In the world of guitars, there are many different types and styles to choose from. One popular option is the sterling 7 string guitar. This type of guitar has seven strings instead of the traditional six, which gives it a wider range and a more versatile sound.
Editor’s Note:sterling 7 string guitar is a popular choice for many guitarists, including professionals. If you’re looking for a guitar that can give you a wider range of sound and versatility, then a sterling 7 string guitar is a great option.
We’ve done the analysis, dug into the details, and put together this sterling 7 string guitar guide to help you make the right decision. In this guide, we’ll cover the key differences between 6-string and 7-string guitars, the pros and cons of each, and some of the best 7-string guitars on the market.
Key Differences Between 6-String and 7-String Guitars
| Feature | 6-String Guitar | 7-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 6 | 7 |
| Range | E2 to E4 | B1 to E4 |
| Versatility | Less versatile | More versatile |
| Price | Less expensive | More expensive |
Pros and Cons of 7-String Guitars
Pros:
- Wider range
- More versatile
- Can play more complex chords and melodies
Cons:
- More expensive
- Can be more difficult to learn to play
- Not as many 7-string guitars on the market
Some of the Best 7-String Guitars on the Market
- Ibanez RG752AHM
- Jackson JS32-7 Dinky
- Schecter Hellraiser C-7 FR
- ESP LTD M-7HT
- Strandberg Boden Original NX 7
1. Extended range
The extended range of the sterling 7 string guitar is one of its key features. The 7th string adds a whole step to the guitar’s range, giving guitarists access to lower notes. This extended range opens up a world of new possibilities for guitarists, allowing them to play more complex chords and melodies, and to explore new genres and styles.
For example, the extended range of the 7-string guitar makes it ideal for playing djent, a subgenre of metal that is characterized by its use of low, chugging riffs. The 7th string also makes it easier to play complex chords, such as extended chords and diminished chords. Additionally, the extended range of the 7-string guitar allows guitarists to play more melodic solos, as they have access to a wider range of notes.
Overall, the extended range of the sterling 7 string guitar is a major advantage for guitarists who are looking for an instrument that can handle a variety of genres and styles. It is a versatile and powerful instrument that can be used to create a wide range of sounds.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Extended range | Access to lower notes |
| Versatile | Can be used for a variety of genres and styles |
| Powerful | Can be used to create a wide range of sounds |
2. Versatility
The versatility of the sterling 7 string guitar is one of its key advantages. The extended range and additional string allow guitarists to play more complex chords and melodies, making it suitable for a wide variety of genres. This versatility is due to several factors:
- The extended range of the 7-string guitar gives guitarists access to lower notes. This makes it ideal for playing genres such as djent, which is characterized by its use of low, chugging riffs.
- The additional string allows guitarists to play more complex chords. For example, extended chords and diminished chords are much easier to play on a 7-string guitar than on a 6-string guitar.
- The wider range of notes available on a 7-string guitar makes it easier to play melodic solos. Guitarists can access a wider range of notes, which gives them more freedom to express themselves musically.
Overall, the versatility of the sterling 7 string guitar makes it a great choice for guitarists who are looking for an instrument that can handle a variety of genres and styles. It is a powerful and versatile instrument that can be used to create a wide range of sounds.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Extended range | Access to lower notes |
| Additional string | More complex chords |
| Wider range of notes | Easier to play melodic solos |
3. Unique sound
The unique sound of the sterling 7 string guitar is one of its key features. The 7th string adds a lower, more resonant sound to the guitar, which makes it stand out in a mix. This unique sound is due to several factors:
- The 7th string is tuned to a lower note than the 6th string. This lower tuning gives the 7-string guitar a more powerful and aggressive sound.
- The 7th string is thicker than the other strings. This thicker string produces a fatter, more resonant sound.
- The 7-string guitar has a longer scale length than a 6-string guitar. This longer scale length gives the 7-string guitar a tighter and more focused sound.
The unique sound of the sterling 7 string guitar makes it ideal for a variety of genres, including metal, rock, and blues. It is a powerful and versatile instrument that can be used to create a wide range of sounds.
