Can’t get enough of your favorite six-string guitar and want something that combines the familiar with a wider range of sonic possibilities? Look no further than the baritone 7 string guitar, an instrument that’s quickly gaining popularity among guitarists of all levels.
Editor’s Note:The baritone 7 string guitar is an exciting and versatile instrument that offers a unique playing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not a baritone 7 string guitar is right for you.
After analyzing the market and digging into all the information available, we put together this comprehensive guide to help you make the right decision. Our goal is to provide you with everything you need to know about baritone 7 string guitars, from their unique features and benefits to the different types available.
Key Differences / Key Takeaways
| Feature | 6-String Guitar | 7-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 6 | 7 |
| Scale Length | 25.5″ – 25.75″ | 26.5″ – 28″ |
| Tuning | Standard (E, A, D, G, B, E) | Standard (B, E, A, D, G, B, E) or Drop A (A, E, A, D, G, B, E) |
| Sound | Brighter, twangier | Deeper, richer |
| Playing Style | Suitable for a wide range of genres | Often used for metal, rock, and jazz |
Main Article Topics
- The benefits of playing a baritone 7 string guitar
- The different types of baritone 7 string guitars available
- How to choose the right baritone 7 string guitar for you
- Tips for playing the baritone 7 string guitar
1. Extended Range
The extended range of the baritone 7 string guitar opens up a world of new sonic possibilities for guitarists. The longer scale length and lower tuning give the instrument a deeper, richer sound that is perfect for creating atmospheric soundscapes and soaring solos.
- Increased Versatility: The extended range of the baritone 7 string guitar makes it a more versatile instrument than a standard 6-string guitar. It can be used for a wider variety of genres, from metal to jazz to rock.
- Unique Sound: The baritone 7 string guitar has a unique sound that is both deep and articulate. It is perfect for creating atmospheric soundscapes and soaring solos.
- New Techniques: The extended range of the baritone 7 string guitar allows guitarists to use new techniques, such as extended chords and arpeggios.
- Creative Possibilities: The extended range of the baritone 7 string guitar opens up a world of new creative possibilities for guitarists. It is an instrument that can be used to create truly unique and innovative music.
Overall, the extended range of the baritone 7 string guitar is one of its most defining features. It is what sets it apart from standard 6-string guitars and gives it a unique sound and versatility.
2. Versatility
The versatility of the baritone 7 string guitar is one of its most appealing features. It is a truly unique and versatile instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles. Here are a few examples of how the baritone 7 string guitar can be used in different genres:
- Metal: The baritone 7 string guitar is a popular choice for metal guitarists because of its deep, heavy sound. The extended range of the instrument allows guitarists to play lower notes that would not be possible on a standard 6-string guitar.
- Jazz: The baritone 7 string guitar is also a great choice for jazz guitarists. The warm, mellow sound of the instrument is perfect for creating jazz chords and solos.
- Rock: The baritone 7 string guitar can also be used for rock music. The powerful sound of the instrument is perfect for creating rock riffs and solos.
- Fingerstyle: The baritone 7 string guitar is also a great choice for fingerstyle playing. The extended range of the instrument allows guitarists to play more complex fingerstyle patterns.
Overall, the versatility of the baritone 7 string guitar is one of its greatest strengths. It is an instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles, from metal to jazz to rock. If you are looking for a unique and versatile guitar, then the baritone 7 string guitar is definitely worth considering.
Key Insights:
- The baritone 7 string guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres, from metal to jazz to rock.
- The extended range of the instrument allows guitarists to play lower notes that would not be possible on a standard 6-string guitar.
- The warm, mellow sound of the instrument is perfect for creating jazz chords and solos.
- The powerful sound of the instrument is perfect for creating rock riffs and solos.
- The extended range of the instrument allows guitarists to play more complex fingerstyle patterns.
3. Unique Sound
The unique sound of the baritone 7 string guitar is one of its most defining features. It is what sets it apart from standard 6-string guitars and gives it a unique sonic identity.
The deep, articulate sound of the baritone 7 string guitar is due to a combination of factors, including its longer scale length, lower tuning, and heavier strings. The longer scale length gives the instrument a deeper, richer sound, while the lower tuning gives it a more resonant and powerful sound. The heavier strings give the instrument a tighter, more focused sound that is perfect for creating atmospheric soundscapes and soaring solos.
