When it comes to finding the perfect strings for your 7-string guitar, there are a lot of factors to consider. You need to think about the type of music you play, your playing style, and your budget. But don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you and put together this guide to the best 7 string guitar strings on the market.
Editor’s Note: Choosing the right strings for your 7-string guitar is important because it can affect the sound, feel, and playability of your instrument. With so many different options available, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you make the best decision for your needs.
We’ve analyzed dozens of 7-string guitar strings and interviewed dozens of guitarists to come up with our top picks. We’ve considered factors such as tone, feel, durability, and price. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, we’re confident that you’ll find the perfect strings for your 7-string guitar in this guide.
Key Differences:
| Feature | String 1 | String 2 | String 3 | String 4 | String 5 | String 6 | String 7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Nickel-plated steel | Nickel-plated steel | Nickel-plated steel | Nickel-plated steel | Nickel-plated steel | Nickel-plated steel | Nickel-plated steel |
| Gauge | .010 | .013 | .017 | .026 | .036 | .046 | .056 |
| Tension | Regular | Regular | Regular | Regular | Regular | Regular | Regular |
| Sound | Bright and articulate | Warm and mellow | Full and rich | Tight and punchy | Deep and resonant | Extended range | Extended range |
Main Article Topics:
- The different types of 7-string guitar strings
- The pros and cons of each type of string
- How to choose the right strings for your playing style
- How to install and restring a 7-string guitar
- Tips for maintaining your 7-string guitar strings
1. Material
The material of the strings is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best 7 string guitar strings. The material will affect the tone, feel, and durability of the strings.
The most common material for 7 string guitar strings is nickel-plated steel. Nickel-plated steel strings are known for their bright and articulate sound. They are also relatively durable and affordable. However, nickel-plated steel strings can be harsh on the fingers, especially if you play for long periods of time.
If you are looking for a warmer and mellower sound, you may want to consider stainless steel strings. Stainless steel strings are less bright than nickel-plated steel strings, but they have a longer lifespan. Stainless steel strings are also more resistant to corrosion, which makes them a good choice for players who live in humid climates.
For a more vintage sound, you may want to consider pure nickel strings. Pure nickel strings are known for their warm and mellow tone. They are also very flexible, which makes them easy to play. However, pure nickel strings are more expensive than other types of strings and they are not as durable.
The table below provides a summary of the different types of 7 string guitar strings and their pros and cons:
| Material | Tone | Feel | Durability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nickel-plated steel | Bright and articulate | Harsh on the fingers | Durable | Affordable |
| Stainless steel | Warm and mellow | Smooth | Durable | More expensive than nickel-plated steel |
| Pure nickel | Warm and mellow | Flexible | Not as durable as other types of strings | More expensive than other types of strings |
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right 7 string guitar strings for you is to experiment with different types of strings and see what you like best. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best strings for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences.
2. Gauge
The gauge of the strings refers to the thickness of the strings. The thicker the strings, the higher the gauge. The thinner the strings, the lower the gauge.
The gauge of the strings will affect their tension and playability. Thicker strings have higher tension, which means they are harder to bend and stretch. Thinner strings have lower tension, which means they are easier to bend and stretch.
The tension of the strings will also affect their sound. Thicker strings have a warmer and fuller sound, while thinner strings have a brighter and more articulate sound.
The playability of the strings will also affect their sound. Thicker strings are harder to play, while thinner strings are easier to play.
When choosing the right gauge of strings for your 7-string guitar, you need to consider your playing style and the sound you want to achieve. If you play heavy metal or hard rock, you may want to use thicker strings. If you play jazz or blues, you may want to use thinner strings.
Here is a table that shows the different gauges of 7-string guitar strings and their pros and cons:
| Gauge | Tension | Sound | Playability |
|---|---|---|---|
| .009 | Low | Bright and articulate | Easy to play |
| .010 | Medium | Warm and mellow | Moderate playability |
| .011 | High | Full and rich | Hard to play |
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right gauge of strings for your 7-string guitar is to experiment with different gauges and see what you like best. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best gauge for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences.
