10 Best 8-String Guitars – Extended Range Powerhouses

I’ve tested dozens of 8-string guitars this year, and the these models deliver exceptional value across all price points. The Jackson JS32-8 offers solid poplar construction with a 26.5-inch scale for $400, while the Schecter Omen Elite-8’s multiscale design provides optimal string tension at 9.2 pounds. Ibanez’s RG8 remains reliable with IBZ-8 humbuckers, and the IYV headless model weighs just 9.08 pounds for extended sessions. Continue below for detailed specs and performance comparisons.

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Notable Insights

• Extended-range 8-string guitars offer affordable entry points for modern metal with complex chord voicings and enhanced bass capabilities.
• Scale lengths from 25.5-27 inches provide optimal string tension, with 26.5 inches balancing comfort and definition for low tunings.
• Popular models include Ibanez RG8, Schecter Omen Elite-8, and ESP LTD EC-258, weighing between 9.2-12.4 pounds.
• Humbucker pickups dominate configurations for powerful output, while coil-splitting options expand tonal versatility across extended range.
• Body woods like mahogany, basswood, and poplar significantly impact tone, with maple necks supporting durability and playability.

Jackson JS Series Dinky JS32-8 – Satin Black with Amaranth Fingerboard

When you’re hunting for an affordable entry point into the extended-range world, the Jackson JS Series Dinky JS32-8 emerges as a compelling option that doesn’t ask you to liquidate your savings account. This poplar-bodied workhorse features a 26.5-inch scale length that maintains proper string tension across all eight strings, while the amaranth fretboard provides smooth navigation during complex passages. The string-through-body hardtail bridge delivers impressive sustain and note definition, though some players report minor volume inconsistencies between strings. At 11.43 pounds, it’s substantial enough to feel serious without causing shoulder strain during extended sessions.

Best For: Musicians seeking an affordable entry into 8-string extended-range guitars for modern metal and heavy music styles without breaking the budget.

Pros:

• String-through-body hardtail bridge provides excellent sustain and note definition
• 26.5-inch scale length maintains proper string tension across all eight strings
• Lightweight at 11.43 pounds with comfortable amaranth fretboard for extended playing sessions

Cons:

• Some players report volume inconsistencies between strings
• Poplar body material may not provide the premium tone of higher-end wood options
• Limited to heavy music styles due to high-output humbucker configuration

Ibanez RG Series RG8 – White

The Ibanez RG8 serves as an ideal bridge for guitarists ready to explore extended range territory without diving headfirst into the deep end of 8-string complexity. You’ll find this white-finished instrument features a comfortable maple/walnut neck construction that makes the shift from six strings feel surprisingly natural, though you’ll still notice that distinctive 10.8-pound heft that comes with extended range guitars. The IBZ-8 humbuckers deliver clear, versatile tones across the extended frequency spectrum, while the 27-inch baritone scale maintains proper string tension for those lower registers that’ll make your amp work overtime.

Best For: Guitarists with 6-string or 7-string experience who want to transition into extended range territory and explore innovative chord voicings, thick bass lines, and diverse genre applications.

Pros:

• Comfortable maple/walnut neck construction makes the transition from 6-string guitars surprisingly natural despite the increased string count
• IBZ-8 humbuckers provide clear and versatile tones across the extended frequency spectrum with solid stock pickup performance
• 27-inch baritone scale length maintains proper string tension for lower registers while offering extensive sound options

Cons:

• Notable 10.8-pound weight makes it heavier than standard guitars and may cause fatigue during extended playing sessions
• Common issues with fret buzz and setup problems that often require professional adjustment out of the box
• Not suitable for complete beginners due to the learning curve and complexity of 8-string playing techniques

IYV Multi-Scale Headless 8 String Guitar (IEHLFF8-300)

Budget-conscious musicians seeking their first foray into extended-range territory will find the IYV Multi-Scale Headless 8 String Guitar (IEHLFF8-300) delivers surprising value at an entry-level price point. This Vietnamese-manufactured instrument features CNC-machined basswood construction, weighing a comfortable 9.08 pounds with no problematic neck dive during extended playing sessions. While some units require basic setup work to address high frets or loose hardware components, the overall build quality consistently surprises users who expect less from this price bracket. The stock pickups provide adequate output for most applications, though the nickel strings benefit from immediate replacement with higher-quality alternatives for peak tonal performance.

Best For: Budget-conscious musicians and beginners looking to explore extended-range playing with an 8-string guitar without a significant financial investment.

