8 String Guitar
Welcome guitar enthusiasts! If you’re looking to expand your musical horizons, have we got the article for you! Dive into the world of 8-string guitars — a unique and uncharted territory of tonal and sonic possibilities. Our roundup will guide you through the best 8-string guitars on the market, helping you discover new sounds and styles. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, join us as we explore this exciting realm of six-strings taken to the next level.
The Top 12 Best 8 String Guitar
- Ibanez RGMS8 Multi-Scale 8 String Electric Guitar — Black — Experience exceptional tone and playability with the Ibanez RGMS8 Multi Scale Electric Guitar — Black, featuring a Wizard III 5pc Maple/Walnut neck, Jatoba fretboard, Array-8 MS pickups, and a Mono-rail bridge that minimizes cross-talk between strings.
- Purple 8-String Electric Guitar with Ash Body and High-Output Humbuckers — The Legator N8FP 8-String Electric Guitar Iris Fade, Purple boasts a versatile, aggressive sound and comfortable playability in an extended-range format, making it a perfect addition to any modern player’s arsenal.
- Ernie Ball Music Man John Petrucci Majesty 8-String Guitar — Wisteria Blossom — Experience the versatile sound and comfort of the 8-string Majesty Wisteria Blossom Guitar, featuring multi-scale fretboard, custom DiMarzio Dreamcatcher and Rainmaker pickups, and a piezo bridge system for a comprehensive tonal range.
- Ghost 8-String Multi-Scale x Series Electric Guitar — Black Widow — Experience unparalleled playability with the Legator G8FX Ghost, featuring a 5-piece wenge/maple neck, Buckeye burl top, and dual Fishman humbuckers, perfect for shredding enthusiasts and multi-scale guitarists.
- High-Performance 8-String Electric Guitar for Advanced Players — Unleash your inner rock star with the Legator G8FP Ghost Performance 8, an 8-string electric guitar designed for ultimate playability and a powerful sound, all in a sleek, modern design.
- Legator N8FOD Ninja Overdrive 8-String Arctic Electric Guitar — Experience the perfect blend of speed, technique, and comfort with the Legator N8FOD Ninja Overdrive 8 8-string electric guitar, designed for exceptional tone and balanced tension on a monorail bridge, right-handed and lightweight body for shredders.
- ESP LTD Javier Reyes JRV-8FR 8-String Electric Guitar — Metallic Gold — Experience the ultimate fusion of power and versatility with the ESP LTD Javier Reyes JRV-8FR 8-string electric guitar, crafted for adventurous players seeking unparalleled tonal expression and unmatched precision.
- Strandberg Boden Standard NX 8 Luxury 8-String Electric Guitar — Experience the versatility of the Strandberg Boden Standard NX 8 Electric Guitar, 8-String, Blue, a lightweight and powerful 8-string with hum-canceling pickups and a wide range of stunning sounds.
- Legator Ninja N8FX 8-String Electric Guitar with Ebony Fretboard and Multi-Voiced Pickups — Experience unmatched versatility and exceptional sound with the Legator N8FX Ninja, featuring an 8-string electric guitar that combines a lightweight body, a precision-crafted wenge/maple neck, and revolutionary Fishman Fluence Modern pickups.
- ESP LTD Javier Reyes JR-208 8-String Electric Guitar — Black — Unleash your creativity with the ESP LTD Javier Reyes JR-208 8-String Electric Guitar in Black, featuring an extended 27" scale, ESP Designed pickups, and a versatile 3-way pickup selector for unmatched performance.
- Eight-String Guitar: ESP LTD JR-608 Javier Reyes — The ESP LTD Javier Reyes JR-608 8-string electric guitar in Faded Blue Sunburst offers a stunning design, custom Dimarzio JR pickups, and premium hardware, perfect for players aiming to replicate the versatile style of the legendary guitarist.
- Custom Koa 8-String Baritone Acoustic-Electric Guitar — Experience the perfect combination of tones with Taylor Custom Grand Symphony All Koa Baritone 8-String, a masterfully crafted acoustic-electric guitar that brings the warmth of a bass and the clarity of a guitar to life.