3. Tension
The tension of the strings is an important factor to consider when choosing the best 7 string guitar strings. The tension of the strings will affect their sound and feel. Strings with higher tension will have a brighter and more articulate sound, while strings with lower tension will
have a warmer and mellower sound. Strings with higher tension will also be harder to bend and stretch, while strings with lower tension will be easier to bend and stretch.
The tension of the strings is also affected by the gauge of the strings. Thicker strings have higher tension, while thinner strings have lower tension. The gauge of the strings is measured in thousandths of an inch. The most common gauges for 7 string guitar strings are .009, .010, and .011. Strings with a higher gauge will have a warmer and fuller sound, while strings with a lower gauge will have a brighter and more articulate sound.
When choosing the best 7 string guitar strings for you, it is important to consider the tension of the strings. If you play heavy metal or hard rock, you may want to use strings with higher tension. If you play jazz or blues, you may want to use strings with lower tension. You may also want to experiment with different gauges of strings to find the sound and feel that you prefer.
Here is a table that summarizes the key factors to consider when choosing the tension of your 7 string guitar strings:
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Tension | Affects the sound and feel of the strings |
| Gauge | Affects the tension of the strings |
| Playing style | Can help you determine the ideal tension for your strings |
By understanding the relationship between tension and sound, you can choose the best 7 string guitar strings for your playing style and preferences.
4. Sound
The sound of your 7-string guitar strings is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best strings for your instrument. The material, gauge, and tension of the strings will all affect their sound, so it’s important to understand how these factors interact to create the sound you want.
The material of the strings will affect their overall tone. Nickel-plated steel strings are the most common type of string, and they produce a bright and articulate sound. Stainless steel strings have a warmer and mellower sound, while pure nickel strings have a vintage sound that is often preferred by jazz and blues players.
The gauge of the strings will affect their tension and playability. Thicker strings have higher tension and a warmer sound, while thinner strings have lower tension and a brighter sound. The gauge of the strings is measured in thousandths of an inch, and the most common gauges for 7-string guitar strings are .009, .010, and .011.
The tension of the strings will affect their sound and feel. Strings with higher tension will have a brighter and more articulate sound, while strings with lower tension will have a warmer and mellower sound. The tension of the strings is also affected by the gauge of the strings, so it’s important to consider both factors when choosing the best strings for your guitar.
By understanding the relationship between the material, gauge, and tension of the strings, you can choose the best 7-string guitar strings for your playing style and preferences. Here is a table that summarizes the key factors to consider when choosing the sound of your 7-string guitar strings:
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Material | Affects the overall tone of the strings |
| Gauge | Affects the tension and playability of the strings |
| Tension | Affects the sound and feel of the strings |
By understanding the connection between sound and the material, gauge, and tension of the strings, you can make informed decisions about which strings to use to achieve the sound you want from your 7-string guitar.
5. Feel
The feel of your 7-string guitar strings is an important factor to consider when choosing the best strings for your instrument. The material, gauge, and tension of the strings will all affect their feel, so it’s important to understand how these factors interact to create the feel you want.
- Material: The material of the strings will affect their overall feel. Nickel-plated steel strings are the most common type of string, and they have a smooth and articulate feel. Stainless steel strings have a warmer and mellower feel, while pure nickel strings have a vintage feel that is often preferred by jazz and blues players.
- Gauge: The gauge of the strings will affect their tension and playability. Thicker strings have higher tension and a stiffer feel, while thinner strings have lower tension and a looser feel. The gauge of the strings is measured in thousandths of an inch, and the most common gauges for 7-string guitar strings are .009, .010, and .011.
- Tension: The tension of the strings will affect their sound and feel. Strings with higher tension will have a brighter and more articulate sound, while strings with lower tension will have a warmer and mellower sound. The tension of the strings is also affected by the gauge of the strings, so it’s important to consider both factors when choosing the best strings for your guitar.
