AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 8 String Guitars for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Jackson JS Series JS32-8 DKA Dinky Archtop with Amaranth Fretboard ($512). Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Case gives you the most for the money at $323. Schecter Hellraiser Hybrid C-8 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 15 models across 7 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Jackson JS Series JS32-8 DKA Dinky Archtop with Amaranth Fretboard
JS32-8 Dinky DKA SBK AH · Jackson
25 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale673 mm (26.5")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings8-string
- BodyPoplar body
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.
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.
65AudioFu
Index↓ 2.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$524 · Aug 17$512 now$512€458 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width54 mm (2.13")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Strings8-string
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
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.
Cons
- Poplar body, while decent, lacks the resonance of mahogany or alder.
- Basic controls (1 volume, 1 tone) limit tonal shaping versatility.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$323 now$323€289 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width54 mm (2.13")
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- Strings8-string
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
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.
Cons
- The thin C neck profile isn’t for everyone; might feel too slender.
- Mahogany body contributes to a heavier instrument, potentially fatiguing.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,116 now$1,116€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width56.6 mm (2.23")
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings8-string
- BodyPoplar body
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.
Cons
- The multi-scale design demands precise setup and may require adjustments.
- Poplar body, while good, isn’t as tonally complex as mahogany.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$446 now$446€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width55 mm (2.17")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings8-string
- BodyMeranti body
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.
Cons
- Matt polyurethane finish can feel a bit plasticky to some players.
- F108 bridge, while functional, is a basic design lacking advanced locking features.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$619 now$619€554 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width56.5 mm (2.22")
- Strings8-string
- BodyOkoume body
This Cort KX508MS II is a seriously impressive 8-string for the price. The multiscale design really shines, making those low strings playable and in tune, while the Fluence pickups give you a huge range of tones. It's perfect for progressive metal players or anyone wanting a modern, versatile 8-string experience without premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Okoume/Poplar construction delivers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising warmth.
- Fishman Fluence Modern pickups offer incredible versatility – clean, crunchy, and high-gain.
- Multiscale design minimizes fret buzz and optimizes string tension across 8 strings.
Cons
- Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- Hardtail bridge limits tremolo/vibrato options; a fixed design.
34AudioFu
Index↓ 0.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$964 · Aug 17$957 now$957€857 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale673 mm (26.5")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings8-string
- BodyMahogany body
The Ninja N8FSS PUR is a serious contender for modern metal and progressive players wanting an 8-string. The multiscale design really helps with the extended range, and those active pickups provide plenty of aggression. It's a well-built instrument offering a lot of value for the money, especially for players just getting into extended-range guitars.
Pros
- Richlite fretboard offers a smooth, consistent playing experience with minimal maintenance.
- Active Legator Aftershock pickups deliver a tight, modern high-output tone.
- Multiscale design improves ergonomics and intonation across the extended range.
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the inherent warmth of a set-neck.
- Active pickups require a power supply, adding complexity and potential maintenance.
33AudioFu
Index↑ 23.8%since Aug 17$1,172 · Aug 17$1,451 now$1,451€1,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width56.6 mm (2.23")
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings8-string
- BodyPoplar body
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.
Cons
- Poplar body may lack the tonal complexity of mahogany or ash.
- Purpleheart fretboard can show wear and tear more readily than rosewood.
26AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$457 now$457€409 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width56.6 mm (2.23")
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings8-string
- BodyPoplar body
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
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
26AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$457 now$457€409 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Schecter Hellraiser Hybrid C-8
Hellraiser Hybrid C-8 TBB · Schecter
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width54 mm (2.13")
- Scale711 mm (27.99")
- Strings8-string
- BodyMahogany body
This Hellraiser Hybrid C-8 TBB is a serious contender for modern metal and progressive players. The combination of mahogany warmth, EMG pickups, and a comfortable neck makes it a shredder's dream. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of bang for your buck if your focus is on heavier, more contemporary styles.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for aggressive tones
- EMG 57/66 pickups deliver high-output, modern metal articulation
- Carbon-reinforced neck enhances stability and reduces fret buzz on the long scale
Cons
- The extended scale length can be challenging for players with smaller hands
- Mahogany body contributes to a relatively heavy instrument, potentially fatiguing
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,529 now$1,529€1,369 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 15 8 string guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Ibanez RG5328R PrestigeRG5328R-LDK · Ibanez56Stable$2,345€2,099$2,345€2,099Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez A528-CMGIbanez · 2 finishes48↓ 2.0%$2,189€1,959$2,189€1,959Check ↗
- 13
Ibanez FTM33 Fredrik Thordendal Signature 8-StringFTM33-WK Fredrik Thordendal · Ibanez46Stable$2,300€2,059$2,300€2,059Check ↗
- 14
Solar Guitars A1.81A Assassin CBMSolar Guitars42Stable$1,675€1,499$1,675€1,499Check ↗
- 15
Solar Guitars A1.8AANSolar Guitars37Stable$1,842€1,649$1,842€1,649Check ↗
8 String Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 29 models we track, not a sample.
Median $457 — half of all 8 string guitars here cost less.
median of 26 models · 48 mm (1.89")–56.6 mm (2.23")
median of 19 models · 305 mm (12.01")–508 mm (20")
median of 29 models · 8-string–8-string
most common · 27 models
How to choose the best 8 string guitars
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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 the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 29 8 string guitars from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What tuning should I use?
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.
Are 8-string guitars hard to intonate?
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.
What gauge strings should I use?
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.
Will an 8-string sound good with my existing amp?
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.
Are 8-strings just for djent?
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.