The unique sound of the baritone 7 string guitar has made it a popular choice for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and jazz. It is also a great choice for fingerstyle playing.
Here are a few examples of how the unique sound of the baritone 7 string guitar has been used in popular music:
- Meshuggah: The Swedish metal band Meshuggah is known for their use of the baritone 7 string guitar. The band’s heavy, complex sound is largely due to the use of the baritone 7 string guitar.
- Periphery: The American metal band Periphery is another band that uses the baritone 7 string guitar. The band’s progressive metal sound is characterized by the use of complex rhythms and harmonies,
which are often played on the baritone 7 string guitar. - John Petrucci: The American guitarist John Petrucci is known for his use of the baritone 7 string guitar in his solo work and with the band Dream Theater. Petrucci’s use of the baritone 7 string guitar has helped to popularize the instrument in the rock and metal genres.
The unique sound of the baritone 7 string guitar is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide range of musical soundscapes. It is an instrument that is well-suited for a variety of genres, and it is sure to continue to be popular for many years to come.
Key Insights:
- The unique sound of the baritone 7 string guitar is due to a combination of factors, including its longer scale length, lower tuning, and heavier strings.
- The unique sound of the baritone 7 string guitar has made it a popular choice for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and jazz.
- The baritone 7 string guitar is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide range of musical soundscapes.
4. Variety of Tunings
The variety of tunings available for the baritone 7 string guitar is one of its most appealing features. It makes the instrument incredibly versatile, allowing it to be used for a wide range of musical styles.
Standard B tuning is the most common tuning for the baritone 7 string guitar. It is the same tuning as a standard 6-string guitar, but with an added low B string. This tuning is well-suited for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and blues.
Drop A tuning is another popular tuning for the baritone 7 string guitar. In this tuning, the low B string is dropped down to A. This tuning is often used for heavier genres of music, such as metal and hard rock.
Drop G tuning is a less common tuning for the baritone 7 string guitar. In this tuning, the low B string is dropped down to G. This tuning is often used for even heavier genres of music, such as death metal and doom metal.
The variety of tunings available for the baritone 7 string guitar makes it a truly versatile instrument. It is a great choice for guitarists who want an instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles.
Key Insights:
- The baritone 7 string guitar can be tuned in a variety of ways, including standard B, drop A, and drop G.
- The variety of tunings available makes the baritone 7 string guitar a versatile instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles.
- Standard B tuning is the most common tuning for the baritone 7 string guitar.
- Drop A tuning is often used for heavier genres of music, such as metal and hard rock.
- Drop G tuning is often used for even heavier genres of music, such as death metal and doom metal.
Tuning Examples:
| Tuning | Notes |
|---|---|
| Standard B | B, E, A, D, G, B, E |
| Drop A | A, E, A, D, G, B, E |
| Drop G | G, E, A, D, G, B, E |
5. Heavier Strings
The heavier strings on the baritone 7 string guitar have a number of implications for the instrument’s sound and playability. First, the heavier strings give the guitar a tighter, more focused sound. This is because the heavier strings have less slack, which results in a more precise and articulate sound. Second, the heavier strings give the guitar a more aggressive sound. This is because the heavier strings produce a stronger attack, which can be beneficial for players who want a more aggressive sound.
- Increased Tension: The heavier strings on the baritone 7 string guitar create more tension on the neck, which can make the guitar more difficult to play. This is especially true for players with smaller hands or weaker fingers.
- Different Playing Techniques: The heavier strings on the baritone 7 string guitar require different playing techniques than a standard 6-string guitar. For example, players may need to use more force to fret the strings and may need to adjust their picking technique.
- Unique Sound: The heavier strings on the baritone 7 string guitar give it a unique sound that is both deep and aggressive. This sound is well-suited for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and blues.
- Versatility: The baritone 7 string guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles. The heavier strings give the guitar a more aggressive sound, but the instrument can also be used for more mellow genres such as jazz and folk.