Here are some examples of how the unique sound of the 7-string guitar has been used in popular music:
- Meshuggah is a Swedish metal band that is known for its use of 7-string guitars. The 7th string gives Meshuggah’s music a heavy and aggressive sound.
- Korn is an American metal band that also uses 7-string guitars. The 7th string gives Korn’s music a more powerful and distinctive sound.
- John Petrucci is an American guitarist who is known for his work with the progressive metal band Dream Theater. Petrucci uses a 7-string guitar to create a wide range of sounds, from soaring leads to heavy riffs.
The unique sound of the sterling 7 string guitar is a major advantage for guitarists who are looking for an instrument that can stand out in a mix. It is a powerful and versatile instrument that can be used to create a wide range of sounds.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lower tuning | More powerful and aggressive sound |
| Thicker string | Fatter, more resonant sound |
| Longer scale length | Tighter and more focused sound |
4. Technical proficiency
The technical proficiency required to play a 7-string guitar is one of its key features. The additional string and the wider range of the 7-string guitar require guitarists to have a higher level of technical proficiency than 6-string guitarists. This is because the 7th string is tuned to a lower note, which requires guitarists to use different fingering techniques. Additionally, the wider range of the 7-string guitar means that guitarists need to be able to stretch their fingers further to reach the different notes.
While the technical proficiency required to play a 7-string guitar can be a challenge, it is also a rewarding experience. The 7-string guitar allows guitarists to play more complex chords and melodies, and to explore new genres and styles. Additionally, the technical proficiency required to play a 7-string guitar can improve a guitarist’s overall playing skills.
Here are some examples of how the technical proficiency required to play a 7-string guitar can be beneficial:
- Improved finger dexterity: The wider range of the 7-string guitar requires guitarists to stretch their fingers further to reach the different notes. This can help to improve a guitarist’s overall finger dexterity.
- Increased fretboard knowledge: The additional string on the 7-string guitar means that guitarists need to learn new fingering patterns and scales. This can help to increase a guitarist’s overall fretboard knowledge.
- More complex chords and melodies: The 7-string guitar allows guitarists to play more complex chords and melodies. This can help to expand a guitarist’s musical vocabulary and to create more interesting and sophisticated music.
Overall, the technical proficiency required to play a 7-string guitar is a major advantage for guitarists who are looking to improve their playing skills and to explore new genres and styles. It is a challenging but rewarding instrument that can help guitarists to reach their full potential.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Improved finger dexterity | Can help to improve a guitarist’s overall finger dexterity. |
| Increased fretboard knowledge | Can help to increase a guitarist’s overall fretboard knowledge. |
| More complex chords and melodies | Can help to expand a guitarist’s musical vocabulary and to create more interesting and sophisticated music. |
5. String tension
The lower string tension of the 7th string on a sterling 7 string guitar is a significant advantage for guitarists. The lower tension makes the 7th string easier to bend and vibrato, which opens up a world of new possibilities for guitarists.
One of the most common uses of the lower string tension on the 7th string is for bending. Bending is a technique where the guitarist pushes or pulls on the string to change its pitch. The lower tension on the 7th string makes it easier to bend the string further, which allows guitarists to create more expressive and dynamic solos.
Another common use of the lower string tension on the 7th string is for vibrato. Vibrato is a technique where the guitarist quickly shakes the string to create a warbling effect. The lower tension on the 7th string makes it easier to vibrato the string, which allows guitarists to create more expressive and soulful melodies.
Overall, the lower string tension on the 7th string of a sterling 7 string guitar is a major advantage for guitarists. It makes the 7th string easier to bend and vibrato, which opens up a world of new possibilities for guitarists.
Here are some examples of how the lower string tension on the 7th string of a sterling 7 string guitar can be used in practice:
- Bending: The lower string tension on the 7th string makes it easier to bend the string further, which allows guitarists to create more expressive and dynamic solos.
- Vibrato: The lower string tension on the 7th string makes it easier to vibrato the string, which allows guitarists to create more expressive and soulful melodies.
- Tapping: The lower string tension on the 7th string makes it easier to tap the string, which allows guitarists to create more complex and percussive sounds.
