Looking for a unique and versatile stringed instrument? Look no further than the 8 string lap steel guitar.
Editor’s Notes: 8 string lap steel guitar is a fascinating instrument that offers a wide range of sonic possibilities. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the 8 string lap steel guitar.
Our team of experts has done the research and dug deep into the details to put together this comprehensive guide. We’ll cover everything from the basics of the 8 string lap steel guitar to more advanced techniques. So whether you’re looking to buy your first 8 string lap steel guitar or just want to learn more about this amazing instrument, you’re in the right place.
Key Differences/Key Takeaways:
| 6 String Lap Steel Guitar | 8 String Lap Steel Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 6 | 8 |
| Range of Notes | Typically E to E | Typically C to C |
| Tuning | Varies, but common tunings include C6, D6, and G6 | Varies, but common tunings include C8, D8, and G8 |
| Playing Style | Typically played with a slide | Can be played with a slide or with fingerpicking |
| Sound | Typically has a warm, mellow sound | Can produce a wider range of sounds, from warm and mellow to bright and twangy |
Main Article Topics:
- The History of the 8 String Lap Steel Guitar
- The Different Types of 8 String Lap Steel Guitars
- How to Play the 8 String Lap Steel Guitar
- 8 String Lap Steel Guitar Techniques
- Famous 8 String Lap Steel Guitar Players
1. String Count
The number of strings on a lap steel guitar is one of the most important factors that determines its sound and playing style. 8 string lap steel guitars have a wider range of notes than 6 string lap steel guitars, and they can be tuned to a variety of different tunings. The most common tuning for an 8 string lap steel guitar is C8, which gives the guitar a range of C to C.
The wider range of notes on an 8 string lap steel guitar makes it possible to play more complex chords and melodies. It also allows for more creative use of open strings, which can add a unique and atmospheric sound to your playing.
The C8 tuning is a good all-around tuning for 8 string lap steel guitar. It provides a good balance of range and versatility, and it is well-suited for a variety of musical styles. However, there are many other tunings that can be used on an 8 string lap steel guitar, so you can experiment to find the tuning that best suits your playing style and the music you want to play.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between 6 string and 8 string lap steel guitars:
| 6 String Lap Steel Guitar | 8 String Lap Steel Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 6 | 8 |
| Range of Notes | Typically E to E | Typically C to C |
| Tuning | Varies, but common tunings include C6, D6, and G6 | Varies, but common tunings include C8, D8, and G8 |
| Playing Style | Typically played with a slide | Can be played with a slide or with fingerpicking |
| Sound | Typically has a warm, mellow sound | Can produce a wider range of sounds, from warm and mellow to bright and twangy |
2. Range
The wider range of notes on an 8 string lap steel guitar is one of its most distinctive features. This gives the guitar a greater versatility and allows it to be used for a wider variety of musical styles.
- Increased melodic possibilities: The wider range of notes on an 8 string lap steel guitar makes it possible to play more complex and interesting melodies. This is especially useful for lead guitarists who want to create solos that stand out from the crowd.
- Greater harmonic possibilities: The wider range of notes also makes it possible to play more complex chords and harmonies. This is especially useful for rhythm guitarists who want to add depth and richness to their playing.
- More creative use of open strings: The wider range of notes on an 8 string lap steel guitar makes it possible to use open strings more creatively. This can add a unique and atmospheric sound to your playing.
- Greater versatility: The wider range of notes on an 8 string lap steel guitar makes it more versatile than a 6 string lap steel guitar. It can be used for a wider variety of musical styles, from blues and country to jazz and rock.
Overall, the wider range of notes on an 8 string lap steel guitar is a major advantage. It gives the guitar a greater versatility and allows it to be used for a wider variety of musical styles.
3. Tuning
The ability to be tuned to a variety of tunings is one of the key features that makes the 8 string lap steel guitar so versatile. Different tunings can produce different sounds and playing styles, making the 8 string lap steel guitar a great choice for a wide range of musical genres.
