Unleash Your Inner Shredder with the Best 8 String Guitars of 2021

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Discover the world of eight-string guitars with our top picks. From jazz to metal, these instruments offer a unique sound and versatility.


The world of guitars has been constantly evolving for centuries, and the emergence of 8-string guitars has taken it to a whole new level. These instruments have revolutionized the way guitarists play music, with their extended range and versatility. They are perfect for heavy metal, jazz, and other genres that require a broader tonal spectrum. If you're looking to take your guitar playing to the next level, an 8-string guitar might be just the thing you need. In this article, we'll explore some of the best 8-string guitars available in the market today.

The first guitar on our list is the Ibanez RG8. This guitar is a beast when it comes to heavy metal and hard rock music. It features a solid basswood body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The guitar's pickups are humbuckers, which means they produce a warm and thick tone that is perfect for shredding. The Ibanez RG8 also comes with a fixed bridge, which ensures that it stays in tune even during the most intense performances.

The second guitar on our list is the Schecter Hellraiser Hybrid C-8. This guitar is perfect for those who want to play both heavy metal and jazz. The guitar features a mahogany body, a maple neck, and an ebony fretboard. The guitar's pickups are a combination of active and passive humbuckers, which means they produce a wide range of tones. The Schecter Hellraiser Hybrid C-8 also comes with a Floyd Rose bridge, which allows for great tuning stability.

The third guitar on our list is the Jackson JS32-8. This guitar is perfect for those who are just starting out with 8-string guitars. It features a poplar body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The guitar's pickups are humbuckers, which means they produce a warm and thick tone. The Jackson JS32-8 also comes with a fixed bridge, which ensures that it stays in tune even during the most intense performances.

The fourth guitar on our list is the ESP LTD SC-208. This guitar is perfect for those who want to play heavy metal and hard rock music. It features a basswood body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The guitar's pickups are humbuckers, which means they produce a warm and thick tone. The ESP LTD SC-208 also comes with a fixed bridge, which ensures that it stays in tune even during the most intense performances.

The fifth guitar on our list is the PRS SE SVN. This guitar is perfect for those who want to play jazz and other genres that require a broader tonal spectrum. It features a mahogany body, a maple neck, and an ebony fretboard. The guitar's pickups are humbuckers, which means they produce a warm and thick tone. The PRS SE SVN also comes with a fixed bridge, which ensures that it stays in tune even during the most intense performances.

The sixth guitar on our list is the Epiphone Matt Heafy Les Paul Custom-8. This guitar is perfect for those who want to play heavy metal and hard rock music. It features a mahogany body, a maple neck, and an ebony fretboard. The guitar's pickups are active humbuckers, which means they produce a wide range of tones. The Epiphone Matt Heafy Les Paul Custom-8 also comes with a fixed bridge, which ensures that it stays in tune even during the most intense performances.

The seventh guitar on our list is the Dean Boca 8-String. This guitar is perfect for those who want to play heavy metal and hard rock music. It features a basswood body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The guitar's pickups are humbuckers, which means they produce a warm and thick tone. The Dean Boca 8-String also comes with a fixed bridge, which ensures that it stays in tune even during the most intense performances.

The eighth guitar on our list is the Washburn Parallaxe PX-SOLAR170C. This guitar is perfect for those who want to play heavy metal and hard rock music. It features a mahogany body, a maple neck, and an ebony fretboard. The guitar's pickups are humbuckers, which means they produce a warm and thick tone. The Washburn Parallaxe PX-SOLAR170C also comes with a fixed bridge, which ensures that it stays in tune even during the most intense performances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 8-string guitars are becoming increasingly popular among guitarists of all genres. They offer a broader tonal spectrum, which makes them ideal for playing heavy metal, jazz, and other genres. The guitars mentioned above are some of the best 8-string guitars available in the market today. If you're looking to take your guitar playing to the next level, one of these guitars might be just what you need.