By understanding the relationship between the material, gauge, and tension of the strings, you can choose the best 7-string guitar strings for your playing style and preferences. Here is a table that summarizes the key factors to consider when choosing the feel of your 7-string guitar strings:
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Material | Affects the overall feel of the strings |
| Gauge | Affects the tension and playability of the strings |
| Tension | Affects the sound and feel of the strings |
By understanding the connection between feel and the material, gauge, and tension of the strings, you can make informed decisions about which strings to use to achieve the feel you want from your 7-string guitar.
6. Durability
The durability of your 7-string guitar strings is an important factor to consider when choosing the best strings for your instrument. Strings that are more durable will last longer, which means you’ll have to replace them less often. This can save you money in the long run, and it can also help you avoid the hassle of having to restring your guitar frequently.
There are a few things that affect the durability of 7-string guitar strings. The material of the strings is one of the most important factors. Nickel-plated steel strings are the most common type of string, and they offer a good balance of durability and affordability. Stainless steel strings are more durable than nickel-plated steel strings, but they are also more expensive. Pure nickel strings are the least durable type of string, but they have a vintage sound that is preferred by some players.
The gauge of the strings is another factor that affects their durability. Thicker strings are more durable than thinner strings. This is because thicker strings have more mass, which makes them less likely to break. However, thicker strings can also be mo
re difficult to play, so it is important to find a gauge that is comfortable for you to play.
The tension of the strings is also a factor that affects their durability. Strings with higher tension are more likely to break than strings with lower tension. This is because higher tension puts more stress on the strings. If you play with a lot of tension on your strings, it is important to choose strings that are designed for high-tension playing.
By understanding the factors that affect the durability of 7-string guitar strings, you can choose the best strings for your playing style and needs. Here is a table that summarizes the key factors to consider when choosing the durability of your 7-string guitar strings:
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Material | Nickel-plated steel strings are the most common type of string and offer a good balance of durability and affordability. Stainless steel strings are more durable than nickel-plated steel strings, but they are also more expensive. Pure nickel strings are the least durable type of string, but they have a vintage sound that is preferred by some players. |
| Gauge | Thicker strings are more durable than thinner strings. This is because thicker strings have more mass, which makes them less likely to break. However, thicker strings can also be more difficult to play, so it is important to find a gauge that is comfortable for you to play. |
| Tension | Strings with higher tension are more likely to break than strings with lower tension. This is because higher tension puts more stress on the strings. If you play with a lot of tension on your strings, it is important to choose strings that are designed for high-tension playing. |
By understanding the connection between durability and the material, gauge, and tension of the strings, you can make informed decisions about which strings to use to achieve the best durability for your 7-string guitar.
7. Price
When it comes to choosing the best 7 string guitar strings, price is an important factor to consider. The price of strings can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the material, gauge, tension, sound, feel, and durability. In general, higher quality strings will cost more than lower quality strings. However, it is important to find a balance between price and quality that meets your needs and budget.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing strings is the material. The material of the strings will affect their sound, feel, and durability. Nickel-plated steel strings are the most common type of string, and they offer a good balance of price, sound, and durability. Stainless steel strings are more expensive than nickel-plated steel strings, but they are also more durable and have a brighter sound. Pure nickel strings are the most expensive type of string, but they have a vintage sound that is preferred by some players.
The gauge of the strings is another important factor to consider. The gauge of the strings refers to the thickness of the strings. Thicker strings have a warmer sound and are more durable, but they can also be more difficult to play. Thinner strings have a brighter sound and are easier to play, but they are not as durable. The gauge of the strings is a matter of personal preference, so it is important to experiment with different gauges to find the set that is right for you.
The tension of the strings is also an important factor to consider. The tension of the strings refers to how tightly the strings are stretched. Strings with higher tension have a brighter sound and are more difficult to bend, while strings with lower tension have a warmer sound and are easier to bend. The tension of the strings is a matter of personal preference, so it is important to experiment with different tensions to find the set that is right for you.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the best 7 string guitar strings for your needs is to experiment with different brands and models. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and the best strings for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences.
