Best 8 String Guitars for Beginner 2026
Okay, so you're thinking about an 8-string? That's ambitious, especially starting out. They're not just longer guitars; they demand a different level of technique and a willingness to learn. This isn't a casual purchase - it's a commitment to expanding your sonic palette, but let's find something that won't leave you frustrated and hating life before you even nail your first drop-D riff.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
⚡ The best 8 string guitars in 2026 are Harley Benton R-458MN WH Progressive Series (top pick), Harley Benton R-458MN LH WH for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton R-458MN WH Progressive w/Bag for pros — selected from 15 options across 3 brands, priced $208–$2,443, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Harley Benton R-458MN WH Progressive Series
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Fingerboard radius
355 mm (13.98")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Djent
Extended Range
Ambient
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton R-458MN is a seriously impressive offering for the budget-conscious 8-stringer. It’s surprisingly well-built, plays comfortably, and delivers a powerful, modern tone perfect for progressive metal, djent, and heavier genres. A great entry point into the world of extended-range instruments.
PROS
- • Poplar body offers a surprisingly balanced and resonant tone for the price.
- • Speed D neck profile is comfortable and fast, ideal for modern playing styles.
- • DLX die-cast tuners provide reliable tuning stability, crucial for 8-string guitars.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver a thick, aggressive tone suitable for metal and progressive genres.
CONS
- • Maple fingerboard can be a bit dry; consider oiling for improved feel.
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the sustain and complexity of a set-neck.
- • ABS nut might be a point of future upgrade for discerning players.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 419530
$208
Harley Benton R-458MN LH WH
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
510 mm (20.08")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Djent
Progressive Metal
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton R-458MN LH is a seriously impressive entry point into the world of 8-string guitars. It's perfect for left-handed players looking to explore extended-range metal and progressive genres without spending a fortune. The build quality is surprisingly solid, and it offers a lot of bang for your buck.
PROS
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers snappy response and easy playability.
- • DLX bridge provides stable tuning and improved sustain compared to basic options.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver a surprisingly thick and aggressive tone for the price.
- • Left-handed model makes extended-range access accessible and affordable.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while resonant, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or basswood.
- • ABS nut can contribute to tuning instability and may benefit from an upgrade.
- • Speed D neck profile might be too thin for players preferring a thicker feel.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 570068
$220
Harley Benton R-458MN WH Progressive w/Bag
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Fingerboard radius
355 mm (13.98")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Djent
Extended Range
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton R-458MN is a seriously impressive entry point into the world of 8-string guitars. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price, and those humbuckers deliver a modern, aggressive tone that’s perfect for metal and progressive rock. It's ideal for beginner to intermediate players looking to explore extended-range playing without a huge investment.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- • Maple neck with a comfortable 'Speed' profile enhances playability for faster runs.
- • The included DLX die-cast machine heads provide reliable tuning stability.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver a thick, modern sound suitable for heavier genres.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while good, lacks the sustain of mahogany or other premium woods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain and vintage feel.
- • ABS nut can introduce a bit of friction and may benefit from an upgrade later on.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539827
$220
Harley Benton R-458 BK Progressiv Series
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Experimental
Djent
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This R-458 is a surprisingly capable 8-string for the budget-conscious player. It’s a solid platform for modern metal and djent styles, offering decent playability and a good foundation for upgrades. Ideal for beginners exploring extended-range instruments or players needing a backup 8-string.
PROS
- • Bolt-on neck provides snappy response and easy adjustability for setup.
- • Amaranth fretboard offers a smooth playing experience and good durability.
- • Progressive Series hardware generally exhibits better quality control than entry-level Benton guitars.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver a surprisingly thick, modern tone suitable for heavier genres.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while lightweight, lacks the resonance of mahogany or other premium woods.
- • Speed-D neck profile might not suit players preferring a thicker, vintage C-shape.
- • Limited tonal versatility due to the fixed pickup configuration and basic controls.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 279568
$208
Harley Benton R-458 BK Prog. Series w/Bag
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Djent
Ambient
Modern Metal
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton R-458 is a seriously impressive entry point into the world of 8-string guitars. The build quality is surprisingly solid for the price, and the pickups deliver a modern, aggressive tone perfect for progressive metal and djent. It's an excellent choice for players looking to expand their sonic palette without a premium-priced investment.