The most common tuning for an 8 string lap steel guitar is C8, which gives the guitar a range of C to C. This tuning is well-suited for a variety of musical styles, including blues, country, and rock. However, there are many other tunings that can be used on an 8 string lap steel guitar, including D8, G8, and even open tunings.
The choice of tuning depends on the desired sound and playing style. For example, D8 tuning is often used for slide guitar, while G8 tuning is often used for fingerpicking. Open tunings can be used to create unique and atmospheric sounds.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between C8, D8, and G8 tuning:
| Tuning | Range of Notes | Common Playing Styles |
|---|---|---|
| C8 | C to C | Blues, country, rock |
| D8 | D to D | Slide guitar |
| G8 | G to G | Fingerpicking |
Overall, the ability to be tuned to a variety of tunings is a major advantage of the 8 string lap steel guitar. It makes the guitar a versatile instrument that can be
used for a wide range of musical styles.
4. Playing Style
The 8 string lap steel guitar can be played with a slide or with fingerpicking, which gives it a great deal of versatility. Playing with a slide produces a unique, smooth sound that is often associated with blues and country music. Fingerpicking, on the other hand, produces a brighter, more articulate sound that is well-suited for a variety of genres, including folk, rock, and jazz.
The choice of playing style depends on the desired sound and playing style. For example, slide guitar is often used for lead guitar solos, while fingerpicking is often used for rhythm guitar accompaniment. However, there are no hard and fast rules, and many players use a combination of both techniques.
One of the advantages of the 8 string lap steel guitar is that it is well-suited for both slide guitar and fingerpicking. The wider range of notes and the ability to be tuned to a variety of tunings makes it a versatile instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between slide guitar and fingerpicking:
| Playing Style | Sound | Common Playing Styles |
|---|---|---|
| Slide guitar | Smooth, unique sound | Blues, country, rock |
| Fingerpicking | Bright, articulate sound | Folk, rock, jazz |
5. Sound
The 8 string lap steel guitar’s ability to produce a wider range of sounds is due to several factors, including its extended range of notes, its ability to be tuned to a variety of tunings, and its unique playing techniques.
The wider range of notes on an 8 string lap steel guitar gives it a greater versatility and allows it to be used for a wider variety of musical styles. For example, the lower notes can be used to create a warm and mellow sound, while the higher notes can be used to create a bright and twangy sound.
The ability to be tuned to a variety of tunings also contributes to the 8 string lap steel guitar’s wide range of sounds. Different tunings can produce different sounds and playing styles, making the 8 string lap steel guitar a great choice for a wide range of musical genres.
Finally, the unique playing techniques that are used on the 8 string lap steel guitar also contribute to its wide range of sounds. For example, slide guitar playing can produce a smooth, unique sound, while fingerpicking can produce a brighter, more articulate sound.
Overall, the 8 string lap steel guitar’s ability to produce a wider range of sounds makes it a versatile instrument that can be used for a wide range of musical styles.
Here is a table that summarizes the key factors that contribute to the 8 string lap steel guitar’s wide range of sounds:
| Factor | Effect on Sound |
|---|---|
| Wider range of notes | Greater versatility and ability to be used for a wider variety of musical styles |
| Ability to be tuned to a variety of tunings | Different tunings can produce different sounds and playing styles |
| Unique playing techniques | Slide guitar playing can produce a smooth, unique sound, while fingerpicking can produce a brighter, more articulate sound |
6. Body Style
The body style of an 8 string lap steel guitar is an important factor that contributes to its sound and playing style. 8 string lap steel guitars typically have a solid body, with a metal or wooden resonator. This gives the guitar a louder, more resonant sound than a hollow body guitar.
- Solid Body: The solid body of an 8 string lap steel guitar helps to create a louder, more resonant sound. This is because the solid body prevents the sound from being absorbed by the wood, which results in a more focused and powerful sound.
- Metal Resonator: The metal resonator on an 8 string lap steel guitar helps to create a brighter, more twangy sound. This is because the metal resonator reflects the sound waves back into the body of the guitar, which results in a more pronounced and piercing sound.