Introduction

Guitar players always want to explore new sounds, and the 8-string guitar is one of the most exciting ways to do that. With two additional low strings, this type of guitar opens up new possibilities for playing heavy riffs, complex chords, and extended-range solos. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best 8-string guitars available on the market today.

Jackson X Series Soloist SLATHX-M 3-8

Jackson is a well-known brand in the world of metal and hard rock, and the X Series Soloist SLATHX-M 3-8 is one of their flagship 8-string models. This guitar features a neck-through-body construction, a compound-radius fingerboard, and a pair of Seymour Duncan pickups that deliver a high-output, articulate sound. The SLATHX-M 3-8 is also equipped with a Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo system, making it ideal for dive bombs and other extreme techniques.

Ibanez RGMS8 Multi-Scale

The Ibanez RGMS8 Multi-Scale is a modern 8-string guitar that combines ergonomic design with advanced features. Its multi-scale fretboard allows for more natural hand positioning and better intonation, while the Fishman Fluence pickups provide a versatile range of tones. The RGMS8 also has a solid ash body, a five-piece maple/walnut neck, and a Gibraltar Standard II-8 bridge that ensures excellent tuning stability.

Schecter Hellraiser C-8

If you're looking for a guitar that can handle heavy music styles, the Schecter Hellraiser C-8 is a great choice. This guitar has a mahogany body, a set neck with ultra-access cutaway, and active EMG pickups that deliver a crushing, aggressive sound. The Hellraiser C-8 also features a TonePros TOM bridge and string-thru-body design for added sustain and resonance.

ESP LTD H-1008

ESP is another brand that has a strong reputation in the metal community, and the LTD H-1008 is one of their most popular 8-string models. This guitar has a solid mahogany body, a five-piece neck-thru-body design, and a pair of Seymour Duncan Sentient/Pegasus pickups that provide a clear, dynamic sound. The H-1008 also has a Hipshot bridge and locking tuners that keep your tuning stable even during the most aggressive playing.

PRS SE SVN

The PRS SE SVN is a stylish and versatile 8-string guitar that offers a wide range of tones. Its maple top and mahogany back provide a balanced, resonant sound, while the Wide Thin maple neck and rosewood fingerboard offer smooth playability. The SE SVN's pickups are PRS-designed and offer a clean, articulate output that can be shaped using the push-pull tone control. Additionally, the guitar has a string-through bridge that enhances sustain and intonation.

Squier Contemporary Active Jazzmaster HH ST

For guitarists who want an 8-string guitar that is more affordable, the Squier Contemporary Active Jazzmaster HH ST is a solid option. This guitar has a sleek, modern design, a poplar body, and a bolt-on maple neck. Its pair of Squier SQR ceramic humbucking pickups offer a high-output sound that is suitable for heavy rock and metal, and the guitar's hardtail bridge ensures stable tuning.

Washburn Parallaxe PX-SOLAR18ETC

The Washburn Parallaxe PX-SOLAR18ETC is a high-end 8-string guitar that is designed for professional musicians. This guitar has a swamp ash body, a bolt-on maple neck, and a set of Seymour Duncan Solar humbucking pickups that offer a powerful, dynamic sound. The PX-SOLAR18ETC also has a Floyd Rose 1500 double-locking tremolo system and Grover locking tuners that ensure precise tuning and intonation.

Schecter C-8 Multiscale

The Schecter C-8 Multiscale is another great option for guitarists who want a multi-scale fretboard. This guitar has a swamp ash body, a set neck with ultra-access cutaway, and Fishman Fluence Modern pickups that provide a versatile range of tones. The C-8 Multiscale also features a Hipshot bridge and locking tuners that keep your tuning stable even during the most aggressive playing.

Conclusion

There are many 8-string guitars available on the market today, and choosing the right one depends on your personal preferences and playing style. Whether you're a metal shredder, a jazz fusion player, or something in between, there is an 8-string guitar out there that will suit your needs. The guitars we've covered in this article are some of the best options available, and they offer a combination of playability, sound quality, and value for money.


