The great debate: 7 string vs 6 string guitar. Which one is right for you? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key differences between these two popular guitar types so you can make an informed decision.
Editor’s Note:The 7 string vs 6 string guitar debate is a hot topic among guitarists of all levels. With so many factors to consider, it can be tough to know which type of guitar is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you make the right decision.
We’ve done the research, analyzed the data, and talked to the experts. And we’ve put together this 7 string vs 6 string guitar guide to help you make the right decision.
Here’s a quick overview of the key differences between 7 string and 6 string guitars:
| Feature | 7 String Guitar | 6 String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 7 | 6 |
| Range | Extended range (low B string) | Standard range |
| Tuning | Typically tuned to B-E-A-D-G-B-E | Typically tuned to E-A-D-G-B-E |
| Body size | Typically larger than 6 string guitars | Typically smaller than 7 string guitars |
| Neck size | Typically wider than 6 string guitars | Typically narrower than 7 string guitars |
| Fretboard radius | Typically flatter than 6 string guitars | Typically more rounded than 7 string guitars |
| Price | Typically more expensive than 6 string guitars | Typically less expensive than 7 string guitars |
Now that you know the key differences between 7 string and 6 string guitars, you can start to think about which type of guitar is right for you.
If you’re looking for a guitar with an extended range, a 7 string guitar is a great option. The low B string gives you access to lower notes, which can be helpful for playing in certain genres of music, such as metal and djent.
If you’re looking for a guitar that’s more traditional, a 6 string guitar is a great choice. 6 string guitars are more common, so you’ll have a wider selection of guitars to choose from. They’re also typically less expensive than 7 string guitars.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of guitar is right for you is to try out both types and see which one feels more comfortable to play. So head to your local guitar store and give both 7 string and 6 string guitars a try. You’ll be able to make an informed decision about which type of guitar is right for you.
1. Number of strings
The number of strings on a guitar is a fundamental aspect that significantly influences its sound, playability, and versatility. In the context of “7 string vs 6 string guitar,” the difference in the number of strings is a key distinguishing factor.
- Extended range: 7-string guitars feature an additional low B string, extending the range of the instrument by one whole step. This extended range opens up new possibilities for playing lower notes, creating a fuller and heavier sound, and accessing specific notes that are not available on a standard 6-string guitar. It is particularly beneficial for genres such as metal, djent, and progressive rock, where low, heavy riffs and complex harmonies are common.
- Tonal versatility: The additional string on a 7-string guitar provides greater tonal versatility. It allows guitarists to explore a wider range of chords, voicings, and melodies. The low B string can add depth and weight to chords, while the higher strings can extend the melodic range, creating a more expansive soundscape.
- Technical possibilities: The extra string on a 7-string guitar also opens up new technical possibilities. It enables guitarists to play wider stretches, create more complex chord voicings, and execute intricate tapping and legato techniques. This increased technical potential caters to advanced players looking to push the boundaries of their playing.
- Genre suitability: The number of strings on a guitar influences its suitability for different genres. 7-string guitars are particularly well-suited for genres that emphasize low, heavy riffs and extended range, such as metal, djent, and progressive rock. 6-string guitars, on the other hand, are more commonly used in genres such as blues, rock, pop, and country, where a standard range and traditional voicings are preferred.
In summary, the number of strings on a guitar is a crucial factor that shapes its sound, playability, and versatility. The 7-string guitar’s extended range, tonal versatility, technical possibilities, and genre suitability set it apart from the 6-string guitar, making it a compelling choice for guitarists seeking a more expansive and powerful instrument.
2. Range
The range of a guitar refers to the number of frets and the lowest and highest notes that can be played on the instrument. In the context of “7 string vs 6 string guitar,” the range is a significant factor that influences the instrument’s capabilities and suitability for different musical styles.
Extended range: 7-string guitars feature an additional low B string, extending the range of the instrument by one whole step. This extended range provides several advantages:
- Access to lower notes: The low B string allows guitarists to play notes that are not available on a standard 6-string guitar. This is particularly beneficial for genres such as metal, djent, and progressive rock, where low, heavy riffs and complex harmonies are common.
- Tonal versatility: The additional string on a 7-string guitar provides greater tonal versatility. It allows guitarists to explore a wider range of chords, voicings, and melodies. The low B string can add depth and weight to chords, while the higher strings can extend the melodic range, creating a more expansive soundscape.
