Splurge, save, steal: Ibanez seven strings

This premium axe takes the seven-string back to where it all started: Steve Vai's 1990 Universe.

The UV70P adds an Edge-Zero II locking vibrato, while three Ibanez Blade pickups provide the tonal firepower. Whether you can pull off the neon green is another matter...

Read more: Ibanez AE255BT

Assuming the classic RG outline, this axe rams an extra string into the lightning-fast format, as well as an uber-cool killswitch, plus EMG humbuckers and your choice of hardtail bridge or Edge-Zero II vibrato. If metal is your stock in trade, the RGIR27E delivers the goods.

Seven strings, two humbuckers, 24 frets... for £209 ($349)?

At this price, there's no excuse not to give that extra string a whirl, and with Ibanez promising the same inspection and setups as its more expensive models, this Gio's playability should be as slick as its Black Night finish.