What is an 8 string fanned fret guitar? It’s a guitar with eight strings, and the frets are fanned out in a way that makes it easier to play chords and scales.
Editor’s Note:8 string fanned fret guitars are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the key differences between 8 string fanned fret guitars and traditional guitars, and we’ll help you decide if an 8 string fanned fret guitar is right for you.
We’ve done the research, dug through the information, and put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences Between 8 String Fanned Fret Guitars and Traditional Guitars
| Feature | 8 String Fanned Fret Guitar | Traditional Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 8 | 6 |
| Fretboard radius | Fanned out | Constant |
| Scale length | Varies | Constant |
| Tuning | Typically tuned to F# | Typically tuned to E |
Main Article Topics
- The benefits of 8 string fanned fret guitars
- The challenges of playing an 8 string fanned fret guitar
- How to choose the right 8 string fanned fret guitar for you
1. Extended range
The extended range of 8 string fanned fret guitars opens up a world of new possibilities for guitarists. With two extra strings, players can access lower notes that were previously unavailable on a traditional six-string guitar. This makes 8 string fanned fret guitars ideal for playing in lower tunings, such as drop C or drop B. The extended range also allows guitarists to explore new sonic possibilities, such as using the extra strings to create drones or harmonies.
- Tapping into new sonic territories: The extended range of 8 string fanned fret guitars allows guitarists to access notes that are not possible on a traditional six-string guitar. This opens up a world of new sonic possibilities, such as using the extra strings to create drones, harmonies, or dissonant intervals.
- Expanding musical horizons: 8 string fanned fret guitars can be used to play a wider variety of musical styles, from metal to jazz to blues. The extended range makes it possible to play chords and scales that would be impossible on a traditional six-string guitar.
- Pushing the boundaries of guitar playing: 8 string fanned fret guitars are a relatively new innovation in the world of guitars, and they are still being explored by guitarists. As players continue to experiment with these guitars, new and innovative techniques are being developed.
- A new level of creativity: The extended range of 8 string fanned fret guitars gives guitarists a new level of creativity. With more notes at their disposal, guitarists can create more complex and interesting chords, melodies, and solos.
The extended range of 8 string fanned fret guitars is one of their most significant advantages. This extended range opens up a world of new possibilities for guitarists, allowing them to explore new sonic territories, expand their musical horizons, and push the boundaries of guitar playing.
2. Improved ergonomics
The fanned frets on an 8 string fanned fret guitar are one of its most important features. The fanned frets make it easier to reach the frets, which can reduce hand fatigue and improve playing comfort. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who play for long periods of time or who have small hands.
The fanned frets on an 8 string fanned fret guitar are also beneficial for guitarists who want to play complex chords and scales. The fanned frets make it easier to reach the notes in these chords and scales, which can improve accuracy and speed.
Overall, the improved ergonomics of an 8 string fanned fret guitar can make it a more comfortable and enjoyable guitar to play. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who play for long periods of time or who have small hands.
Here are some specific examples of how the improved ergonomics of an 8 string fanned fret guitar can benefit guitarists:
- Guitarists with small hands can more easily reach the frets on an 8 string fanned fret guitar, which can make it easier to play complex chords and scales.
- Guitarists who play for long periods of time can experience less hand fatigue when playing an 8 string fanned fret guitar, which can help to prevent injuries.
- Guitarists who want to play complex chords and scales can benefit from the improved ergonomics of an 8 string fanned fret guitar, which can make it easier to reach the notes in these chords and scales.
Overall, the improved ergonomics of an 8 string fanned fret guitar can make it a more comfortable and enjoyable guitar to play. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who play for long periods of time or who have small hands.
3. More natural playing experience
The fanned frets on an 8 string fanned fret guitar are designed to follow the natural curve of the hand, which makes it easier to play chords and scales. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who have small hands or who experience hand fatigue when playing traditional guitars.
- Reduced hand fatigue: The fanned frets on an 8 string fanned fret guitar can help to reduce hand fatigue, which is a common problem for guitarists who play for long periods of time. This is because the fanned frets make it easier to reach the frets, which reduces the amount of strain on the hand and wrist.