- Technical possibilities: The extra string on a 7-string guitar also opens up new technical possibilities. It enables guitarists to play wider stretches, create more complex chord voicings, and execute intricate tapping and legato techniques. This increased technical potential caters to advanced players looking to push the boundaries of their playing.
Standard range: 6-string guitars have a standard range of notes, from the low E string to the high E string. While this range may be sufficient for many genres and playing styles, it can be limiting for guitarists who require access to lower notes or a wider tonal range.
Ultimately, the choice between a 7-string guitar and a 6-string guitar depends on the guitarist’s individual nee
ds and preferences. For guitarists who require a wider range of notes, greater tonal versatility, and increased technical possibilities, a 7-string guitar may be the ideal choice. For guitarists who are comfortable with the standard range of a 6-string guitar and prefer a more traditional sound, a 6-string guitar may be a more suitable option.
Table: Comparison of Range
| 7-string guitar | 6-string guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 7 | 6 |
| Range | B0 – E6 | E2 – E6 |
| Lowest note | B0 | E2 |
| Highest note | E6 | E6 |
| Suitable genres | Metal, djent, progressive rock | Blues, rock, pop, country |
3. Tuning
Tuning is a fundamental aspect of any stringed instrument, and it plays a crucial role in the sound, playability, and overall character of the instrument. In the context of “7 string vs 6 string guitar,” the difference in tuning is a key distinguishing factor that contributes to the unique characteristics of each guitar type.
- Extended range: The 7-string guitar’s additional low B string extends the range of the instrument, allowing guitarists to access notes that are not available on a standard 6-string guitar. This extended range opens up new possibilities for creating low, heavy riffs, complex harmonies, and exploring different musical styles.
- Tonal versatility: The different tunings of 7-string and 6-string guitars result in distinct tonal qualities. The 7-string guitar’s low B string adds depth and weight to chords, while the higher strings provide a brighter and more extended melodic range. This tonal versatility makes the 7-string guitar suitable for a wide range of genres, from metal and djent to jazz and fusion.
- Technical possibilities: The unique tuning of the 7-string guitar also opens up new technical possibilities. The wider string spacing and the extended range allow guitarists to play wider stretches, create more complex chord voicings, and execute intricate tapping and legato techniques. This increased technical potential caters to advanced players looking to push the boundaries of their playing.
- Genre suitability: The tuning of a guitar influences its suitability for different genres. The 7-string guitar’s extended range and unique tuning make it particularly well-suited for genres that emphasize low, heavy riffs and complex harmonies, such as metal, djent, and progressive rock. 6-string guitars, on the other hand, are more commonly used in genres such as blues, rock, pop, and country, where a standard range and traditional voicings are preferred.
In summary, the tuning of a guitar is a crucial factor that shapes its sound, playability, and versatility. The 7-string guitar’s extended range, tonal versatility, technical possibilities, and genre suitability set it apart from the 6-string guitar, making it a compelling choice for guitarists seeking a more expansive and powerful instrument.
4. Body size
The body size of a guitar is an important factor that influences its sound, playability, and overall feel. In the context of “7 string vs 6 string guitar,” the difference in body size is a key distinguishing factor that contributes to the unique characteristics of each guitar type.
Generally, 7-string guitars have larger bodies than 6-string guitars. This larger body size provides several advantages:
- Enhanced resonance: The larger body size of a 7-string guitar allows for greater resonance and sustain. This results in a fuller, richer sound with a longer decay, making it ideal for genres that emphasize long, sustained notes, such as metal and progressive rock.
- Improved balance: The larger body size also helps to improve the balance of the guitar, making it more comfortable to play for extended periods. This is especially important for guitars with extended ranges, such as 7-string guitars, which can be heavier and more neck-heavy than their 6-string counterparts.
- Greater projection: The larger body size of a 7-string guitar provides greater projection, allowing the sound to carry further and be heard more clearly in a live setting. This is beneficial for guitarists who play in large venues or who need to cut through a dense mix.
While the larger body size of a 7-string guitar offers certain advantages, it can also present some challenges:
- Increased weight: The larger body size of a 7-string guitar can make it heavier than a 6-string guitar. This can be a concern for guitarists who play for long periods or who have physical limitations.