The lower string tension on the 7th string of a sterling 7 string guitar is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide range of sounds and effects. It is a major advantage for guitarists who are looking to expand their playing skills and to explore new genres and styles.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lower string tension | Easier to bend and vibrato |
| Easier to bend | More expressive and dynamic solos |
| Easier to vibrato | More expressive and soulful melodies |
6. Tuning
The tuning of a 7-string guitar is an important factor that affects the sound and playability of the instrument. The most common tuning for a 7-string guitar is B-E-A-D-G-B-E. This tuning gives the guitar a wider range of notes than a standard 6-string guitar, and it also allows guitarists to play more complex chords and melodies.
There are several reasons why the B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning is so popular for 7-string guitars. First, this tuning gives the guitar a wider range of notes than a standard 6-string guitar. The additional low B string extends the guitar’s range by a whole step, giving guitarists access to lower notes. This is especially useful for playing genres such as metal and djent, which often use low, chugging riffs.
Second, the B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning allows guitarists to play more complex chords and melodies. The additional string gives guitarists more options for voicings and inversions, and it also makes it easier to play extended chords and diminished chords. This is especially useful for jazz and fusion guitarists, who often use complex chords and melodies in their playing.
Of course, the B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning is not the only tuning that can be used on a 7-string guitar. There are many other tunings that can be used, depending on the guitarist’s personal preferences and the style of music they are playing. However, the B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning is a good starting point for guitarists who are new to 7-s
tring guitars.
Here are some examples of how the B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning is used in practice:
- Meshuggah is a Swedish metal band that is known for its use of 7-string guitars. The band’s signature sound is characterized by its use of low, chugging riffs. The B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning gives Meshuggah’s guitars a wider range of notes, which allows them to play their signature riffs with more power and aggression.
- Korn is an American metal band that also uses 7-string guitars. Korn’s music is known for its use of heavy, distorted guitars and catchy melodies. The B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning gives Korn’s guitars a heavier sound, and it also makes it easier for the band to play their signature melodies.
- John Petrucci is an American guitarist who is known for his work with the progressive metal band Dream Theater. Petrucci is a virtuoso guitarist who is known for his use of complex chords and melodies. The B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning gives Petrucci’s guitars a wider range of notes, and it also makes it easier for him to play his signature chords and melodies.
The B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning is a versatile tuning that can be used for a variety of genres. It is a good starting point for guitarists who are new to 7-string guitars, and it can also be used by experienced guitarists who are looking for a wider range of notes and more complex voicings.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Wider range of notes | Access to lower notes |
| More complex chords and melodies | More options for voicings and inversions |
| Good starting point for guitarists new to 7-string guitars | Versatile tuning that can be used for a variety of genres |
7. Scale length
The scale length of a guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. A longer scale length results in a lower string tension, which in turn results in a lower range and a tighter string tension. This is because the longer the string, the more it will stretch under the same amount of tension.The longer scale length of 7-string guitars is one of the key factors that contributes to their lower range and tighter string tension. This makes 7-string guitars ideal for playing genres such as metal and djent, which often use low, chugging riffs.
Here are some examples of how the scale length of a 7-string guitar affects its sound and playability:
- A longer scale length results in a lower string tension, which makes the strings easier to bend and vibrato.
- A longer scale length also results in a tighter string tension, which makes the strings more responsive and articulate.
- The combination of a lower string tension and a tighter string tension gives 7-string guitars a unique sound that is both powerful and articulate.
Overall, the scale length of a 7-string guitar is an important factor that affects the sound and playability of the instrument. The longer scale length of 7-string guitars contributes to their lower range, tighter string tension, and unique sound.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between 6-string and 7-string guitars in terms of scale length, range, and string tension:
| Feature | 6-String Guitar | 7-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Scale length | 25.5 inches | 26.5 inches |
| Range | E2 to E4 | B1 to E4 |
| String tension | Higher | Lower |
8. Body shape
The body shape of a guitar affects its sound, playability, and overall aesthetic. 7-string guitars come in a variety of body shapes, including the Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Les Paul. Each of these body shapes has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
- Stratocaster: The Stratocaster is a classic body shape that is known for its versatility and comfort. It has a contoured body that is comfortable to play for long periods of time, and its double-cutaway design gives players easy access to the higher frets. Stratocasters typically have a bright, twangy sound that is well-suited for a variety of genres, from country to rock.
