Best 8 String Guitars for Intermediate 2026
So, you're eyeing an 8-string? Smart move - that extended range opens up a whole new world of low-end rumble and djent-y textures. But jumping straight to a high-end behemoth isn't the way to go when you're leveling up your playing. This list is for the intermediate player - someone who's comfortable with scales and chords and ready to tackle that extra set of strings without getting bogged down by complexity or a neck that feels like a baseball bat.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 8 string guitars in 2026 are Harley Benton R-458FFB LH Roasted MultiScale (top pick), ESP LTD EC-258 Black Satin for tighter budgets, and Jackson JS32-8 Dinky DKA SBK AH for pros — selected from 15 options across 4 brands, priced $218–$658, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458FFB LH Roasted MultiScale
Experimental
Modern Metal
Djent
Key Feature:
This left-handed Harley Benton is a seriously impressive value for an 8-string. The roasted maple neck and multiscale design make it surprisingly playable, and the pickups offer a modern, aggressive tone. It’s a fantastic entry point for progressive metal and extended-range players on a budget.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers excellent stability and a smooth feel.
- • Multiscale design improves intonation and string tension across 8 strings.
- • Nubone nut enhances sustain and tuning stability compared to standard plastic.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver a thick, modern tone suitable for metal and progressive genres.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while resonant, lacks the premium tonal complexity of mahogany or alder.
- • Bolt-on neck construction may lack the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Hardware, while functional, is a cost-saving measure and may feel less refined.
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 570062
$285
#2
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
ESP LTD EC-258 Black Satin
by
ESP
Djent
Progressive Metal
Modern Metal
Key Feature:
This EC-258 is a seriously impressive 8-string for the money. The mahogany body and roasted jatoba board create a really comfortable and warm playing experience, and the pickups handle everything from djent to soaring melodies. It's a great option for progressive metal players or anyone wanting a versatile, extended-range instrument without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end.
- • Roasted jatoba fretboard offers stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • LH-308 pickups provide a surprisingly articulate and versatile tone.
- • Solid hardware and LTD machine heads ensure reliable tuning and playability.
CONS
- • The extended scale length can be challenging for players with smaller hands.
- • Passive electronics limit tonal shaping compared to active systems.
- • Mahogany body makes it a moderately heavy instrument – could be tiring for some.
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 431684
$659
#3
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Jackson JS32-8 Dinky DKA SBK AH
by
Jackson
Experimental
Djent
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
This Jackson Dinky DKA 8-string is a solid entry point for modern metal and djent players. The matte black finish looks slick, the neck profile is comfortable for fast playing, and the pickups deliver plenty of gain. It's a great value for the money if you're looking for a shred-ready 8-string without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Poplar body offers a balanced, resonant tone for extended range.
- • Graphite reinforcement rods prevent neck warp, crucial for 8-string stability.
- • Piranha inlays add a touch of aggressive style and visual flair.
- • HT8 bridge provides solid tuning stability under heavy string tension.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck joint can lack the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • High-output pickups might be too aggressive for cleaner, nuanced tones.
- • Poplar body, while good, isn't as premium as mahogany or alder.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 457343
$472
#4
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QEB Bundle
Ambient
Modern Metal
Experimental
Key Feature:
The Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QEB is a seriously impressive package for the price. The multi-scale design and custom pickups make it surprisingly versatile, handling everything from djent to soaring melodies. It's a great option for players wanting to explore 8-string territory without a huge investment.
PROS
- • Quilted maple top offers striking aesthetics and enhanced resonance.
- • Okume/Nato neck-thru construction provides excellent sustain and comfortable access.
- • HBZ Custom Wound pickups deliver high-gain output suitable for modern genres.
- • Multi-scale design minimizes tuning issues and expands tonal possibilities.
CONS
- • Poplar body may lack the tonal complexity of mahogany or ash.
- • Purpleheart fretboard can show wear and tear more readily than rosewood.
- • Hardware, while functional, might feel a bit basic for advanced players.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 561137
$466
#5
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBB Bundle
Extended Range
Ambient
Djent
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBB is a seriously impressive offering for the price. The multiscale design makes playing those low strings surprisingly comfortable, and the pickups deliver a modern, aggressive tone perfect for metal and progressive genres. It's an excellent entry point into the 8-string world for players looking for a lot of bang for their buck.
PROS
- • Quilted maple top provides stunning aesthetics and improved resonance
- • Okume/Nato neck-thru design enhances sustain and upper fret access
- • Custom-wound HBZ pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and aggressive tone
- • Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved playability across 8 strings
CONS
- • Poplar body, while decent, isn't as tonally vibrant as mahogany or ash
- • Hardware, while functional, might feel a bit budget-oriented to experienced players
- • 8-string guitars are inherently heavier; expect a substantial neck dive
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 561134
$464
#6
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458FFB Roasted MultiScale
Experimental
Djent
Modern Metal
Key Feature:
The R-458FFB is a seriously impressive offering for the price. The roasted maple neck and multiscale design make it surprisingly comfortable to play, and those humbuckers have plenty of bite for modern metal and progressive styles. It's a fantastic entry point into the world of 8-string guitars for players looking for a lot of bang for their buck.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and smooth playability
- • Multiscale design improves string tension and intonation across 8 strings
- • Nubone nut enhances sustain and tuning stability compared to standard plastic
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver aggressive, modern tones suitable for metal and progressive genres
CONS
- • Poplar body can lack the resonance of mahogany or other premium tonewoods
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, doesn't offer the same sustain as a set-neck
- • Hardware, while functional, may be a future upgrade point for serious players
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 550472
$274
#7
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Case
Djent
Extended Range
Ambient
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton R-458MN is a surprisingly capable 8-string for the price. The multi-scale design is a huge plus for playability, and the included case is a real bonus. It's a great starting point for exploring extended-range playing, especially for those into modern metal and progressive genres.