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Reviews
🔗Ibanez RGMS8 Multi-Scale 8 String Electric Guitar — Black
The Ibanez RGMS8 Multi Scale 8 String Electric Guitar in Black has been a game-changer in my guitar collection. It features a Wizard III 5pc Maple/Walnut neck, Jatoba fretboard, Jumbo frets, and a Nyatoh body. One of the standout features for me was the Array-8 MS pickups, which provide a super tight and low noise tone.
The Mono-rail bridge is another innovative feature that offers both stability and sustain, minimizing cross-talk between strings. The highlight for me, however, was the multi-scale frets (27.26"/25.5"), which create an equalized tension for a lively, open tone. The ergonomics are on point, with the slanted frets matching the player’s hand angles, making it easy to shred in high frets.
While the RGMS8 is a niche guitar, I’ve found it to be an excellent choice for anyone interested in multi-scale guitars. It delivers high-quality sound and playability at a more affordable price point. If Ibanez were to release a high-end model with upgraded features, I would be all for it. Overall, the Ibanez RGMS8 has greatly expanded my sonic possibilities and has become a trusted companion for my musical endeavors.
🔗Purple 8-String Electric Guitar with Ash Body and High-Output Humbuckers
I recently had the pleasure of playing the Legator N8FP 8-string Electric Guitar in Iris Fade, Purple. As I strummed the first chord, I was immediately drawn to the guitar’s impeccable craftsmanship and stunning design. The figured ash body not only looks impressive but also contributes to the guitar’s rich, dynamic sound.
One of the standout features is the Legator Hive high-output passive humbuckers, which offer a wide range of tones for versatile playing. The Modern Thin neck profile makes for a smooth, comfortable playing experience, even when transitioning between chords. Additionally, the ergonomic body contours ensure that the guitar feels great, even during extended periods of play.
However, there were a few small drawbacks. The single volume knob and three-way blade switch are simplified, which may not cater to every player’s preference. Furthermore, the stock pickups, while functional, are not the most impressive.
Overall, the Legator N8FP 8-string Electric Guitar is a fantastic instrument for modern players who appreciate a balance of style, craftsmanship, and versatile sound.
🔗Ernie Ball Music Man John Petrucci Majesty 8-String Guitar — Wisteria Blossom
I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Ernie Ball Music Man John Petrucci Majesty 8-string guitar in the Wisteria Blossom finish. This beauty of an instrument features a non-tremolo mahogany neck-through-body, with Okoume wings and a maple shield, all capped off with an ebony fretboard. The 24 stainless steel frets glide across the 27" bass side and traditional 25.5" treble side with ease, providing a comfortable playing experience.
The electronics package is a true standout, with a 3-way selector switch combined with custom-angled DiMarzio Dreamcatcher and Rainmaker pickups, offering a versatile and powerful tone. Additionally, the 3-way toggle with a piezo bridge system adds an extra dimension to the Majesty’s sound, allowing for a wide range of tones to suit any playing style.
While I enjoyed the 8-string model and the versatile sound it offered, there were a few areas that could use some improvement. For starters, the tuners could have been more efficient and easier to adjust. It was also a bit of a challenge to keep in tune while playing, which affected the overall playing experience.
In conclusion, the Ernie Ball Music Man John Petrucci Majesty 8-string guitar in the Wisteria Blossom finish offers a unique and powerful playing experience, thanks to its multi-scale fretboard and versatile electronics. However, the tuneability and tuner quality can be improved to create a truly standout instrument.
🔗Ghost 8-String Multi-Scale x Series Electric Guitar — Black Widow
As a lover of 8-string guitars, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the Legator G8FX Ghost. Its sleek black widow design drew me in, and I was ready to see if it lived up to the hype. The first thing that struck me was the beauty of the Buckeye burl top, glowing in the sunlight, and the ash body supporting it. With a 5-piece wenge/maple neck featuring a Modern C profile and an ebony fingerboard, I knew I was ready to play.