- Telecaster: The Telecaster is another classic body shape that is known for its simplicity and durability. It has a solid body that is less prone to feedback than other body shapes, and its single-cutaway design gives players a more traditional playing experience. Telecasters typically have a twangy, spanky sound that is well-suited for country and blues music.
- Les Paul: The Les Paul is a popular body shape that is known for its sustain and power. It has a solid body with a carved top, which gives it a warm, resonant sound. Les Pauls typically have a thicker, heavier sound than Stratocasters and Telecasters, and they are well-suited for rock and metal music.
Ultimately, the best body shape for a 7-string guitar is a matter of personal preference. Players should try out different body shapes to see which one feels most comfortable and sounds best to them.
9. Pickups
Pickups are one of the most important components of an electric guitar, and they play a major role in determining the sound of the instrument. 7-string guitars can be equipped with a variety of pickups, including humbuckers, single-coils, and P-90s. Each type of pickup has its own unique sound and characteristics.
- Humbuckers: Humbuckers are a type of pickup that is known for its warm, full sound. They are typically used in rock and metal music, as they can produce a powerful, distorted sound. Humbuckers are also relatively quiet, which makes them a good choice for players who want to avoid feedback.
- Single-coils: Single-coils are a type of pickup that is known for its bright, twangy sound. They are typically used in country and blues music, as they can produce a clear, articulate sound. Single-coils are also relatively noisy, which can be a disadvantage for players who want a clean sound.
- P-90s: P-90s are a type of pickup that is similar to single-coils, but they have a slightly thicker, more powerful sound. They are typically used in rock and blues music, as they can produce a warm, overdriven sound. P-90s are also relatively noisy, but they have a unique sound that many players find appealing.
The type of pickup that is best for a 7-string guitar depends on the player’s individual preferences and the style of music that they play. However, all three types of pickups can be used to create a wide variety of sounds, so players should experiment with different types of pickups to find the ones that they like best.
10. Price
The price of a sterling 7 string guitar is influenced by several factors, including the cost of ma
terials and labor. 7-string guitars typically require more materials than 6-string guitars, as they have an additional string and a wider neck. Additionally, the construction of a 7-string guitar is more complex than that of a 6-string guitar, as the luthier must carefully align the additional string and ensure that the neck is strong enough to support the extra tension. As a result, 7-string guitars are typically more expensive than 6-string guitars.
The price of a sterling 7 string guitar can also vary depending on the brand, model, and features. For example, a high-end sterling 7 string guitar with a custom finish and high-quality pickups will typically be more expensive than a budget-friendly model with a more basic design. Additionally, the price of a sterling 7 string guitar can be affected by the country of origin, as guitars made in certain countries may be more expensive due to higher labor costs.
Despite the higher price, 7-string guitars offer several advantages over 6-string guitars. The additional string gives guitarists access to a wider range of notes, which can be useful for playing complex chords and melodies. Additionally, the wider neck of a 7-string guitar can make it easier to play certain chords and scales. As a result, 7-string guitars are a popular choice for guitarists who want to expand their sonic.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between 6-string and 7-string guitars in terms of price, materials, and labor:
| Feature | 6-String Guitar | 7-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Materials | Less materials | More materials |
| Labor | Less labor | More labor |
Frequently Asked Questions about Sterling 7 String Guitars
Sterling 7 string guitars are a popular choice for guitarists who want to expand their sonic possibilities. They offer a wider range of notes and a more versatile sound than traditional 6-string guitars. However, there are also some common questions and misconceptions about 7-string guitars.
Question 1: Are 7-string guitars harder to play than 6-string guitars?
Answer: 7-string guitars can be slightly more challenging to play than 6-string guitars, especially for beginners. The wider neck and the additional string can take some time to get used to. However, with practice, most guitarists find that 7-string guitars are just as easy to play as 6-string guitars.
Question 2: Are 7-string guitars more expensive than 6-string guitars?
