Key Takeaways:
- The Ibanez RGMS8 is my pick for the best multiscale guitars for metal.
- Consider scale length range and number of strings to match your preferred tuning and playing style.
- Evaluate pickup configurations, focusing on active or passive options suitable for metal genres.
- Assess tonewoods and hardware quality for optimal sound and durability in metal applications.
9 Best Multiscale Guitars for Metal
Below, we’ll take a look at nine great multiscale metal guitar options including the Ibanez RGDMS8 Multi-Scale Electric Guitar, Schecter Omen Elite-8 Multiscale Electric Guitar, Larada Legion 8 Stealth, Ibanez SML721 Multi-scale Electric Guitar, and the Strandberg Boden Original NX 8, among others.
At the end of the day, all of these instruments have pros and cons, so spend some time getting into the details to find out which would work best for you.
1. Ibanez RGMS8 Multi-Scale Electric Guitar
The Ibanez RG has been a staple in metal for decades, and the RGMS8 Multi-Scale Electric Guitar keeps the tradition alive. Its extended range and tonal versatility are prime for the genre. It’s one of the best guitars for metal, hands down.
There’s also another version, the RGDMS8 that adds a beveled wood top and more color options. The multiscale design enhances playability for comfortable chording and soloing on all eight strings. The dual humbucker pickups produce a powerful, clear tone ideal for heavy metal.
Although it’s not the cheapest option, the quality of the RGMS8 makes it worth it. You’re not merely buying a guitar, you’re investing in a musical instrument that can take your sound to new levels. Don’t hold back, this Ibanez is worth every penny.
2. Schecter Omen Elite-8 Multiscale Electric Guitar
Schecter Omen Elite-8 Multiscale from zZounds
The Schecter Omen Elite-8’s attributes are hard to ignore. It has a mahogany body, producing a sound that’s rich, warm, and focused. The guitar also has amazing sustain. Additionally, its multi-scale construction enhances intonation and string tension. The contoured neck joint allows for easier access to the upper frets.
I personally own this model and found it’s a great deal for the price. There are a few minor cosmetic imperfections on my model, like the nut being a millimeter too wide. However, for an 8-string multiscale under $1,000, it’s reliable.
The Heretic-8 humbuckers on this guitar produce a high output sound, a tight low end, and clear note separation. The sound quality is decent for stock pickups.
Overall, the Omen Elite-8 offers great bang for your buck. With its superior features and performance, it is quite reasonably priced. Any metal enthusiast would find it a worthy investment.
3. Larada Legion 8 Stealth
Next, let’s take a look at the Larada Legion 8 Stealth. This guitar is proof of Abasi Concept’s dedication to inventiveness. The Legion 8 model showcases distinct features like a basswood body, wenge neck, and an ebony fingerboard. The Stealth version really shines, showing it’s tough enough for metal music. Plus, the Legion 8 is built for the best player comfort and performance.
Tosin has done some incredible things on his drop-tunned 8-string guitar, and the Larada multiscale makes his design accessible to a legion of fans.
To sum it up, the Larada’s special features and the Stealth’s benefits make it one of the finest multiscale guitars for metal.
4. Ibanez SML721 Multi-scale Electric Guitar
I’ve always loved Ibanez’s S series. It’s like a slimmed-down super strat with super comfy playability. The Ibanez SML721 Multi-scale Electric Guitar is a great example. Its distinct design and quality materials ensure exceptional sound and playability. It’s perfect for metal music.
Its multi-scale design offers a crisp tone, ideal for hard-hitting riffs and sizzling solos.
The Ibanez SML721 has a user-friendly neck profile and potent pickups, ensuring a balanced tone on all strings. This means the Ibanez SML721 could be a great investment in your music. It provides unbeatable playability and sound quality that can take your metal performance to the next level.
5. Strandberg Boden Metal NX 8
Strandberg Boden Metal NX 8 from zZounds
The Strandberg Boden Metal NX 8 is turning heads with its groundbreaking design and superior sound. You’ll instantly see the perks of a multiscale guitar, including better intonation, tension balance, and comfort for your fingers.
The NX 8’s vibrant, well-balanced character showcases the sound benefits of multiscale guitars, providing excellent clarity for both rhythm and lead guitar parts.
What makes the Strandberg Boden Metal NX 8 stand out are its ergonomic design aspects, such as the patented EndurNeck™, which allows for comfortable, long playing sessions, and the lightweight chambered swamp ash body.