- Wooden Resonator: The wooden resonator on an 8 string lap steel guitar helps to create a warmer, more mellow sound. This is because the wooden resonator absorbs some of the sound waves, which results in a less pronounced and more mellow sound.
The choice of body style depends on the desired sound and playing style. For example, a solid body with a metal resonator is a good choice for players who want a loud, bright sound, while a solid body with a wooden resonator is a good choice for players who want a warmer, more mellow sound.
7. Bridge
The bridge of an 8 string lap steel guitar is an important factor that contributes to its intonation, or the accuracy of its tuning. A compensated bridge is a bridge that is designed to compensate for the different lengths of the strings, which helps to ensure that all of the strings are in tune when played at the same fret.
- Intonation and Compensated Bridges: Intonation refers to the accuracy of the guitar’s tuning, particularly when played at different frets. A compensated bridge adjusts for the differing lengths of the strings, ensuring they are all in tune when pressed down at the same fret, which is crucial for precise and harmonious playing.
- String Length and Compensation: On an 8 string lap steel guitar, the strings have varying lengths due to their different pitches. A compensated bridge is designed with varying saddle positions to accommodate these different string lengths. By adjusting the saddles, the effective string length is altered to achieve optimal intonation across the entire fretboard.
- Improved Tuning Stability: A compensated bridge helps maintain accurate intonation even with changes in temperature or humidity, which can affect the tension and pitch of the strings. This ensures consistent tuning and reduces the need for frequent adjustments, allowing the player to focus on their performance.
- Enhanced Playability and Expression: Accurate intonation contributes to the overall playability and expressiveness of the 8 string lap steel guitar. When the guitar is properly intonated, it allows for smooth and precise fretting, enabling the player to execute complex techniques and musical ideas with greater ease and accuracy.
Overall, the compensated bridge on an 8 string lap steel guitar plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate intonation, which is essential for producing harmonious and expressive music. It enhances the guitar’s playability, allowing the player to explore their creativity and musical potential to the fullest.
8. Electronics
The electronics of an 8 string lap steel guitar play a crucial role in shaping the instrument’s sound and providing the player with control over their tone. Pickups convert the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals, which are then processed by electronics such as volume and tone controls before being amplified.
- Magnetic Pickups: Magnetic pickups are the most common type used on 8 string lap steel guitars. They consist of a coil of wire wrapped around a magnet, which generates an electrical current when a string vibrates in its magnetic field. Magnetic pickups provide a strong, clear sound and are well-suited for a variety of musical styles.
- Piezoelectric Pickups: Piezoelectric pickups work by converting the mechanical vibrations of the strings into electrical signals using piezoelectric crystals. They provide a more natural, acoustic sound than magnetic pickups and are often used in conjunction with magnetic pickups to create a wider range of tonal possibilities.
- Volume and Tone Controls: Volume and tone controls allow the player to adjust the output level and tonal characteristics of the guitar. Volume controls adjust the overall , while tone controls adjust the balance between high and low frequencies. This gives the player a great deal of control over the sound of their guitar and allows them to tailor it to their individual preferences and the requirements of the music they are playing.
- Other Electronics: In addition to pickups and volume and tone controls, some 8 string lap steel guitars may also be equipped with other electronics, such as reverb, delay, and chorus effects. These effects can add depth and atmosphere to the sound of the guitar and give the player even greater control over their tone.
The electronics of an 8 string lap steel guitar are an essential part of the instrument and play a major role in determining its sound and playability. By understanding the different types of pickups and electronics available, players can choose the right combination of components to create their own unique sound.
9. Accessories
Accessories play a vital role in enhancing the versatility and playability of an 8 string lap steel guitar. They provide additional options for sound modification, tuning, and playing techniques, allowing guitarists to tailor the instrument to their specific needs and musical styles.
