8 string guitar electric: The Next Level of Guitar Playing
Editor’s Notes:8 string guitar electric is a relatively new type of guitar that has been gaining popularity in recent years. They are similar to traditional 6-string guitars, but they have two extra strings, which gives them a wider range of notes and a fuller, richer sound.
We’ve done some analysis and digging, and here’s what we found out: 8 string guitar electric guitars are perfect for guitarists who want to explore new sounds and possibilities. They’re also great for playing complex chords and melodies. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, an 8 string guitar electric has the potential to open up a whole new world of musical possibilities for you.
Here are some of the key differences between 8 string guitar electric guitars and traditional 6-string guitars:
| Feature | 8 String Guitar Electric | 6 String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 8 | 6 |
| Range of Notes | Wider | Narrower |
| Sound | Fuller, Richer | Brighter, Thinner |
| Playing Style | More Complex | Simpler |
If you’re thinking about buying an 8 string guitar electric guitar, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, they are typically more expensive than traditional 6-string guitars. Second, they can be more difficult to play, especially if you’re not used to playing a guitar with more than 6 strings. However, if you’re willing to put in the time and effort, an 8 string guitar electric guitar can be a rewarding instrument that will allow you to explore new musical possibilities.
1. Extended Range
The extended range of 8 string guitar electric guitars is one of their most appealing features. With two extra strings, guitarists have access to a wider range of notes, which opens up new possibilities for creating unique and interesting sounds. For example, guitarists can play chords that would be impossible on a 6-string guitar, and they can explore new melodic ideas that would be out of reach on a traditional guitar.
The extended range of 8 string guitar electric guitars is also beneficial for playing in certain genres of music. For example, 8 string guitars are ideal for playing heavy metal and other genres of music that require low, powerful sounds. The extra strings allow guitarists to create deep, rumbling riffs that would be difficult to achieve on a 6-string guitar.
Overall, the extended range of 8 string guitar electric guitars is a major advantage for guitarists who want to explore new sounds and possibilities. With two extra strings, guitarists have access to a wider range of notes, which opens up new possibilities for creativity and expression.
Here are some real-life examples of how guitarists are using the extended range of 8 string guitar electric guitars to create unique and interesting sounds:
- Djent: Djent is a subgenre of heavy metal that is characterized by its use of low, chugging riffs and dissonant chords. 8 string guitars are ideal for playing djent, as they allow guitarists to create deep, rumbling riffs that would be difficult to achieve on a 6-string guitar.
- Progressive Metal: Progressive metal is a genre of metal that is characterized by its complex song structures and use of odd time signatures. 8 string guitars are well-suited for progressive metal, as they allow guitarists to play complex chords and melodies that would be difficult to achieve on a 6-string guitar.
- Jazz Fusion: Jazz fusion is a genre of music that combines elements of jazz and rock. 8 string guitars are becoming increasingly popular in jazz fusion, as they allow guitarists to create complex chords and melodies that would be difficult to achieve on a 6-string guitar.
The extended range of 8 string guitar electric guitars is a powerful tool that can be used to create unique and interesting sounds. Guitarists who are looking to explore new sounds and possibilities should consider getting an 8 string guitar.
| Feature | 8 String Guitar Electric | 6 String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 8 | 6 |
| Range of Notes | Wider | Narrower |
| Sound | Fuller, Richer | Brighter, Thinner |
| Playing Style | More Complex | Simpler |
2. Low Tunings
The ability to tune to lower tunings is one of the key advantages of 8 string guitar electric guitars. This is because the extra strings allow guitarists to reach lower notes than they could on a 6-string guitar. This makes 8 string guitars ideal for playing heavy metal and other genres of music that require low, powerful sounds.
- Extended Range: The extended range of 8 string guitar electric guitars allows guitarists to reach lower notes than they could on a 6-string guitar. This makes them ideal for playing heavy metal and other genres of music that require low, powerful sounds.
- Low Tunings: 8 string guitar electric guitars can be tuned to lower tunings than 6-string guitars. This makes them ideal for playing heavy metal and other genres of music that require low, powerful sounds.
- Tight Riffs: 8 string guitar electric guitars are often used to play tight, chugging riffs. This is because the extra strings allow guitarists to create a thicker, more powerful sound.
