When it comes to extended-range guitars, PRS is a brand that always comes to mind. The PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that is perfect for players who want to explore the lower registers. But what makes the PRS 8 string guitar so special?
Editor’s Note:The PRS 8 string guitar is a popular choice for metal and progressive rock guitarists. It offers a wide range of tones, from warm and clean to aggressive and distorted.
We’ve done the research and dug into the details, and in this PRS 8 string guitar guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not this guitar is right for you.
Key Differences:
| Feature | PRS 8 string guitar |
|---|---|
| Number of strings | 8 |
| Body shape | Singlecut or doublecut |
| Neck pickup | 85/15 “S” |
| Bridge pickup | 59/09 |
| Construction | Mahogany body, maple top, mahogany neck |
Main Article Topics:
- The history of the PRS 8 string guitar
- The different models of PRS 8 string guitars
- The sound of the PRS 8 string guitar
- The pros and cons of the PRS 8 string guitar
- How to choose the right PRS 8 string guitar for you
1. Extended range
The extended range of the PRS 8 string guitar is one of its most defining features. With two additional strings, players have access to a wider range of notes, allowing them to explore new sonic possibilities and create more complex and interesting music.
The additional strings on the PRS 8 string guitar are typically tuned to low B and high E, which gives the guitar a wider range of two octaves. This allows players to access notes that are not possible on a standard 6-string guitar, such as the low B on the 8th string and the high E on the 1st string.
The extended range of the PRS 8 string guitar makes it ideal for a variety of genres, including metal, progressive rock, and jazz. It is also a popular choice for guitarists who want to explore new and innovative sounds.
Here are some of the benefits of the extended range of the PRS 8 string guitar:
- Allows players to access a wider range of notes
- Creates more complex and interesting music
- Opens up new sonic possibilities
- Ideal for a variety of genres, including metal, progressive rock, and jazz
If you are looking for a versatile and powerful guitar that can help you explore new sonic possibilities, the PRS 8 string guitar is a great choice.
Key Insights:
- The extended range of the PRS 8 string guitar is one of its most defining features.
- The additional strings allow players to access a wider range of notes and explore new sonic possibilities.
- The PRS 8 string guitar is ideal for a variety of genres, including metal, progressive rock, and jazz.
2. Versatile sound
The PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile instrument that is capable of producing a wide range of tones, from warm and clean to aggressive and distorted. This makes it suitable for a variety of genres, including metal, progressive rock, jazz, and blues.
The versatility of the PRS 8 string guitar is due to a number of factors, including its extended range, pickup configuration, and construction.
The extended range of the PRS 8 string guitar gives players access to a wider range of notes, which allows them to create more complex and interesting music. The additional strings can also be used to create new and innovative sounds.
The PRS 8 string guitar typically comes with a variety of pickup configurations, which allows players to customize their sound to suit their individual needs. For example, players who want a warm and clean sound can use the neck pickup, while players who want a more aggressive and distorted sound can use the bridge pickup.
The construction of the PRS 8 string guitar also contributes to its versatility. The guitar is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, which ensures that it can withstand the rigors of playing in a variety of genres.
Here are some examples of how the PRS 8 string guitar has been used in different genres:
- Metal: The PRS 8 string guitar is a popular choice for metal guitarists because of its aggressive and distorted sound. Some notable metal guitarists who use the PRS 8 string guitar include Mark Holcomb of Periphery and Misha Mansoor of Animals as Leaders.
- Progressive rock: The PRS 8 string guitar is also a popular choice for progressive rock guitarists because of its versatility and ability to produce a wide range of tones. Some notable progressive rock guitarists who use the PRS 8 string guitar include John Petrucci of Dream Theater and Alex Lifeson of Rush.
- Jazz: The PRS 8 string guitar can also be used for jazz, although it is not as common as in other genres. Some notable jazz guitarists who use the PRS 8 string guitar include Pat Metheny and John Scofield.
- Blues: The PRS 8 string guitar can also be used for blues, although it is not as common as in other genres. Some notable blues guitarists who use the PRS 8 string guitar include Joe Bonamassa and Robert Cray.
The PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres. Its extended range, pickup configuration, and construction make it a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles.
Key Insights:
- The PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile instrument that can produce a wide range of tones.
- The extended range of the PRS 8 string guitar gives players access to a wider range of notes.
