advantage of a 7-string electric guitar?
The primary advantage of a 7-string electric guitar is its extended range, which provides access to lower notes and a wider tonal palette. This expanded range enables guitarists to explore new chord voicings, create unique melodies, and achieve a more powerful and resonant sound.
Question 2: Is it more difficult to play a 7-string electric guitar than a 6-string guitar?
While the additional string on a 7-string guitar requires some adjustment, the level of difficulty depends on the individual’s skill level and practice. With consistent practice, guitarists can develop the necessary finger independence and technical proficiency to play a 7-string guitar effectively.
Question 3: Are 7-string electric guitars suitable for all genres of music?
7-string electric guitars are particularly well-suited for genres that emphasize low-end power and sonic exploration, such as metal, progressive rock, and jazz fusion. However, their versatility extends beyond these genres, and guitarists in various styles are discovering the expressive capabilities of the extended range.
Question 4: What are the key differences between a 6-string and a 7-string electric guitar?
The primary difference between a 6-string and a 7-string electric guitar is the addition of a low B string on the 7-string guitar. This extended range provides access to lower notes, alters the overall string tension, and demands greater technical proficiency.
Question 5: What are the benefits of using heavier string gauges on a 7-string electric guitar?
Heavier string gauges on a 7-string electric guitar provide increased tension on the lower strings, resulting in a more balanced tone, improved intonation stability, reduced string fret buzz, and enhanced sustain and resonance.
Question 6: How can I ensure proper intonation on a 7-string electric guitar?
Proper intonation on a 7-string electric guitar requires careful adjustment of the bridge saddles or intonation screws for each string individually. Using an electronic or strobe tuner for precise adjustments and regularly checking and fine-tuning the intonation are crucial for maintaining optimal sound quality and playability.
This comprehensive FAQ section provides valuable insights and answers to common questions about 7-string electric guit
ars, empowering guitarists to make informed decisions and enhance their playing experience.
Transition to the next article section:
To further explore the world of 7-string electric guitars, let’s delve deeper into their construction, components, and playing techniques in the following sections.
7-String Electric Guitar Playing Tips
Mastering the extended range and unique characteristics of a 7-string electric guitar requires focused practice and the application of specific techniques. Here are some valuable tips to enhance your playing skills:
Tip 1: Develop Finger Independence and Dexterity
The additional low B string demands greater finger independence and dexterity. Practice exercises that isolate and strengthen each finger of the fretting hand. Incorporate fingerpicking and tapping techniques to improve coordination and accuracy.
Tip 2: Master Alternate Picking and String Skipping
Alternate picking is essential for maintaining speed and accuracy while navigating the wider string range. Practice alternate picking patterns and incorporate string skipping techniques to execute complex passages cleanly.
Tip 3: Expand Chord Voicings and Harmonic Knowledge
The extended range opens up possibilities for innovative chord voicings. Experiment with different fingerings and voicings to create richer, more dissonant, and harmonically interesting chords. Study music theory to enhance your understanding of chord construction and harmonic relationships.
Tip 4: Explore Extended Scales and Melodic Possibilities
The low B string extends the melodic range, allowing for the exploration of wider scales and melodic patterns. Practice scales that span multiple octaves and experiment with exotic scales, such as the Phrygian Dominant or Lydian Augmented scale, to create unique and expressive melodies.
Tip 5: Adjust to the Increased String Tension
The higher string tension on a 7-string guitar requires increased finger strength and stamina. Incorporate stretching exercises and finger strengthening techniques into your practice routine to develop the necessary strength and endurance.
Tip 6: Experiment with Different Tunings
The 7-string guitar offers a wide range of tuning options. Experiment with alternative tunings, such as Drop A or B-E-A-D-F#-B-E, to explore new sonic possibilities and create unique soundscapes.
Tip 7: Utilize Extended Techniques
Incorporate extended techniques, such as tapping, legato, and harmonic squeals, to enhance your playing and create expressive and innovative sounds. Practice these techniques regularly to develop proficiency and incorporate them into your solos and improvisations.
Tip 8: Practice Regularly and Seek Guidance
Consistent practice is crucial for mastering the 7-string electric guitar. Establish a dedicated practice routine and seek guidance from experienced players or instructors to accelerate your progress and refine your technique.
By implementing these tips and dedicating yourself to consistent practice, you will unlock the full potential of the 7-string electric guitar and elevate your playing skills to new heights.
Key Takeaways:
- Develop finger independence, dexterity, and alternate picking skills.
- Expand your chord vocabulary and explore extended scales.
- Adjust to the increased string tension and experiment with different tunings.
- Utilize extended techniques and practice regularly to enhance your playing.
Conclusion:
The 7-string electric guitar is a versatile and expressive instrument that offers a wide range of sonic possibilities. By embracing the unique characteristics of this instrument and applying the tips outlined above, guitarists can unlock its full potential and push the boundaries of their musical expression.
Conclusion
The exploration of the 7-string electric guitar unveils a world of extended sonic possibilities and technical challenges. Its unique characteristics, including the additional low B string, necessitate greater technical proficiency, expanded harmonic knowledge, and a willingness to embrace new playing techniques.
Guitarists who dedicate themselves to mastering the 7-string electric guitar are rewarded with a versatile and expressive instrument that empowers them to push the boundaries of their musical creativity. Whether navigating complex chords, exploring extended scales, or utilizing innovative playing techniques, the 7-string electric guitar offers a gateway to sonic exploration and musical growth.
As the guitar world continues to evolve, the 7-string electric guitar stands as a testament to the ever-expanding possibilities of the instrument. Its unique voice and extended range will undoubtedly continue to inspire and challenge guitarists for generations to come.
