7 String Recommendation

Jeff5

New member
I'm in the market for a 7 string guitar. I can spend a bit, but don't want to break the bank. Some basic criteria.

I've narrowed down my choices to the following. I prefer it to not have a trem and have good, higher output pick ups, but neither is a deal breaker for me. I'd be interested if anyone has experience with these models, general recommendations or can answer the questions I have.


  • Jackson Dinky Pro 7 String DKA7
  • Jackson SLATHX-M 3-7
These Jackson's are my top choices. There is a price difference between the Pro and the SLATHX, and I'm not sure if it is warranted or not. I'd be interested if anyone has experience with either or both.


  • Ibanez Prestige RG752
This one has a trem, but I would still be okay with that. I've heard great things about Ibanez 7 strings. The pick ups may or may not need to be changed as it looks like these are more vintage voiced.


  • ESP LTD H7 40th Anniversary 7-string (I’ve seen the Eclipse version of this too)
  • ESP LTD H-1007
  • ESP E-II Eclipse-7 (More money than I want to spend but I’ve seen used or floor models for a relatively good price)
All three of these seem really nice. Obviously the real Eclipse is probably better, and I saw one for about $1300 which is the very top range for me. The chances of me buying it soon, and getting that one, are pretty slim though. So if anyone has experience with the LTD H7 or H versions, that would be great.

Thanks in advance.

Jeff
 
Re: 7 String Recommendation

I'm in the market for a 7 string guitar. I can spend a bit, but don't want to break the bank. Some basic criteria.

I've narrowed down my choices to the following. I prefer it to not have a trem and have good, higher output pick ups, but neither is a deal breaker for me. I'd be interested if anyone has experience with these models, general recommendations or can answer the questions I have.


  • Jackson Dinky Pro 7 String DKA7
  • Jackson SLATHX-M 3-7
These Jackson's are my top choices. There is a price difference between the Pro and the SLATHX, and I'm not sure if it is warranted or not. I'd be interested if anyone has experience with either or both.


  • Ibanez Prestige RG752
This one has a trem, but I would still be okay with that. I've heard great things about Ibanez 7 strings. The pick ups may or may not need to be changed as it looks like these are more vintage voiced.


  • ESP LTD H7 40th Anniversary 7-string (I’ve seen the Eclipse version of this too)
  • ESP LTD H-1007
  • ESP E-II Eclipse-7 (More money than I want to spend but I’ve seen used or floor models for a relatively good price)
All three of these seem really nice. Obviously the real Eclipse is probably better, and I saw one for about $1300 which is the very top range for me. The chances of me buying it soon, and getting that one, are pretty slim though. So if anyone has experience with the LTD H7 or H versions, that would be great.

Thanks in advance.

Jeff

I'd probably get this one: Ola Englund Washburn Signature
but put different pickups in it, as it has just Duncan Designed in it, but I'm a huge fan of Ola and the looks of his axe, so i'd buy that one

the corey beaulieu sig is an interesting choice too, although it has a floyd and active duncans. Corey Beaulieu Jackson Signature

a great option as well would be this guitar: Keith Merrow Schecter Signature


sorry, i didnt notice that you've narrowed yourself down to the options you listed, but i think its alright to throw in some different ideas as well :)
 
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Re: 7 String Recommendation

Thanks, I'm always open to suggestions! Another I'm considering is the Schecter Hellraiser C-7 Hybrid.
 
Re: 7 String Recommendation

The real ESP is in my opinion clearly the best one of the bunch. It's kind of unfair to compare it to the others.

I've grown weary of newer Ibanez guitars for some reason, but both Jackson and LTD could he good. I'd add Schecter to the list and try before buying, as quality can vary. I wouldn't hesitate to buy the ESP unseen if I got a good deal. Old MIJ Jacksons can often be found for very low prices, and they often have upgraded pickups as well. That would probably be the most cost efficient route to take.

I own a Schecter C7FR myself. I have been quite satisfied with it. Hardware is good and the EMGs sound great. The neck is fairly big and took some time to adjust to. It is also rather heavy, which may be bothersome to some people. The guitar, as a whole, has worked very well for me for about five years now. Haven't really done else to it than changed the strings and the battery.
 
Re: 7 String Recommendation

I would say Schecter or Ibanez should get you there for reasonable cash. Maybe slightyly more for ESP.
 
Re: 7 String Recommendation

I would take a hard look at Schecter's Blackjack line. They have the SD Nazghul and Sentient pickups stock and are great values for sub $1000. And as someone who lived in the Chicago land area since birth, I know that guitars like these can be had for $700 or less all day long.
 
Re: 7 String Recommendation

IMG_20150411_203644533.jpg

I like my ibanez 7420. Took the bridge pick up apart and made it 4 conducter wire. Got a camphor burl veneer, did an accent line and added a sd ssl 1 for 7 string and added some switches. Bought this one in 01 and modded it a couple months ago. Sounds great after mods.
 
Re: 7 String Recommendation

Don't dismiss the Washburn WG-587 ,get the Korean one ,wicked necks and they can be had for very cheap leaving plenty of funds for pickups ,I put blackouts in mine
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