- Slides
Slides are cylindrical or bar-shaped objects made of glass, metal, or ceramic that are placed on the strings and moved along the fretboard to produce a smooth, glissando effect. Slides are commonly used in blues and country music, and they can add a unique, expressive dimension to the sound of an 8 string lap steel guitar. - Capos
Capos are devices that are placed on the neck of the guitar to raise the pitch of the strings. They are commonly used to change the key of a song or to create different voicings and harmonies. Capos can be particularly useful on an 8 string lap steel guitar, as they allow guitarists to explore a wider range of tonal possibilities and create more complex arrangements. - Tuners
Tuners are essential accessories for any guitar player, and they are especially important for 8 string lap steel guitars due to their extended range and the need for precise tuning. Tuners help guitarists to ensure that their instrument is in tune, which is crucial for producing clear and harmonious sounds.
In addition to these essential accessories, there are many other accessories that can be used with an 8 string lap steel guitar, such as volume pedals, wah-wah pedals, and reverb units. These accessories can further enhance the sound and playability of the guitar, allowing guitarists to create a wide range of musical effects and textures.
10. Playing Techniques
The 8 string lap steel guitar offers a diverse range of playing techniques that contribute to its unique and expressive sound. These techniques provide guitarists with a wide array of sonic possibilities, allowing them to explore different musical genres and create captivating performances.
- Slide Guitar:
Slide guitar involves using a slide, typically made of glass or metal, to fret and play the strings. This technique creates a smooth, glissando effect that is commonly associated with blues and country music. On an 8 string lap steel guitar, the extended range of notes allows for even greater melodic possibilities and expressive control. - Fingerpicking:
Fingerpicking involves using the fingers or a thumbpick to pluck the strings individually. This technique produces a bright, articulate sound that is well-suited for a variety of genres, including folk, rock, and jazz. The 8 string lap steel guitar’s wider fret spacing and string layout provide ample room for fingerpicking, enabling guitarists to create intricate and dynamic patterns. - Harmonics:
Harmonics are created by lightly touching the strings at specific points, causing them to vibrate in a way that produces higher-pitched overtones. These overtones create a bell-like, ethereal sound that can be used to add depth and texture to music. The 8 string lap steel guitar’s extended range provides a wider harmonic spectrum, allowing guitarists to explore a larger array of harmonic sounds.
The combination of these playing techniques and the 8 string lap steel guitar’s unique design and sound characteristics make it a versatile and expressive instrument that is capable of producing a wide range of musical styles and artistic expressions.
8 String Lap Steel Guitar FAQs
This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding the 8 string lap steel guitar, providing clear and informative answers to enhance understanding and appreciation of this unique instrument.
Question 1: What are the key differences between a 6 string and an 8 string lap steel guitar?
Answer: The primary difference lies in the number of strings, with the 8 string lap steel guitar having two additional strings. This extended range allows for a wider tonal spectrum, greater melodic possibilities, and more complex chord voicings.
Question 2: What playing techniques are commonly used on an 8 string lap steel guitar?
Answer: The 8 string lap steel guitar offers a diverse range of playing techniques, including slide guitar, fingerpicking, and harmonics. Slide guitar involves using a slide to fret the strings, creating a smooth, glissando effect. Fingerpicking utilizes the fingers or a thumbpick to pluck the strings individually, producing a bright, articulate sound. Harmonics are created by lightly touching the strings at specific points, resulting in bell-like, ethereal overtones.
Question 3: What are the advantages of using a compensated bridge on an 8 string lap steel guitar?
Answer: A compensated bridge helps to improve intonation by adjusting the effective string length for each string. This ensures that all strings are in tune when played at the same fret, enhancing the overall playability and accuracy of the instrument.
Question 4: How do the electronics on an 8 string lap steel guitar affect its sound?
Answer: The electronics, including pickups and controls, play a crucial role in shaping the sound of the 8 string lap steel guitar. Pickups convert the vibrations of the strings into electrical signals, while controls such as volume and tone allow the player to adjust the output level and tonal characteristics of the instrument. This enables a wide range of sonic possibilities to suit different musical styles and preferences.