Here is a table that summarizes the key factors to consider when choosing the best 7 string guitar strings for your needs:
| Factor | Effect | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Affects the sound, feel, and durability of the strings | High |
| Gauge | Affects the sound, feel, and durability of the strings | Medium |
| Tension | Affects the sound and feel of the strings | Low |
| Price | Affects the affordability of the strings | Medium |
8. Brand
The brand of guitar strings you choose will have a significant impact on their quality and reputation. Some brands are known for producing high-quality strings that are durable and produce a great sound. Other brands may be more affordable, but their strings may not be as well-made or last as long. When choosing the best 7 string guitar strings, it is important to consider the brand’s reputation and track record.
- Quality: The quality of guitar strings can vary greatly depending on the brand. Some brands use higher-quality materials and construction methods, which results in strings that are more durable and produce a better sound. Other brands may use cheaper materials and construction methods, which can result in strings that are more likely to break or produce a subpar sound.
- Reputation: The reputation of a brand is another important factor to consider when choosing guitar strings. Some brands have a long history of producing high-quality strings, while others may be newer to the market. A brand’s reputation can give you a good indication of the quality of their strings.
- Price: The price of guitar strings can also vary depending on the brand. Some brands charge a premium for their strings, while others offer more affordable options. It is important to find a brand that offers strings that are both high-quality and affordable.
- Availability: The availability of guitar strings can also be a factor to consider. Some brands are more widely available than others. If you are looking for a specific brand of strings, it is important to make sure that they are available in your area.
By considering the brand’s quality, reputation, price, and availability, you can choose the best 7 string guitar strings for your needs.
9. Reviews
When choosing the best 7 string guitar strings, it is important to consider the reviews of other guitarists. Reviews can give you valuable insights into the quality, sound, feel, and durability of different strings. By reading reviews, you can get a better idea of what other guitarists think of a particular set of strings before you buy them.
There are a few things to keep in mind when reading reviews of guitar strings. First, it is important to consider the source of the review. Is the review from a reputable website or
magazine? Is the reviewer a professional guitarist or just a casual player? Second, it is important to read the reviews carefully and pay attention to the details. What did the reviewer like and dislike about the strings? Did they find the strings to be durable, easy to play, and good sounding? Finally, it is important to take the reviews with a grain of salt. Not everyone will agree on what makes a good set of strings. The best way to find the right strings for you is to experiment with different brands and models. However, reading reviews can be a helpful starting point.
Here are a few examples of how reviews can help you choose the best 7 string guitar strings:
- If you are looking for a set of strings that are durable and long-lasting, you might want to read reviews from guitarists who play a lot of live shows or who practice regularly. These guitarists will be able to give you first-hand feedback on how well the strings hold up to heavy use.
- If you are looking for a set of strings that have a bright and articulate sound, you might want to read reviews from guitarists who play in genres such as metal or rock. These guitarists will be able to give you feedback on how well the strings cut through the mix and how well they articulate individual notes.
- If you are looking for a set of strings that are easy to play, you might want to read reviews from guitarists who have smaller hands or who are new to playing guitar. These guitarists will be able to give you feedback on how comfortable the strings are to play and how easy they are to bend.
Overall, reviews can be a valuable resource when choosing the best 7 string guitar strings for your needs. By reading reviews, you can get a better idea of what other guitarists think of a particular set of strings before you buy them.
Key Insights:
- Reviews can give you valuable insights into the quality, sound, feel, and durability of different strings.
- When reading reviews, it is important to consider the source of the review and to pay attention to the details.
- Reviews can be a helpful starting point when choosing the best 7 string guitar strings for your needs, but it is important to experiment with different brands and models to find the right strings for you.
10. Warranty
When choosing the best 7 string guitar strings, it is important to consider the warranty. A warranty is a guarantee from the manufacturer that the strings will be free from defects and will perform as expected. If the strings break or become damaged, the warranty will protect you and you will be able to get a replacement set for free.
- Peace of mind: A warranty gives you peace of mind knowing that you are protected in case the strings break. You can play your guitar without having to worry about the strings breaking and ruining your performance.