PROS
- • Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Speed-D neck profile is genuinely comfortable for fast playing and extended sessions.
- • Amaranth fretboard provides a smooth playing surface and good durability.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver a thick, modern tone suitable for metal and progressive styles.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction may lack the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels a bit budget-oriented and may benefit from upgrades.
- • Longer scale length (673mm) can feel unwieldy for smaller hands or those unused to 8-strings.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543905
$220
Harley Benton R-458MN WH MultiScale
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Experimental
Extended Range
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
This R-458MN is a surprisingly capable 8-string for the price. The multi-scale design really helps with tuning and intonation across that wide range, and the neck profile is genuinely comfortable. It's a great entry point for players exploring extended-range instruments or those needing a budget-friendly backup.
PROS
- • Multi-scale design enhances intonation across extended range
- • Nubone nut improves sustain and tuning stability
- • Speed D neck profile is comfortable for fast playing
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver aggressive, modern tones
CONS
- • Poplar body can lack the resonance of mahogany or alder
- • Bolt-on neck construction may limit high-end sustain
- • Budget hardware might require upgrades for serious players
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 427252
$232
Harley Benton R-458BK MultiScale
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Progressive Metal
Extended Range
Ambient
Key Feature:
This R-458BK is a surprisingly solid entry into the 8-string world. The multiscale design is a huge win for playability, and the pickups offer a modern, aggressive sound perfect for progressive metal and djent. It’s a fantastic option for players looking for extended range without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Multiscale design eases fret-hand strain across extended range.
- • Nubone nut improves sustain and tuning stability.
- • Speed D neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver aggressive, modern metal tones.
CONS
- • Poplar body may lack the resonance of more premium tonewoods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction can slightly diminish sustain compared to set-neck.
- • Factory strings are light; heavier gauge strings are recommended for optimal feel.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 410821
$232
Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Bag
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Ambient
Djent
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This R-458MN is a surprisingly capable 8-string for the money. The multi-scale design really helps with the extended range, and the pickups have a decent amount of bite. It’s perfect for beginner to intermediate players exploring extended range instruments, or those needing a budget-friendly option for djent and modern metal.
PROS
- • Multi-scale design improves intonation and string tension across the extended range.
- • Nubone nut enhances sustain and tuning stability compared to standard plastic.
- • Speed neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability for technical players.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver a thick, aggressive tone suitable for modern genres.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the resonance and sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Simplified controls (1 volume, 1 tone) limit tonal shaping options.
- • Poplar body, while functional, doesn't offer the premium tonal characteristics of mahogany.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543894
$255
Harley Benton R-458BK MS w/Bag
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Djent
Experimental
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This R-458BK MS is a surprisingly capable 8-string for the price. The multiscale design is the real win here, making those lower strings playable without a muddy sound. It's perfect for modern metal and djent players looking to expand their sonic palette on a budget.
PROS
- • Multiscale design enhances clarity and eliminates fret buzz
- • Amaranth fingerboard offers smooth playability and durability
- • Speed D neck profile is comfortable for fast playing
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver aggressive, modern tones.
CONS
- • Poplar body might lack the sustain of denser woods
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end resonance
- • Hardware, while decent, could be upgraded for better tuning stability.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539140
$255
#10
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez RG5328R-LDK
by
Ibanez
Nut width
55 mm (2.17")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
430 mm (16.93")
Strings
8-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Experimental
Djent
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
This eight-stringer packs a solid ash body with a long scale and jumbo frets for speed. The bolt-on neck keeps it sturdy, but the flashy black finish hides wear easily. It suits players who need extra strings without complex controls.
PROS
- • Solid ash body offers strong resonance and projection
- • Maple/Wenge bolt-on neck ensures stability and easy setup
- • 24 jumbo frets allow faster playing on the upper frets
- • DiMarzio Fusion Edge 8s deliver tight, modern humbucker tone
CONS
- • Lightning Through A Dark finish shows every scratch and dent
- • 8-string scale length is very long at 27 inches
- • Simple controls limit tone shaping compared to multi-pickup models
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 633126
$2,444
#11
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez FTM33-WK Fredrik Thordendal
by
Ibanez
Nut width
55 mm (2.17")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Frets
22 frets
Strings
8-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Djent
Extended Range
Ambient
Key Feature:
This FTM33-WK is Fredrik Thordendal’s vision brought to life – it’s built for the kind of polyrhythmic brutality Meshuggah is known for. The neck profile is comfortable despite the width, and those Lundgren pickups are a huge part of the sound. It's perfect for progressive metal players and anyone chasing that unique, percussive tone.
