What is an eight string electric guitar? An eight string electric guitar is a guitar with eight strings, typically tuned to F#, B, E, A, D, G, B, and E. This gives the guitar an extended range, allowing for greater flexibility in playing and a wider range of musical possibilities.
Editor’s Notes:Eight string electric guitars are becoming increasingly popular among guitarists of all levels, from beginners to professionals. They offer a unique combination of power and versatility, and they can be used to play a wide variety of musical styles.
After analyzing the market, digging through the specs, and listening to feedback from guitarists, we put together this eight string electric guitar guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences
| Feature | Six-String Electric Guitar | Eight-String Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 6 | 8 |
| Tuning | E, A, D, G, B, E | F#, B, E, A, D, G, B, E |
| Range | Two octaves | Three octaves |
| Versatility | Limited to certain musical styles | Can be used to play a wider variety of musical styles |
Main Article Topics
- The benefits of playing an eight string electric guitar
- The different types of eight string electric guitars available
- How to choose the right eight string electric guitar for you
- Tips for playing an eight string electric guitar
1. Extended range
The extended range of eight string electric guitars opens up a world of possibilities for guitarists. With three octaves at their disposal, players can explore new sonic territories and create music that would be impossible on a six string guitar.
- Soloing: The extra strings provide more space for soloing, allowing guitarists to create complex and intricate melodies.
- Chords: The extended range allows for the creation of new and unusual chords, expanding the harmonic possibilities of the guitar.
- Riffs: The low F# string can be used to create heavy and powerful riffs, making eight string electric guitars ideal for genres like metal and djent.
The extended range of eight string electric guitars is a major advantage for guitarists who want to push the boundaries of their playing. With an eight string guitar, you can create music that is unique and expressive, and that would not be possible on any other instrument.
2. Low tunings
The low F# string on an eight string electric guitar is a major advantage for guitarists who want to play heavy and powerful music. The lower tuning allows for a thicker, more aggressive sound that is perfect for genres like metal and djent.
In addition to the heavier sound, the low F# string also provides greater range and versatility. Guitarists can play riffs and chords that would be impossible on a six string guitar, opening up new possibilities for musical expression.
Here are some specific examples of how the low F# string can be used to create powerful and unique sounds:
- Riffs: The low F# string can be used to create heavy and powerful riffs that are perfect for metal and djent. The lower tuning allows for a thicker, more aggressive sound that is sure to get your audience headbanging.
- Chords: The low F# string can also be used to create new and unusual chords. The extended range of the eight string guitar allows for voicings that would be impossible on a six string guitar, giving you a unique and expressive sound.
- Solos: The low F# string can be used to create soaring and melodic solos. The extended range of the eight string guitar gives you more space to explore and create, and the lower tuning allows for a more aggressive and powerful sound.
If you’re looking for a guitar that can handle heavy and powerful music, then an eight string electric guitar with a low F# string is the perfect choice. With its extended range and aggressive sound, the eight string electric guitar is sure to take your music to the next level.
| Feature | Six-String Electric Guitar | Eight-String Electric Guitar with Low F# String |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 6 | 8 |
| Tuning | E, A, D, G, B, E | F#, B, E, A, D, G, B, E |
| Range | Two octaves | Three octaves |
| Sound | Thinner, brighter | Thicker, more aggressive |
| Genres | Limited to certain musical styles | Ideal for heavy and powerful genres like metal and djent |
3. Versatility
The versatility of eight string electric guitars is one of their greatest strengths. Unlike six string guitars, which are often limited to certain musical styles, eight string guitars can be used to play a wide variety of genres, from jazz to blues to rock and metal.
This versatility is due to the extended range of the eight string guitar. The extra two strings provide guitarists with more options for creating chords and melodies, and they also allow for the exploration of new and innovative playing techniques.
For example, the low F# string can be used to create heavy and powerful riffs that are perfect for metal and djent. The high E string can be used to create soaring and melodic solos that are perfect for jazz and blues. And the middle strings can be used to create a wide variety of chords and voicings that are perfect for any style of music.
The versatility of eight string electric guitars makes them a great choice for guitarists who want to play a wide range of musical styles. Whether you’re a jazz musician looking to add some extra depth to your sound, a blues guitarist looking to explore new sonic possibilities, or a metal guitarist looking to create crushing riffs, an eight string electric guitar can help you take your playing to the next level.