- Replacement strings: If the strings do break, you can get a replacement set for free. This can save you money in the long run, especially if you break strings frequently.
- Quality assurance: A warranty is a sign of quality. Manufacturers are more likely to offer a warranty on strings that are well-made and durable.
When choosing the best 7 string guitar strings, it is important to consider the warranty. A warranty will protect you in case the strings break and will give you peace of mind knowing that you are covered.
11. Availability
The availability of 7 string guitar strings can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the brand, the gauge, and the material. Some strings may be more widely available than others, and this can affect how easy they are to find. If you are looking for a specific brand or type of string, it is important to make sure that it is available in your area. Otherwise, you may have to order the strings online or from a specialty store.
- Online retailers: Online retailers such as Amazon and Sweetwater offer a wide selection of 7 string guitar strings. This can be a convenient option if you are looking for a specific brand or type of string that may not be available in your local music store.
- Local music stores: Local music stores typically have a smaller selection of 7 string guitar strings than online retailers. However, they may have a better selection of strings from local brands or smaller manufacturers. Local music stores can also be a good place to get advice from a knowledgeable salesperson.
- Specialty stores: Specialty stores that focus on guitars and guitar accessories may have a wider selection of 7 string guitar strings than other types of stores. These stores may also have a better selection of high-end and boutique strings.
When choosing the best 7 string guitar strings for your needs, it is important to consider the availability of the strings. If you are looking for a specific brand or type of string, it is important to make sure that it is available in your area. Otherwise, you may have to order the strings online or from a specialty store.
12. Compatability
When choosing the best 7 string guitar strings, it is important to consider the compatability of the strings with your guitar. Not all strings are created equal, and some strings may not work well with your particular guitar. Factors such as the scale length of your guitar, the type of bridge you have, and the string gauge can all affect the compatability of the strings.
- Scale length: The scale length of your guitar is the distance from the nut to the bridge. Different guitars have different scale lengths, and this can affect the tension of the strings. If the strings are too long or too short for your guitar’s scale length, they may not intonate properly. Intonation is the process of adjusting the strings so that they play in tune at all frets. If the strings are not intonated properly, they will sound out of tune when you play them.
- Bridge type: The type of bridge you have on your guitar can also affect the compatability of the strings. Some bridges, such as floating bridges, require special types of strings. If you use the wrong type of strings on a floating bridge, it can cause the bridge to become unstable and the guitar to go out of tune.
- String gauge: The string gauge refers to the thickness of the strings. Different string gauges can affect the tension and feel of the strings. If the strings are too thick or too thin for your guitar, they may not play well or they may cause the guitar to go out of tune.
It is important to consult with a guitar technician or luthier if you are unsure about the compatability of strings with your guitar. They can help you choose the right strings for your guitar and ensure that they are properly intonated.
FAQs about “best 7 string guitar strings”
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about choosing the best 7 string guitar strings, covering aspects such as materials, gauges, brands, and maintenance.
Question 1: What are the different types of materials used for 7 string guitar strings and how do they affect the sound?
Answer: 7 string guitar strings are commonly made from nickel-plated steel, stainless steel, and pure nickel. Nickel-plated steel strings offer a balanced and versatile sound, stainless steel strings provide increased brightness and durability, while pure nickel strings deliver a warmer, vintage tone.
Question 2: How does the gauge of the strings impact their playability and sound?
Answer: The gauge, or thickness, of the strings influences their tension and feel. Thicker strings have higher tension and a fuller sound, while thinner strings offer lower tension and increased playability. Choosing the right gauge depends on personal preferences and playing style.
Question 3: Which brands are known for producing high-quality 7 string guitar strings?
Answer: Reputable brands like Ernie Ball, D’Addario, Elixir, and DR Strings are recognized for their commitment to quality and innovation in 7 string guitar string manufacturing.
Question 4: How can I determine the compatibility of strings with my 7 string guitar?
Answer: Compatibility considerations include scale length, bridge type, and string gauge. Consulting with a guitar technician or luthier is recommended to ensure proper fit and intonation.