Overall, the heavier strings on the baritone 7 string guitar have a number of implications for the instrument’s sound and playability. Players who are considering purchasing a baritone 7 string guitar should be aware of these implications before making a decision.
6. Larger Body
The larger body of the baritone 7 string guitar is one of its most important features. It is what gives the instrument its characteristic deep, resonant sound. The larger body allows for a greater volume of air to resonate, which results in a fuller, more powerful sound. This makes the baritone 7 string guitar a great choice for players who want a guitar with a big, bold sound.
In addition to its deeper, more resonant sound, the larger body of the baritone 7 string guitar also gives it a longer sustain. This means that notes will ring out for longer, which can be beneficial for creating atmospheric soundscapes or soaring solos.
Here are a few examples of how the larger body of the baritone 7 string guitar has been used to create memorable sounds in popular music:
- Meshuggah: The Swedish metal band Meshuggah is known for their use of the baritone 7 string guitar. The band’s heavy, complex sound is largely due to the use of the baritone 7 string guitar’s large body, which gives the instrument a deep, resonant sound.
- Periphery: The American metal band Periphery is another band that uses the baritone 7 string guitar. The band’s progressive metal sound is characterized by the use of complex rhythms and harmonies, which are often played on the baritone 7 string guitar’s large body, which gives the instrument a fuller, more powerful sound.
- John Petrucci: The American guitarist John Petrucci is known for his use of the baritone 7 string guitar in his solo work and with the band Dream Theater. Petrucci’s use of the baritone 7 string guitar’s large body has helped to popularize the instrument in the rock and metal genres.
The larger body of the baritone 7 string guitar is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide range of musical soundscapes. It is an instrument that is well-suited for a variety of genres, and it is sure to continue to be popular for many years to come.
Key Insights:
- The larger body of the baritone 7 string guitar gives it a deeper, more resonant sound.
- The larger body of the baritone 7 string guitar also gives it a longer sustain.
- The larger b
ody of the baritone 7 string guitar is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide range of musical soundscapes.
Table: Comparison of Body Sizes
| Guitar Type | Body Size |
|---|---|
| Standard 6-String Guitar | Smaller |
| Baritone 7 String Guitar | Larger |
7. Different Playing Techniques
The baritone 7 string guitar is a versatile instrument that can be played using a variety of techniques, including fingerstyle, pick, and slide. This makes it a great choice for guitarists who want an instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles.
- Fingerstyle: Fingerstyle playing is a technique that involves using the fingers to pluck the strings of the guitar. This technique is often used for folk, blues, and classical music. The baritone 7 string guitar’s longer scale length and lower tuning make it well-suited for fingerstyle playing, as it allows for greater control over the strings.
- Pick: Pick playing is a technique that involves using a pick to pluck the strings of the guitar. This technique is often used for rock, metal, and country music. The baritone 7 string guitar’s heavier strings and more aggressive sound make it a great choice for pick playing.
- Slide: Slide playing is a technique that involves using a slide to slide along the strings of the guitar. This technique is often used for blues and rock music. The baritone 7 string guitar’s longer scale length and lower tuning make it well-suited for slide playing, as it allows for greater control over the slide.
The different playing techniques that can be used on the baritone 7 string guitar make it a versatile instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles. Whether you’re a fingerstyle player, a pick player, or a slide player, the baritone 7 string guitar is a great choice for you.
8. Growing Popularity
The baritone 7 string guitar has grown in popularity for several reasons. First, its unique sound is both deep and articulate, making it well-suited for a variety of genres, from metal to jazz to rock. Second, its versatility is unmatched by other guitars, as it can be played using a variety of techniques, including fingerstyle, pick, and slide. Third, its extended range gives guitarists access to new notes and chords that are not possible on a standard 6-string guitar.
The growing popularity of the baritone 7 string guitar is evident in the increasing number of guitarists who are using it. For example, the Swedish metal band Meshuggah has used the baritone 7 string guitar on all of their albums since 1995. The American metal band Periphery also uses the baritone 7 string guitar extensively in their music. And the American guitarist John Petrucci has used the baritone 7 string guitar on several of his solo albums and with the band Dream Theater.
The baritone 7 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that is becoming increasingly popular among guitarists of all levels. Its unique sound, versatility, and extended range make it a great choice for guitarists who want an instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles.
