Guitar Gear ReviewsStrandberg Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK
The Strandberg Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK delivers exceptional ergonomics, forward-thinking design, and tonal versatility. It stands out for its playability and quality hardware.
★★★★★ 5/5 · 2 buyer reviews · 6 min read · updated 2026-09-19 · Tested by Cal Whitaker
Shipping and duties
The retailer ships from its warehouse in Germany. Prices are shown in US dollars and do not include import duties. Orders under roughly $800 usually clear US customs without duty; above that, a duty of a few percent may be collected on delivery. 30-day money-back and a 3-year warranty apply.
Scores by area
Where it shines, where it stumbles
What convinced me
- Excellent ergonomics with a lightweight, compact, and headless design
- High-quality stainless steel frets and robust maple construction
- Versatile Suhr Aldrich double-coil pickups with wide tonal options
- Smooth Strandberg EGS Rev 7B tremolo system
- Comfortable EndurNeck profile enhances playability
What bugged me
- Matte finish becomes glossy in some areas with use
- Notable volume drop in intermediate pickup positions
- Unconventional aesthetic may not suit all genres
Is it the right one for you?
Good pick if
Ideal for progressive rock, metal, and fusion players seeking ergonomic design and modern playability. Great for guitarists looking for a lightweight instrument for long rehearsals or gigs, or those who appreciate advanced features like multi-scale length and the EndurNeck profile.Look elsewhere if
Not for lovers of traditional guitar styling or genres where classic looks are preferred, such as some country or vintage blues settings. Also less suited to players who prioritize uniform pickup output across all positions without making setup adjustments.Suggested level: Professional
Specifications
- Number of strings
- 6
- Style
- misc.
- Color
- Black
- Body
- Linden
- Top
- Maple
- Neck
- Maple
- Fretboard
- Richlite
- Frets
- 24
- Long scale
- 648 mm
- Short scale
- 635 mm
- Pickups
- HH
- Active pickups
- No
- Vibrato
- Da
- Including case
- No
What other players say
Customers praise the Boden Metal NX 6 for its excellent ergonomics, light weight, and versatile tone options enabled by the Suhr Aldrich pickups. The guitar's comfortable playability, both standing and seated, stands out as a highlight, with users reporting increased practice time. Some comment critically on finish durability and volume changes between pickup positions, but most describe the overall experience as positive and the hardware as high quality.
I can play seated or standing, without discomfort. It's lightweight. The reduced length (headless) means it's always nearby: I pick it up whenever I feel like playing.
The intermediate pickup combinations are very interesting in terms of sound variety, but there's a noticeable volume difference. A bit unfortunate.
The EndurNeck takes some getting used to, but after a short time you won't want to go back.
Up close
Watch and listen
Questions players ask
Is the Boden Metal NX 6 comfortable to play for long periods?
Yes, its lightweight body, ergonomic contours, and headless design make it easy to play standing or sitting without discomfort.
Does it include a case or gig bag?
Yes, a quality gig bag is included with the guitar for easy and safe transport.
Can the pickup output be adjusted for better balance?
Yes, the Suhr Aldrich double-coil pickups can be raised or lowered to achieve more balanced output volumes between positions.
Who is the EndurNeck profile suited for?
The EndurNeck profile is designed for ergonomic comfort; although it may feel strange at first, most players find it very comfortable after a short period.
Is this guitar suited for traditional genres such as country?
While it is highly versatile, the futuristic look may not fit traditional country bands or genres favoring classic designs.
Overview: Strandberg Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK
The Strandberg Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK represents the Swedish brand's unique approach to electric guitar design. Featuring a six-string, headless layout with a solid basswood body, solid maple top and back, and the visually distinctive Black Granite matte finish, this instrument targets players who value ergonomics, tonal versatility, and futuristic engineering. At a price of $1844, it is positioned as a professional-grade choice. The model comes with a multi-scale maple neck, 24 stainless steel frets, and a richlite fingerboard with luminescent green inlays, providing clear visibility on dark stages.
Ergonomics and Design
Strandberg guitars are well-known for their comfort-focused design, and the Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK continues this tradition. The headless construction shortens the overall length, making the guitar very manageable both sitting and standing. With the signature EndurNeck profile (complete maple construction), the transition between thumb positions feels natural after a short break-in period. The body contouring and overall lightness encourage longer practice sessions and gigging without the usual shoulder or back fatigue.