- Less portability: The larger body size of a 7-string guitar also makes it less portable than a 6-string guitar. This can be a disadvantage for guitarists who need to travel frequently with their instrument.
Ultimately, the choice between a 7-string guitar and a 6-string guitar depends on the guitarist’s individual needs and preferences. For guitarists who prioritize sound quality, balance, and projection, a 7-string guitar with a larger body may be the ideal choice. For guitarists who prioritize portability and comfort, a 6-string guitar with a smaller body may be a more suitable option.
Table: Comparison of Body Size
| 7-string guitar | 6-string guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Body size | Typically larger | Typically smaller |
| Advantages | Enhanced resonance, improved balance, greater projection | Increased portability, less weight |
| Disadvantages | Increased weight, less portability | Less resonance, reduced balance, lower projection |
| Suitable genres | Metal, progressive rock, djent | Blues, rock, pop, country |
5. Neck size
In the context of “7 string vs 6 string guitar,” the neck size is a key distinguishing factor that influences the playability, feel, and overall experience of the instrument. Wider necks are typically found on 7-string guitars, while narrower necks are typically found on 6-string guitars.
The wider neck of a 7-string guitar provides several advantages:
- Increased string spacing: The wider neck allows for greater spacing between the strings, making it easier to play complex chords and fingerstyle techniques. This is especially beneficial for guitarists with larger hands or who prefer a more spacious playing surface.
- Improved stability: The wider neck provides a more stable platform for the strings, reducing the risk of string breakage and improving tuning stability. This is important for guitarists who play in alternate tunings or who use heavy gauge strings.
- Greater technic
al possibilities: The wider neck allows guitarists to play wider stretches and execute more complex techniques, such as tapping and legato. This increased technical potential caters to advanced players looking to push the boundaries of their playing.
However, the wider neck of a 7-string guitar can also present some challenges:
- Increased reach: The wider neck can make it more difficult for guitarists with smaller hands to reach the strings, especially in the higher registers. This can be a disadvantage for guitarists who prefer to play in high positions or who have difficulty with finger stretches.
- Reduced portability: The wider neck of a 7-string guitar can make it less portable than a 6-string guitar, especially when traveling or playing in cramped spaces.
Ultimately, the choice between a 7-string guitar and a 6-string guitar depends on the guitarist’s individual needs and preferences. For guitarists who prioritize playability, technical possibilities, and stability, a 7-string guitar with a wider neck may be the ideal choice. For guitarists who prioritize comfort, portability, and ease of playing, a 6-string guitar with a narrower neck may be a more suitable option.
Table: Comparison of Neck Size
| 7-string guitar | 6-string guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Neck width | Typically wider | Typically narrower |
| Advantages | Increased string spacing, improved stability, greater technical possibilities | Increased reach, reduced portability |
| Disadvantages | Increased reach, reduced portability | Less string spacing, reduced stability, fewer technical possibilities |
| Suitable genres | Metal, progressive rock, djent | Blues, rock, pop, country |
6. Fretboard radius
The fretboard radius is a crucial aspect of any guitar, as it significantly influences the playability, feel, and overall experience of the instrument. In the context of “7 string vs 6 string guitar,” the fretboard radius is a key distinguishing factor that contributes to the unique characteristics of each guitar type.
Generally, 7-string guitars have flatter fretboard radii than 6-string guitars. This means that the fretboard of a 7-string guitar is less curved across its width, resulting in a more level playing surface.
The flatter fretboard radius of a 7-string guitar provides several advantages:
- Improved speed and accuracy: The flatter fretboard radius allows for faster and more accurate fretting, especially for complex chords and technical passages. This is because the flatter surface makes it easier to move the fingers across the fretboard and to find the correct fret positions.
- Reduced finger fatigue: The flatter fretboard radius also reduces finger fatigue over extended playing sessions. This is because the fingers do not have to bend as much to press down on the strings, which can lead to less strain and discomfort.
- Enhanced playability for certain techniques: The flatter fretboard radius is particularly beneficial for guitarists who use techniques such as tapping and legato, as it allows for smoother and more fluid movements.
However, the flatter fretboard radius of a 7-string guitar can also present some challenges:
- Reduced string bending range: The flatter fretboard radius limits the range of motion for string bending, making it more difficult to achieve wide bends. This can be a disadvantage for guitarists who rely heavily on string bending techniques.