- Improved accuracy: The fanned frets on an 8 string fanned fret guitar can also help to improve accuracy when playing chords and scales. This is because the fanned frets make it easier to reach the correct notes, which reduces the likelihood of making mistakes.
- Increased speed: The fanned frets on an 8 string fanned fret guitar can also help to increase speed when playing chords and scales. This is because the fanned frets make it easier to move the hand from one fret to another, which reduces the amount of time it takes to play each chord or scale.
- More comfortable playing experience: Overall, the fanned frets on an 8 string fanned fret guitar can make playing guitar more comfortable and enjoyable. This is because the fanned frets reduce hand fatigue, improve accuracy, and incre
ase speed.
If you are looking for a guitar that is more comfortable to play, easier to learn on, and faster to play, then an 8 string fanned fret guitar may be the right choice for you.
4. Versatility
The versatility of 8 string fanned fret guitars is one of their key advantages. 8 string fanned fret guitars can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles, from metal to jazz to blues. This is due to their extended range, improved ergonomics, and more natural playing experience.
The extended range of 8 string fanned fret guitars makes them ideal for playing in lower tunings, which is common in metal music. The improved ergonomics of 8 string fanned fret guitars make them more comfortable to play for long periods of time, which is important for jazz guitarists. The more natural playing experience of 8 string fanned fret guitars makes them easier to learn on, which is beneficial for blues guitarists.
Here are some specific examples of how 8 string fanned fret guitars are being used in different musical styles:
- Metal: 8 string fanned fret guitars are becoming increasingly popular in metal music, as they allow guitarists to play in lower tunings and create heavier sounds.
- Jazz: 8 string fanned fret guitars are also being used in jazz music, as they allow guitarists to play more complex chords and scales.
- Blues: 8 string fanned fret guitars are also being used in blues music, as they allow guitarists to play more traditional blues licks and solos.
The versatility of 8 string fanned fret guitars is one of their key advantages. 8 string fanned fret guitars can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles, from metal to jazz to blues. This makes them a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that can be used for a variety of genres.
| Musical Style | Benefits of 8 String Fanned Fret Guitars |
|---|---|
| Metal | Extended range, improved ergonomics, more natural playing experience |
| Jazz | Improved ergonomics, more natural playing experience |
| Blues | More natural playing experience |
5. Unique sound
The unique sound of an 8 string fanned fret guitar is a result of its extended range and unique fretting. The extended range gives the guitar a wider tonal palette, while the unique fretting allows for more complex and interesting chords and scales.
The extended range of an 8 string fanned fret guitar allows guitarists to access notes that are not possible on a traditional six-string guitar. This opens up a world of new sonic possibilities, such as using the extra strings to create drones, harmonies, or dissonant intervals.
The unique fretting of an 8 string fanned fret guitar also contributes to its unique sound. The fanned frets make it easier to reach the frets, which allows for more fluid and expressive playing. The fanned frets also make it easier to play complex chords and scales, which can create a more interesting and dynamic sound.
Overall, the unique sound of an 8 string fanned fret guitar is a result of its extended range and unique fretting. This combination of features gives the guitar a wider tonal palette, more complex and interesting chords and scales, and a more fluid and expressive playing experience.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Extended range | Wider tonal palette |
| Unique fretting | More complex and interesting chords and scales |
| Combination of features | More fluid and expressive playing experience |
6. Customization
Customization is an important aspect of 8 string fanned fret guitars, as it allows players to tailor their instrument to their own unique playing style and preferences. There are a variety of options available for customizing 8 string fanned fret guitars, including pickups, hardware, and finishes.
- Pickups: Pickups are one of the most important components of an electric guitar, and they play a major role in determining the sound of the instrument. There are a wide variety of pickups available for 8 string fanned fret guitars, so players can choose the pickups that best suit their desired sound.
- Hardware: The hardware on an 8 string fanned fret guitar includes the bridge, tuners, and other components. The hardware can be customized to change the look and feel of the guitar, as well as its playability.