Best 8 String Guitars: Everything You Need to Know

From metal to jazz, progressive rock to classical music, the popularity of 8 string guitars is on the rise. With their extended range and versatility, these guitars have become a favorite of musicians looking for something new and unique.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about 8 string guitars. From what they are, to how to choose the right one for you, we will cover it all. So, let's dive in!

1. What is an 8 string guitar?

An 8 string guitar is a type of guitar that has eight strings instead of the standard six. The two additional strings are usually tuned to low notes, allowing players to achieve a wider range of pitches and tones.

The most common tuning for an 8 string guitar is F# B E A D G B E. However, other tunings are also used, depending on the player's preference and the style of music they play.

2. Benefits of playing an 8 string guitar

There are many benefits to playing an 8 string guitar. Here are some of the most notable ones:

  • Extended range: With two additional strings, players can achieve a wider range of notes and tones, allowing for more creative expression and experimentation.
  • Increased versatility: The extended range of an 8 string guitar makes it suitable for a wide range of musical genres, from metal and progressive rock to jazz and classical music.
  • Unique sound: The low notes produced by the additional strings give an 8 string guitar a unique and distinct sound that sets it apart from other guitars.
  • Chord options: The extra strings on an 8 string guitar allow players to create new chord shapes and voicings, adding depth and complexity to their playing.

3. Top brands for 8 string guitars

When it comes to choosing an 8 string guitar, there are many top brands to consider. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Ibanez: Known for their sleek and modern designs, Ibanez is a top choice for metal and progressive rock guitarists.
  • Schecter: Schecter guitars are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
  • Jackson: Jackson guitars are favored by many metal guitarists for their aggressive tone and fast-playing necks.
  • ESP: ESP guitars are known for their heavy tone and high-quality construction, making them a favorite of metal and hard rock players.

4. Electric vs. acoustic 8 string guitars

When it comes to 8 string guitars, you can choose between electric and acoustic models. Here are some key differences between the two:

  • Tone: Electric 8 string guitars are known for their heavy and distorted tone, while acoustic 8 string guitars have a more natural and organic sound.
  • Playing style: Electric 8 string guitars are generally played with a pick and are favored by metal and rock guitarists, while acoustic 8 string guitars are often played with fingers and are preferred by jazz and classical guitarists.
  • Volume: Electric 8 string guitars are generally louder than acoustic 8 string guitars, making them more suitable for live performances.

5. How to choose the right 8 string guitar for you

Choosing the right 8 string guitar can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the instrument. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

  • Style of music: Consider the style of music you want to play and choose a guitar that is suitable for that genre. For example, if you're a metal guitarist, you may want to choose an electric 8 string guitar from a brand like Ibanez or Jackson.
  • Budget: 8 string guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Determine your budget before making your purchase and stick to it.
  • Playing level: If you're a beginner, you may want to choose a more affordable guitar that is easier to play. If you're an experienced player, you may want to invest in a higher-end model with advanced features.
  • Personal preference: Ultimately, choose a guitar that feels comfortable and sounds good to you. Play different models and brands to find the one that suits you best.

6. Best 8 string guitars for metal music

When it comes to metal music, 8 string guitars are a popular choice among guitarists. Here are some of the best 8 string guitars for metal music:

  • Ibanez RG8: With its thin neck and high-output pickups, the Ibanez RG8 is a favorite of metal guitarists.
  • Schecter Hellraiser C-8: The Schecter Hellraiser C-8 features a mahogany body and EMG pickups, making it ideal for heavy metal music.
  • Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS32-8: The Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS32-8 features a lightweight body and high-output pickups, making it perfect for shredding and fast riffing.

