For tracking modern metal, the John Browne Tao series offers a lot of control. Fishman Fluence pickups are the core of the electronics, and they are a natural fit for recording heavy, low-tuned and high-gain parts. The Tao-6, Tao-7 and Tao-8 let you pick the string count the song needs.

The extended-range models use multiscale fanned frets, a design that helps keep low strings clear and defined. That matters in a dense mix, where muddy low notes crowd out the kick and bass. Seven and eight-string parts can stay articulate when you stack rhythm tracks.

Left-handed versions mean lefty players can record with the same signature specs. The series suits producers and guitarists working in progressive and technical metal. Studio Gears carries it in roughly the $1,599 to $1,849 range, in Ozone Burst and Satin Trans Purple.