- Less comfortable for certain playing styles: The flatter fretboard radius may be less comfortable for guitarists who prefer a more rounded fretboard, as it can feel less natural to hold and play.
Ultimately, the choice between a 7-string guitar with a flatter fretboard radius and a 6-string guitar with a more rounded fretboard radius depends on the guitarist’s individual needs and preferences. For guitarists who prioritize speed, accuracy, and technical playability, a 7-string guitar with a flatter fretboard radius may be the ideal choice. For guitarists who prefer a more traditional feel and who use a lot of string bending, a 6-string guitar with a more rounded fretboard radius may be a more suitable option.
Table: Comparison of Fretboard Radius
| 7-string guitar | 6-string guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Fretboard radius | Typically flatter | Typically more rounded |
| Advantages | Improved speed and accuracy, reduced finger fatigue, enhanced playability for certain techniques | Increased string bending range, more comfortable for certain playing styles |
| Disadvantages | Reduced string bending range, less comfortable for certain playing styles | Less speed and accuracy, increased finger fatigue, reduced playability for certain techniques |
| Suitable genres | Metal, progressive rock, djent | Blues, rock, pop, country |
7. Price
When comparing 7 string vs 6 string guitars, the price is a key differentiating factor that influences the purchasing decision. In general, 7-string guitars tend to be more expensive than 6-string guitars due to several reasons.
- Increased production costs: 7-string guitars require more materials, including an additional string, a wider neck, and a larger body. This increased material cost contributes to the higher price point.
- Specialized manufacturing: 7-string guitars are not as widely produced as 6-string guitars, which means that they often require specialized manufacturing processes and skilled luthiers. This specialized labor also adds to the overall cost.
- Lower demand: 7-string guitars have a smaller market demand compared to 6-string guitars. This lower demand can lead to higher prices as manufacturers need to recoup their production costs from a smaller customer base.
The price difference between 7-string and 6-string guitars can vary depending on the brand, model, and features. However, as a general rule, guitarists can expect to pay a premium for a 7-string guitar compared to a 6-string guitar of similar quality and specifications.
Ultimately, the choice between a 7-string guitar and a 6-string guitar depends on the guitarist’s individual needs, preferences, and budget. For guitarists who require the extended range, tonal versatility, and technical possibilities of a 7-string guitar, the higher price may be justified. For guitarists who are comfortable with a 6-string guitar and do not require the additional features of a 7-string guitar, a 6-string guitar may be a more cost-effective option.
8. Genres
The choice between a 7-string guitar and a
6-string guitar is closely tied to the genres of music that guitarists play. Different genres have distinct characteristics and requirements, which can be better suited to the capabilities of either a 7-string or a 6-string guitar.
7-string guitars are particularly well-suited for genres that emphasize low, heavy riffs and complex harmonies. These genres include:
- Metal: Metal music is characterized by its aggressive sound, often featuring distorted guitars and powerful riffs. The extended range of a 7-string guitar allows metal guitarists to access lower notes, creating heavier and more intense soundscapes.
- Djent: Djent is a subgenre of metal that is known for its use of dissonant chords and complex rhythms. The extended range and tonal versatility of a 7-string guitar provide djent guitarists with a wider palette of sounds to explore.
- Progressive rock: Progressive rock is a genre that is known for its experimentation and use of odd time signatures and complex arrangements. The extended range and technical possibilities of a 7-string guitar allow progressive rock guitarists to create unique and innovative sounds.
6-string guitars, on the other hand, are more commonly used in genres that emphasize traditional tonalities and chord voicings. These genres include:
- Blues: Blues music is characterized by its soulful melodies and expressive solos. 6-string guitars are well-suited for blues, as they provide a warm and resonant tone that complements the genre’s emotional qualities.
- Rock: Rock music encompasses a wide range of subgenres, from classic rock to hard rock. 6-string guitars are commonly used in rock music, as they offer a versatile sound that can accommodate both rhythm and lead playing.
- Pop: Pop music is a genre that is known for its catchy melodies and accessible chord progressions. 6-string guitars are well-suited for pop, as they provide a bright and clear sound that cuts through the mix.