7. Best 8 string guitars for jazz music

While 8 string guitars are often associated with metal music, they can also be used in jazz and other genres. Here are some of the best 8 string guitars for jazz music:

  • Godin Multiac Nylon SA: The Godin Multiac Nylon SA is an acoustic-electric guitar that features a nylon string design, making it ideal for jazz and classical music.
  • Ibanez RGMS8: The Ibanez RGMS8 is a versatile guitar that can be used for a wide range of genres, including jazz. Its smooth neck and low action make it easy to play complex chords and voicings.
  • Schecter Keith Merrow KM-8 MK-II: The Schecter Keith Merrow KM-8 MK-II features a semi-hollow body design and Seymour Duncan pickups, making it a great choice for jazz and other clean styles.

8. Best 8 string guitars for progressive rock music

Progressive rock is a genre that requires a lot of versatility and experimentation, making 8 string guitars a popular choice among progressive rock guitarists. Here are some of the best 8 string guitars for progressive rock music:

  • ESP LTD H-1008: The ESP LTD H-1008 features a quilted maple top and EMG pickups, making it a great choice for progressive rock and other experimental genres.
  • Ibanez RGMS8: As mentioned earlier, the Ibanez RGMS8 is a versatile guitar that can be used for a wide range of genres, including progressive rock.
  • Schecter C-8 Multiscale: The Schecter C-8 Multiscale features a unique multiscale design that allows for better intonation and playability, making it a great choice for complex and technical music.

9. Unique features of 8 string guitars

8 string guitars offer several unique features that set them apart from other guitars. Here are some of the most notable ones:

  • Extended range: With two additional strings, players have access to a wider range of notes and tones.
  • Low-end power: The additional low strings give 8 string guitars a powerful and heavy sound that is ideal for metal and other heavy genres.
  • New chord voicings: The extra strings on an 8 string guitar allow players to create new chord shapes and voicings, adding complexity and depth to their playing.
  • Increased versatility: 8 string guitars are suitable for a wide range of musical genres, from metal and rock to jazz and classical music.

10. Tips for playing and maintaining your 8 string guitar

Playing and maintaining an 8 string guitar requires some extra care and attention. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Tune regularly: Due to the extra strings, 8 string guitars can be more difficult to keep in tune. Make sure to tune your guitar regularly to ensure the best sound quality.
  • Clean the fretboard: With more strings comes more dirt and grime on the fretboard. Clean your guitar's fretboard regularly to keep it in good condition.
  • Experiment with different tunings: While the standard F# B E A D G B E tuning is popular, don't be afraid to experiment with other tunings to find the one that suits you best.
  • Use the right strings: Make sure to use strings that are specifically designed for 8 string guitars to ensure the best sound quality and playability.

Conclusion

8 string guitars offer a unique and versatile playing experience that is ideal for a wide range of musical genres. Whether you're a metal guitarist looking for heavy low-end power or a jazz guitarist looking for new chord voicings, an 8 string guitar may be the perfect choice for you.

By considering factors such as style of music, budget, and personal preference, you can choose the right 8 string guitar for your needs. And with proper care and maintenance, your 8 string guitar can provide years of enjoyment and creative expression.

Best 8 String Guitars - A Comprehensive Guide

Point of View

As a guitar enthusiast, I believe that the emergence of 8-string guitars has revolutionized the music industry. These guitars are designed to cater to the needs of musicians who want to expand their tonal range and explore new possibilities in their music. In my opinion, the best 8-string guitars are those that offer excellent playability, versatility, and sound quality.

Pros of Best 8 String Guitars

1. Extended Range: The primary advantage of an 8-string guitar is its extended range. This allows musicians to play lower notes and create unique and complex chords that are not possible with a 6-string guitar.

2. Versatility: With an 8-string guitar, musicians can play a wide range of genres, including metal, jazz, blues, and classical music.

3. Innovation: 8-string guitars represent a new wave of innovation in the music industry, providing musicians with new opportunities to experiment with sound.

4. Improved Sound: The extra strings on an 8-string guitar provide a fuller, richer sound that is perfect for heavy music.

Cons of Best 8 String Guitars

1. Learning Curve: Playing an 8-string guitar requires a significant learning curve, especially for guitarists who are accustomed to playing a 6-string guitar.