- Finishes: The finish of an 8 string fanned fret guitar can be customized to change the look of the instrument. There are a variety of finishes available, from traditional colors to more exotic finishes.
The ability to customize 8 string fanned fret guitars makes them a great choice for players who want an instrument that is unique and perfectly suited to their individual needs.
7. Innovation
The innovation of 8 string fanned fret guitars lies in their unique design and construction, which offer several advantages over traditional guitars. These advantages include an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility.
The extended range of 8 string fanned fret guitars is one of their most significant advantages. With two extra strings, players can access lower notes that were previously unavailable on a traditional six-string guitar. This makes 8 string fanned fret guitars ideal for playing in lower tunings, such as drop C or drop B. The extended range also allows guitarists to explore new sonic possibilities, such as using the extra strings to create drones, harmonies, or dissonant intervals.
Another advantage of 8 string fanned fret guitars is their improved ergonomics. The fanned frets on these guitars make it easier to reach the frets, which can reduce hand fatigue and improve playing comfort. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who play for long periods of time or who have small hands.
The more natural playing experience of 8 string fanned fret guitars is another key advantage. The fanned frets on these guitars are designed to follow the natural curve of the hand, which makes it easier to play chords and scales. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who have small hands or who experience hand fatigue when playing traditional guitars.
Finally, 8 string fanned fret guitars are also more versatile than traditional guitars. These guitars can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles, from metal to jazz to blues. The extended range, improved ergonomics, and more natural playing experience of 8 string fanned fret guitars make them a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that can be used for a variety of genres.
Overall, the innovation of 8 string fanned fret guitars lies in their unique design and construction, which offer sev
eral advantages over traditional guitars. These advantages include an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility.
Table: Advantages of 8 String Fanned Fret Guitars
| Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Extended range of notes | Access to lower notes, new sonic possibilities |
| Improved ergonomics | Reduced hand fatigue, improved playing comfort |
| More natural playing experience | Easier to play chords and scales, reduced hand fatigue |
| Increased versatility | Can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles |
8. Popularity
The popularity of 8 string fanned fret guitars is growing as more and more players discover their benefits. These guitars offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, including an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility.
One of the main reasons for the popularity of 8 string fanned fret guitars is their extended range of notes. With two extra strings, players can access lower notes that were previously unavailable on a traditional six-string guitar. This makes 8 string fanned fret guitars ideal for playing in lower tunings, such as drop C or drop B. The extended range also allows guitarists to explore new sonic possibilities, such as using the extra strings to create drones, harmonies, or dissonant intervals.
Another reason for the popularity of 8 string fanned fret guitars is their improved ergonomics. The fanned frets on these guitars make it easier to reach the frets, which can reduce hand fatigue and improve playing comfort. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who play for long periods of time or who have small hands.
The more natural playing experience of 8 string fanned fret guitars is another key factor in their popularity. The fanned frets on these guitars are designed to follow the natural curve of the hand, which makes it easier to play chords and scales. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who have small hands or who experience hand fatigue when playing traditional guitars.
Finally, 8 string fanned fret guitars are also more versatile than traditional guitars. These guitars can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles, from metal to jazz to blues. The extended range, improved ergonomics, and more natural playing experience of 8 string fanned fret guitars make them a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that can be used for a variety of genres.
Overall, the popularity of 8 string fanned fret guitars is due to their unique design and construction, which offer several advantages over traditional guitars. These advantages include an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility.
Table: Benefits of 8 String Fanned Fret Guitars
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Extended range of notes | Access to lower notes, new sonic possibilities |
| Improved ergonomics | Reduced hand fatigue, improved playing comfort |
| More natural playing experience | Easier to play chords and scales, reduced hand fatigue |
| Increased versatility | Can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles |
9. Investment
8 string fanned fret guitars offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, including an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility. However, these guitars can also be a significant investment. In this section, we will explore the connection between investment and 8 string fanned fret guitars, and we will help you decide if an 8 string fanned fret guitar is worth the investment.
- Cost: 8 string fanned fret guitars are typically more expensive than traditional guitars. This is due to the fact that they require more materials and labor to build. However, the price of an 8 string fanned fret guitar can vary depending on the brand, model, and features.