PROS
- • Lundgren M8P pickups deliver crushing, articulate Meshuggah-style tones.
- • 7-piece maple/walnut neck with KTS Titanium reinforcement offers exceptional stability.
- • Ash body provides a resonant foundation with a tight low-end.
- • Edge III-8 bridge ensures reliable tuning and string anchoring for extreme playing.
CONS
- • The extended scale length (686mm) demands adaptation for players used to shorter scales.
- • Weight can be considerable due to the ash body and 8-string hardware.
- • Limited tonal versatility; designed for a specific, aggressive sound.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 406157
$2,397
#12
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez A528-CMG
by
Ibanez
Nut width
48 mm (1.89")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
508 mm (20")
Strings
8-string
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Modern Metal
Djent
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This eight-string guitar uses a light basswood body and a parallel neck to make playing easier. The ceramic bridge pickup helps your sound cut through a loud band, while the extra long scale keeps notes tight. It suits players who want more strings without too much weight on their shoulders.
PROS
- • Parallel neck design offers easy string access
- • Basswood body keeps the guitar light
- • Ceramic bridge pickup cuts through mix well
- • Extra long scale length tightens tuning
CONS
- • Single volume control limits tone shaping
- • No weight spec listed in description
- • Plastic nut may feel less smooth than bone
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 632720
$2,327
#13
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez A528-IPT
by
Ibanez
Nut width
48 mm (1.89")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
508 mm (20")
Strings
8-string
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Djent
Modern Metal
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
This guitar feels great to play because the multi-scale neck makes bending high strings easier. The Fishman pickups let you switch between quiet and loud tones easily. It is a solid choice for players who want an 8-string that does not feel too heavy.
PROS
- • Multi-scale neck reduces string tension on high notes
- • Fishman Fluence pickups offer clean and noisy modes
- • Solid basswood body keeps instrument lightweight
- • Parallel Wizard AS neck profile aids playability
CONS
- • Single volume and tone control limits sound shaping
- • Plastic nut may wear down over time with heavy use
- • No active preamp switch for pure acoustic tone
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 632712
$2,288
#14
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Schecter Damien Platinum 8 SBK
by
Schecter
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
711 mm (27.99")
Fingerboard radius
508 mm (20")
Strings
8-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Extended Range
Djent
Experimental
Key Feature:
The Damien Platinum 8 is a seriously impressive instrument for the price. It’s built to shred – the EMG pickups and comfortable neck profile make it ideal for metal, djent, and progressive players who want a modern, powerful sound with a touch of visual flair. This guitar delivers pro-level features and performance without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warmth and sustain, a great foundation.
- • EMG 808 pickups provide aggressive high-output, modern tones.
- • Carbon-reinforced neck enhances stability, resisting warp over time.
- • Grover tuners offer reliable tuning stability, crucial for 8-string use.
CONS
- • The thin C neck profile isn’t for everyone; might feel too slender.
- • Mahogany body contributes to a heavier instrument, potentially fatiguing.
- • Scale length, while standard for 8-strings, can feel unwieldy initially.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 591775
$1,163
Ibanez RG8EX-BKF
by
Ibanez
Nut width
55 mm (2.17")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
8-string
Body
Meranti body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Ambient
Djent
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
The RG8EX-BKF is a solid entry point into the world of 8-string guitars. It's built for players who want a fast neck, a modern aggressive sound, and a reliable platform for shredding, especially those drawn to djent and progressive metal. The overall package provides excellent value for the price.
PROS
- • Meranti body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Wizard III neck profile is exceptionally fast and comfortable for extended playing.
- • Jatoba fingerboard provides a snappy feel and resists wear well.
- • Super 8 pickups deliver high output and a modern, aggressive tone.
CONS
- • Matt polyurethane finish can feel a bit plasticky to some players.
- • F108 bridge, while functional, is a basic design lacking advanced locking features.