- Djent: Djent is a subgenre of heavy metal that is characterized by its use of low, chugging riffs and dissonant chords. 8 string guitars are ideal for playing djent, as they allow guitarists to create deep, rumbling riffs that would be difficult to achieve on a 6-string guitar.
Overall, the ability to tune to lower tunings is one of the key advantages of 8 string guitar electric guitars. This makes them ideal for playing heavy metal and other genres of music that require low, powerful sounds.
3. Versatility
8 string guitar electric guitars are versatile instruments that can be used for a wide range of genres, from jazz to metal. This is due to their extended range, low tunings, and ability to create complex chords and melodies. 8 string guitars are also great for playing solo pieces and creating complex soundscapes.
One of the most appealing features of 8 string
guitar electric guitars is their versatility. They can be used to play a wide range of genres, from jazz to metal. This is due to their extended range, low tunings, and ability to create complex chords and melodies. 8 string guitars are also great for playing solo pieces and creating complex soundscapes.
For example, the extended range of 8 string guitar electric guitars makes them ideal for playing jazz. Jazz guitarists often use complex chords and melodies, and the extended range of 8 string guitars allows them to play these chords and melodies with greater ease. 8 string guitars are also great for playing metal. The low tunings and ability to create complex chords and melodies make them ideal for playing heavy metal and other genres of metal.
Overall, the versatility of 8 string guitar electric guitars is one of their key advantages. They can be used to play a wide range of genres, from jazz to metal. This makes them a great choice for guitarists who want to explore different genres of music.
| Feature | 8 String Guitar Electric | 6 String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 8 | 6 |
| Range of Notes | Wider | Narrower |
| Sound | Fuller, Richer | Brighter, Thinner |
| Playing Style | More Complex | Simpler |
4. Technical Challenges
8 string guitar electric guitars are more challenging to play than traditional 6-string guitars due to the increased number of strings. This requires guitarists to have greater finger dexterity and coordination in order to fret the strings accurately and produce clear notes. Additionally, the wider neck of an 8 string guitar can make it more difficult for guitarists with smaller hands to reach the strings comfortably.
- Finger Dexterity: Playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar requires more finger dexterity than playing a 6-string guitar. This is because the extra strings require guitarists to be able to stretch their fingers further and to fret the strings more accurately.
- Coordination: Playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar also requires more coordination than playing a 6-string guitar. This is because guitarists need to be able to coordinate their picking and fretting hands more precisely in order to produce clear notes.
- Wider Neck: The neck of an 8 string guitar electric guitar is wider than the neck of a 6-string guitar. This can make it more difficult for guitarists with smaller hands to reach the strings comfortably.
- Learning Curve: The learning curve for playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar is steeper than the learning curve for playing a 6-string guitar. This is because guitarists need to learn new fingering techniques and chords in order to play an 8 string guitar.
Overall, the technical challenges associated with playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar should be considered before purchasing one. Guitarists who are new to playing guitar may want to start with a 6-string guitar before moving on to an 8 string guitar.
5. Cost
8 string guitar electric guitars are typically more expensive than traditional 6-string guitars due to several factors. First, they require more materials to build. The extra strings, wider neck, and larger body all contribute to the increased cost. Second, 8 string guitar electric guitars are often made with higher quality materials than 6-string guitars. This is because they need to be able to withstand the increased tension of the extra strings. Third, 8 string guitar electric guitars are often made by specialized luthiers who charge a premium for their work.
The increased cost of 8 string guitar electric guitars can be a deterrent for some guitarists. However, it is important to remember that these guitars offer a number of unique advantages over 6-string guitars. For guitarists who are serious about playing 8 string guitar, the extra cost is worth it.
Here are some real-life examples of how the cost of 8 string guitar electric guitars can impact guitarists:
- A professional guitarist who plays in a metal band may be willing to pay a premium for an 8 string guitar electric guitar that can give them the low, heavy sound they need.
- A jazz guitarist who wants to explore new harmonic possibilities may be willing to invest in an 8 string guitar electric guitar that gives them access to a wider range of notes.
- A beginner guitarist who is just starting to learn how to play may be better off starting with a less expensive 6-string guitar.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy an 8 string guitar electric guitar is a personal one. Guitarists should weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.