Playing this guitar isn’t just about making music – it’s about experiencing innovation.
6. ESP LTD M-1000 Multi-Scale Electric Guitar
You don’t have to have 7 or 8 strings to take advantage of multiscale guitar design. The ESP LTD M-1000 Multi-Scale Electric Guitar has six strings but a fanned fretboard all the same.
This guitar has several advantages. Its scale length varies between 26.5 and 25.5 inches, which helps maintain the perfect string tension, enhances articulation, and boosts playing comfort. You can downtune without any issues.
It’s got a bolt-on style with a flamed maple veneer on a mahogany base, which not only looks great but also broadens your tone choices. Personally, I think it looks badass in the dark grey finish with its slightly elongated neck.
The custom Seymour Duncan Sentient and Nazgul pickups offer a mix of old school PAF and modern tones for strong output and crisp note articulation.
A Macassar ebony fretboard constructed from high-density wood gives a smooth playing experience.
The ESP LTD M-1000 is designed with the player’s comfort in mind, making it a dream for any progressive musician.
7. Legator G7FOD Ghost Overdrive 7-String Multi-Scale Electric Guitar Arctic
The Legator G7FOD Ghost Overdrive is a 7-string electric guitar gaining popularity in the music scene. This guitar brings an array of design elements to the table to improve your playing experience, like its super slim headless neck and ultra-light body.
There’s a lot to love about this guitar, but we’ll center on four main benefits:
- The buckeye burl top is not only a feast for the eyes, but it also plays a role in the guitar’s featherlight design.
- Fishman Fluence Modern pickups give you a broad spectrum of tone choices, adding variety to your sound.
- The fanned fret layout improves playability, making movements like sliding, sweeping, and bending effortless.
- Users have praised the ease of play and light design as noteworthy characteristics.
In brief, the Legator G7FOD Ghost Overdrive is a potent instrument for any musician.
8. GOC Materia
The GOC Materia is a guitar designed for modern and progressive guitarists on a budget. This headless wonder is a treat for metal enthusiasts, with its Northern American Ash body and Micarta neck. Its solid, non-chambered body enhances its feel and tone.
Weighing its pros and cons, the sound quality is a major plus. The Paragon Alnico pickups produce rich and dynamic tones, ideal for metal. The distinctive design, featuring a duo-lok headpiece and 2-way trussrod, improves playability. However, some users have reported minor fit and finish issues.
9. Jackson SLATX7Q X Soloist Arch Top Multi-Scale Electric Guitar
Last up on my list of best multiscale guitars for metal is the Jackson SLATX7Q X Soloist Arch Top Multi-Scale Electric Guitar. This is a high-performing instrument designed to enhance comfort, tension, and intonation. Its standout feature is a multi-scale design, which blends two scale lengths on a single fingerboard, resulting in a markedly ergonomic play experience.
Customers have shared their thoughts on this guitar, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros
- Tone Versatility: The guitar’s uncovered 7-string blade humbucking pickups provide a balanced and flexible tone.
- Comfort: The multi-scale design significantly improves play comfort.
Cons
- Complexity: Some players might find the multi-scale design a bit challenging to adapt to.
- Price: A few users mentioned that it’s a bit more expensive compared to other models.
In a nutshell, the SLATX7Q X Soloist is a well-designed guitar with impressive playability and tone versatility, making it a solid consideration for any musician.
Multiscale Guitar Buyer’s Guide
Prepare for a bit of a challenge as you enter the realm of multiscale guitars. Grasp the concept of the straight fret or neutral point, a pivotal part of your journey.
It’s vital to test a multiscale firsthand before you commit to purchasing one, bearing in mind that multiscale guitars can exhibit either mild or severe angles.
Get Ready for a Learning Curve
You’ll need to brace yourself for a learning curve when you start strumming a multiscale guitar for metal. The initial challenges might be steep, but don’t let that discourage you. Here’s a helpful guide to steer you through:
- Adjust your technique: Multiscale guitars call for a unique playing style. You’ll have to refine your finger placement and pick handling.
- Master the intonation: These guitars might need varied intonation methods. It might be complex at the start, but practice brings perfection.
- Alter hand positioning: The fanned frets on these guitars will change your hand’s natural position. This might feel odd at the start.
- Practice is paramount: Regular and focused practice is the key to mastering this instrument.
Just remember, it’s all about the journey, not the speed. Accept the challenges and revel in the process.