- The PRS 8 string guitar is suitable for a variety of genres, including metal, progressive rock, jazz, and blues.
3. High quality construction
The high quality construction of PRS guitars is one of the things that sets them apart from other brands. PRS guitars are made with premium materials, such as mahogany, maple, and rosewood. The necks are made from mahogany or maple, and the fretboards are typically made from rosewood or ebony. The bodies are typically made from mahogany or maple, and the tops are often made from maple or flame maple.
- Materials: PRS guitars are made with high quality materials, such as mahogany, maple, and rosewood. These materials are known
for their durability and tonal qualities. - Craftsmanship: PRS guitars are made with great attention to detail and craftsmanship. The necks are hand-carved, and the bodies are sanded and finished to a high standard.
- Durability: PRS guitars are built to last. The high quality materials and construction ensure that these guitars can withstand the rigors of playing and touring.
- Longevity: PRS guitars are known for their longevity. With proper care, a PRS guitar can last for many years.
The high quality construction of PRS guitars is one of the reasons why they are so popular with professional guitarists. PRS guitars are built to last, and they can withstand the rigors of playing and touring. If you are looking for a guitar that will give you years of enjoyment, a PRS guitar is a great choice.
4. Comfortable to play
The PRS 8 string guitar is designed to be comfortable to play for extended periods of time. This is due to a number of features, including its contoured body and fast neck. The contoured body reduces the weight of the guitar, making it easier to hold and play for long periods of time. The fast neck makes it easy to play complex chords and riffs, even for players with smaller hands.
- Contoured body: The contoured body of the PRS 8 string guitar reduces the weight of the guitar, making it easier to hold and play for long periods of time.
- Fast neck: The fast neck of the PRS 8 string guitar makes it easy to play complex chords and riffs, even for players with smaller hands.
- Cutaway: The cutaway design of the PRS 8 string guitar allows players to reach the higher frets easily.
- Beveled edges: The beveled edges of the PRS 8 string guitar make it more comfortable to play for long periods of time.
The combination of these features makes the PRS 8 string guitar a comfortable and playable instrument, even for extended periods of time. This makes it a great choice for players who want to play complex and demanding music.
5. Versatile pickup configuration
The PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres, from metal to jazz. One of the things that makes the PRS 8 string guitar so versatile is its pickup configuration. Players can choose from a variety of pickup configurations to customize their sound to suit their individual needs.
Some of the most popular pickup configurations for the PRS 8 string guitar include:
- HH: This is the most common pickup configuration for the PRS 8 string guitar. It consists of two humbucking pickups, one in the neck position and one in the bridge position. This configuration provides a powerful and versatile sound that is suitable for a variety of genres.
- HSH: This pickup configuration consists of a humbucking pickup in the neck position, a single-coil pickup in the middle position, and a humbucking pickup in the bridge position. This configuration provides a wider range of tones than the HH configuration, making it suitable for a variety of genres.
- SS: This pickup configuration consists of two single-coil pickups, one in the neck position and one in the bridge position. This configuration provides a brighter and more articulate sound than the HH or HSH configurations, making it suitable for genres such as funk and country.
The pickup configuration of the PRS 8 string guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar. By choosing the right pickup configuration, players can customize their sound to suit their individual needs and playing style.
| Pickup Configuration | Sound | Suitable Genres |
|---|---|---|
| HH | Powerful and versatile | Metal, rock, blues |
| HSH | Wider range of tones | Jazz, funk, country |
| SS | Brighter and more articulate | Funk, country, pop |
6. Wide Range of Models
PRS offers a wide range of 8 string guitar models to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of guitarists. This wide range of models allows players to choose the guitar that best suits their playing style, budget, and tonal requirements.
- Component Choices: PRS 8 string guitars are available with a variety of component choices, including different body woods, neck woods, and pickup configurations. This allows players to customize their guitar to achieve their desired sound and feel.
- Price Range: PRS 8 string guitars are available in a range of price points, from the affordable SE series to the high-end Private Stock models. This ensures that there is a PRS 8 string guitar to fit every budget.
- Tonal Variety: The different models of PRS 8 string guitars offer a wide range of tonal possibilities. From the warm and mellow tones of the SE series to the aggressive and powerful tones of the Private Stock models, there is a PRS 8 string guitar to suit every musical genre.
