Have you ever heard a song that just made you want to grab a guitar and play? Maybe it was a heavy, powerful riff or a soaring, melodic solo. For many guitarists, that extra string on a 7-string guitar unlocks a whole new world of sound. But let’s be real, diving into the world of 7-string guitars can feel a little overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to keep your wallet happy.
Finding a great 7-string guitar that doesn’t cost a fortune can be a real challenge. You want that deep, rumbling low end and the ability to play those awesome extended chords, but the price tags can sometimes make you gulp. It’s tough to know which ones will give you the sound you want without breaking the bank. You might worry about getting a guitar that sounds muddy or has flimsy parts.
But don’t worry! This post is here to guide you. We’ll explore some fantastic 7-string guitars that won’t empty your piggy bank. You’ll learn what to look for, what makes a good budget 7-string, and discover some hidden gems that deliver big sound for a small price. Get ready to find your next awesome guitar!
Our Top 5 Budget 7 String Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Budget 7 String Detailed Reviews
1. D’Addario Guitar Strings – XL Nickel Electric Guitar Strings – EXL110-7 – Perfect Intonation
Rating: 9.4/10
The D’Addario XL Nickel Electric Guitar Strings (EXL110-7) are a fantastic choice for any 7-string guitarist. These strings are a bestseller for a reason! They offer a bright, versatile sound that works well for many different kinds of music. Players have trusted these strings since 1974 because they sound great and feel good to play. They are also made in the USA with special technology that helps them stay in tune and last a long time. Plus, you can even earn rewards points by registering a code from the package!
What We Like:
- These are the best-selling electric guitar strings from D’Addario.
- They give you a bright and versatile tone that’s good for many music styles.
- Made with a special “Hex-Core,” they help your guitar play in tune perfectly.
- You get a consistent feel every time you play.
- They are built to be durable and last a long time.
- You can earn reward points by registering a code from the recyclable bag.
- These strings are proudly made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for 7-string guitars, the description mistakenly mentions “For 6 String Guitars.”
- The gauge is “Regular Light” (10-59), which might not be heavy enough for players who prefer very thick strings on their lower B string.
These D’Addario XL Nickel strings are a reliable and excellent option for most 7-string players. You’ll enjoy their consistent performance and bright sound.
2. Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitar
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready to explore a whole new world of sound with this amazing 7-string semi-hollow body electric guitar! Its beautiful sunburst finish looks fantastic, and the classic f-holes give it a cool, vintage vibe. This guitar is built for players who want more from their instrument, offering deeper bass notes and more ways to express their music.
What We Like:
- The sunburst finish is really eye-catching, going from dark red to bright yellow.
- Having 7 strings opens up so many new musical ideas and those low notes sound awesome.
- The two humbucking pickups give a warm, full sound that’s great for many styles.
- The semi-hollow body design balances the best of both hollow and solid body guitars – it has great resonance but doesn’t feedback easily.
- The locking tuning machines keep the strings in tune, so you won’t be stopping to fix it as much.
- The overall construction feels solid and well-made.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has great resonance, some players might prefer a fully hollow body for even more airy tone.
- The sunburst finish, while beautiful, could show smudges easily and might need frequent wiping.
This guitar is a fantastic choice for musicians looking to expand their sonic palette. It offers a unique combination of style, sound, and playability that will inspire your creativity.
3. DR Strings Tite Fit Electric Round Core 7 String 10-56
Rating: 9.4/10
DR Strings Tite Fit Electric Round Core 7 String 10-56 are awesome strings for your 7-string electric guitar. They give you a really full sound. These strings are made with a special nickel-plated steel wrap wire. This wire goes around a round core. This design makes the sound fatter. They work well for many kinds of music like rock, blues, metal, and jazz. You can play lots of styles with them. DR Strings uses the best materials. This means they sound great and play well, even with today’s music.
What We Like:
- Produces a fatter, richer tone.
- Versatile for many music styles.
- Made with high-quality core and wrap-wire.
- Reliable performance for modern playing.
What Could Be Improved:
- The round core might be less stable than a hex core for some players.
- Nickel plating can wear down over time with heavy playing.