- Value: 8 string fanned fret guitars are a good value for the money. They offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, and they can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles. If you are looking for a unique and versatile guitar, then an 8 string fanned fret guitar is a good investment.
- Return on investment: 8 string fanned fret guitars can be a good investment if you are planning on playing guitar for a long time. These guitars are built to last, and they will hold their value over time. If you decide to sell your 8 string fanned fret guitar in the future, you will be able to get a good price for it.
- Personal satisfaction: 8 string fanned fret guitars are a joy to play. They are comfortable to hold, and they produce a beautiful sound. If you are looking for a guitar that will inspire you to play, then an 8 string fanned fret guitar is a good investment.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to invest in an 8 string fanned fret guitar is a personal one. However, if you are looking for a unique and versatile guitar that will provide you with years of enjoyment, then an 8 string fanned fret guitar is a good investment.
10. Future
8 string fanned fret guitars are the future of guitars because they offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, including an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility. As more and more players discover the benefits of 8 string fanned fret guitars, they are becoming increasingly popular.
There are a number of reasons why 8 string fanned fret guitars are the future of guitars. First, the extended range of notes that 8 string fanned fret guitars offer allows players to access lower notes that were previously unavailable on a traditional six-string guitar. This makes 8 string fanned fret guitars ideal for playing in lower tunings, such as drop C or drop B. The extended range also allows guitarists to explore new sonic possibilities, such as using the extra strings to create drones, harmonies, or dissonant intervals.
Second, the improved ergonomics of 8 string fanned fret guitars make them more comfortable to play than traditional guitars. The fanned frets on 8 string fanned fret guitars make it easier to reach the frets, which can reduce hand fatigue and improve playing comfort. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who play for long periods of time or who have small hands.
Third, the more natural playing experience of 8 string fanned fret guitars makes them easier to learn on than traditional guitars. The fanned frets on 8 string fanned fret guitars are designed to follow the natural curve of the hand, which makes it easier to play chords and scales. This is especially beneficial for guitarists who have small hands or who experience hand fatigue when playing traditional guitars.
Finall
y, 8 string fanned fret guitars are more versatile than traditional guitars. These guitars can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles, from metal to jazz to blues. The extended range, improved ergonomics, and more natural playing experience of 8 string fanned fret guitars make them a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that can be used for a variety of genres.
As more and more players discover the benefits of 8 string fanned fret guitars, they are becoming increasingly popular. These guitars offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, and they are sure to continue to grow in popularity in the years to come.
Table: Advantages of 8 String Fanned Fret Guitars
| Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Extended range of notes | Access to lower notes, new sonic possibilities |
| Improved ergonomics | Reduced hand fatigue, improved playing comfort |
| More natural playing experience | Easier to play chords and scales, reduced hand fatigue |
| Increased versatility | Can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles |
11. Example
The Strandberg Boden 8 is a popular 8 string fanned fret guitar because it offers a number of advantages over traditional guitars, including an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility.
- Extended range of notes: The Strandberg Boden 8 has an extended range of notes, making it ideal for playing in lower tunings or for exploring new sonic possibilities.
- Improved ergonomics: The fanned frets on the Strandberg Boden 8 make it easier to reach the frets, which can reduce hand fatigue and improve playing comfort.
- More natural playing experience: The fanned frets on the Strandberg Boden 8 are designed to follow the natural curve of the hand, which makes it easier to play chords and scales.
- Increased versatility: The Strandberg Boden 8 can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles, from metal to jazz to blues.
The Strandberg Boden 8 is a great example of an 8 string fanned fret guitar that offers a number of advantages over traditional guitars. If you are looking for a unique and versatile guitar, then the Strandberg Boden 8 is a great choice.
FAQs about 8 String Fanned Fret Guitars
8 string fanned fret guitars are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, including an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility. However, there are also some common questions and misconceptions about 8 string fanned fret guitars.
Question 1: Are 8 string fanned fret guitars difficult to play?