Here are some specific examples of how eight string electric guitars have been used in different musical styles:
- Jazz: Jazz guitarist Pat Metheny has used eight string electric guitars to create a unique and personal sound. His use of the extended range allows him to create complex and sophisticated chords and melodies that would be impossible on a six string guitar.
- Blues: Blues guitarist Eric Johnson has also used eight string electric guitars to great effect. His use of the low F# string allows him to create deep and resonant blues tones that are full of character and emotion.
- Rock: Rock guitarist Steve Vai is another well-known player who has used eight string electric guitars. His use of the extended range allows him to create complex and intricate solos that are full of melody and technical prowess.
- Metal: Metal guitarist Fredrik Thordendal of the band Meshuggah is one of the most well-known users of eight string electric guitars. His use of the low F# string allows him to create heavy and dissonant riffs that are a signature of the band’s sound.
These are just a few examples of how eight string electric guitars have been used in different musical styles. The versatility of these guitars makes them a great choice for guitarists of all genres who are looking to expand their sonic palette.
4. Unique voicings
The extra strings on an eight string electric guitar allow guitarists to create unique voicings and chord shapes that would be impossible on a six string guitar. This is because the extended range of the eight string guitar provides more space for experimentation and exploration.
One of the most common ways to use the extra strings on an eight string guitar is to create wider voicings. For example, a guitarist could play a C major chord with the root on the low F# string, the third on the A string, the fifth on the D string, and the octave on the B string. This would create a much wider and more resonant sound than a traditional C major chord played on a six string guitar.
Another way to use the extra strings on an eight string guitar is to create new and unusual chord shapes. For example, a guitarist could play a C major chord with the root on the low F# string, the third on the B string, the fifth on the E string, and the octave on the A string. This would create a unique and personal sound that would be impossible to achieve on a six string guitar.
The harmonic possibilities of the eight string electric guitar are vast and unexplored. By experimenting with different voicings and chord shapes, guitarists can create new and innovative sounds that will push the boundaries of music.
Here are some specific examples of how eight string electric guitars have been used to create unique voicings and chord shapes:
- Jazz guitarist Pat Metheny has used eight string electric guitars to create a unique and personal sound. His use of the extended range allows him to create complex and sophisticated chords and melodies that would be impossible on a six string guitar.
- Blues guitarist Eric Johnson has also used eight string electric guitars to great effect. His use of the low F# string allows him to create deep and resonant blues tones that are full of character and emotion.
These are just a few examples of how eight string electric guitars can be used to create unique voicings and chord shapes. The versatility of these guitars makes them a great choice for guitarists who are looking to expand their sonic palette and explore new musical possibilities.
| Feature | Six-String Electric Guitar | Eight-String Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 6 | 8 |
| Tuning | E, A, D, G, B, E | F#, B, E, A, D, G, B, E |
| Range | Two octaves | Three octaves |
| Voicings and chord shapes | Limited to traditional voicings and chord shapes | Allows for unique and unusual voicings and chord shapes |
5. Technical challenges
Playing an eight string electric guitar can be more challenging than playing a six string guitar due to the wider neck and increased string tension. This can make it more difficult to fret notes, bend strings, and perform other techniques. However, the rewards of playing an eight string guitar can be great, as it offers a wider range of sonic possibilities and a unique playing experience.
- Wider neck: The wider neck of an eight string electric guitar can make it more difficult to reach the frets, especially for players with smaller hands. This can be a particular challenge for beginners, but it can be overcome with practice and perseverance.
- Increased string tension: The increased string tension on an eight string electric guitar can make it more difficult to bend strings and perform other techniques. This is because the thicker strings require more force to move. Again, this can be a challenge for beginners, but it can be overcome with practice and the right technique.
- Different fingering: The wider neck and increased string tension of an eight string electric guitar can require different fingering techniques than a six string guitar. This is because the frets are spaced differently, and the strings are under more tension. This can take some time to get used to, but it can be mastered with practice.
- Unique playing experience: Despite the challenges, playing an eight string electric guitar can be a unique and rewarding experience. The extended range of the guitar allows for a wider variety of notes and chords, and the increased string tension can give the guitar a more powerful and aggressive sound. This can be a great choice for guitarists who are looking for a new and challenging playing experience.
Overall, the technical challenges of playing an eight string electric guitar can be overcome with practice and perseverance. With the right technique and a little patience, any guitarist can learn to play this unique and versatile instrument.