- Country: Country music is a genre that is characterized by its twangy guitars and heartfelt lyrics. 6-string guitars are the traditional choice for country music, as they provide a warm and resonant tone that complements the genre’s storytelling qualities.
While the genres listed above are typically associated with 7-string and 6-string guitars, it is important to note that guitarists are not limited to using these instruments exclusively within these genres. For example, some blues guitarists may choose to use a 7-string guitar to explore extended range techniques, while some metal guitarists may prefer the traditional sound of a 6-string guitar.
Ultimately, the choice between a 7-string guitar and a 6-string guitar depends on the guitarist’s individual needs, preferences, and playing style. By understanding the connection between genres and guitar types, guitarists can make informed decisions that will help them achieve their desired sound.
Table: Genres and Guitar Types
| Genre | Guitar Type |
|---|---|
| Metal | 7-string |
| Djent | 7-string |
| Progressive rock | 7-string |
| Blues | 6-string |
| Rock | 6-string |
| Pop | 6-string |
| Country | 6-string |
9. Playing style
The playing style of a guitarist significantly influences their choice between a 7-string and a 6-string guitar. Different playing styles require specific guitar features and capabilities to maximize the player’s potential and achieve the desired sound.
- Fingerstyle and Tapping:
Fingerstyle and tapping techniques involve playing the guitar without a pick, using the fingers to pluck and tap the strings. These techniques require a guitar with a wider neck and flatter fretboard radius, which allows for easier finger movement and access to higher frets. 7-string guitars are often preferred for fingerstyle and tapping because the extended range and wider neck provide greater flexibility and technical possibilities for these techniques.
- Shredding:
Shredding is a guitar playing technique that emphasizes rapid and complex picking patterns. For shredding, a guitar with a narrow neck and a more rounded fretboard radius is preferred, as it allows for faster and more fluid picking. 6-string guitars are commonly used for shredding, as they provide a traditional and comfortable platform for this technique.
- Strumming:
Strumming is a fundamental guitar technique that involves using a pick to strum the strings and create chords and rhythms. For strumming, a guitar with a narrower neck and a more rounded fretboard radius is often preferred, as it provides greater comfort and ease of movement for the strumming hand. 6-string guitars are typically used for strumming, as they offer a traditional and versatile platform for this technique.
- Flatpicking:
Flatpicking is a guitar playing technique that uses a flatpick to pluck the strings individually, creating melodies and solos. For flatpicking, a guitar with a narrower neck and a more rounded fretboard radius is preferred, as it allows for greater precision and control. 6-string guitars are commonly used for flatpicking, as they provide a traditional and comfortable platform for this technique.
While these playing styles are typically associated with 7-string and 6-string guitars, it’s important to note that guitarists can adapt and use different techniques on either type of guitar. Ultimately, the choice between a 7-string and a 6-string guitar for a particular playing style depends on the individual guitarist’s preferences, comfort level, and desired sound.
10. Tone
When comparing 7 string vs 6 string guitars, the tone is a critical aspect that distinguishes the two guitar types and influences their suitability for different genres and playing styles. The number of strings, scale length, and pickup configuration all contribute to the overall tone of the guitar.
- Extended Range and Low-End Response:
The extended range of the 7-string guitar, with its additional low B string, provides a darker and heavier tone. The lower notes add depth and weight to chords and riffs, making it ideal for genres like metal, djent, and progressive rock, where low-end power and heaviness are desired. In contrast, the 6-string guitar has a brighter and twangier tone, with a more pronounced mid-range response. - Scale Length and String Tension:
7-string guitars often have a longer scale length than 6-string guitars. The longer scale length increases the string tension, resulting in a tighter and more defined tone. This increased string tension also contributes to the heavier and more aggressive sound of the 7-string guitar. - Pickup Configuration and Voicing:
The pickup configuration and voicing play a significant role in shaping the tone of the guitar. 7-string guitars often feature humbuckers or active pickups, which deliver a hotter and more powerful output. The placement and voicing of the pickups are also optimized to capture the extended range and low-end r
esponse of the guitar.
The choice between the darker, heavier tone of the 7-string guitar or the brighter, twangier tone of the 6-string guitar ultimately depends on the guitarist’s individual preferences and the musical context. For guitarists seeking a heavier and more aggressive sound with an extended range, the 7-string guitar is a suitable choice. For those who prefer a brighter, more traditional sound, the 6-string guitar remains the standard.