Answer: No, 8 string fanned fret guitars are not difficult to play. The fanned frets actually make it easier to reach the frets and play chords and scales. However, it may take some time to get used to the feel of the guitar if you are used to playing a traditional guitar.
Question 2: Are 8 string fanned fret guitars more expensive than traditional guitars?
Answer: Yes, 8 string fanned fret guitars are typically more expensive than traditional guitars. This is because they require more materials and labor to build. However, the price of an 8 string fanned fret guitar can vary depending on the brand, model, and features.
Question 3: Are 8 string fanned fret guitars worth the investment?
Answer: Yes, 8 string fanned fret guitars are worth the investment if you are looking for a unique and versatile guitar. They offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, and they can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles.
Question 4: What are the benefits of 8 string fanned fret guitars?
Answer: The benefits of 8 string fanned fret guitars include an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility.
Question 5: What are the challenges of playing an 8 string fanned fret guitar?
Answer: The challenges of playing an 8 string fanned fret guitar include the need to adjust to the feel of the guitar and the need to learn new fingering patterns.
Question 6: How do I choose the right 8 string fanned fret guitar for me?
Answer: When choosing an 8 string fanned fret guitar, you should consider your playing style, your budget, and your desired features. It is also a good idea to try out different guitars before you make a decision.
We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions about 8 string fanned fret guitars. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us.
Summary of key takeaways:
- 8 string fanned fret guitars are not difficult to play.
- 8 string fanned fret guitars are more expensive than traditional guitars.
- 8 string fanned fret guitars are worth the investment if you are looking for a unique and versatile guitar.
- The benefits of 8 string fanned fret guitars include an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility.
- The challenges of playing an 8 string fanned fret guitar include the need to adjust to the feel of the guitar and the need to learn new fingering patterns.
- When choosing an 8 string fanned fret guitar, you should consider your playing style, your budget, and your desired features.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you know more about 8 string fanned fret guitars, you can start shopping for the perfect guitar for you.
8 String Fanned Fret Guitar Tips
8 string fanned fret guitars offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, including an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility. However, there are also some things to keep in mind when playing an 8 string fanned fret guitar.
Tip 1: Adjust your picking hand.
The extended range of an 8 string fanned fret guitar means that your picking hand will need to cover more ground. To do this, you may need to adjust your picking technique. One way to do this is to use a floating picking hand, which allows you to move your picking hand more freely.
Tip 2: Use your pinky finger.
The extra strings on an 8 string fanned fret guitar can make it difficult to reach the frets with your fingers. To avoid this, you should use your pinky finger to play the higher notes. This will help you to reach the frets more easily and improve your playing accuracy.
Tip 3: Learn new fingering patterns.
The fanned frets on an 8 string fanned fret guitar can make it difficult to play traditional fingering patterns. To avoid this, you should learn new fingering patterns that are designed for 8 string fanned fret guitars. These fingering patterns will help you to play chords and scales more easily and improve your playing accuracy.
Tip 4: Experiment with different tunings.
The extended range of an 8 string fanned fret guitar allows you to experiment with different tunings. This can give you acce
ss to new sounds and playing possibilities. Some popular tunings for 8 string fanned fret guitars include drop C, drop B, and F#.
Tip 5: Be patient.
It takes time to get used to playing an 8 string fanned fret guitar. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t sound like a pro right away. Just keep practicing and you will eventually get the hang of it.
Summary of key takeaways:
- Adjust your picking hand.
- Use your pinky finger.
- Learn new fingering patterns.
- Experiment with different tunings.
- Be patient.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Following these tips will help you to get the most out of your 8 string fanned fret guitar. With practice, you will be able to play this unique and versatile guitar like a pro.
8 String Fanned Fret Guitars
8 string fanned fret guitars offer a number of advantages over traditional guitars, including an extended range of notes, improved ergonomics, a more natural playing experience, and increased versatility. As more and more players discover the benefits of 8 string fanned fret guitars, they are becoming increasingly popular.
These guitars are the future of guitars because they offer a unique and versatile playing experience that is unlike anything else. If you are looking for a guitar that can take your playing to the next level, then an 8 string fanned fret guitar is the perfect choice.