The dual Fishman Fluence Alnico/Ceramic humbuckers were a delight to discover, offering a wide array of tones that seemed to dance under my fingers. The neck felt like a dream, comfortably wide, thin, and flat for an effortless feel. The fretwork was impeccable, adding to my satisfaction with this guitar.
However, the weight of the Legator G8FX Ghost did catch me off guard. Although not as light as some other headless options, it was still manageable with some practice. My only wish would be for a tone control to fine-tune the sound even further, but overall, I’m highly recommending this guitar as a fantastic Strandberg alternative. A great instrument for the price point, with plenty of high-end features included.
🔗High-Performance 8-String Electric Guitar for Advanced Players
In my quest for a versatile and stylish guitar, I stumbled upon the Legator G8FP Ghost Performance 8. This 8-string multi-scale electric guitar, with its Cali Cobalt finish, really caught my eye. The extended-range instrument is designed to cater to modern guitarists in search of a challenge to elevate their playing to new heights.
Upon receiving the guitar, I was immediately impressed by its ergonomic body contours and the fanned fret design, which provided a balanced tension across the entire fretboard without compromising its playability. The ash body gave it a rich, warm sound, while the custom headless bridge and nut enhanced its overall aesthetics.
The Legator Hive high-output passive humbuckers offered an impressive range of tones for me to explore. However, I did notice some limitations when using it for dropping the tuning significantly. It seemed like the bridge couldn’t handle those extreme tones, leading me to question the guitar’s suitability for deep drop tunings.
Despite this issue, I found the guitar to be a worthwhile purchase for players who like to experiment with different tunings or those who prefer to play in standard tuning. I commend Legator for creating an accessible, high-performance guitar that appeals to a broader audience — especially at its price point. Overall, I’m glad to have added the Legator G8FP Ghost Performance 8 to my collection, and it has certainly made a lasting impression.
🔗Legator N8FOD Ninja Overdrive 8-String Arctic Electric Guitar
The Legator N8FOD Ninja Overdrive 8 8-string electric guitar is a sleek and powerful instrument that’s perfect for shredding and enhancing your guitar skills. With its super-fast, ultrathin neck and lightweight body featuring a stunning buckeye burl top, this guitar delivers fantastic tone and a comfortable playing experience.
One of the highlights of this guitar is Legator’s proprietary monorail bridge, which provides balanced tension across the fretboard for effortless playing. The locking tuners and alnico humbucking pickups are another standout feature, providing amazing sound whether you’re shredding, chugging, or laying down a technical solo.
Despite its lower price point, the N8FOD Ninja Overdrive 8 offers superb quality and performance. However, some users have noted that the guitar does not look exactly like the pictures, with slightly different colors than expected.
Overall, the Legator N8FOD Ninja Overdrive 8 8-string electric guitar is a fantastic choice for guitarists looking to expand their skills and play with powerful tone. Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or a beginner, this guitar offers excellent value for money and an unforgettable playing experience.
🔗ESP LTD Javier Reyes JRV-8FR 8-String Electric Guitar — Metallic Gold
Imagine yourself in the heart of a music studio, surrounded by the sweet sounds of a classic rock session. Now, picture yourself strumming on a stunning metallic gold guitar, ready to unleash the wild passion and energy of your inner rockstar. That’s the experience you get with the ESP LTD Javier Reyes JRV-8FR, a masterpiece of an 8-string electric guitar that’s as captivating as it is versatile.
This guitar is a dream come true for adventurous players who crave an extended range and unique tonalities. Its offset body shape is comfortable and ergonomic, while the neck-through construction delivers exceptional sustain and stability. The slim profile allows for smooth transitions between high-octave leads and low chugs, making it ideal for blazing solos or heavy chugging.
What sets this guitar apart is its versatile 8-string design, tuned to capture the creative essence of alternative tunings and musical genres. The H/S/S pickup configuration delivers three distinctive voices, each selectable with a mini-toggle switch. These voices range from thick low-end growls to searing lead tones with organic high notes. The middle and neck pickups offer an impressive balance of vintage sweetness and muscular punch, making it a versatile choice for any musical genre.