What Is the Straight Fret or Neutral Point?
The straight fret or neutral point is a key element in multiscale design. It’s essential to get it, as it optimizes fretboard use and boosts your comfort when playing.
A neck with a neutral fret around the fifth to seventh fret will have a more natural fan angle on the lower frets and a more extreme one on the higher frets. Likewise, if the 12th fret is neutral, chords will feel very different because the lower frets are at a more extreme angle.
You should be able to judge where the neutral fret is in pictures so you can estimate how the guitar would feel.
Try To Play a Multiscale In Person Before Buying
Always give a multiscale instrument a test run before buying. This way, you can make sure it’s a comfortable fit for your individual playing style. Here are four important points to keep in mind:
- Testing Multiscale Instruments: Check the sound quality, intonation, and playability of the guitar. Listen out for buzz or inconsistencies in tone.
- Feel: Feel if the fretboard and neck are comfortable for your hand size and playing technique.
- Affordability of Multiscale Guitars: Stick to your budget. The priciest option may not always be the right one for you.
- Maintenance of Multiscale Guitars: Make sure to understand the maintenance required. Check if replacement strings and parts are easily available.
Playing an instrument before buying is crucial for choosing a multiscale that suits you perfectly.
When buying a multiscale guitar for metal, you’ll want to focus on key features like fanned frets, extended range options, and ideal string tension. Consider brands like Ormsby, Dingwall, and Ibanez for their ergonomic designs and metal-centric features. Look for scale length ranges that suit your playing style and preferred tunings. Active pickups offer high gain for modern metal, while passive options provide dynamic response. Evaluate coil-splitting capabilities for tonal versatility. Budget-friendly alternatives exist, but premium models offer superior craftsmanship and playability. Your ideal multiscale metal axe balances price, performance, and personal preferences. Dive deeper to uncover the perfect instrument for your sonic arsenal.
Multiscale guitars don’t just have to be for metal, however. I recently had the opportunity to interview Nate Lopez, who plays a multiscale 8-string hybrid guitar-bass with a groovy jazz sound. Check out the interview to learn more.
Understanding Multiscale Guitar Designs
Multiscale guitar designs revolutionize string tension optimization, offering players enhanced performance and tonal flexibility. As a guitarist, you’ll appreciate how this innovative approach draws inspiration from piano construction, tailoring each string’s length for optimal tension and sound.
The fanned frets and angled hardware you see on these instruments aren’t just for show; they’re carefully engineered to maintain proper intonation across the entire fretboard. This design is particularly beneficial if you’re into metal genres and favor lower tunings like drop C or drop B, as it allows you to achieve these deep sounds without sacrificing string stability or playability.
When you pick up a multiscale guitar from brands like Ormsby, Dingwall, Ibanez, or Legator, you’ll notice the ergonomic benefits, making techniques like bending and sliding more comfortable. These instruments are a testament to how guitar technology evolves to meet the demands of modern players, giving you the tools to push your musical boundaries while maintaining the integrity of your instrument’s setup and sound.
Playability and Ergonomic Considerations
Multiscale guitars offer metal players improved playability and ergonomics, enhancing their performance and comfort during extended playing sessions. Fanned frets ensure even string tension, making bending and sliding techniques effortless – crucial elements in metal music. This design reduces hand fatigue, allowing guitarists to practice and perform for longer periods.
The varying scale lengths of multiscale instruments provide optimal note definition and clarity, essential for complex riffs and solos. Lower tunings, common in modern metal, benefit from the even tension across strings. While there may be a brief adjustment period, players quickly adapt to the improved playability.
Innovative brands like Strandberg and Kiesel have developed designs that prioritize ergonomic benefits without compromising sound quality. For metal guitarists seeking to enhance their playing experience and technical capabilities, multiscale guitars represent an increasingly attractive option that addresses both comfort and tonal needs.
Multiscale Guitar Electronics
When selecting a multiscale guitar for metal, you’ll need to weigh the merits of active vs. passive pickups, each offering distinct tonal characteristics suited to various metal subgenres.
You should also consider coil-splitting options, which can expand your tonal palette from high-gain distortion to cleaner, more articulate sounds.
Additionally, examine the control layout and multi-voicing electronics, as these features can greatly impact your ability to sculpt your tone on-the-fly during performances or recording sessions.
Active Vs. Passive Pickups
The choice between active and passive pickups significantly impacts a metal guitarist’s sound on multiscale instruments. For players seeking to craft their unique tone, understanding the differences between these pickup types is crucial.