Question 5: What accessories are commonly used with an 8 string lap steel guitar?
Answer: Common accessories for the 8 string lap steel guitar include slides, capos, and tuners. Slides are used for slide guitar playing, capos are used to change the key or create different voicings, and tuners are essential for ensuring accurate intonation. Additional accessories such as volume pedals, wah-wah pedals, and reverb units can further enhance the sound and playing experience.
Question 6: What musical genres are well-suited for the 8 string lap steel guitar?
Answer: The 8 string lap steel guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used in a variety of musical genres. It is commonly associated with blues, country, and rock music, but its unique sound and playing techniques also lend themselves well to genres such as folk, jazz, and experimental music.
Summary: The 8 string lap steel guitar is a captivating instrument with a distinct sound and versatile playing techniques. Its extended range, diverse playing styles, and customizable electronics make it a powerful tool for musicians seeking to explore new sonic landscapes and express their creativity.
Transition to the next article section: To delve deeper into the world of the 8 string lap steel guitar, explore the following sections, where we will uncover its history, discuss its construction, and showcase renowned players who have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape.
8 String Lap Steel Guitar Tips
Mastering the 8 string lap steel guitar requires dedication and a commitment to refining one’s technique. Here are some valuable tips to help you elevate your playing skills and unlock the full potential of this instrument.
Tip 1: Explore Open Tunings
Experimenting with open tunings can expand your sonic palette and inspire new musical ideas. Open tunings create unique chord voicings and intervals that are not easily achievable in standard tuning. Consider tunings like C6, D8, or G8 to discover fresh harmonic possibilities.
Tip 2: Practice Slide Techniques
Slide guitar is an iconic technique associated with the lap steel guitar. Practice moving the slide smoothly along the strings to create expressive glissandos and soulful melodies. Start with simple patterns and gradually increase the complexity to develop your slide guitar vocabulary.
Tip 3: Master Fingerpicking
Fingerpicking involves using your fingers or a thumbpick to pluck the strings individually. This technique allows for intricate picking patterns and delicate melodies. Dedicate time to practicing fingerpicking exercises to improve your dexterity and coordination.
Tip 4: Utilize Harmonics
Harmonics add a shimmering, ethereal quality to your playing. By lightly touching the strings at specific points, you can create bell-like overtones. Explore different harmonic techniques to enhance your sonic arsenal.
Tip 5: Adjust the Compensated Bridge
The compensated bridge on an 8 string lap steel guitar ensures accurate intonation across all strings. Take the time to adjust the bridge saddles to optimize the string length for each note, resulting in a perfectly in-tune instrument.
Tip 6: Experiment with Electronics
Lap steel guitars often feature a variety of electronic options. Experiment with different pickup configurations, volume, and tone controls to shape your sound. Explore the use of pedals or outboard effects to further enhance your sonic capabilities.
Tip 7: Find Your Inspiration
Immerse yourself in the music of renowned lap steel guitarists to find inspiration and develop your own unique style. Listen to players like David Lindley, Robert Randolph, and Cindy Cashdollar to broaden your musical perspective.
Tip 8: Be Patient and Persistent
Mastering the 8 string lap steel guitar is a journey that requires patience and dedication. Embrace the learning process, practice regularly, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With consistent effort, you will reap the rewards of this captivating instrument.
By following these tips, you can unlock the full potential of the 8 string lap steel guitar and embark on a musical journey filled with creativity and expression.
Conclusion: The 8 string lap steel guitar is a versatile and rewarding instrument that offers endless possibilities for musical exploration. Embrace the tips outlined above to refine your technique, expand your sonic horizons, and create music that resonates with your soul.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 8 string lap steel guitar stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of musical instrument makers. Its unique sound, versatile playing techniques, and wide-ranging sonic capabilities make it an instrument of unparalleled expression.
As we look to the future of music, the 8 string lap steel guitar will undoubtedly continue to inspire and captivate musicians and audiences alike. Its distinctive sound and endless creative possibilities ensure its place as a cornerstone of musical exploration and innovation.