These DR Strings Tite Fit are a solid choice for any 7-string player. They offer a great balance of tone and playability for a variety of musical adventures.
4. Jackson JS22-7 Dinky 7-string Electric Guitar – Satin Black
Rating: 8.7/10
Dive into the world of extended range with the Jackson JS22-7 Dinky 7-string Electric Guitar in Satin Black. This guitar is built for players who crave that extra low end and want to explore new sounds. Its sleek design and powerful pickups make it a fantastic option for beginners and experienced players alike who are looking to expand their musical horizons.
What We Like:
- The satin black finish looks super cool and feels smooth to the touch.
- It has a comfortable maple neck that makes playing for a long time easy.
- The two humbucking pickups deliver a big, powerful sound perfect for rock and metal.
- The amaranth fingerboard feels great under your fingers and helps the guitar sound clear.
- It’s a 7-string guitar, so you get those awesome extra low notes.
- The poplar body gives it a balanced tone.
- This guitar is a great value for the money.
What Could Be Improved:
- The satin finish can sometimes show fingerprints easily.
- While great for its price, some professional players might want even higher-end hardware.
The Jackson JS22-7 Dinky is a solid choice for anyone wanting to explore 7-string guitars without breaking the bank. It offers a great playing experience and a powerful sound.
5. btfarm 18 Pack Fairy Lights Battery Operated [3 Modes]
![btfarm 18 Pack Fairy Lights Battery Operated [3 Modes], 7ft 20 Led Twinkle Lights Waterproof, Bulk Mini String Lights Battery Powered for Mason Jars Christmas Wedding Indoor, Warm White](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51tivEMQ3oL._SL500_.jpg)
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to add a touch of magic to any occasion with the btfarm 18 Pack Fairy Lights! These little lights are super versatile and come in a big pack of 18, so you have plenty to go around. They’re perfect for making your home, parties, or special events look extra special. Imagine twinkling lights in your mason jars or wrapped around your Christmas tree – it’s pure enchantment!
What We Like:
- You get a fantastic value with 18 packs of these lovely lights.
- Each string is 7 feet long with 20 warm white LEDs, creating a cozy glow.
- They come with 3 high-capacity batteries already installed, giving you up to 72 hours of light!
- You can choose from three fun lighting modes: fast flashing, slow blinking, and steady light.
- The silver wire is flexible and easy to bend and shape around anything.
- They are IP65 waterproof, meaning you can even put them in water (just keep the battery pack dry!).
- The low voltage makes them safe to touch and use, even for long periods.
- A small screwdriver is included for easy battery changes.
What Could Be Improved:
- The battery box itself is not waterproof, so be careful with that part.
These fairy lights are a wonderful way to create a charming and magical atmosphere for any celebration. They offer great flexibility and value, making them a must-have for your decorating needs.
Your Guide to Awesome Budget 7-String Guitars
So, you want to explore the cool sounds of a 7-string guitar without breaking the bank? That’s a fantastic goal! A 7-string guitar adds an extra low string, usually a B, opening up a whole new world of heavy riffs and lower notes. This guide will help you find a great budget 7-string that sounds awesome and feels good to play.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a budget 7-string, keep these important things in mind:
- Neck Profile: This is how the back of the guitar neck feels in your hand. Some necks are thicker, and some are thinner. A thinner neck can make it easier to play faster or for those with smaller hands. Look for descriptions like “slim taper” or “C-shape.”
- Fretboard Radius: This refers to the curve of the fretboard. A flatter radius (like 12″ or 14″) is good for bending strings and playing lead parts. A more rounded radius (like 9.5″) can feel more comfortable for chords.
- Scale Length: This is the distance from the nut (at the headstock) to the bridge. Longer scale lengths (like 26.5″ or 27″) are better for lower tunings because they keep the strings from feeling too loose or “floppy.”
- Pickups: These are the parts that pick up the string vibrations and turn them into sound. For a 7-string, especially for heavier music, you’ll want pickups that are clear and punchy. Look for humbuckers, as they usually provide a thicker, fuller sound and reduce unwanted noise.
- Bridge Type: A fixed bridge (like a Tune-o-matic or hardtail) is simpler and often keeps the guitar in tune better. Tremolo bridges can add cool dive bomb effects but can sometimes be trickier to keep in tune, especially on budget models.