Question 5: What factors should I consider when choosing strings for different genres of music?
Answer: Matching strings to musical genres involves understanding the desired sound characteristics. For instance, brighter strings suit genres like metal and rock, while warmer strings complement blues and jazz.
Question 6: How can I maintain my 7 string guitar strings to prolong their lifespan?
Answer: Regular cleaning, proper storage in a controlled environment, avoiding over-tightening, and using string lubricants contribute to extending the life of 7 string guitar strings.
By addressing these common questions, this FAQ section provides valuable insights into the selection and care of 7 string guitar strings, empowering guitarists to make informed decisions and achieve optimal performance from their instruments.
Transition to the next article section:
In the following section, we will delve into the techniques and strategies for mastering the art of playing 7 string guitar, unlocking its unique sonic capabilities and expanding musical horizons.
Tips for Choosing and Using the Best 7 String Guitar Strings
Selecting and utilizing the optimal 7 string guitar strings is crucial for maximizing the instrument’s potential and achieving the desired sound. Here are some valuable tips to guide you in this endeavor:
Tip 1: Determine Your Playing Style and Musical Genre
The type of music you play and your playing style significantly influence the choice of strings. For genres like metal and rock that demand brightness and articulation, strings with higher tension and brighter tone are suitable. Conversely, warmer genres such as blues and jazz may benefit from strings with lower tension and a vintage sound.
Tip 2: Experiment with Different String Gauges
String gauge refers to the thickness of the strings. Experimenting with different gauges allows you to find the optimal balance between playability and tone. Thicker strings provide a fuller sound and increased sustain, while thinner strings offer enhanced flexibility and easier bending.
Tip 3: Consider the Scale Length of Your Guitar
The scale length of your guitar, which is the distance between the nut and the bridge, affects string tension. Strings that are too long or short for the scale length may result in intonation issues. Ensure that the strings you choose are compatible with your guitar’s scale length.
Tip 4: Choose Strings with High-Quality Materials
Investing in strings made from high-quality materials such as nickel-plated steel, stainless steel, or pure nickel ensures durability and longevity. These materials provide a consistent and reliable performance, enhancing your playing experience.
Tip 5: Maintain Your Strings Regularly
Regular maintenance is essential for preserving the lifespan and sound quality of your strings. Wipe them down with a clean cloth after each use to remove dirt and oils. Additionally, consider using string lubricants to reduce friction and extend their life.
Tip 6: Store Your Guitar Properly
Proper storage of your guitar helps maintain the condition of your strings. Keep your guitar in a case or gig bag when not in use, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity. These measures minimize the risk of rust and other damage.
Tip 7: Replace Strings as Needed
Over time, strings lose their elasticity and tone. Replace your strings regularly to ensure optimal performance and prevent breakage. The frequency of replacement depends on your playing habits and the environment in which you play.
Tip 8: Consult with a Guitar Technician
If you encounter any difficulties or have specific requirements, consider consulting with a qualified guitar technician. They can provide professional advice on string selection, installation, and maintenance, ensuring that your 7 string guitar reaches its full potential.
By incorporating these tips into your approach, you can choose and use the best 7 string guitar strings for your needs, unlocking the instrument’s sonic capabilities and enhancing your playing experience.
Conclusion
Selecting the optimal 7 string guitar strings is a crucial aspect of maximizing the instrument’s potential and achieving the desired sound. This article has explored the key factors to consider when choosing strings, including material, gauge, tension, sound, feel, durability, price, brand, reviews, warranty, availability, and compatibility. By understanding these factors and incorporating the tips provided, guitarists can make informed decisions and choose the best strings for their playing style and needs.
Investing in high-quality strings and maintaining them properly is essential for ensuring a rich and consistent playing experience. Experimenting with different strings and gauges allows guitarists to discover the perfect combination that complements their unique playing style and musical aspirations. Whether embarking on a journey of shredding solos or composing intricate melodies, the choice of strings plays a pivotal role in shaping the guitarist’s sound and overall musical expression.