- Playing Styles: PRS 8 string guitars are designed to accommodate a variety of playing styles. Whether you are a shredder, a jazz musician, or a metalhead, there is a PRS 8 string guitar that will suit your needs.
The wide range of models that PRS offers ensures that there is a PRS 8 string guitar to suit every player. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, you are sure to find the perfect PRS 8 string guitar for your needs.
7. Popular with professionals
The PRS 8 string guitar has gained popularity among professional guitarists due to its exceptional quality and versatility. Its unique design and construction, combined with its wide tonal range, make it an ideal choice for guitarists who demand the best from their instruments.
- Exceptional Craftsmanship: PRS guitars are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The 8 string guitar is no exception, featuring a solid body construction with a comfortable contoured body and a fast, playable neck.
- Versatile Sound: The PRS 8 string guitar offers a wide range of tones, from warm and clean to aggressive and distorted. This versatility makes it suitable for a variety of genres, from metal to jazz.
- Innovative Design: PRS guitars are known for their innovative designs, and the 8 string guitar is no exception. It features a unique pickup configuration that allows players to access a wide range of tones.
- Endorsements: The PRS 8 string guitar is endorsed by a number of professional guitarists, including Mark Holcomb of Periphery and Misha Mansoor of Animals as Leaders. These e
ndorsements are a testament to the quality and versatility of the guitar.
The PRS 8 string guitar is a popular choice for professional guitarists because it offers the perfect combination of quality, versatility, and innovation. If you are looking for a guitar that can handle a variety of genres and playing styles, the PRS 8 string guitar is a great choice.
8. Innovative design
The PRS 8 string guitar is a prime example of PRS’s innovative design philosophy. It features a number of unique design elements that contribute to its exceptional sound, playability, and versatility.
One of the most distinctive features of the PRS 8 string guitar is its patented PRS tremolo system. This system allows players to achieve a wide range of vibrato effects without sacrificing tuning stability. The tremolo system is designed to be smooth and responsive, making it easy for players to create expressive and dynamic solos.
Another innovative design element of the PRS 8 string guitar is its body shape. The body is contoured to provide a comfortable playing experience, even for extended periods of time. The cutaway design allows players to reach the higher frets easily, making it ideal for playing complex chords and solos.
The PRS 8 string guitar also features a unique pickup configuration. The guitar is equipped with two humbucking pickups and a single-coil pickup, which gives players a wide range of tonal possibilities. The humbucking pickups provide a powerful and versatile sound, while the single-coil pickup adds clarity and articulation.
The combination of these innovative design elements makes the PRS 8 string guitar a truly exceptional instrument. It is a versatile and powerful guitar that is perfect for a wide range of genres, from metal to jazz.
Here are some of the benefits of the innovative design of the PRS 8 string guitar:
- Exceptional sound quality
- Excellent playability
- Versatility
- Durability
If you are looking for a high-quality 8 string guitar that is built to last, the PRS 8 string guitar is a great choice.
9. Excellent value for money
The PRS 8 string guitar is an excellent value for money because it offers a high level of quality and performance at a competitive price. PRS guitars are known for their high quality construction and craftsmanship, and the 8 string guitar is no exception. It is made with premium materials and components, and it is built to last. The guitar also offers a wide range of tonal possibilities, making it suitable for a variety of genres. Despite all of these features, the PRS 8 string guitar is still priced competitively, making it an excellent value for money.
Here are some of the benefits of the PRS 8 string guitar’s excellent value for money:
- High quality construction and craftsmanship
- Premium materials and components
- Wide range of tonal possibilities
- Competitive price
If you are looking for a high-quality 8 string guitar that is built to last, the PRS 8 string guitar is an excellent choice. It offers a great value for money, and it is sure to meet your needs.
Key Insights:
- The PRS 8 string guitar is an excellent value for money.
- It offers a high level of quality and performance at a competitive price.
- The guitar is made with premium materials and components.
- It offers a wide range of tonal possibilities.
10. Great investment
PRS guitars are known for their high quality construction and craftsmanship, and the 8 string guitar is no exception. This means that PRS guitars are built to last, and they can withstand the rigors of playing and touring. As a result, PRS guitars hold their value well over time.
This makes the PRS 8 string guitar a great investment for players who are looking for a guitar that will last for many years. PRS guitars are also known for their excellent sound quality and versatility, making them a great choice for a wide range of genres.
