AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Ibanez 8 String Guitars 2026
The top pick is Ibanez RG5328R Prestige ($2,345). Ibanez RG8EX Standard gives you the most for the money at $619. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 4 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
Top 4
Full detail for the 4 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
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 ↗
8 String Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 29 models we track, not a sample.
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 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 5 8 string guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 29 in the category). 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 should I look for when buying 8 string guitars?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on 8 string guitars?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive 8 string guitars worth the investment?
Higher-priced 8 string guitars typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for 8 string guitars?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy 8 string guitars online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.