The ESP LTD Javier Reyes JRV-8FR comes with other pro features, including LTD locking tuners and premium gold hardware. Paired with its high-quality Fishman Fluence pickups, this guitar offers a truly unforgettable playing experience. So, if you’re ready to take your guitar skills to new heights and create a symphony of your own, the ESP LTD Javier Reyes JRV-8FR is the perfect instrument to make that dream a reality.
🔗Strandberg Boden Standard NX 8 Luxury 8-String Electric Guitar
Last month, I stumbled upon the Strandberg Boden Standard NX 8 8-String Blue electric guitar while browsing for a new axe to add to my collection. The mint condition model I got caught my attention with its unique blue finish and 8-string configuration. When I slung this Strandberg over my shoulder, I immediately noticed the lightweight feel, perfect for playing without a strap.
The guitar’s versatile soundscape was what truly astounded me. The combination of hum-canceling pickups and bridge inner coil in parallel offered an impressive balance of crunchy lows and silky highs, allowing me to explore a wide range of sounds and styles. However, a small scuff on the bridge pickup was present when I received the guitar, which was a bit of a bummer but didn’t affect the overall playability.
Overall, the Strandberg Boden Standard NX 8 8-String Blue electric guitar was a joy to play and definitely added a new dimension to my music-making experience. While the scuff on the pickup was a bit disappointing, it didn’t overshadow the guitar’s exceptional performance and features.
🔗Legator Ninja N8FX 8-String Electric Guitar with Ebony Fretboard and Multi-Voiced Pickups
As a guitar enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of playing with the Legator Ninja N8FX Multi-Scale 8-String Guitar, and I’m thoroughly impressed. The first thing that stands out is its lightweight body, making it easy to practice for hours without tiring. Its ultrathin wenge/maple neck adds to the comfort while providing a sleek, smooth feel.
The star of the show, however, are its multi-voiced Fishman Fluence Modern pickups. They provide an incredibly dynamic tonal range, allowing for versatility in playing different styles. The ninja 8-string truly shines when it comes to shredding, and the killswitch ensures a seamless switch between rhythm and lead sections.
While the overall setup is impressive, there was one minor issue I encountered: a ferrule on the back, which caused a crack. However, the customer service was prompt and helpful in addressing it. Despite the occasional QC issue, Legator seems to be taking steps to improve their high-end products, and this guitar is no exception.
In conclusion, the Legator Ninja N8FX Multi-Scale 8-String Guitar is a fantastic instrument for any serious guitarist looking to step up their shredding game. Its unique features set it apart from other guitars in the market, making it a worthwhile investment.
🔗ESP LTD Javier Reyes JR-208 8-String Electric Guitar — Black
I recently got my hands on the JR-208 8-String Electric Guitar by ESP LTD. The moment I laid eyes on it, I was impressed by the sleek black finish that seamlessly blends with the basswood body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard. As a guitar enthusiast who values the playability and sound of my instrument, I was eager to try it out.
The moment I strummed the first chord, I was blown away by the rich tones and clarity that the ESP-designed pickups delivered. The bolt-on neck construction provided a consistent and comfortable grip, while the 27-inch scale and 24 extra jumbo frets allowed for smooth transitions between notes. The 3-way pickup selector and volume/tone controls offered a wide range of tonal options, making it easy to fine-tune my sound.
Despite its affordability, the JR-208 8-String Electric Guitar by ESP LTD does not compromise on quality. Its build, playability, and sound are on par with high-end guitars, offering amazing value for its price tag. The only downside I encountered was the lack of coil tap pickups, but considering the guitar’s price point, it’s hardly a deal breaker.
In conclusion, the ESP LTD JR-208 8-String Electric Guitar is an excellent investment for any musician looking for a high-quality and affordable 8-string guitar. Its outstanding performance, comfortable playability, and sleek design make it a standout choice among its competitors.
🔗Eight-String Guitar: ESP LTD JR-608 Javier Reyes
As a guitar enthusiast, I was excited to try out the ESP Javier Reyes JR-608 8-string electric guitar. With its striking faded blue sunburst finish, this instrument definitely stands out among its peers. But what really blew me away was the playability and versatility it offered.