11. Versatility
In the realm of guitars, the debate between 7 string vs 6 string guitars often revolves around versatility, with 7-string guitars gaining recognition for their expanded capabilities and broader sonic range. This section will delve into the intricacies of versatility in the context of 7 string vs 6 string guitars, exploring the multifaceted aspects that contribute to their distinct applications.
- Extended Range:
The defining characteristic of 7-string guitars lies in their extended range, featuring an additional low B string. This extended range unlocks a wider tonal spectrum, allowing guitarists to explore deeper and heavier soundscapes. The low B string adds depth and fullness to chords and riffs, making it a highly sought-after feature in genres such as metal, djent, and progressive rock, where low-end power and sonic experimentation are paramount.
- Tonal Diversity:
Beyond the extended range, 7-string guitars offer greater tonal diversity. The additional string and the wider fretboard provide a more expansive canvas for creating complex and intricate chord voicings. Guitarists can access a broader palette of sounds, from rich, warm tones to bright, shimmering harmonics, making 7-string guitars highly adaptable to various musical styles and genres.
- Technical Possibilities:
The extended range and tonal diversity of 7-string guitars open up a world of technical possibilities. The wider fretboard facilitates complex fingerings, tapping techniques, and legato passages, allowing guitarists to execute advanced and expressive playing styles. This increased technical potential caters to virtuoso players and those seeking to push the boundaries of their guitar playing.
- Genre Suitability:
The versatility of 7-string guitars extends to their suitability for a wide range of genres. While they excel in heavy and progressive genres, their tonal diversity and technical capabilities make them equally adept at blues, jazz, and even classical music. The extended range and expressive potential of 7-string guitars allow guitarists to explore and adapt to various musical contexts and styles.
In conclusion, the versatility of 7-string guitars lies in their extended range, tonal diversity, technical possibilities, and genre suitability. These factors contribute to their appeal among guitarists seeking a more expansive and expressive instrument. While 6-string guitars remain the traditional choice for many genres and playing styles, the versatility of 7-string guitars continues to captivate and inspire guitarists of all levels and musical backgrounds.
12. Availability
The availability of 7-string guitars in the market is significantly lower compared to their 6-string counterparts. This disparity in availability stems from several factors that influence production, demand, and consumer preferences.
Firstly, the production of 7-string guitars requires specialized manufacturing processes and skilled luthiers who are proficient in crafting wider necks, installing an additional string, and ensuring proper intonation across the extended range. These specialized production techniques contribute to the higher cost and limited availability of 7-string guitars.
Secondly, the demand for 7-string guitars is generally lower than that of 6-string guitars. While 7-string guitars have gained popularity in recent decades, particularly in specific genres such as metal and progressive rock, the vast majority of guitarists continue to prefer the traditional 6-string configuration. This lower demand affects the overall production and availability of 7-string guitars.
The limited availability of 7-string guitars can pose challenges for guitarists who specifically seek this type of instrument. They may encounter fewer options to choose from, limited access to specific models or brands, and potentially higher prices due to the lower supply.
Despite the lower availability, 7-string guitars continue to hold a unique position in the guitar market, catering to specialized genres and advanced playing techniques. Guitarists who prioritize the extended range, tonal diversity, and technical possibilities of 7-string guitars are willing to invest in the acquisition and exploration of these instruments.
Table: Availability and Considerations
| Availability | Considerations |
|---|---|
| 7-string guitars |
|
| 6-string guitars |
|
FAQs about 7 String vs 6 String Guitars
This section addresses frequently asked questions to provide clear and informative answers, helping readers make informed decisions about these two guitar types.
Question 1: What is the primary difference between 7-string and 6-string guitars?
The key difference lies in the number of strings. 7-string guitars feature an additional low B string, extending the range of the instrument by one whole step. This extended range allows guitarists to access lower notes, creating a fuller and heavier sound.
Question 2: Which guitar type is better suited for specific genres of music?
7-string guitars are particularly well-suited for genres that emphasize low, heavy riffs and complex harmonies, such as metal, djent, and progressive rock. 6-string guitars, on the other hand, are more commonly used in genres such as blues, rock, pop, and country, where a standard range and traditional voicings are preferred.
Question 3: How does the extended range of 7-string guitars influence their playability?
