How to Play a 7-String Guitar for Beginners: Tuning & Riffs

Learning how to play a 7 string guitar opens up a new world of musical possibilities. Whether you're interested in heavy metal, progressive rock, djent, jazz, or modern guitar techniques, a seven-string guitar gives you an extended tonal range that a traditional six-string guitar cannot offer in standard tuning.

For beginners, the idea of adding another string might seem intimidating. However, playing a 7-string guitar is easier than you might think, especially if you already understand basic guitar chords, scales, and picking techniques.

In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about how to play a 7-string guitar for beginners, including standard tuning, essential chords, simple riffs, picking techniques, and practical exercises to help you get started.

What Is a 7-String Guitar?

A 7-string guitar is an extended-range guitar that features one additional string compared to a traditional six-string electric guitar.

Most seven-string guitars add a lower-pitched string, allowing guitarists to play deeper bass notes while maintaining the familiar tuning and chord shapes of a standard guitar.

This expanded range makes seven-string guitars particularly popular among musicians who want heavier riffs, extended chord voicings, and greater creative flexibility.

6-String vs. 7-String Guitar: What's the Difference?

The main difference between a six-string and seven-string guitar is the additional low string.

A standard six-string guitar uses the tuning:

E – A – D – G – B – E

A standard seven-string guitar uses:

B – E – A – D – G – B – E

The extra low B string extends the instrument's range by a perfect fourth below the traditional low E string.

This means you can still play familiar six-string chords and scales while exploring additional low notes.

For guitarists who enjoy modern metal, progressive music, or heavier guitar tones, this expanded range can be especially useful.

How to Tune a 7-String Guitar

Before learning chords or riffs, understanding 7 string guitar tuning is essential.

The most common tuning for a seven-string guitar is B standard.

Standard 7-String Guitar Tuning (B Standard)

From the thickest string to the thinnest string, the notes are:

7th string: B
6th string: E
5th string: A
4th string: D
3rd string: G
2nd string: B
1st string: E

This tuning preserves the standard six-string guitar layout while adding an extra low B string.

If you're transitioning from a six-string guitar, this makes the learning process much easier.

How to Tune Your 7-String Guitar Step by Step

Step 1: Use a chromatic tuner

A chromatic tuner helps you accurately identify each note, including the lower frequencies of the seventh string.

Step 2: Start with the low B string

Tune the thickest string to B1. This is the additional string that extends the guitar's lower range.

Step 3: Tune the remaining six strings

Tune the other strings to E2, A2, D3, G3, B3, and E4, just like a standard six-string guitar.

Step 4: Check your tuning again

After tuning all seven strings, check each string once more to ensure the instrument stays in tune.

Other Popular 7-String Guitar Tunings

Once you're comfortable with standard tuning, you can experiment with alternative tunings.

Drop A Tuning: A – E – A – D – G – B – E

Drop A lowers the seventh string from B to A, making it easier to play low power chords using a single finger across the lowest two or three strings.

A Standard Tuning: A – D – G – C – F – A – D

A standard lowers every string by one whole step compared to B standard, creating a deeper overall sound.

Drop G Tuning: G – D – G – C – F – A – D

Drop G is another low-tuning option used in heavier styles of music.

Remember that significantly lower tunings may require appropriate string gauges and adjustments to your guitar's setup.

How to Play a 7-String Guitar for Beginners

The good news is that you don't need to relearn everything you know about guitar.

The top six strings of a seven-string guitar use the same tuning as a traditional six-string guitar. You can continue using familiar chord shapes, scale patterns, and techniques.

The biggest adjustment is learning how to control the additional low B string.

1. Get Comfortable with the Wider Neck

A seven-string guitar typically has a wider neck to accommodate the additional string.

At first, this might feel unusual, especially if you've spent years playing a six-string instrument.

Start by practicing basic finger exercises across all seven strings.

Keep your fretting hand relaxed and position your thumb comfortably behind the neck.

Avoid applying unnecessary pressure, as this can lead to fatigue during longer practice sessions.

2. Practice Picking Across Seven Strings

Picking accuracy becomes increasingly important when playing an extended-range guitar.

Start with a simple alternate-picking exercise.

Play each open string individually, starting from the seventh string and moving toward the first string.

Then reverse the direction.

Focus on maintaining consistent timing and clean articulation.

This exercise helps develop familiarity with the extra string and improves your overall picking control.