The Dimarzio JR pickups were a game-changer, providing crystal-clear clean tones and punchy mid-range sounds. The combination of swamp ash and quilted maple top made this guitar not only a feast for the eyes, but also for the ears.
And with the neck-thru-body design and comfortable beveled cut, it became my go-to guitar for long playing sessions. However, as a first-time user, the learning curve to fully utilize the eight strings was quite steep, and the premium gold hardware made it a little heavy to lug around.
Overall, the ESP Javier Reyes JR-608 is a versatile, high-quality guitar that any serious player will appreciate.
🔗Custom Koa 8-String Baritone Acoustic-Electric Guitar
As a budding musician, I recently had the pleasure of playing the Taylor Custom Grand Symphony 8-string baritone. The moment I laid my hands on it, I was struck by the craftsmanship and attention to detail. The guitar’s koa wood, with its rich color and vibrant hues, exuded an elegance that drew me in.
Picking the baritone up, I was met with a warm, full voice, the perfect harmony of a bass guitar and a six string acoustic. The added octave strings, subtle yet impactful, added a depth of sound that made playing chords and solos an absolute joy. The ES2 electronics inbuilt with TaylorSense unit only amplified my experience, making it one of the most responsive and high-quality sounding instruments I’ve ever played.
However, the baritone could be a little unwieldy for players new to this style of guitar due to its size. The stained maple pickguard, while adding to the overall aesthetic, can also be a bit of a finger trap, which was a tad bothersome at times. But these were minor annoyances compared to the sheer pleasure of playing such a magnificent piece of craftsmanship.
The Taylor Custom Grand Symphony, while a bit of a beast to handle, is a versatile, powerful instrument with a voice that’s both unique and beautiful. If you’re in the market for a baritone guitar that pushes boundaries and delivers an unparalleled sound, this one’s definitely worth considering.
Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to exploring the world of music, the 8-string guitar can be an intriguing option for guitar enthusiasts. With its extended range, it opens up a new realm of chordal possibilities and can offer unique soundscapes. In this buyer’s guide section, we will discuss some key features, considerations, and general advice for those looking to dive into the world of 8-string guitars.
Important Features
When shopping for an 8-string guitar, there are several features to consider that will contribute to its playability, tone, and overall performance. Some of these features include:
- String scale length: This determines the distance between the nut and the saddle. A longer scale length typically offers better string tension stability, but it may also impact your hand comfort. 2. Construction: Selecting a solid wood body or a hybrid construction with a carbon-fiber neck can influence the guitar’s tone, sustain, and resonance. 3. Pickups: The guitar’s pickups play a crucial role in its sound. There are various types, such as single-coil, humbucker, or active pickups. Experiment with different pickups to find the one that suits your playing style. 4. Bridge System: Choose a bridge system that offers smooth tuning stability and intonation adjustments. Common bridges for 8-string guitars include Floyd Rose, Tune-O-Matic, and Hipshot.
Key Considerations
Before making a decision, it’s essential to think about your specific needs and preferences when it comes to playing the guitar. Some fundamental considerations include:
- Playing Style: Assess your guitar-playing style, noting whether you’re a rhythm or lead player. This will help you choose the right tuning and string gauge for your needs. 2. Price Range: 8-string guitars can vary significantly in price. Determine your budget and look for a model that offers the best value for your money. 3. Maintenance: 8-string guitars may require more maintenance, such as frequent restringing and cleaning, compared to standard 6-string guitars. Make sure you’re prepared to handle the added maintenance. 4. Learning Resources: Ensure you have access to appropriate learning materials, such as online tutorials or instructional books, to help you master the 8-string guitar.
General Advice
To get the most out of your 8-string guitar experience, consider the following tips:
- Invest in a high-quality accessory kit tailored for extended-range guitars. It should include a suitable strings set, a good-quality pick, and a tuner. 2. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is essential to master the new strings’ technique, finger placement, and overall playing style. 3. Experiment with different tunings: Experimenting with different tunings can open up new possibilities in your playing. 4. Join a community: Connect with other 8-string guitar enthusiasts through online forums, social media groups, or local events to gain valuable insights and support your learning process.
