Best 8 String Guitars Under $1,000 2026
Alright, so you want an 8-string but your bank account isn't screaming 'platinum'. It's totally doable. Forget the boutique custom shops - we're talking about getting serious low-end rumble and extended range without mortgaging your apartment. This list is for the working musician who needs that extra string for drop tunings and modern metal, but still needs to eat.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 8 string guitars in 2026 are Cort KX508MS II Marina Blue Burst (top pick), Harley Benton R-458FFB LH Roasted MultiScale for tighter budgets, and ESP LTD EC-258 Black Satin for pros — selected from 15 options across 4 brands, priced $196–$988, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Cort KX508MS II Marina Blue Burst
by
Cort
Modern Metal
Djent
Experimental
Key Feature:
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.
- • Bolt-on neck with amaranth provides snappy response and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • Hardtail bridge limits tremolo/vibrato options; a fixed design.
- • The extended scale length may feel unwieldy for players with smaller hands.
⭐
4.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 539947
$989
#2
⭐
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
#3
⭐
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
#4
⭐
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
#5
⭐
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
#6
⭐
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
#7
⭐
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
#8
⭐
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
#9
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458MN WH Progressive Series
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 419530
$197
#10
⭐
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
#11
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton R-458 BK Progressiv Series
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.
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 279568
$197
#12
⭐
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
#13
⭐
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
#14
⭐
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
#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
Neck Profile
This is huge. An uncomfortable neck profile will kill your playing speed, especially when you're chugging in drop C#. We're looking for something that fits your hand - D-shapes and comfortable C profiles are common, but ultimately, it's personal preference.
2
Pickup Voicing
8-strings live and die by their pickups. You want something that can handle low tunings without getting muddy or losing articulation. A lot of these guitars come with generic pickups, so consider a future upgrade if the stock ones are lacking that 'modern metal' clarity.
3
Hardware Quality
Tuners and bridges are the unsung heroes. Cheap tuners will have tuning stability issues on stage, and a flimsy bridge will sap sustain. Solid locking tuners are a massive plus, even if they add a little to the price.
4
Construction & Finish
Let's be honest, you're not getting figured maple tops and flawless nitro finishes at this price. We're looking for decent construction - no sharp fret edges, minimal neck dive, and a finish that doesn't flake off after a few gigs.
5
Sustain & Resonance
Eight strings need to sing. A well-built guitar, even with budget components, should have a decent amount of sustain and resonance. This translates to a fuller, more powerful sound, especially when you're playing heavier riffs.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Don't expect boutique-level quality. The biggest corners cut are usually in the pickups and hardware - these are the first things you'll probably want to upgrade down the line. Focus on neck comfort and overall construction; a playable, well-built guitar is more valuable than fancy pickups you'll replace anyway.
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
Yeah, most 8-strings are. The longer neck and extra hardware add weight. If you're worried about neck dive or shoulder fatigue, look for guitars with a lighter body wood like mahogany, and consider a strap lock system.
Active pickups are popular for 8-strings due to their higher output and clarity in low tunings. Fishman Fluence, EMG, and Bare Knuckle are all great options, but budget accordingly - they can easily cost $200+ for a set.
Fan fretboards are almost essential for 8-strings to maintain proper string tension across the extended range. Straight fretboards will result in a floppy low end and a tight high end - it just won't sound right. Most guitars in this price range will have fan frets.
Absolutely. As long as the build quality is decent and you're willing to do some basic maintenance (string changes, intonation adjustments), you can definitely gig with an 8-string in this price range. Just don't expect it to last forever.
Always check the retailer's warranty and return policy before you buy. A solid warranty can offer peace of mind, and a reasonable return policy allows you to try the guitar out and make sure it's a good fit for you.