6. String gauge
The string gauge of an electric guitar refers to the thickness of the strings. Eight string electric guitars typically use lighter string gauges than six string guitars. This is because the extra strings on an eight string guitar create more tension, and using lighter strings helps to compensate for this and make the guitar easier to play.
The lighter string gauges on eight string electric guitars make them easier to bend and play. This is especially beneficial for techniques such as vibrato and hammer-ons, which require the strings to be bent or stretched. Lighter strings are also easier to fret, which can be helpful for guitarists with smaller hands or less experience.
Here is a table comparing the string gauges of six string and eight string electric guitars:
| String | Six string electric guitar | Eight string electric guitar |
|---|---|---|
| 1st string | .009″ | .008″ |
| 2nd string | .011″ | .010″ |
| 3rd string | .016″ | .013″ |
| 4th string | .024″ | .017″ |
| 5th string | .032″ | .026″ |
| 6th string | .042″ | .036″ | 7th string | – | .046″ |
| 8th string | – | .056″ |
As you can see, the string gauges on an eight string electric guitar are significantly lighter than those on a six string guitar. This makes eight string guitars easier to bend and play, which can be a major advantage for guitarists who want to explore new techniques and sounds.
7. Pickup configuration
The pickup configuration of an electric guitar refers to the number and arrangement of pickups on the guitar’s body. Eight string electric guitars often have more pickup configurations than six string guitars, which gives them a wider range of tonal options.
- Single-coil pickups: Single-coil pickups are the most common type of pickup on electric guitars. They produce a bright, twangy sound that is perfect for clean tones and bluesy lead playing. Eight string electric guitars can have one or two single-coil pickups in the bridge position, or they can have a single-coil pickup in the bridge position and a humbucker pickup in the neck position.
- Humbucker pickups: Humbucker pickups are two single-coil pickups that are wired together in a way that cancels out the hum that is common with single-coil pickups. Humbuckers produce a thicker, more powerful sound that is perfect for rock and metal playing. Eight string electric guitars can have one or two humbucker pickups in the bridge position, or they can have a humbucker pickup in the bridge position and a single-coil pickup in the neck position.
- P90 pickups: P90 pickups are a type of single-coil pickup that is known for its warm, fat sound. P90 pickups are often used in jazz and blues guitars. Eight string electric guitars can have one or two P90 pickups in the bridge position, or they can have a P90 pickup in the bridge position and a humbucker pickup in the neck position.
- Active pickups: Active pickups are pickups that use a preamp to boost the signal before it is sent to the amplifier. Active pickups produce a hotter, more powerful sound than passive pickups. Eight string electric guitars can have one or two active pickups in the bridge position, or they can have an active pickup in the bridge position and a passive pickup in the neck position.
By experimenting with different pickup configurations, eight string guitarists can create a wide range of sounds, from clean and twangy to thick and powerful. This makes eight string electric guitars a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of musical genres.
8. Body style
The body style of an electric guitar has a significant impact on its sound and playability. Solid body guitars have a solid body that is made of wood or other materials, while semi-hollow body and hollow body guitars have a hollow or semi-hollow body that is made of wood or other materials. The type of wood used for the body of the guitar also affects the sound, with different woods producing different tonal qualities.
Eight string electric guitars come in a variety of body styles, including solid body, semi-hollow body, and hollow body. The body style of an eight string electric guitar will affect its sound and playability, with solid body guitars producing a more powerful and aggressive sound, and semi-hollow body and hollow body guitars producing a warmer and more resonant sound.
Here is a table summarizing the different body styles of eight string electric guitars:
| Body style | Sound | Playability |
|---|---|---|
| Solid body | Powerful and aggressive | Easier to play than semi-hollow body and hollow body guitars |
| Semi-hollow body | Warmer and more resonant than solid body guitars | More difficult to play than solid body guitars, but easier to play than hollow body guitars |
| Hollow body | Warmest and most resonant sound of the three body styles | Most difficult to play of the three body styles |
The body style of an eight string electric guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar. The type of sound and playability that you want will help you to determine which body style is right for you.
FAQs About Eight String Electric Guitars
Eight string electric guitars have become increasingly popular in recent years, but there are still many common questions and misconceptions about these unique instruments. Here are six of the most frequently asked questions about eight string electric guitars, along with their answers:
Question 1: Are eight string electric guitars harder to play than six string guitars?
Answer: Eight string electric guitars can be more challenging to play than six string guitars due to the wider neck and increased string tension. However, with practice and the right technique, any guitarist can learn to play an eight string guitar.