3. Learn to Mute the Low B String

String muting is one of the most important skills when learning how to play a 7 string electric guitar.

Because the seventh string produces lower frequencies, unwanted string vibrations can make your guitar sound muddy.

Use your picking-hand palm to lightly mute strings near the bridge when appropriate.

You can also use your fretting hand to mute strings that aren't being played.

Effective muting is especially important when playing high-gain guitar tones and heavy riffs.

Easy 7-String Guitar Chords for Beginners

One of the advantages of a seven-string guitar is that most traditional six-string chord shapes still work.

You can play familiar chords such as E minor, A minor, C major, and G major using the upper six strings.

The extra seventh string also allows you to experiment with lower chord voicings.

B5 Power Chord

A B5 power chord is an excellent starting point for seven-string guitar players.

In B standard tuning, you can play a low B5 power chord using:

7th string: Open B
6th string: 2nd fret (F#)
5th string: 2nd fret (B)

Play only these three strings.

This creates a powerful, low-register sound that works well for rock and metal rhythm guitar.

E5 Power Chord

You can also play a familiar E5 power chord using:

6th string: Open E
5th string: 2nd fret (B)
4th string: 2nd fret (E)

Avoid striking the seventh string unless you intentionally want to include the lower B note.

Practice Tip: Move Between Power Chords

Practice switching between B5 and E5 at a slow tempo.

Start with a metronome set to 60 BPM and gradually increase the speed as your accuracy improves.

The goal is to produce clean, controlled chord transitions without unwanted string noise.

Easy 7-String Guitar Riffs to Practice

Once you're comfortable with basic chords, it's time to explore some simple seven-string guitar riffs.

The additional low B string makes it possible to create powerful rhythmic patterns that are especially effective in modern metal and progressive rock.

Beginner Riff 1: Low B Rhythm Exercise

This exercise uses the seventh string in B standard tuning.

e|-------------------------|
B|-------------------------|
G|-------------------------|
D|-------------------------|
A|-------------------------|
E|-------------------------|
B|-0-0-3-0-5-0-3-0---------|

Start slowly and focus on playing each note clearly.

Try adding light palm muting to the open-string notes while allowing the fretted notes to ring more naturally.

This creates a rhythmic contrast commonly used in heavier guitar styles.

Beginner Riff 2: Two-String Power Riff

This exercise combines the seventh and sixth strings.

e|-------------------------|
B|-------------------------|
G|-------------------------|
D|-------------------------|
A|-------------------------|
E|-2---2---5---4-----------|
B|-0---0---3---2-----------|

Play both notes in each pair simultaneously.

Focus on keeping your fretting hand relaxed while maintaining consistent picking dynamics.

This exercise introduces the power-chord shapes frequently used in extended-range guitar playing.

Beginner Riff 3: Alternate Picking Exercise

Use the low B string to improve your picking coordination.

e|-------------------------|
B|-------------------------|
G|-------------------------|
D|-------------------------|
A|-------------------------|
E|-------------------------|
B|-0-1-2-3-3-2-1-0---------|

Practice using alternate picking: downstroke, upstroke, downstroke, upstroke.

Use a metronome and increase the tempo gradually.

Accuracy and control are more important than speed.

Essential Techniques for Playing a 7-String Guitar

Learning a seven-string guitar involves more than simply adding lower notes to your playing.

Developing proper technique helps you take advantage of the instrument's extended range.

Palm Muting

Palm muting is especially useful for controlling low-frequency notes.

Rest the edge of your picking hand lightly against the strings near the bridge.

Experiment with different amounts of pressure to achieve a tight, percussive sound.

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking improves speed, accuracy, and consistency.

Practice alternating downstrokes and upstrokes across all seven strings.

Start slowly and gradually increase the tempo.

String Skipping

String skipping helps develop picking precision.

Try playing notes on the seventh string and then jumping to the fourth or third string without touching the strings in between.

This exercise can improve coordination and help you create more interesting riffs.

Finger Independence

A wider fretboard may require small adjustments to your fretting-hand technique.

Practice chromatic exercises using all four fingers.

Focus on smooth movements and avoid excessive tension.

Common Mistakes When Learning a 7-String Guitar

Beginners often encounter a few challenges when transitioning to an extended-range guitar.

1. Ignoring string muting

The extra low string can create unwanted noise if it isn't properly controlled. Practice muting with both hands.