- • Longer scale length demands heavier gauge strings, increasing tension and potential fatigue.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 582095
$645
Every 8 string guitars that matches
28 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Case | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard · Weight 4.72 kg | $336 |
| 17 | Harley Benton R-458FFB LH Roasted MultiScale | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $302 |
| 18 | Solar Guitars A1.8AAN | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Scale 686 mm (27.01") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 8-string | $1,920 |
| 19 | Schecter Hellraiser Hybrid C-8 TBB | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Scale 711 mm (27.99") · Strings 8-string · Body Mahogany body | $1,594 |
| 20 | Legator Ninja N8FSS PUR | Scale 673 mm (26.5") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 8-string · Body Mahogany body | $1,221 |
| 21 | Legator Ninja N8FSS BK | Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 8-string · Body Mahogany body | $1,221 |
| 22 | Jackson JS32-8 Dinky DKA SBK AH | Scale 673 mm (26.5") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $546 |
| 23 | Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QEB Bundle | Nut width 56.6 mm (2.23") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $476 |
| 24 | Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBB Bundle | Nut width 56.6 mm (2.23") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $476 |
| 25 | Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBB | Nut width 56.6 mm (2.23") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $465 |
| 26 | Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QEB | Nut width 56.6 mm (2.23") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $465 |
| 27 | Harley Benton R-458FFB Roasted MultiScale | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $290 |
| 28 | Cort KX508MS II Marina Blue Burst | Nut width 56.5 mm (2.22") · Strings 8-string · Body Okoume body | $1,005 |
8 String Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 28 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $465
from $208 to $2,327
Nut width
median 54 mm (2.13")
from 48 mm (1.89") to 56.6 mm (2.23") · 25 models
Scale
median 673 mm (26.5")
from 673 mm (26.5") to 711 mm (27.99") · 13 models
Frets
median 24
from 22 to 24 · 10 models
Fingerboard radius
median 355 mm (13.98")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 508 mm (20") · 18 models
Strings
median 8-string
from 8-string to 8-string · 28 models
Body
poplar, mahogany, ash
most common · 27 models
Fingerboard
maple, rosewood, ebony
most common · 14 models
How to Choose the Best 8 String Guitars
1
Neck Profile
A thin, shred-style neck might feel fast, but a chunkier profile will be easier to manage for a beginner's fretting hand. You want something comfortable for long practice sessions - those low B strings demand a solid grip.
2
Scale Length
28.5" is pretty standard for 8-strings, but shorter scales (around 27.5") can make those lower notes easier to reach and bend, lessening the initial learning curve. Be prepared for a bit more 'floppiness' with shorter scales, though.
3
Action & Setup
High action on an 8-string is brutal. You absolutely need a playable action - ideally, something around 2.5mm-3mm at the 12th fret. A proper setup from a tech is almost mandatory, especially on budget models.
4
Pickup Voicing
Many 8-string guitars come with high-output pickups designed for djent. While that's a sound, a more balanced voicing can be more versatile for a beginner - allowing you to explore different genres beyond just chugging.
5
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners are a nightmare on 8-strings. You'll be fighting to keep those low strings in tune constantly. Decent locking tuners are a worthwhile investment, even if it means sacrificing a little elsewhere.
Buying Guide
Let's be real - 8-string guitars aren't cheap. You're trading off somewhere. Budget models will likely have compromises in hardware (tuners, bridge) and potentially the neck joint. Don't chase the 'most features' - focus on playability and a solid, stable platform. A well-setup, mid-range 8-string will be far more enjoyable than a poorly executed 'budget shred machine'.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 28 8 string guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they require more finger strength and coordination than a standard 6-string. It's a steeper learning curve, but not insurmountable. Start slow, focus on technique, and don't get discouraged.
Generally, you'll want something in the 70-85 gauge range. String tension is a big deal on 8-strings - too light and they'll feel floppy, too heavy and your hands will be screaming. Experiment to find what's comfortable.
Not necessarily. A decent amp with a good low-end response will do. However, 8-strings really shine with amps that have headroom and can handle low frequencies without muddying the tone. A sub-bass emphasis is welcome.
Standard 8-string tuning is B standard (B-E-A-D-G-B-E-B). Drop tunings like Drop A are common, but start with standard to build strength and coordination.
You can, but expect more maintenance. Those cheap tuners will be fighting you. Invest in a good setup and be prepared to make adjustments between sets. A higher-quality instrument will just make your life easier.