Answer: Yes, 7-string guitars are typically more expensive than 6-string guitars. This is due to the additional materials and labor required to build them. However, the price difference is not always significant, and there are many affordable 7-string guitars on the market.
Question 3: What are the benefits of playing a 7-string guitar?
Answer: 7-string guitars offer several benefits over 6-string guitars. The additional string gives guitarists access to a wider range of notes, which can be useful for playing complex chords and melodies. Additionally, the wider neck of a 7-string guitar can make it easier to play certain chords and scales.
Question 4: What are the different types of 7-string guitars?
Answer: There are several different types of 7-string guitars available, including solid-body guitars, hollow-body guitars, and semi-hollow guitars. Solid-body guitars are the most popular type of 7-string guitar, and they offer a wide range of tones and styles. Hollow-body guitars have a more resonant sound than solid-body guitars, and they are often used for jazz and blues music. Semi-hollow guitars offer a blend of the sound and feel of solid-body and hollow-body guitars.
Question 5: How do I choose the right 7-string guitar for me?
Answer: When choosing a 7-string guitar, there are several factors to consider, including your budget, playing style, and musical preferences. If you are a beginner, you may want to choose a more affordable 7-string guitar with a comfortable neck and a versatile sound. If you are a more experienced player, you may want to choose a higher-end 7-string guitar with a specific tone or style.
Question 6: What are some of the best 7-string guitars on the market?
Answer: There are many great 7-string guitars on the market, but some of the most popular and well-respected models include the Ibanez RG752AHM, the Jackson JS32-7 Dinky, the Schecter Hellraiser C-7 FR, and the ESP LTD M-7HT.
Summary of key takeaways or final thought:7-string guitars offer a wide range of sonic possibilities for guitarists of all levels. They are a versatile and powerful instrument that can be used for a variety of genres. If you are considering buying a 7-string guitar, be sure to do your research and choose the right guitar for your needs.
Transition to the next article section:Now that you know more about 7-string guitars, you may be wondering how to choose the right one for you. In the next section, we will provide a buying guide for 7-string guitars. We will discuss the different factors to consider when choosing a 7-string guitar, and we will provide some tips on how to find the best guitar for your needs.
Tips for Choosing a Sterling 7 String Guitar
Sterling 7 string guitars offer a unique and powerful sound that can be used for a variety of genres. If you’re thinking about buying a 7-string guitar, here are a few tips to help you choose the right one for you:
Tip 1: Consider your budget. Sterling 7 string guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your options.
Tip 2: Think about your playing style. What kind of music do you play? If you play metal or rock, you’ll need a guitar with a powerful sound and a wide range of tones. If you play jazz or blues, you may prefer a guitar with a warmer, more mellow sound.
Tip 3: Try out different guitars. The best way to find the right 7-string guitar for you is to try out different models and see which one feels the most comfortable and sounds the best. Bring your amp to the store with you so that you can hear how the guitar sounds through your own rig.
Tip 4: Pay attention to the neck. The neck of a 7-string guitar is wider than the neck of a 6-string guitar, so it’s important to make sure that you’re comfortable with the wider neck before you buy a 7-string guitar.
Tip 5: Consider the pickups. The pickups in a guitar play a big role in determining the sound of the guitar. If you’re not sure what kind of pickups you want, ask the salesperson for help.
Tip 6: Don’t forget about the bridge. The bridge of a guitar is responsible for transferring the vibrations of the strings to the body of the guitar. There are different types of bridges available, so make sure to choose one that is right for your playing style.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:By following these tips, you can choose the right sterling 7 string guitar for your needs. With its extended range, versatility, and unique sound, a sterling 7 string guitar can help you take your playing to the next level.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:Now that you know how to choose a sterling 7 string guitar, it’s time to start shopping. With so many great guitars on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect one for you.
Conclusion
The sterling 7 string g
uitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that offers a wide range of sonic possibilities. With its extended range, unique sound, and comfortable playability, the sterling 7 string guitar is a great choice for guitarists of all levels.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to expand your musical horizons or a seasoned pro looking for a new sound, the sterling 7 string guitar is a great option. With so many different models and styles available, there’s sure to be a sterling 7 string guitar that’s perfect for you.