Key Insights:
- The baritone 7 string guitar is becoming increasingly popular among guitarists of all levels.
- The baritone 7 string guitar’s unique sound, versatility, and extended range are the main reasons for its growing popularity.
- The baritone 7 string guitar is a great choice for guitarists who want an instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles.
Table: Factors Contributing to the Growing Popularity of the Baritone 7 String Guitar
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Unique Sound | The baritone 7 string guitar has a unique sound that is both deep and articulate, making it well-suited for a variety of genres. |
| Versatility | The baritone 7 string guitar can be played using a variety of techniques, including fingerstyle, pick, and slide, making it a versatile instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles. |
| Extended Range | The baritone 7 string guitar has an extended range that gives guitarists access to new notes and chords that are not possible on a standard 6-string guitar. |
9. Still a Niche Instrument
The fact that the baritone 7 string guitar is still a niche instrument, despite its growing popularity, has several implications. First, it means that the instrument may be more difficult to find in stores. Second, it means that there may be less information and resources available for the instrument. Third, it means that the instrument may be more expensive than a standard 6-string guitar.
There are several reasons why the baritone 7 string guitar is still a niche instrument. First, it is a relatively new instrument, having only been introduced in the 1990s. Second, it is a specialized instrument that is not suitable for all genres of music. Third, it is a more expensive instrument than a standard 6-string guitar.
Despite these challenges, the baritone 7 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that is well-suited for a variety of genres, from metal to jazz to rock. If you are a guitarist who is looking for an instrument that has a unique sound and extended range, then the baritone 7 string guitar is a great option.
Key Insights:
- The baritone 7 string guitar is still a niche instrument, despite its growing popularity.
- This means that the instrument may be more difficult to find in stores, there may be less information and resources available for the instrument, and it may be more expensive than a standard 6-string guitar.
- Despite these challenges, the baritone 7 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that is well-suited for a variety of genres.
Table: Challenges and Opportunities of the Baritone 7 String Guitar’s Niche Status
| Challenge | Opportunity |
|---|---|
| Difficulty finding the instrument in stores | Increased demand for the instrument could lead to greater availability in stores. |
| Less information and resources available | Growing popularity could lead to more information and resources becoming available. |
| More expensive than a standard 6-string guitar | Increased demand could lead to lower prices. |
10. More Expensive
The price difference between a baritone 7 string guitar and a standard 6-string guitar is due to several factors related to its
unique design and construction:
- Extended Scale Length: The baritone 7 string guitar has a longer scale length than a standard 6-string guitar, which requires more materials and labor to construct.
- Additional String: The baritone 7 string guitar has an additional low B string, which adds to the cost of materials and labor.
- Heavier Strings: The baritone 7 string guitar uses heavier strings than a standard 6-string guitar, which are more expensive to produce.
- Larger Body: The baritone 7 string guitar typically has a larger body than a standard 6-string guitar, which requires more materials and labor to construct.
Despite its higher price, the baritone 7 string guitar offers unique sonic possibilities and versatility that make it a worthwhile investment for guitarists who are looking for an instrument that can handle a wide range of musical styles.
Frequently Asked Questions about Baritone 7 String Guitars
The baritone 7 string guitar offers distinctive sonic capabilities and versatility. However, it also raises some common questions and misconceptions. This FAQ section aims to provide informative answers, addressing concerns and clarifying essential aspects of the instrument.
Question 1: What sets the baritone 7 string guitar apart from a standard 6-string guitar?
The baritone 7 string guitar features a longer scale length and lower tuning, resulting in a deeper and richer sound. It also has an additional low B string, extending its range and creating unique tonal possibilities.
Question 2: Can the baritone 7 string guitar be used for various musical genres?
Yes, the versatility of the baritone 7 string guitar makes it suitable for a wide range of genres, including metal, rock, jazz, and even fingerstyle playing. Its extended range and unique sound offer creative possibilities for musicians.
Question 3: How does the scale length of the baritone 7 string guitar impact playing techniques?
The longer scale length requires adjustments in playing techniques. Guitarists may need to develop stronger finger strength and adapt their picking and fretting techniques to accommodate the increased string tension.
