Headless guitars might look a bit strange at first. But once you get past the looks, you realize they can be incredibly comfortable and stable, especially when you throw in a multiscale design. Multiscale, or fanned fret, guitars offer better intonation and string tension, making them a joy to play. Combining these two features gives you an instrument that’s both ergonomic and sounds fantastic. Let’s explore some of the best headless multiscale guitars available right now.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Strandberg Boden Fusion NX 6 Tremolo: Premium build, versatile tones, tremolo system.
- Kiesel Zeus Multiscale Headless: Highly customizable, USA-made, exceptional quality.
- Legator Ninja Performance N6FX-200 Pro MS: Aggressive design, high-output pickups, shred-ready.
- Ibanez Q547: Affordable, lightweight, comfortable neck, great for beginners.
- Solar Guitars AB2.6MS Canibalismo: Striking finish, powerful pickups, metal-focused.
Top 5 Best Headless Multiscale Guitars
1. Strandberg Boden Fusion NX 6 Tremolo
The Strandberg Boden Fusion NX 6 Tremolo is a top-tier headless multiscale guitar known for its lightweight construction and exceptional playability. This guitar features a chambered alder body with a maple top and a roasted maple neck, offering a balanced and resonant tone. The Fishman Fluence Modern humbuckers provide a wide range of tones suitable for various musical styles.
Pros:
- ✅ Lightweight and ergonomic design
- ✅ Versatile Fishman Fluence pickups
- ✅ Excellent build quality and hardware
Cons:
- ❌ High price point
- ❌ Some may not like the EndurNeck profile
- ❌ Limited color options
Verdict: The Strandberg Boden Fusion NX 6 Tremolo is perfect for professional musicians and serious hobbyists looking for a high-performance, versatile instrument.
2. Kiesel Zeus Multiscale Headless
The Kiesel Zeus Multiscale Headless is a highly customizable guitar made in the USA. You can choose from a wide variety of woods, finishes, and hardware options to create a truly unique instrument. Kiesel guitars are known for their exceptional quality and attention to detail. I remember when a friend got one; the wait time was long, but he said it was worth every second.
Pros:
- ✅ Highly customizable
- ✅ USA-made quality
- ✅ Excellent playability and tone
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive depending on options
- ❌ Long lead times for custom orders
- ❌ Resale value can be lower than some other brands
Verdict: The Kiesel Zeus Multiscale Headless is ideal for players who want a custom-built, high-quality instrument tailored to their specific preferences.
3. Legator Ninja Performance N6FX-200 Pro MS
The Legator Ninja Performance N6FX-200 Pro MS is designed for high-performance playing and aggressive tones. This guitar features a mahogany body, a maple neck, and Legator's own high-output pickups. The multiscale design provides optimal string tension for fast and comfortable playing. I saw one of these at a guitar show and was immediately drawn to its sharp, modern look.
Pros:
- ✅ Aggressive design and high-output pickups
- ✅ Comfortable neck profile
- ✅ Good value for the price
Cons:
- ❌ Pickups may be too hot for some styles
- ❌ Finish options are limited
- ❌ Hardware quality is not as high as some other brands
Verdict: The Legator Ninja Performance N6FX-200 Pro MS is a great choice for metal and hard rock players looking for a shred-ready guitar on a budget.
4. Ibanez Q547
The Ibanez Q547 is an affordable and versatile headless multiscale guitar. It's part of the Ibanez Quest series, known for its lightweight design and comfortable playability. The Q547 features a nyatoh body, a roasted maple neck, and Ibanez's Q58 humbuckers, which provide a wide range of tones. I recommended this to a student who was on a budget, and he's been thrilled with it.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point
- ✅ Lightweight and comfortable
- ✅ Versatile pickups
Cons:
- ❌ Some may prefer a different neck profile
- ❌ Hardware is not as high-end as more expensive models
- ❌ Limited finish options
Verdict: The Ibanez Q547 is an excellent option for beginners and intermediate players looking for an affordable and comfortable headless multiscale guitar.
5. Solar Guitars AB2.6MS Canibalismo
The Solar Guitars AB2.6MS Canibalismo stands out with its striking finish and aggressive styling. Designed for metal players, this guitar features a mahogany body, a maple neck, and Solar's high-output pickups. The multiscale design provides optimal string tension for heavy riffing and shredding. Solar Guitars are designed by Ola Englund, a well-known figure in the metal community.
Pros:
- ✅ Striking finish and aggressive styling
- ✅ Powerful high-output pickups
- ✅ Good value for the features
Cons:
- ❌ Not as versatile as some other guitars
- ❌ Some may find the neck too thin
- ❌ Quality control can vary
Verdict: The Solar Guitars AB2.6MS Canibalismo is a great choice for metal players who want a visually stunning and high-performance instrument.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right headless multiscale guitar depends on your playing style, budget, and personal preferences. Here are a few things to consider:
- Budget: Headless multiscale guitars can range from affordable to very expensive. Decide how much you're willing to spend before you start shopping.
- Playing Style: Consider the type of music you play. Some guitars are better suited for metal, while others are more versatile.
- Pickups: The pickups play a big role in the guitar's tone. Research different pickup types and choose ones that match your desired sound.
- Neck Profile: The neck profile affects the comfort and playability of the guitar. Try different neck profiles to see what feels best in your hand.
- Scale Length: Multiscale guitars have different scale lengths for each string. Consider the range and how it impacts the tension and feel.
- Hardware: Look for high-quality hardware, such as tuners and bridges, for better stability and reliability.
- Weight: Headless guitars are often lighter than traditional guitars, but weight can still vary. Consider how comfortable the guitar will be to play for extended periods.
FAQs
Q: What are the benefits of a headless guitar?
A: Headless guitars are often lighter, more compact, and have better tuning stability compared to traditional guitars.
Q: What is a multiscale guitar?
A: A multiscale guitar, also known as a fanned fret guitar, has different scale lengths for each string, which improves intonation and string tension.
Q: Are headless multiscale guitars difficult to play?
A: Not necessarily. Some players find them more comfortable due to the ergonomic design and improved string tension. It might take some getting used to, but many find it worth the effort.
Q: What kind of strings do I need for a headless guitar?
A: You'll need double-ball end strings or single-ball end strings with an adapter for headless guitars.
Q: Are headless guitars good for beginners?
A: Yes, some headless guitars like the Ibanez Q547 are excellent for beginners due to their comfortable design and affordability.
Conclusion
Headless multiscale guitars offer a unique playing experience with improved ergonomics, intonation, and tuning stability. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, there's a headless multiscale guitar out there for you. Consider your budget, playing style, and personal preferences when making your decision, and you'll be sure to find the perfect instrument to take your playing to the next level. Good luck!
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