Best 8 String Guitars: Scale Length, Pickups and Who Needs One

The best 8 string guitar for most players has a long multi-scale or extended-scale neck, quality high-output or tuned-for-low-end pickups, and a build that handles the extra string tension. Pick based on your genre, tuning plans and budget. If you are new to extended range guitars, start with a model that is reasonably priced and easy to set up.

Why Play an 8 String Guitar

An eight-string guitar adds two lower strings beyond the standard six, commonly a low F-sharp and a low B or similar tuning. This opens up the range of a bass in a guitar body, which is why the instrument appears in progressive metal, djent, jazz and experimental music. Fingerstyle and jazz players also use it to cover bass lines and chords together. If you play mostly open chords and folk songs, an 8 string is probably more complicated than necessary.

Scale Length and Neck Design

Scale length is the most important spec. Standard guitars use around 25.5 inches or shorter, but low strings on an 8 string need more length to hold tension and stay clear. Many models use 27 inches or longer, and some use a fanned fret layout where the scale length changes across the neck. Fanned frets keep low strings tight while keeping the treble strings comfortable, though they take adjustment. Nut width is also wider, usually giving more spacing for fingering.

Pickups and Tone

Humbuckers dominate on 8 strings because they handle low frequencies with less noise. Look for pickups voiced for extended range: some sound muddy on low notes if they were designed for standard guitars. Active pickups give tight output and clear low end, while passive pickups can feel more organic. If you play clean, check that the neck pickup stays articulate. Because extended range pieces are used with high gain, a clear definition between strings is vital.

Amplification also matters. A basic amp may flub low notes, so consider a modeler or a quality amp with a tight low end. An 8 string electric guitar usually works best with a suitable cab and an overdrive pedal that does not blur the low strings.

Strings, Tuning and Setup

String choice has a large effect on playability. Heavier gauges stay stable at low tunings but are harder to bend. Many players choose a set built specifically for 8 strings, such as a 8 string electric guitar string set, and check the tension on the lowest string. Standard tuning is usually F# B E A D G B E, but many players tune lower. Plan to have the guitar set up by a technician, including nut, action and intonation, as small errors are noticeable.

• Check the quality of the nut cuts for the low strings.
• Look for stable tuners with a good ratio.
• Ensure the truss rod works smoothly.
• Consider a strap, since long-scale guitars can be neck-heavy.

Budget Tiers and Value

Entry-level 8 strings can be a good way to try the instrument, though you should expect to adjust the setup and perhaps replace pickups later. Mid-range models improve hardware, fretwork and electronics. Higher-end instruments offer refined multi-scale necks and premium woods, and are usually aimed at committed players. A used guitar from a reputable seller can be a good bargain, but inspect neck relief and fret wear.

For small hands or reach, check neck profile and weight. A strap and stand for extended range guitars is a worthwhile addition for comfort and safety.

Common Mistakes

New buyers often underestimate the learning curve. Playing across eight strings takes time, and muting unwanted low string noise is a skill. Another mistake is buying a short-scale 8 string for the low notes; the result can be floppy strings and poor intonation. Do not ignore weight, and avoid picking solely by looks. Try to play the guitar in a shop if you can, and check return policies when buying online.

Practice tips help a new owner. Start with slow, clean playing on the upper six strings you already know, then add the lowest strings for simple single-note lines. Use a metronome and mute unused strings with the fretting hand edge and the palm of the picking hand. Many players find a light touch and good technique matter more than gear when the low strings begin to ring out of control.

Tone shaping is also easier with careful gear choice. A noise gate can tame hum in high-gain settings, and an equalizer pedal can cut mud from the low end. Recording through an audio interface with a modeler lets you check the mix on headphones before investing in a bigger rig. Keep spare strings on hand, because a snapped low string on a long-scale guitar is hard to replace in a hurry.

Finally, buy from a seller with a clear return or setup policy. Extended-range guitars ship with varied setups, and a quick adjustment can turn a disappointing instrument into a joy to play.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an 8 string guitar hard to learn?

It is more demanding than a 6 string, mainly in muting and finger spacing, but experienced guitarists adapt with practice.

Do I need a special amp?

Not strictly, but amps with tight low end and good headroom handle the low strings better.

What tuning should I use?

Standard 8 string tuning is a common start. Lower tunings need heavier strings and setup changes.