Question 4: What are the advantages of the baritone 7 string guitar’s larger body size?
The larger body contributes to a more resonant and powerful sound. It also allows for greater acoustic projection and sustain, enhancing the overall sonic experience.
Question 5: Is the baritone 7 string guitar more challenging to play than a standard 6-string guitar?
While the baritone 7 string guitar may require some adjustments in playing techniques, it is not inherently more challenging to play. With practice and dedication, guitarists can master the instrument’s unique characteristics.
Question 6: Is the baritone 7 string guitar a niche instrument with limited availability?
While the baritone 7 string guitar has gained popularity, it remains a niche instrument compared to the standard 6-string guitar. Its availability may vary depending on location and specific music stores. However, its growing popularity suggests increased accessibility in the future.
In summary, the baritone 7 string guitar offers a unique blend of sonic capabilities and versatility. Its extended range, deeper sound, and larger body size open up creative possibilities for musicians. While it may require some adjustments in playing techniques, the baritone 7 string guitar is not inherently more challenging to play. As its popularity continues to grow, its availability is expected to increase, making it more accessible to guitarists seeking a distinctive and versatile instrument.
Transition to the next article section: Exploring the Sonic Possibilities of the Baritone 7 String Guitar
Tips for Mastering the Baritone 7 String Guitar
Unleashing the full potential of the baritone 7 string guitar requires dedicated practice and refined techniques. Here are several essential tips to enhance your playing skills and maximize the instrument’s unique capabilities:
Tip 1: Strengthen Finger Strength and Dexterity
The longer scale length and heavier strings of the baritone 7 string guitar demand greater finger strength and dexterity. Incorporate finger exercises and scales into your practice routine to build endurance and improve fretting accuracy.
Tip 2: Adjust Picking Technique
Adapt your picking technique to accommodate the increased string tension. Experiment with different pick gauges and angles to find the optimal balance between power and precision.
Tip 3: Explore Extended Chords and Scales
The extended range of the baritone 7 string guitar opens up a world of new chord voicings and scales. Dedicate time to learning these extended techniques to expand your harmonic vocabulary.
Tip 4: Utilize Open Tunings
Experiment with open tunings to create unique and resonant sounds. Open tunings can simplify certain chord shapes and enhance the instrument’s natural resonance.
Tip 5: Explore Fingerstyle Techniques
The baritone 7 string guitar’s longer scale length lends itself well to fingerstyle playing. Develop your fingerpicking skills to create intricate and expressive melodies.
Tip 6: Practice Regularly
Consistent practice is crucial for mastering any instrument, and the baritone 7 string guitar is no exception. Dedicate regular time to practicing scales, chords, and songs to improve your technique and musicality.
Tip 7: Collaborate with Other Musicians
Playing with other musicians can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Collaborate with fellow guitarists, bassists, drummers, and singers to explore the sonic possibilities of the baritone 7 string guitar in different musical contexts.
Summary:
By implementing these tips, you can unlock the full potential of the baritone 7 string guitar. Embrace the instrument’s unique characteristics, expand your technical abilities, and let your creativity soar. With dedication and perseverance, you will master the nuances of this versatile and captivating instrument.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: Embracing the Baritone 7 String Guitar: A Journey of Sonic Exploration
Embracing the Baritone 7 String Guitar
The baritone 7 string guitar stands as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of musical expression. Its extended range, deep sound, and versatility challenge traditional guitar norms and open up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just beginning your musical journey, the baritone 7 string guitar offers a unique and rewarding experience.
Embracing this instrument requires dedication, exploration, and a willingness to push musical boundaries. By developing finger strength, adapting playing techniques, and expanding your harmonic knowledge, you can unlock the full potential of the baritone 7 string guitar. Collaborating with other musicians and immersing yourself in the instrument’s unique sonic capabilities will further enhance your musical journey.
As the baritone 7 string guitar continues to gain recognition, its impact on the music industry is yet to be fully realized. Its versatility and distinct sound make it an invaluable tool for composers, performers, and music enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s shaping the future of heavy metal, inspiring new jazz harmonies, or simply providing a unique voice for personal expression, the baritone 7 string guitar is destined to leave an indelible mark on the world of music.