The multi-scale fingerboard ranges from 25 to 25.5 inches (635 mm to 648 mm), which improves string tension balance and playability, especially for technical or extended-range styles. The use of a richlite fingerboard offers a smooth surface with excellent stability across climate changes. The 24 stainless steel frets provide both longevity and a slick, fast feel for bending and vibrato.
- Headless, compact design: easier storage and mobility
- Basswood body, maple top/back: punchy midrange, clear articulation
- EndurNeck profile: ergonomic for intensive playing
- Richlite fingerboard: climate-resistant and stable
- Luminescent green inlays: easy navigation in low light
Finish and Build Quality
The matte black granite finish complements the guitar's modern appearance, but it does show some practical limitations. After extensive use, the area near the pickup selector picks up finger oils, gradually becoming glossier than the rest of the body, creating a visible contrast. This is a purely aesthetic concern, but those seeking a uniform look will notice it quickly.
Electronics and Hardware
The Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK features two Suhr Aldrich humbuckers, controlled by a five-way switch, along with master volume and tone controls. The humbucker, humbucker setup is proven and reliable, with the Suhr Aldrich models delivering a tight, high-output voice suited for heavy genres but with enough clarity for cleans.
Position 1 and 5 on the switch (full neck or bridge humbucker) provide the expected power for solos and riffing. Intermediate positions mix split and parallel configurations, making the guitar extremely versatile. However, there is a noticeable drop in output volume in some of these in-between settings, which may require adjustment on the amplifier or pedalboard during performance. Some users found that raising the pickups helped bring the overall output to professional standards, especially straight out of the box.
- Dual Suhr Aldrich humbuckers: aggressive, articulate response
- Five-way selector: broad tonal palette but some volume imbalances
- Active electronics: none (purely passive set)
- EGS Rev 7B tremolo and locking nut: tuning stability for modern playing
- D'Addario NYXL 0.010, 0.046: factory string set
Tremolo System
The EGS Rev 7B tremolo offers smooth action and reliable tuning stability, due in part to the integrated string lock mechanisms. The combination allows expressive pitch variation without the nightmare of intonation drift. Strandberg's bridge design is intuitive to adjust and sturdy, suitable for both subtle vibrato and more extreme whammy techniques.
Playability and Everyday Use
Owners of the Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK often report an increase in their practice time and general guitar usage after purchase. Its weight and compact profile make it a daily companion, as it can be kept conveniently within reach and picked up at any moment. On stage, its distinctive look stands out, and the ergonomic advantages allow for main-guitar status even in demanding setlists. The included gig bag is robust and lightweight, adding to transport ease, but a hard case must be purchased separately if extra protection is needed.
The EndurNeck profile can feel unusual at first, but after a few sessions, most players find its sculpting promotes better hand health and speed, especially on multi-scale fretboards.
Limitations and Considerations
- Finish durability: Matte finish becomes glossy in high-contact zones, causing mismatched sheen.
- Volume offsets: Noticeable drop in output in intermediate pickup settings, may require live or studio workarounds.
- Visual style: Highly modern design may not fit all stage aesthetics, particularly in traditional genres.
Despite minor drawbacks, in terms of usability, comfort, and tonal versatility, the Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK excels. Professional service, such as the at-shop trialing experience reported, is a bonus point when choosing Strandberg instruments through retailers.
Conclusion
The Strandberg Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK is a purpose-built, ergonomic instrument for advanced players needing flexibility and comfort across multiple styles. The innovative neck, multi-scale layout, and high-grade hardware make it a serious contender for both performance and studio roles. While a few issues related to finish wear and pickup balancing exist, these are small compared to the overall consistency, playability, and sonic breadth this guitar delivers for the price.
The last word from the bench
The Strandberg Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK excels in comfort and modern features, making it ideal for extended playing sessions on stage or at home. The Suhr Aldrich pickups and the unique EndurNeck contour provide exceptional feel and sound. While the volume difference in certain pickup positions is noticeable and the matte finish may fade with contact, these drawbacks don't overshadow the guitar's strengths. It's a forward-thinking instrument best suited for creative players prioritizing modern design, versatility, and convenience.
Hanging next to it
Before you decide
Strandberg Boden Metal NX 6 Tremolo BK
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