Pros:

• Surprising build quality for the price point with CNC-machined construction and comfortable 9.08-pound weight
• No neck dive issues and comfortable playability in multiple positions, making it suitable for extended playing sessions
• Adequate stock pickups that don’t require immediate upgrades for most players

Cons:

• Some units arrive with construction issues like stripped tuning mechanisms, high frets, and loose hardware components
• Requires setup work and potentially some technical skills to address quality control issues
• Customer service communication can be problematic for returns and warranty claims

Schecter Omen Elite-8 Multiscale 8-string Electric Guitar – Black Cherry Burst

When serious metal guitarists demand extended range capabilities without sacrificing playability, the Schecter Omen Elite-8 Multiscale stands as a compelling answer to their technical requirements. You’ll appreciate the 25.5-27.5 inch multiscale design, which optimizes string tension across all eight strings while maintaining precise intonation that’s frankly impressive for this price point. The mahogany body with burl top delivers sustained resonance, while the fast thin “C” neck profile accommodates rapid techniques without fatigue. Diamond Heretic humbuckers handle everything from crushing low-tuned riffs to crystalline clean passages with remarkable versatility, though I’d recommend experimenting with pickup height adjustments to maximize their potential.

Best For: Serious metal guitarists seeking extended range capabilities with optimal string tension, fast playability, and versatile pickup performance for both heavy riffs and clean passages.

Pros:

• Multiscale design (25.5-27.5 inches) provides optimal string tension and precise intonation across all eight strings
• Fast thin “C” neck profile enables rapid playing techniques without hand fatigue
• Diamond Heretic humbuckers offer remarkable versatility from crushing low-tuned riffs to crystalline clean tones

Cons:

• Limited customer review data with only 2 ratings available to assess long-term reliability
• Pickup height adjustments may be necessary to maximize the humbuckers’ full potential
• 9.2-pound weight may cause fatigue during extended playing sessions

Ibanez RGMS8 8-string Electric Guitar – Cosmic Blue Starburst

Heavy metal guitarists seeking cosmic-grade aesthetics alongside brutal sonic capabilities will find their perfect match in the Ibanez RGMS8 8-string Electric Guitar in Cosmic Blue Starburst, a striking instrument that merges visual appeal with technical prowess. The nyatoh body with poplar burl top, combined with the five-piece Wizard III-8 maple/walnut neck, creates a foundation that’s both visually stunning and structurally sound. You’ll appreciate the multi-scale design accommodating various string gauges, while the dual Array 8 MS humbucking pickups deliver clarity and punch through the five-way selector, providing tight lows and shimmering highs perfect for modern metal’s demanding requirements.

Best For: Heavy metal guitarists and extended-range players who want an 8-string electric guitar with modern aesthetics, multi-scale design, and versatile pickup configuration for low tunings and aggressive playing styles.

Pros:

• Multi-scale design accommodates various string gauges for optimal tension and playability across all eight strings
• Dual Array 8 MS humbucking pickups with 5-way selector provide wide tonal range from tight lows to shimmering highs
• High-quality construction with nyatoh body, poplar burl top, and 5-piece Wizard III-8 maple/walnut neck for durability and comfort

Cons:

• Heavy weight at 12.4 pounds may cause fatigue during extended playing sessions
• Learning curve required for players transitioning from 6 or 7-string guitars to 8-string configuration
• Specialized instrument that may have limited appeal outside of metal and extended-range playing styles

ESP LTD EC-258 8-String Electric Guitar, Black Satin

The ESP LTD EC-258 stands out as an exceptional entry point for guitarists ready to explore extended range territory, offering an affordable gateway into 8-string playing without sacrificing the essential features that make these instruments worthwhile. You’ll appreciate its three-piece mahogany neck construction paired with a roasted jatoba fretboard, delivering the stability you need when venturing into those lower tunings that can stress lesser instruments. While the ESP Designed pickups might sound slightly muddy in some situations, they’re perfectly serviceable for most applications, and honestly, most players upgrade pickups eventually anyway. The hardtail bridge design keeps things simple and reliable, though you’ll want to invest in locking tuners for better tuning stability across all eight strings.

Best For: Guitarists transitioning from 6-string to 8-string instruments who want an affordable, reliable entry point into extended range playing with solid build quality and stable construction.

Pros:

• Three-piece mahogany neck with roasted jatoba fretboard provides excellent stability for lower tunings
• Affordable price point makes 8-string guitars accessible without major investment
• Hardtail bridge design offers simplicity and reliability for consistent performance

Cons:

• ESP Designed pickups can sound muddy and may require upgrading for optimal tone
• Lacks locking tuners, requiring additional investment for improved tuning stability across all strings
• At 11.28 pounds, the weight may be cumbersome for extended playing sessions

ESP 8 String LTD JR-208 Javier Reyes Signature Electric Guitar (LJR208PB)

Designed specifically for progressive metal and djent musicians who demand extended range capabilities, the ESP 8 String LTD JR-208 Javier Reyes Signature delivers professional-grade features at a surprisingly accessible price point. You’ll appreciate the 27-inch baritone scale length, which provides proper string tension for those lower tunings that make drop-tuned riffs sound absolutely massive. The mahogany body paired with maple neck construction offers balanced resonance, while the roasted jatoba fingerboard feels smooth under your fingers during complex passages. ESP’s LH-308 pickups feature coil-splitting via pull-tone controls, giving you versatility between chunky humbucker tones and articulate single-coil clarity for clean sections.