6. Availability
The availability of 8 string guitar electric guitars is a key factor to consider when purchasing one. Unlike 6-string guitars, which are widely available in most music stores, 8 string guitars are not as common. This can make it difficult to find an 8 string guitar in your local music store, and you may have to order one online or from a specialized dealer.
- Limited Production: 8 string guitar electric guitars are not as widely produced as 6-string guitars. This is because there is less demand for 8 string guitars, and they are more expensive to produce. As a result, fewer manufacturers produce 8 string guitars, and they are often made in smaller batches.
- Specialized Dealers: 8 string guitar electric guitars are often sold through specialized dealers who focus on selling high-end and niche guitars. These dealers may not be located in your local area, and you may have to travel to find one. Additionally, specialized dealers may charge a premium for 8 string guitars, as they are more difficult to obtain.
- Online Retailers: Online retailers are a good option for finding 8 string guitar electric guitars. However, it is important to do your research before purchasing an 8 string guitar online. Make sure to read reviews and compare prices from different retailers. Additionally, be aware of the return policy in case you are not satisfied with the guitar.
The limited availability of 8 string guitar electric guitars can be a challenge for guitarists who want to play this type of guitar. However, by doing your research and being willing to order online or from a specialized dealer, you can find an 8 string guitar that meets your needs.
7. Strings
8 string guitar electric guitars require special strings that are not as common as 6-string guitar strings. This is because the extra strings require a different tension and gauge in order to produce the correct sound. As a result, 8 string guitar strings are often more expensive than 6-string guitar strings, and they can be more difficult to find in local music stores.
The lack of availability and increased cost of 8 string guitar strings can be a challenge for guitarists who play this type of guitar. However, there are a few things that guitarists can do to make it easier to find and afford replacement strings.
- Buy in Bulk: One way to save money on 8 string guitar strings is to buy them in bulk. This can be done online or through a specialized guitar dealer. Buying in bulk can help guitarists to get a discount on the strings, and it can also save them money on shipping costs.
- Order Online: Another way to find 8 string guitar strings is to order them online. There are a number of online retailers that sell 8 string guitar strings, and they often have a wider selection than local music stores. Ordering online can also be more convenient for guitarists who live in remote areas or who have difficulty finding 8 string guitar strings in their local area.
- Use Different Strings: In some cases, guitarists may be able to use different strings on their 8 string guitar. For example, some guitarists use 7-string guitar strings on their 8 string guitar. This can be a good way to save money and to find strings that are more readily available.
Despite the challenges associated with finding and affording 8 string guitar strings, it is important to remember that these guitars offer a number of unique advantages over 6-string guitars. For guitarists who are serious about playing 8 string guitar, the extra cost and effort is worth it.
| Feature | 8 String Guitar Electric | 6 String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 8 | 6 |
| String Availability | Less common | More common |
| String Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
8. Setup
8 string guitar electric guitars require a special setup to ensure that they play properly. This is because the extra strings put more tension on the neck and body of the guitar, which can cause the guitar to go out of tune or develop other problems. A professional guitar technician can perform a setup on your 8 string guitar to ensure that it plays its best. They will adjust the truss rod, intonation, and action of the guitar to ensure that it plays in tune and with the correct amount of sustain. They can also make other adjustments, such as adjusting the pickup height and string spacing, to optimize the guitar’s sound and playability.
- Truss Rod Adjustment: The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. It is used to adjust the curvature of the neck, which can affect the action and intonation of the guitar. A professional guitar technician can adjust the truss rod to ensure that the neck is straight and that the guitar plays in tune.
- Intonation Adjustment: Intonation refers to the accuracy of the guitar’s tuning. A professional guitar technician can adjust the intonation of your 8 string guitar by adjusting the length of the strings at the bridge. This ensures that the guitar plays in tune at all frets.
- Action Adjustment: The action of a guitar refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. A professional guitar technician can adjust the action of your 8 string guitar to ensure that it is comfortable to play. They can also adjust the action to optimize the guitar’s sound and sustain.