2. Playing too fast too soon

Speed develops through consistent practice. Focus on accuracy before increasing tempo.

3. Using too much gain

Excessive distortion can make low notes sound unclear. Experiment with moderate gain settings and adjust your EQ for better definition.

4. Neglecting the upper strings

A seven-string guitar isn't just for heavy low riffs. Continue practicing melodies, chords, and solos on the higher strings.

5. Overlooking guitar setup

String tension, action, intonation, and neck relief can affect playability. Make sure your guitar is properly set up for your preferred tuning.

Is a 7-String Guitar Good for Beginners?

Yes, a seven-string guitar can be a good choice for beginners, particularly those interested in metal, progressive rock, and other genres that use extended-range instruments.

Although the wider neck and additional string require some adjustment, the fundamental techniques remain largely the same.

Beginners can still learn basic chords, scales, rhythm patterns, and lead guitar techniques.

If you're starting from scratch, focus on building a solid foundation before attempting complex riffs or advanced techniques.

Consistency is more important than practicing for long periods.

Even 20–30 minutes of focused daily practice can help you develop familiarity with the instrument.

Choosing Your First 7-String Electric Guitar

Choosing the right instrument can make the learning process more enjoyable.

When looking for a beginner-friendly seven-string guitar, consider factors such as neck comfort, tuning stability, string action, pickup response, and overall playability.

A comfortable neck and properly adjusted string action can make chord transitions and scale exercises easier.

Clear pickup response is also useful when practicing low-register riffs, especially with distorted guitar tones.

If you're exploring extended-range electric guitars, the Scorpion SE700 7-String Electric Guitar is one option to consider.

Whether you're practicing your first low B riffs or developing more advanced rhythm guitar techniques, selecting an instrument that suits your playing style is an important part of the journey.

Explore the Scorpion SE700 7-String Electric Guitar to learn more about the instrument.

Want to compare more models? Read our Scorpion electric guitar guide.

7-String Guitar Practice Routine for Beginners

Developing a consistent practice routine is one of the best ways to improve.

Here's a simple 30-minute practice plan designed for beginners.

30-minute beginner practice plan
Practice Activity	Duration
Tuning and warm-up	5 minutes
Alternate picking exercises	5 minutes
Basic power chords	5 minutes
Low B string riffs	10 minutes
Free playing and experimentation	5 minutes

Start at a comfortable tempo and gradually increase the difficulty as your technique improves.

Record yourself occasionally to identify timing issues, unwanted string noise, or areas that need additional practice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Playing a 7-String Guitar

Is a 7-string guitar harder to play than a 6-string?

A seven-string guitar can feel slightly more challenging because of its wider neck and additional string. However, the basic playing techniques are similar, making the transition manageable with regular practice.

Can beginners learn on a 7-string guitar?

Yes. Beginners can start directly with a seven-string guitar. Learning basic chords, picking techniques, scales, and proper string muting will help build a strong foundation.

What is the standard tuning for a 7-string guitar?

The most common standard tuning is B–E–A–D–G–B–E, from the lowest string to the highest string.

Can you play normal guitar chords on a 7-string guitar?

Yes. Most standard six-string guitar chords can be played on the upper six strings of a seven-string guitar. You simply need to mute or avoid the additional low B string when necessary.

What music genres use 7-string guitars?

Seven-string guitars are commonly used in metal, progressive metal, djent, rock, jazz, and fusion. Their extended range allows musicians to explore deeper riffs and more complex chord voicings.

Do I need special guitar strings for a 7-string guitar?

Yes. Seven-string guitars require a seven-string set or an appropriate combination of individual strings. The ideal string gauge depends on your tuning, scale length, and preferred playing feel. See our guitar string gauge guide for more detail.

Final Thoughts: Start Your 7-String Guitar Journey

Learning how to play a 7 string guitar is an exciting way to expand your musical creativity.

By understanding standard tuning, practicing essential chords, developing picking accuracy, and learning to control the low B string, you can gradually become comfortable with the instrument's extended range.

Remember that mastering a seven-string guitar takes time, patience, and consistent practice.

Start with simple exercises, experiment with different riffs, and explore the sounds that inspire you.

Ready to explore the extended range of a seven-string electric guitar?

Discover the Scorpion SE700 7-String Electric Guitar and explore more electric guitars at Scorpion Guitar.