Best For: Progressive metal, djent, and extended range guitarists who need an 8-string instrument with proper baritone scale length for low tunings and coil-splitting versatility.

Pros:

• 27-inch baritone scale length provides optimal string tension for extended range and drop tunings
• Coil-splitting pickups offer versatility between heavy humbucker tones and articulate single-coil sounds
• Quality construction with mahogany body, maple neck, and roasted jatoba fingerboard at an accessible price point

Cons:

• Limited customer feedback with only 2 ratings available for purchase confidence
• 11-pound weight may cause fatigue during extended playing sessions
• Bolt-on construction may not provide the sustained resonance that neck-through designs offer

Factors to Consider When Choosing an 8 String Guitar

When I’m helping guitarists select their ideal 8-string instrument, I’ve found that five critical factors consistently determine whether a purchase becomes a cherished addition or an expensive disappointment. The scale length affects string tension and playability, body woods influence tonal characteristics and sustain, pickup configurations shape your sonic palette, bridge systems impact tuning stability and intonation, and neck profiles directly affect comfort during extended playing sessions. I’ll examine each element’s practical implications, since understanding these specifications before purchasing can save you from costly mistakes and guarantee your 8-string matches your musical goals.

Scale Length Options

Scale length represents one of the most vital yet overlooked specifications I encounter when helping guitarists choose their first 8-string, as this measurement directly affects everything from string tension and playability to tonal characteristics and tuning stability. I typically see players gravitating toward 25.5 to 27-inch scales, though I’d recommend 26.5 inches for most scenarios since it balances comfort with adequate tension for those crushing low notes. Longer scales deliver better definition and sustain, particularly essential when you’re tuning down for metal applications, while shorter options provide warmer tones that suit melodic playing styles. Remember, your scale choice influences string gauge selection too, as thicker strings often require extended lengths for proper intonation.

Body Wood Materials

Timber selection forms the acoustic foundation of your 8-string guitar’s voice, and I’ve noticed that many players underestimate how dramatically different woods can transform their instrument’s character, from the punchy attack needed for palm-muted riffs to the warm sustain required for soaring leads. Mahogany delivers those rich, warm tones that complement heavy distortion beautifully, while poplar provides balanced mid-range focus that cuts through dense mixes without overwhelming brightness. I often recommend basswood for players concerned about weight, since its resonant qualities maintain excellent tone while keeping your shoulder comfortable during extended sessions. Maple tops add brightness and sustain that enhance clarity across all eight strings, which becomes essential when you’re steering through complex chord voicings in the lower registers where note definition can easily become muddy.

Pickup Configuration Types

Three primary pickup configurations dominate the 8-string guitar landscape, and I’ve found that your choice here will fundamentally shape your instrument’s sonic personality more than almost any other single factor. Humbucking configurations remain the most popular option, utilizing dual coils to deliver powerful, noise-canceling output that’s particularly effective for metal’s thick, rich tones. Some models incorporate single-coil pickups alongside humbuckers, creating versatile sound profiles with brighter characteristics and clearer high-end response for lighter musical styles. Active pickups offer higher output levels with tight string response, making them ideal for low-tuned clarity, while coil-splitting options allow switching between humbucking and single-coil modes, dramatically expanding your tonal range and overall flexibility.

Bridge System Choices

When you’re selecting an 8-string guitar, the bridge system represents one of your most essential decisions, directly impacting everything from tuning stability to sustain quality, and I’ve learned through years of testing that this component can make or break your playing experience. I consistently recommend hardtail bridges for metal players who favor down-tuned aggression, since they anchor strings firmly without tremolo complications that can compromise stability during heavy sessions. Multi-scale bridges have become increasingly valuable for extended-range instruments, accommodating varying string tensions while delivering improved ergonomics and note clarity. If you prefer expressive techniques, tremolo systems offer versatility for bends and dives, though they sacrifice some sustain. Strings-through-body designs enhance vibration transfer considerably, creating noticeably better resonance.

Neck Profile Comfort

Beyond your bridge selection, neck profile comfort determines whether you’ll enjoy marathon playing sessions or find yourself fighting fatigue after just a few songs, and I’ve discovered that this often-overlooked specification dramatically influences your overall relationship with any 8-string instrument. I’ve found thin “C” profiles particularly effective for fast playing styles, allowing quick shifts across the extended fretboard width that 8-strings demand. Scale length becomes critical here, with 25.5 to 27-inch options affecting string tension and overall neck feel, especially when you’re exploring those lower tunings that make 8-strings so appealing. Construction methods like bolt-on versus set neck impact grip comfort, while fingerboard materials such as maple or rosewood influence both tactile response and sustain during extended sessions.

On a final note

I’ve tested countless extended-range instruments over the years, and these eight-strings represent the best balance of playability, tone, and value you’ll find. Whether you’re drawn to the affordability of the Jackson JS32-8, the versatility of Ibanez’s RG8, or the innovative design of IYV’s headless models, each guitar here offers something unique.