2. Cost: 8-string guitars tend to be more expensive than 6-string guitars due to their complex design and additional features.

3. Weight: Some 8-string guitars can be quite heavy, which can be uncomfortable for some musicians to play for extended periods.

Comparison Table

Guitar Model Price Range Number of Strings Body Material Special Features
Ibanez RG8 $500-$800 8 Basswood Thin neck, jumbo frets, dual humbucker pickups
Schecter Hellraiser C-8 $800-$1000 8 Mahogany EMG active pickups, 3-piece neck, abalone inlays
Jackson JS32-8Q DKA $400-$600 8 Basswood Compound radius fretboard, dual high-output humbuckers, quilted maple top

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best 8-string guitars offer musicians a range of benefits, including extended range, versatility, and improved sound quality. However, they also come with a few disadvantages, such as a steep learning curve and higher cost. When choosing an 8-string guitar, it is important to consider factors such as playability, sound, and overall quality to ensure that you get the best possible instrument for your needs.

Closing Message for Visitors About Best 8-String Guitars

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best 8-string guitars. We hope that this information has been helpful in guiding you towards the right guitar for your needs, whether you are a beginner or an experienced player.

As we have discussed, there are many factors to consider when choosing an 8-string guitar, from the type of wood it is made from to the type of pickups and tuning options available. The guitars we have listed here are all excellent choices and offer a range of features to suit different playing styles and preferences.

If you are new to playing the guitar, we recommend starting with a more basic model that is easy to play and learn on. However, if you are an experienced player looking for a new challenge, an 8-string guitar can offer a whole new world of sound and creative possibilities.

One of the key benefits of an 8-string guitar is the extended range it provides, allowing you to play lower notes than a standard 6-string guitar. This can be particularly useful in genres such as metal and djent, where heavy, low-end riffing is a key part of the sound.

In addition to the lower range, an 8-string guitar also offers a wider range of chord options and allows for more complex fingerings and techniques. This can be a lot of fun to experiment with and can open up new avenues for creativity and expression.

Whether you are looking for a guitar to shred on or one that will help you explore new musical territory, an 8-string guitar is a great choice. With the right instrument and plenty of practice, you can take your playing to new heights and create music that is truly unique and memorable.

Of course, finding the right guitar is only half the battle. To truly excel as a musician, you need to put in the time and effort to master your craft. This means practicing regularly, learning new techniques and styles, and seeking out opportunities to perform and collaborate with other musicians.

We hope that our article has inspired you to take your playing to the next level and explore the exciting world of 8-string guitars. Remember, no matter what type of music you play or what level you are at, there is always room for growth and improvement.

So go out there, find the perfect guitar for you, and start making some amazing music!

Thank you for reading, and we wish you all the best on your musical journey.


People Also Ask About Best 8 String Guitars

What Is an 8 String Guitar?

An 8 string guitar is a type of guitar that has eight strings instead of the usual six. The additional strings are usually tuned to lower notes and provide a broader range of sound and tonal options.

Why Use an 8 String Guitar?

Using an 8 string guitar allows for more range in terms of chords and notes that can be played, as well as providing a unique sound that cannot be achieved with a standard 6 string guitar.

What Are Some of the Best 8 String Guitars?

There are several excellent 8 string guitars available on the market. Some of the best ones include:

  1. Ibanez RG8 - This guitar is a popular choice among metal guitarists due to its fast playability and aggressive tone.
  2. Schecter Hellraiser C-8 - A versatile guitar that provides excellent sound quality and comfortable playing experience.
  3. Jackson JS32-8Q Dinky - An affordable option that still delivers great sound and playability.

What Genres Are Best Suited for 8 String Guitars?

8 string guitars are most commonly associated with heavy metal and djent genres, but they can also be used in other genres such as jazz, fusion, and progressive rock.

Are 8 String Guitars Difficult to Play?

8 string guitars can be more challenging to play than standard 6 string guitars due to the additional strings and wider fretboard. However, with practice and dedication, anyone can learn to play an 8 string guitar.