Solar Guitars S1.7C+

Hands-On Test: Solar Guitars S1.7C+

The Solar Guitars S1.7C+ positions itself in the high-performance seven-string market with a focus on modern playability, robust construction, and a streamlined set of pro features. With a price tag of $1,444 and a spec sheet targeting technical players, this model from Solar Guitars aims at guitarists who demand precision and reliability.

Construction and Materials

The body is made of alder, a staple for balanced tone, offering a clear midrange without excessive weight. There is no separate top. The black matte finish is paired with subtle white binding, giving the S1.7C+ a minimalist yet refined appearance. Build quality stands out on first inspection. There are no visible finish flaws or misalignments. The electronics cavity and hardware seats are clean and precise, a reflection of high manufacturing standards.

• Body: Alder
• Finish: Carbon Matte
• Binding: White

Neck and Playability

The five-piece set-in neck combines maple and jatoba, designed for both stability and feel. The neck's "C" shape profile fits snugly in the hand, a near-perfect compromise between shred-friendly contour and support for chord work. The ebony fingerboard features a flat 400 mm (15.74") radius and is topped with 24 super jumbo frets, allowing for low string action and effortless bends. The fret installation is precise; no sharp edges or high spots. The Solar logo at the 12th fret and tasteful position markers improve orientation without being ostentatious. The PPS nut ensures tuning stability and smooth play across the fretboard. At 673 mm (26.5"), the scale is notably longer than standard, providing tight low-end clarity and string tension, addressing typical seven-string concerns.

• Neck: Five-piece Maple/Jatoba set-in
• Fingerboard: Ebony, 24 super jumbo frets
• Radius: 400 mm (15.74")
• Profile: "C" Shape
• Scale Length: 673 mm (26.5")
• Nut: PPS

Hardware and Bridge Stability

A major highlight is the inclusion of the Evertune F-Type bridge: this system is purpose-built to keep the guitar in tune under all conditions, from aggressive rhythm playing to large string bends. With no tremolo to worry about, tuning holds steady even in drop tunings, which is especially important for modern extended-range players. The Solar locking machine heads (18:1 ratio) add another layer of tuning precision. Strings come in the form of Black Smith 0962 nano carbon coated, choice for durability and slick feel. Across two weeks of daily play, tuning fluctuations were minimal even during extended sessions.

• Bridge: Evertune F-Type (fixed, no tremolo)
• Machine Heads: Solar Locking Type, 18:1 ratio
• Strings: Black Smith 0962 Nano Carbon Coated

Pickups and Electronics

The S1.7C+ is fitted with two Duncan Solar+ pickups (bridge and neck). These humbuckers are voiced for clarity and pronounced output, fitting genres from tight, riff-heavy metal to more technical, progressive music. The five-way blade switch adds useful tonal versatility, not commonly found in most HH seven-strings. Coil-split-like signals from certain positions give percussive attack and reduced low-end for intricate clean work. The volume and tone controls have a smooth taper and do not bleed highs when rolled down. In the mix, the pickups exhibit strong note definition and cut through dense arrangements, meeting the demands of advanced arrangement work as alluded to in field feedback.

• Pickup Configuration: Dual humbucker (bridge and neck)
• Model: Duncan Solar+ (both bridge and neck)
• Switch: Five-way blade
• Controls: Volume and Tone

Ergonomics and Practical Considerations

Despite the extended scale and 24-fret layout, the S1.7C+ is well-balanced seated and standing. The carved cutaways offer easy access to upper frets, and the neck joint is sculpted for comfort. With no gig bag or case included, players will need to source their own protection for transport. Hardware is all black, complementing the subdued finish. Overall, the guitar feels streamlined and ready for stage or studio environments.

Field Impressions

Owners report satisfaction with both sound and build. The fretwork and finishes arrive immaculate. The signature Duncan Solar+ pickups receive particular mention for their compatibility with recording and live use, making the S1.7C+ a reliable choice for both studio and stage.

Verdict

The Solar Guitars S1.7C+ delivers a blend of robust construction, performance hardware, and flexible electronics suited for advanced seven-string players. The Evertune bridge and tuning hardware offer reliability, while the pickup system and control layout enable tonal exploration without complication. Priced at $1,444, this instrument reflects meticulous attention to player needs in the extended-range category. For musicians requiring stability, clarity, and modern features, the S1.7C+ stands as a compelling contender in its class.