Getting a professional setup for your 8 string guitar electric guitar is important to ensure that it plays its best. A professional guitar technician can make sure that your guitar is in tune, intonated correctly, and has the correct action. This will make your guitar more enjoyable to play and will help you to sound your best.
FAQs
8 string guitar electric guitars are a relatively new type of guitar that has been gaining popularity in recent years. They are similar to traditional 6-string guitars, but they have two extra strings, which gives them a wider range of notes and a fuller, richer sound. 8 string guitar electric guitars are perfect for guitarists who want to explore new sounds and possibilities. They’re also great for playing complex chords and melodies.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about 8 string guitar electric guitars:
Question 1: What are the benefits of playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar?
Answer: There are many benefits to playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar. Some of the most notable benefits include:
- Wider range of notes
- Fuller, richer sound
- Increased versatility
- Ability to play complex chords and melodies
Question 2: What are the challenges of playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar?
Answer: There are a few challenges that guitarists may face when playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar. These challenges include:
- Increased finger dexterity
- Increased coordination
- Wider neck
- Steeper learning curve
Question 3: How much do 8 string guitar electric guitars cost?
Answer: 8 string guitar electric guitars typically cost more than traditional 6-string guitars. This is due to the increased cost of materials and labor required to build an 8 string guitar. The price of an 8 string guitar electric guitar will vary depending on the brand, model, and features.
Question 4: Where can I buy an 8 string guitar electric guitar?
Answer: 8 string guitar electric guitars can be purchased from a variety of sources, including online retailers, music stores, and guitar manufacturers. It is important to do your research before purchasing an 8 string guitar electric guitar to ensure that you are getting the best possible guitar for your needs.
Question 5: What are some tips for playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar?
Answer: Here are a few tips for playing an 8 string guitar electric guitar:
- Start with a 6-string guitar
- Practice regularly
- Be patient
- Don’t be afraid to experiment
Question 6: What are some of the best 8 string guitar electric guitars on the market?
Answer: There are many great 8 string guitar electric guitars on the market. Some of the most popular brands include Ibanez, Schecter, and Strandberg. The best 8 string guitar electric guitar for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Tips for Playing 8 String Guitar Electric
8 string guitar electric guitars are a unique and versatile instrument that can open up a world of new possibilities for guitarists. However, playing an 8 string guitar can be challenging, especially for beginners. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Tip 1: Start with a 6-string guitar.
If you’re new to playing guitar, it’s a good idea to start with a 6-string guitar. This will help you to develop the basic skills and techniques that you need to play any guitar, including an 8 string guitar.
Tip 2: Practice regularly.
The best way to improve your 8 string guitar playing skills is to practice regularly. Set aside some time each day to practice your scales, chords, and songs. The more you practice, the better you will become.
Tip 3: Be patient.
Learning to play an 8 string guitar takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep practicing and you will eventually reach your goals.
Tip 4: Don’t be afraid to experiment.
8 string guitars offer a wide range of possibilities for experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try different tunings, chords, and playing techniques. You may be surprised at what you can create.
Tip 5: Find a good teacher.
If you’re struggling to learn how to play an 8 string guitar on your own, consider finding a good teacher. A good teacher can help you to develop the proper techniques and avoid bad habits.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
- Starting with a 6-string guitar can help you develop the basic skills and techniques that you need to play any guitar, including an 8 string guitar.
- Practicing regularly is the best way to improve your 8 string guitar playing skills.
- Learning to play an 8 string guitar takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep practicing and you will eventually reach your goals.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tunings, chords, and playing techniques.
- Finding a good teacher can help you to develop the proper techniques and avoid bad habits.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Following these tips can help you to become a better 8 string guitar player. With practice and dedication, you can master this unique and versatile instrument.
Conclusion
The 8 string guitar electric is a unique and versatile instrument that offers a wide range of possibilities for guitarists. With its extended range, low tunings, and ability to create complex chords and melodies, the 8 string guitar is perfect for guitarists who want to explore new sounds and possibilities. However, playing an 8 string guitar can be challenging, especially for beginners. By following the tips outlined in this article, guitarists can learn to play the 8 string guitar and unlock its full potential.
The 8 string guitar electric is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide range of music. With its unique sound and versatility, the 8 string guitar is sure to become increasingly popular in the years to come.