2. Important Materials
The wood used in a guitar affects its sound and feel.
- Body Wood:
- Basswood: This is a common choice for budget guitars. It’s lightweight and has a balanced tone that works well for various music styles.
- Poplar: Similar to basswood, poplar is also affordable and offers a good, clear sound.
- Mahogany: While often found on more expensive guitars, you might find some budget 7-strings with mahogany. It provides a warm, rich tone with good sustain.
- Neck Wood:
- Maple: Maple is a very popular choice for guitar necks. It’s strong and contributes to a bright, snappy tone.
- Nato: This is another affordable wood often used for necks on budget instruments. It’s a good alternative to maple.
- Fretboard Wood:
- Rosewood: Rosewood gives a warm, smooth feel and sound. It’s a classic choice.
- Maple: Maple fretboards are bright and snappy, making notes clear and defined.
- Jatoba: This is a harder wood that is becoming more common on budget guitars. It offers a bright tone and good durability.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a budget 7-string great or just okay.
- Build Quality/Construction: How well the guitar is put together is super important. Look for clean fretwork (no sharp edges!), a neck that fits snugly into the body, and hardware that feels solid. A guitar that is well-built will play better and stay in tune more reliably.
- Hardware (Tuners, Bridge, Nut): Good tuners keep your guitar in tune. A well-made nut (where the strings rest at the headstock) helps with tuning stability and intonation. Even on a budget guitar, decent hardware makes a big difference.
- Electronics (Potentiometers, Jacks): The volume and tone knobs, and the output jack, are the guitar’s electronics. Cheaper electronics can sometimes feel scratchy or fail over time. While you can upgrade these later, good stock electronics are a plus.
- Setup: How the guitar is set up from the factory or the shop matters a lot. A good setup means the strings are at a comfortable height, and the guitar plays in tune all the way up the neck. Sometimes budget guitars need a bit of a setup to play their best.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Budget 7-string guitars are perfect for many players and situations:
- Beginners: If you’re new to guitar or just curious about 7-strings, a budget model is a great way to start without a huge investment. You can learn the basics and see if the extra string is for you.
- Intermediate Players: Many intermediate players use budget 7-strings as practice guitars, for specific projects, or even for gigging if they’ve been upgraded. They offer a way to explore different tunings and styles.
- Music Styles: These guitars are fantastic for:
- Metal and Hard Rock: The extra low string is ideal for heavy, down-tuned riffs.
- Progressive Rock: The extended range allows for more complex musical ideas.
- Djent: This modern genre heavily relies on the low B string for its signature chugging sound.
- Experimental Music: The added range can inspire new sonic explorations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main advantage of a 7-string guitar?
A: The main advantage is the extra low string, which lets you play lower notes and create heavier sounds.
Q: Can I play my favorite songs on a 7-string?
A: Yes, you can play many songs, but some might sound different because of the extra string. It’s great for songs that use lower tunings.
Q: Are budget 7-strings hard to play?
A: They can feel a little different at first because of the wider neck and extra string. But with practice, they become comfortable.
Q: What is a good budget 7-string brand?
A: Brands like Ibanez, Jackson, ESP LTD, and Schecter often have good budget 7-string options.
Q: Do I need a special amp for a 7-string?
A: You don’t need a special amp, but an amp with good clean tone and strong distortion will help you get the most out of the low B string.
Q: What is “down-tuning”?
A: Down-tuning means tuning the strings to lower pitches than standard tuning. The low B string on a 7-string is usually tuned down from its standard B.
Q: How do I tune a 7-string guitar?
A: Standard tuning for a 7-string is E-A-D-G-B-E-B. The extra B string is the lowest.
Q: Can I change the pickups on a budget 7-string?
A: Yes, you can change the pickups to upgrade the sound. This is a common modification for budget guitars.
Q: What kind of strings should I use?
A: You’ll need 7-string sets. For lower tunings, consider slightly heavier gauge strings for the low B string to keep it from sounding too loose.
Q: Is a 7-string guitar good for beginners?
A: Yes, it can be. If you’re interested in the sounds a 7-string makes, a budget model is a great way to start learning.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!