The world of 8-string guitars offers a unique and versatile musical experience. By focusing on important features, key considerations, and general advice, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the many benefits of playing an 8-string guitar. Happy strumming! 🎸🎉🎶✨🌟💕🤘🏼🤘🤟💖💙💃🕺
FAQ
What are the benefits of playing an 8-string guitar?
Playing an 8-string guitar can offer numerous advantages. Firstly, it provides more tonal depth and complexity due to the added strings, allowing for a richer and fuller sound. Secondly, it expands the range of notes that can be played, making it easier to play certain chords and melodies. Additionally, the extra strings can enhance harmonies and add unique texture to your playing style.
However, it is essential to consider that playing an 8-string guitar may require finger strength and agility, as it can be challenging to navigate all the strings simultaneously. Furthermore, the extra strings may require more maintenance, such as frequent tuning and restringing, which can impact the overall playing experience for some users.
Which string gauge is recommended for 8-string guitars?
Selecting the correct string gauge for your 8-string guitar depends on your personal playing style, preferences, and the type of music you play. Generally, lighter gauges are preferred for improved playability and reduced tension on the fingers and neck. However, heavier gauges can offer increased volume and sustain, which can be beneficial for certain playing styles, such as heavy rock or metal genres.
It is common for 8-string guitar players to use sets with gauges ranging from 0.09–0.065 inches for thicker strings and an additional string set of 0.013–0.011 inches for thinner strings. However, it is essential to find a balance that suits your playing style and preferences. Experiment with different gauges to determine which works best for you.
What is the difference between 8-string and 7-string guitars?
The primary difference between an 8-string and a 7-string guitar lies in the number of guitar strings they possess. An 8-string guitar features two additional low-pitched strings, B and G, which provide a fuller and richer sound, particularly in heavier genres like rock and metal. Additionally, the added strings can facilitate playing power chords with one finger, enhancing the ease of playing and simplifying certain chord voicings.
On the other hand, a 7-string guitar only has six strings, making it more accessible for beginners and generally easier to play due to its lighter strings and lower string tension. However, some guitarists may find the 7-string’s limited range and tonal capacity restrictive compared to an 8-string guitar.
What guitar tunings can I use for an 8-string guitar?
As an 8-string guitar features two extra low-pitched strings (B and G), you can explore various tunings to take advantage of this unique feature. Some popular tunings include DADGAD, Drop B, Drop C, and Drop A. These tunings allow you to play power chords more easily and may provide a fuller guitar sound.
In DADGAD tuning, the strings are tuned D, A, D, G, A, D, G, and B, while in Drop B, the strings are tuned B, A, D, G, A, D, G, and B. Drop C tuning includes the tuning C, G, C, E, G, B, E, and G, and Drop A uses a tuning of A, E, A, D, E, A, D, and G. Experiment with different tunings to find the best fit for your playing style and preferences.
Is it difficult to learn to play an 8-string guitar?
The difficulty of learning to play an 8-string guitar depends on your individual skill level, playing experience, and the time you dedicate to practice. While it may present certain challenges, such as a steeper learning curve and increased finger strength requirements, the fundamentals of playing the guitar remain the same.
If you are a beginner, you may want to start by learning the basics on a standard 6-string guitar and gradually transition to an 8-string guitar once you have developed the necessary skills. As with any instrument, patience, dedication, and consistent practice are key factors in overcoming any difficulties and becoming proficient in playing an 8-string guitar.
What are some popular 8-string guitar brands?
Several popular guitar manufacturers have started producing 8-string guitars, offering a variety of options for guitarists. Some of the well-known brands include Ibanez, ESP, Jackson, Dean, Schecter, and B. C. Rich. These brands cater to different budgets, playing styles, and preferences, so it is essential to research and find the 8-string guitar that best suits your needs.
Additionally, boutique guitar builders and custom shops can create one-of-a-kind 8-string guitars tailored to your specific requirements. This may involve investing more time and money but can result in a unique and personally crafted instrument that provides a truly satisfying playing experience. Ultimately, the choice of guitar brand and model comes down to personal preference, budget, and desired features.
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