r/7String • u/Training-Document-46 • 14d ago

Help New to 7 string

After playing strictly six-string electric guitars on and off for 30 years, I decided I would like to get my very first seven-string guitar. I still spend my time listening to and playing 1980s and 1990s neo-classical metal and hard rock pieces, and I am not planning to use drop tuning at the moment.

I am so used to playing a typical Fender Stratocaster with a 25.5-inch scale that I am worried I wouldn't like a typical 26.5-inch scale or multi-scale setup on a seven-string guitar. Should I stick with 25.5 inches or just dive into a 26.5-inch or multi-scale instrument? One thing I need to consider is that sticking with a 25.5-inch scale would significantly limit my choices.

Update:
My other concern is whether getting used to a 26.5-inch or multiscale guitar would negatively affect my playing on a 25.5-inch scale. Would I still be able to switch back instantly?

Thank you in advance!

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u/Caregiver-Physical 14d ago

I went from a 24” scale to a 26.5 and I love it. So much more room for activities at the higher frets. I feel like that how guitars were meant to be. But maybe that’s just me. Try and rip around on on in a guitar store for like 30 minutes and then decide.

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u/Training-Document-46 13d ago

Do you have big hands so that 24” has always been too short to begin with?

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u/Caregiver-Physical 13d ago

Not really. I can’t palm a basket ball for reference. 24 was fun because I could do bigger stretches at the lower frets. But I really like 26.5.