PROS
- • Multi-scale design improves intonation and string tension across 8 strings.
- • Nubone nut enhances sustain and tuning stability compared to standard plastic.
- • Speed neck profile offers comfortable, fast playing for modern styles.
- • Included Gator case provides excellent protection for transport and storage.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while decent, lacks the resonance of mahogany or alder.
- • Basic controls (1 volume, 1 tone) limit tonal shaping versatility.
- • Bolt-on neck construction can impact sustain compared to set-neck designs.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543895
$329
#8
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBB
Djent
Experimental
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton is a seriously impressive value for an 8-string. The multiscale design really opens up tuning possibilities, and the pickups have a modern, aggressive voice perfect for metal and progressive genres. It's a great entry point into the world of extended-range guitars for players looking for a lot of bang for their buck.
PROS
- • Quilted maple top adds visual flair and improved resonance.
- • Okume/Nato neck-thru design offers sustain and comfortable access.
- • HBZ Custom pickups deliver high-gain output with surprising clarity.
- • Mono Rail bridge provides stable tuning and string alignment.
CONS
- • The multi-scale design demands precise setup and may require adjustments.
- • Poplar body, while good, isn’t as tonally complex as mahogany.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels a bit budget-oriented.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 461579
$439
#9
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QEB
Modern Metal
Experimental
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton QEB is a seriously impressive 8-string for the money. The multi-scale design really improves the feel and intonation, and those custom pickups have a surprisingly refined high-gain character. It's perfect for players looking to explore extended-range metal and progressive genres without completely emptying their wallet.
PROS
- • Quilted maple top adds visual flair and slight resonance
- • Okume/Nato neck-thru construction enhances sustain and feel
- • Custom-wound HBZ pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate high-gain tone
- • Multi-scale design improves playability and intonation across eight strings
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel a bit 'soft' and prone to dents
- • Hardware, while functional, might be a future upgrade point for serious players
- • The wider nut width demands adjustment for players used to standard guitars
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 461578
$439
#10
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Bag
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.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543894
$248
#11
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Ibanez RG8EX-BKF
by
Ibanez
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.
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 582095
$609
#12
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458BK MS w/Bag
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.
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539140
$244
#13
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458MN WH Progressive w/Bag
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539827
$226
#14
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458 BK Prog. Series w/Bag
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.
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543905
$226
#15
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458MN WH MultiScale
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
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 427252
$219
How to Choose the Best 8 String Guitars
1
Playability
This is paramount. A chunky neck and high action will kill your progress. We're looking for comfortable neck profiles (think shred-friendly, but not too thin) and a manageable string spacing. You need to be able to navigate those low strings without feeling like you're wrestling a boa constrictor.
2
Pickup Voicing
8-strings live and die by their low-end. You need pickups that deliver that defined, articulate low-end thump without getting muddy or losing clarity. A scooped midrange can work, but it needs to have enough punch to cut through a band mix - no ice-picky harshness either, please.
3
Hardware Quality
Tuners that hold tune are non-negotiable. A cheap set of tuners will make your life miserable, especially when dropping to lower tunings. Bridges need to be stable and intonated correctly to avoid that frustrating 'out of tune' feeling as you descend into the abyss.
4
Construction & Build Quality
Let's be honest, budget guitars cut corners. We're looking for solid construction - no sharp fret edges, no obvious finish flaws, and a neck joint that doesn't creak. These aren't dealbreakers, but they impact the overall feel and playability.
5
Versatility
While 8-strings are often associated with a specific genre, it's nice to have some flexibility. Pickups with decent clarity and dynamic response will let you explore different tones - clean jazz, bluesy leads, or even heavier riffing - without sounding like a one-trick pony.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the brand name. Many affordable 8-strings are made by smaller manufacturers who are genuinely trying to deliver a lot of guitar for the money. Watch out for overly thin necks - they can feel unstable with the extra string tension. A good setup from a qualified tech is crucial - even a great guitar needs a proper setup to shine.
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 ranks 15 8 string guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. 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
Standard 8-string tuning is B standard (B-F#-B-E-G#-C#-F#-B), but experiment! Drop C and Drop B are also common. It's about finding what works for your playing and the music you're playing.
More so than 6-strings, yes. The longer scale length means even small intonation adjustments have a bigger impact. Be prepared to spend some time tweaking it, or have a tech do it for you.
Generally, you'll want heavier gauge strings - 7s or even 8s are common. String tension is a big factor with 8-strings, so experiment to find a balance between playability and tone.
It might. Your amp might struggle to handle the low frequencies cleanly. You might need a more powerful amp or a bass-focused amp to get the most out of it. Headroom is key - you don't want it clipping constantly.
Absolutely not! While they're popular in that genre, the extended range opens up a ton of possibilities. Think orchestral arrangements, extended chord voicings, or just adding a new dimension to your riffs.