The wider neck and flatter fretboard radius of 7-string guitars facilitate complex fingerings, tapping techniques, and legato passages. This increased technical potential caters to advanced players looking to push the boundaries of their playing.
Question 4: Are 7-string guitars more expensive than 6-string guitars?
Generally, yes. The increased production costs, specialized manufacturing, and lower demand for 7-string guitars contribute to their higher price point compared to 6-string guitars of similar quality and specifications.
Question 5: Which guitar type is more versatile?
7-string guitars offer greater versatility due to their extended range, tonal diversity, and technical possibilities. While both 7-string and 6-string guitars can be used in various genres, 7-string
guitars provide a more expansive and expressive range for guitarists.
Question 6: Is it difficult to transition from a 6-string guitar to a 7-string guitar?
The transition requires some adjustment, especially for guitarists accustomed to the traditional 6-string layout. The wider neck, additional string, and altered fingerings may take some time to adapt to. However, with practice and dedication, guitarists can effectively make the switch and harness the unique capabilities of 7-string guitars.
Summary: Understanding the key differences between 7-string and 6-string guitars is crucial for guitarists seeking the most suitable instrument for their musical needs and preferences. Each guitar type offers distinct advantages and considerations, and the choice ultimately depends on the genre, playing style, and individual preferences of the guitarist.
Transition to the next article section: Having explored the nuances of 7-string vs 6-string guitars, let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of their features, advantages, and drawbacks to provide further insights and aid informed decision-making.
Tips for Choosing Between 7 String vs 6 String Guitars
Selecting between a 7-string and a 6-string guitar requires careful consideration of individual needs and musical aspirations. Here are a few tips to guide you in making an informed decision:
Tip 1: Define Your Musical Goals:Consider the genres you play or aspire to play. 7-string guitars excel in genres that emphasize low, heavy riffs and extended range, such as metal, djent, and progressive rock. 6-string guitars are more suitable for genres like blues, rock, pop, and country, where a standard range and traditional voicings are preferred.
Tip 2: Evaluate Your Playing Style:Think about your playing techniques and preferences. 7-string guitars facilitate complex fingerings, tapping, and legato due to their wider necks and flatter fretboard radius. If you prioritize technical possibilities and advanced playing styles, a 7-string guitar may be a better choice.
Tip 3: Consider Tonal Preferences:7-string guitars offer a darker, heavier tone due to the extended range and often hotter pickups. 6-string guitars typically have a brighter, twangier tone, which may be more suitable for traditional genres and clear, articulate playing.
Tip 4: Explore Versatility vs Tradition:7-string guitars provide greater versatility due to their extended range and tonal diversity. However, 6-string guitars remain the traditional choice for many genres and playing styles, offering a wider selection of guitars and accessories.
Tip 5: Factor in Availability and Budget:7-string guitars are generally less common and may have a higher price point than 6-string guitars. Consider your budget and the availability of 7-string guitars in your area before making a decision.
Summary: By carefully considering these tips and reflecting on your individual needs and preferences, you can make an informed choice between a 7-string and a 6-string guitar that will enhance your musical journey.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: Ultimately, the best way to decide between these two guitar types is to try out both and experience their unique characteristics firsthand. Visit your local guitar store and engage with other guitarists to gain valuable insights and make a decision that aligns with your musical goals and aspirations.
Conclusion
The exploration of 7 string vs 6 string guitars has illuminated the distinct characteristics, advantages, and considerations associated with each guitar type. The choice between these two ultimately depends on the individual guitarist’s musical needs, playing style, and tonal preferences.
7-string guitars offer an extended range, darker tone, and greater technical possibilities, making them a compelling choice for guitarists seeking a more expansive and expressive instrument. Their versatility and suitability for genres such as metal, djent, and progressive rock make them highly sought after by guitarists pushing the boundaries of their playing.
6-string guitars, on the other hand, remain the traditional choice for countless genres, offering a brighter tone, a wider selection of guitars and accessories, and a more familiar playing experience. Their versatility and affordability make them a popular option for guitarists across various genres and playing styles.
Ultimately, the choice between a 7-string and a 6-string guitar is a personal decision, guided by the guitarist’s unique musical aspirations and preferences. By considering the factors discussed throughout this article, guitarists can make an informed decision that will enhance their musical journey and allow them to fully express their creativity.