Here are some of the benefits of investing in a PRS 8 string guitar:
- High quality construction and craftsmanship
- Excellent sound quality and versatility
- Holds its value well over time
If you are looking for a high-quality 8 string guitar that is built to last, the PRS 8 string guitar is a great choice. It is a great investment that will provide you with years of enjoyment.
Key Insights:
- PRS guitars are known for their high quality construction and craftsmanship.
- PRS guitars hold their value well over time.
- The PRS 8 string guitar is a great investment for players who are looking for a guitar that will last for many years.
FAQs about the PRS 8 String Guitar
The PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Here are some frequently asked questions about the PRS 8 string guitar:
Question 1: What are the benefits of an 8 string guitar?
Answer: An 8 string guitar offers several benefits, including an extended range of notes, increased versatility, and the ability to create new and innovative sounds.
Question 2: Is the PRS 8 string guitar suitable for all genres of music?
Answer: Yes, the PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres, including metal, progressive rock, jazz, and blues.
Question 3: How does the PRS 8 string guitar compare to other 8 string guitars on the market?
Answer: The PRS 8 string guitar is known for its high quality construction, comfortable playability, and versatile sound. It is a popular choice for professional guitarists due to its exceptional quality and performance.
Question 4: What are the different models of PRS 8 string guitars available?
Answer: PRS offers a wide range of 8 string guitar models, from the affordable SE series to the high-end Private Stock models. This ensures that there is a PRS 8 string guitar to suit every budget and playing style.
Question 5: How much does a PRS 8 string guitar cost?
Answer: The price of a PRS 8 string guitar varies depending on the model and features. However, PRS 8 string guitars are generally priced competitively compared to other high-quality 8 string guitars on the market.
Question 6: Where can I buy a PRS 8 string guitar?
Answer: PRS 8 string guitars can be purchased from authorized PRS dealers or directly from the PRS website.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the PRS 8 string guitar. For more information, please visit the PRS website or consult with an authorized PRS dealer.
Summary of Key Takeaways:
- The PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that is suitable for a
variety of genres. - PRS 8 string guitars are known for their high quality construction, comfortable playability, and versatile sound.
- PRS offers a wide range of 8 string guitar models to suit every budget and playing style.
- PRS 8 string guitars are priced competitively compared to other high-quality 8 string guitars on the market.
Transition to the Next Article Section:
Now that you know more about the PRS 8 string guitar, you may be interested in learning about other PRS guitar models or exploring different guitar techniques.
Tips for Playing the PRS 8 String Guitar
The PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that can be used for a variety of genres. However, it can also be a challenging instrument to play, especially for beginners. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Tip 1: Get the right guitar. Not all 8 string guitars are created equal. If you’re a beginner, it’s important to choose a guitar that is designed for beginners. These guitars typically have a shorter scale length and a narrower neck, which makes them easier to play.
Tip 2: Use the right strings. The strings on an 8 string guitar are thicker than the strings on a 6 string guitar. This can make them more difficult to bend and stretch. It’s important to use the right gauge strings for your playing style.
Tip 3: Learn the basic chords. The basic chords on an 8 string guitar are the same as the basic chords on a 6 string guitar. However, there are a few additional chords that you’ll need to learn, such as the Cmaj7 and the Gmin7. These chords can be used to add a more complex and interesting sound to your playing.
Tip 4: Practice regularly. The best way to improve your playing is to practice regularly. Try to practice for at least 30 minutes each day. As you practice, you’ll start to develop muscle memory and your playing will become more fluid.
Tip 5: Find a good teacher. If you’re struggling to learn how to play the PRS 8 string guitar, it may be helpful to find a good teacher. A good teacher can help you develop the proper technique and can provide you with personalized feedback.
Summary of Key Takeaways:
- Choose the right guitar for your playing style.
- Use the right strings for your playing style.
- Learn the basic chords.
- Practice regularly.
- Find a good teacher if needed.
Transition to the Article’s Conclusion:
By following these tips, you can learn how to play the PRS 8 string guitar and enjoy all that it has to offer.
Conclusion
The PRS 8 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that is perfect for players who want to explore the lower registers and create new and innovative sounds. It is a high quality guitar that is built to last and offers a wide range of tones, making it suitable for a variety of genres.
If you are looking for a high-quality 8 string guitar that will give you years of enjoyment, the PRS 8 string guitar is a great choice.