Active pickups, powered by batteries, deliver high gain, low noise, and aggressive output, making them ideal for modern metal genres. These pickups excel in providing clarity, driving amplifiers effectively, and offering tight low-end response with articulate high-end frequencies. Brands like EMG and Fishman are known for their active pickup offerings, which can enhance sustain and overall sonic presence.
On the other hand, passive pickups cater to guitarists who prefer a more organic sound without relying on battery power. These pickups are valued for their dynamic response and vintage tonal characteristics, making them suitable for traditional metal styles.
The choice between active and passive pickups ultimately depends on the player’s preferred metal subgenre, playing technique, and desired tonal palette. When selecting pickups for a multiscale guitar, it’s essential to consider how they’ll interact with the amplification setup and effects chain to achieve the desired metal sound.
Coil-Splitting and Controls
Coil-splitting functionality and intuitive control layouts are essential features for multiscale guitars in metal, providing players with enhanced tonal versatility and performance flexibility.
As a metal guitarist, you’ll appreciate the ability to switch between high-gain humbucking and crisp single-coil sounds seamlessly. This capability allows you to explore a wide range of tones, from aggressive, saturated leads to clean, crystalline passages.
The typical control setup on multiscale guitars includes volume pots, tone knobs, and pickup selectors, with some models featuring push/pull pots or dedicated switches for activating coil-splitting. Understanding how coil-splitting works – by changing humbuckers from series to parallel wiring – will help you make the most of this feature.
When engaged, coil-splitting produces brighter, more articulate tones similar to single-coil pickups, expanding your sonic palette. To maximize your on-stage flexibility and tonal options during intense performances, prioritize multiscale guitars with easily accessible coil-splitting controls when making your selection.
Price Range of Multiscale Metal Guitars
Multiscale guitars for metal offer a range of options between $1,000 and $2,000, balancing cost and quality for players. As a metal guitarist, you have access to reputable brands like Agile, Legator, and Ibanez within this price range. Each option comes with varying features and specifications, allowing you to find an instrument that suits your needs and budget.
When selecting a multiscale guitar, consider factors such as tonewoods, hardware quality, fanned fret configuration, scale lengths, electronics package, and pickup options. These elements contribute to the overall sound, playability, and versatility of the instrument, directly impacting your performance and tone.
Thorough research is crucial, as quality levels and production wait times can differ significantly between manufacturers. Your goal should be to find a balance between price, options, and build quality that aligns with your playing style and financial constraints. Keep in mind that higher-end models often provide superior craftsmanship, enhanced tonal versatility, and improved playability.
For serious metal guitarists seeking professional-grade instruments, the increased cost of these premium options may be justified by their performance benefits.
When making your decision, factor in the potential resale value and customization options of the guitar. This consideration can help you make a more informed investment, especially if you plan to upgrade or sell the instrument in the future.
Best Multiscale Guitar for Metal: Conclusion
You’ve got the rundown on multiscale guitars and their key role in metal music. Armed with a list of nine great picks and a handy buyer’s guide, you’re all set to make a smart choice.
Remember, the optimal multiscale guitar for you hinges on your individual needs and style.
Extended Range Metal Guitars: FAQ
Below are a few frequently asked questions about multiscale guitars for metal.
Is Multiscale Better for Metal?
You’ll find multiscale guitars excel for metal. Their ergonomic design enhances playability, while optimized string tension improves tone precision. The fanned fret configuration facilitates extended range tunings, offering superior intonation and clarity for modern metal techniques.
What Type of Guitar Should I Get for Metal?
For metal, you’ll want a guitar with high-output humbuckers, possibly active pickups. Consider mahogany or alder bodies with maple necks. Opt for fixed bridges or Floyd Rose tremolos. Explore extended range options for lower tunings.
What Are the Disadvantages of Multiscale Guitars?
You’ll face tuning complexity with multiscale guitars, requiring specialized skills. Repair challenges arise due to their unique construction. Limited availability restricts your options, and you may encounter difficulties finding compatible aftermarket parts or qualified technicians for maintenance and modifications.
Is It Hard to Get Used to Multiscale Guitar?
You’ll encounter a learning curve as you adapt to multiscale guitars. Your finger placement and muscle memory will require recalibration. The fanned frets demand precise technique adjustments, but with practice, you’ll master the ergonomic advantages and tonal benefits.