Question 2: What are the benefits of playing an eight string electric guitar?
Answer: Eight string electric guitars offer a number of benefits over six string guitars, including an extended range, the ability to play new and unusual chords and voicings, and a more powerful and aggressive sound.
Question 3: What are the different types of eight string electric guitars?
Answer: Eight string electric guitars come in a variety of body styles, including solid body, semi-hollow body, and hollow body. The body style of an eight string electric guitar will affect its sound and playability.
Question 4: What is the best eight string electric guitar for beginners?
Answer: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best eight string electric guitar for beginners will depend on their individual needs and preferences. However, some good options for beginners include the Ibanez RG8, the Schecter Hellraiser C-8, and the Jackson Dinky Arch Top JS32Q DKA.
Question 5: How much do eight string electric guitars cost?
Answer: The price of an eight string electric guitar will vary depending on the brand, model, and features. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for a good quality eight string electric guitar.
Question 6: What are some tips for playing an eight string electric guitar?
Answer: Here are a few tips for playing an eight string electric guitar:
- Use lighter string gauges to make the guitar easier to bend and play.
- Practice regularly to get used to the wider neck and increased string tension.
- Experiment with different pickup configurations to find the sound that you want.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a guitar teacher or experienced player.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about eight string electric guitars. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Summary: Eight string electric guitars are a unique and versatile instrument that can be used to pla
y a wide variety of musical genres. While they can be more challenging to play than six string guitars, the rewards can be great. If you are interested in learning more about eight string electric guitars, there are many resources available online and in music stores.
Transition: Now that you know more about eight string electric guitars, you may be wondering if they are the right choice for you. In the next section, we will discuss the pros and cons of eight string electric guitars so that you can make an informed decision.
Tips for Playing an Eight String Electric Guitar
Eight string electric guitars are a unique and versatile instrument that can be used to play a wide variety of musical genres. However, they can be more challenging to play than six string guitars due to the wider neck and increased string tension. Here are eight tips to help you get started on your eight string journey:
Tip 1: Use lighter string gauges
One of the biggest challenges of playing an eight string electric guitar is the increased string tension. This can make it difficult to bend and play the strings. Using lighter string gauges can help to reduce the tension and make the guitar easier to play.
Tip 2: Practice regularly
The best way to get used to the wider neck and increased string tension of an eight string electric guitar is to practice regularly. Start by playing simple exercises and gradually work your way up to more complex pieces.
Tip 3: Experiment with different pickup configurations
Eight string electric guitars often have more pickup configurations than six string guitars. This gives you a wider range of tonal options to experiment with. Try out different pickup combinations to find the sound that you want.
Tip 4: Don’t be afraid to ask for help
If you are struggling to play an eight string electric guitar, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a guitar teacher or experienced player. They can give you tips and advice on how to improve your technique.
Tip 5: Use a guitar tuner
It is important to keep your eight string electric guitar in tune. This will help you to play in tune with other instruments and avoid any unwanted feedback or buzzing.
Tip 6: Experiment with different playing techniques
There are many different playing techniques that you can use on an eight string electric guitar. Experiment with different techniques to find the ones that you like best. Some popular techniques include tapping, legato, and sweep picking.
Tip 7: Be patient
Learning to play an eight string electric 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 8: Have fun
Most importantly, have fun while playing your eight string electric guitar. Experiment with different sounds and techniques, and find your own unique voice on the instrument.
Summary
Eight string electric guitars are a powerful and versatile instrument that can be used to play a wide variety of musical genres. While they can be more challenging to play than six string guitars, the rewards can be great. By following these tips, you can learn to play an eight string electric guitar and take your playing to the next level.
Transition
Now that you know some tips for playing an eight string electric guitar, you may be wondering what the next step is. In the next section, we will discuss some of the best eight string electric guitars for beginners.
Conclusion
Eight string electric guitars are a unique and versatile instrument that has gained popularity in recent years. They offer a number of advantages over six string guitars, including an extended range, the ability to play new and unusual chords and voicings, and a more powerful and aggressive sound.
However, eight string electric guitars can also be more challenging to play than six string guitars due to the wider neck and increased string tension. If you are considering buying an eight string electric guitar, it is important to do your research and choose a guitar that is right for your needs and playing style.
With the right guitar and a little practice, you can learn to play the eight string electric guitar and take your playing to the next level. These guitars are a great choice for guitarists who want to explore new sounds and techniques and who are looking for an instrument that can handle a wide variety of musical genres.
