AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 8 String Guitars for Professional 2026
The top pick is Ibanez RG5328R Prestige ($2,345). Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Case gives you the most for the money at $323. 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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- Nut width55 mm (2.17")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius430 mm (16.93")
- Strings8-string
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
Cons
- Lightning Through A Dark finish shows every scratch and dent
- 8-string scale length is very long at 27 inches
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,345 now$2,345€2,099 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez FTM33 Fredrik Thordendal Signature 8-String
FTM33-WK Fredrik Thordendal · Ibanez
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width55 mm (2.17")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Frets22 frets
- Strings8-string
- BodyAsh body
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.
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.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,300 now$2,300€2,059 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- Strings8-string
- BodyBasswood body
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
Cons
- Single volume control limits tone shaping
- No weight spec listed in description
48AudioFu
Index↓ 2.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,233 · Aug 17$2,189 now$2,189€1,959 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 ↗ -
- 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 width54 mm (2.13")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This guitar feels solid thanks to its alder body and maple neck, but the heavy build might tire your arms. The stainless steel frets give a crisp sound that stands out in a mix. It suits players who want tight tuning and clear highs, though the single volume knob means fewer tone tweaks.
Pros
- Alder body paired with maple neck for solid stability
- Stainless steel frets offer a bright, clear attack
- Evertune bridge keeps intonation perfect under heavy use
Cons
- Heavy build may feel fatiguing during long sessions
- Only one volume knob limits tone variation choices
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 31Oct 31$1,675 now$1,675€1,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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")
- Scale686 mm (27.01")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings8-string
The A1.8AAN is a seriously impressive 8-string for the money. The Fluence pickups are incredibly versatile, handling everything from djent to soaring melodies. This guitar is a fantastic choice for progressive metal and extended-range players who want professional-grade quality without the premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- Fishman Fluence Modern pickups deliver a versatile, high-output sound
- Evertune bridge ensures exceptional tuning stability, even with heavy playing
Cons
- The longer scale length might feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scales
- Aged Natural Matte finish can be susceptible to fingerprints and smudges
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,842 now$1,842€1,649 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗
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 RG8EX StandardRG8EX-BKF · Ibanez46Stable$619€554$619€554Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBBHarley Benton · 2 finishes47Stable$446€399$446€399Check ↗
- 13
Cort KX508MS II Marina Blue BurstCort34↓ 0.7%$957€857$957€857Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QEB BundleHarley Benton26Stable$457€409$457€409Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBB BundleHarley Benton26Stable$457€409$457€409Check ↗
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 (Neck Profile & Fretwork)
A thick neck profile is manageable if the fretwork is impeccable. Pro players need effortless access to those high notes and clean bends, even with the increased string tension. We're looking for minimal fret buzz and a comfortable, consistent feel across the entire range.
Low-End Definition & Articulation
It's easy for 8-strings to get muddy. We assess how well the pickups and electronics handle the extended low range while maintaining clarity and articulation - can you still hear individual notes in a dense chord voicing?
Sustain & Resonance
An 8-string needs to sing. We evaluate the instrument's ability to sustain notes and its overall resonance, considering the wood choices and construction techniques. This isn't just about volume; it's about tonal complexity and a responsive feel.
Hardware Quality (Tuners & Bridge)
Cheap tuners on an 8-string are a disaster waiting to happen. We scrutinize the quality of the tuners and bridge, as they need to withstand the increased tension and maintain tuning stability during aggressive playing and live gigs.
Pickup Voicing & Headroom
The right pickup voicing is crucial for an 8-string to cut through a mix. We assess the pickups' ability to handle high gain without breaking up prematurely and providing enough headroom for dynamic playing.
Buying guide
So, you're stepping up to an 8-string. It's a commitment, not a phase. It's not just about low notes; it's about navigating a significantly longer neck, a different kind of tension, and making those low frequencies musical in a live setting. This isn't a list for bedroom shredders; we're talking about instruments for players who need to nail it in the studio and on stage, consistently.
Don't chase the cheapest option; 8-strings are not guitars to skimp on. The increased string tension puts more stress on everything - neck, tuners, bridge. Pay attention to the neck joint; a weak joint will warp quickly.
Factor in a good setup from a reputable tech; it's almost mandatory to get that action dialed in and intonation perfect, especially with the longer scale length.
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 scale length is best for an 8-string?
28.5" is becoming the standard, offering a balance of low-end extension and relative playability. Anything shorter can feel cramped, while longer can be unwieldy. It's a feel thing, but 28.5" is a solid starting point.
Are 8-string guitars hard to learn?
Yes, significantly harder than a 6-string. The increased neck width and string tension require more finger strength and coordination. It's a long-term investment in technique.
What kind of amp do I need for an 8-string?
You'll need an amp with plenty of headroom and a responsive low-end. Think high-wattage tube amps - something that can handle the low frequencies without getting muddy. Modeling amps can work, but you need a good one.
Can I use my existing 6-string strings on an 8-string?
Absolutely not. You'll need heavier gauge strings to achieve proper tension and intonation. Experiment with different gauges to find what feels comfortable and sounds best.
Are extended range guitars just for drop tunings?
No. While drop tunings are common, extended range guitars open up possibilities for alternate tunings and unique voicings that aren't possible on a standard 6-string. It's about expanding your sonic palette.
