Best 8 String Guitars Under $2,000 2026
Alright, so you're chasing the low-end rumble of an 8-string but don't want to mortgage your apartment? I get it. For years, 8-strings were purely boutique territory, but a few smart companies are offering genuinely playable instruments in the sub-$2000 range. We're not talking about miracles here, but we can find some serious bang-for-your-buck if you know what to look for.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
⚡ The best 8 string guitars in 2026 are Harley Benton R-458MN LH WH (top pick), Schecter Damien Platinum 8 SBK for tighter budgets, and Ibanez RG8EX-BKF for pros — selected from 15 options across 6 brands, priced $208–$1,919, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Harley Benton R-458MN LH WH
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
510 mm (20.08")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Djent
Progressive Metal
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton R-458MN LH is a seriously impressive entry point into the world of 8-string guitars. It's perfect for left-handed players looking to explore extended-range metal and progressive genres without spending a fortune. The build quality is surprisingly solid, and it offers a lot of bang for your buck.
PROS
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers snappy response and easy playability.
- • DLX bridge provides stable tuning and improved sustain compared to basic options.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver a surprisingly thick and aggressive tone for the price.
- • Left-handed model makes extended-range access accessible and affordable.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while resonant, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or basswood.
- • ABS nut can contribute to tuning instability and may benefit from an upgrade.
- • Speed D neck profile might be too thin for players preferring a thicker feel.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 570068
$220
Schecter Damien Platinum 8 SBK
by
Schecter
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
711 mm (27.99")
Fingerboard radius
508 mm (20")
Strings
8-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Extended Range
Djent
Experimental
Key Feature:
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.
- • Grover tuners offer reliable tuning stability, crucial for 8-string use.
CONS
- • The thin C neck profile isn’t for everyone; might feel too slender.
- • Mahogany body contributes to a heavier instrument, potentially fatiguing.
- • Scale length, while standard for 8-strings, can feel unwieldy initially.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 591775
$1,163
Ibanez RG8EX-BKF
by
Ibanez
Nut width
55 mm (2.17")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
8-string
Body
Meranti body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 582095
$645
Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Case
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
4.72 kg
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543895
$336
Harley Benton R-458MN WH Progressive w/Bag
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Fingerboard radius
355 mm (13.98")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539827
$220
Harley Benton R-458MN WH Progressive Series
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Fingerboard radius
355 mm (13.98")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 419530
$208
Harley Benton R-458FFB LH Roasted MultiScale
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 570062
$302
Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Bag
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543894
$255
Harley Benton R-458MN WH MultiScale
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
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
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 427252
$232
#10
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Solar Guitars A1.8AAN
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
686 mm (27.01")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
8-string
Extended Range
Ambient
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
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
- • Maple neck and ebony fretboard offer a fast, comfortable playing experience
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
- • Limited control options – one tone knob restricts tonal shaping possibilities
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 538117
$1,920
#11
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Schecter Hellraiser Hybrid C-8 TBB
by
Schecter
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
711 mm (27.99")
Strings
8-string
Body
Mahogany body
Ambient
Djent
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
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
- • Ultra-thin C neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability for extended sessions
CONS
- • The extended scale length can be challenging for players with smaller hands
- • Mahogany body contributes to a relatively heavy instrument, potentially fatiguing
- • Limited tonal versatility – excels in modern genres, less suited for vintage sounds
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 474251
$1,594
#12
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Legator Ninja N8FSS BK
by
Legator
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
8-string
Body
Mahogany body
Ambient
Extended Range
Experimental
Key Feature:
The Ninja N8FSS BK is a solid, purpose-built 8-string for modern players. It’s got a powerful, defined sound thanks to the active pickups and a surprisingly playable neck. If you’re diving into extended-range metal or progressive rock and want a dependable instrument without a premium price tag, this is a great option.
PROS
- • Richlite fingerboard offers a smooth, consistent playing experience with excellent note definition.
- • Active Legator Aftershock pickups deliver a modern, aggressive tone ideal for metal and progressive genres.
- • Compound radius fingerboard enhances playability, allowing comfortable chording and effortless soloing.
- • Brass fixed bridge provides stable tuning and contributes to a focused, resonant tone.
CONS
- • Mahogany body, while warm, can make the guitar somewhat heavy for extended playing sessions.
- • Active pickups require a power source and may limit versatility for players seeking a vintage tone.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the inherent sustain of a set-neck design.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 605293
$1,221
#13
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Legator Ninja N8FSS PUR
by
Legator
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
8-string
Body
Mahogany body
Ambient
Modern Metal
Progressive Metal
Key Feature:
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.
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation with quilted maple top adding visual flair.
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.
- • The purple finish, while striking, may not appeal to all players' aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 605294
$1,221
Jackson JS32-8 Dinky DKA SBK AH
by
Jackson
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
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.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 457343
$546
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBB Bundle
Nut width
56.6 mm (2.23")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
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
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 561134
$476
Every 8 string guitars that matches
24 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QEB Bundle | Nut width 56.6 mm (2.23") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $476 |
| 17 | Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QEB | Nut width 56.6 mm (2.23") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $465 |
| 18 | Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBB | Nut width 56.6 mm (2.23") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $465 |
| 19 | Harley Benton R-458BK MS w/Bag | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $255 |
| 20 | Harley Benton R-458BK MultiScale | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $232 |
| 21 | Harley Benton R-458 BK Prog. Series w/Bag | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Scale 673 mm (26.5") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $220 |
| 22 | Harley Benton R-458 BK Progressiv Series | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Scale 673 mm (26.5") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $208 |
| 23 | Harley Benton R-458FFB Roasted MultiScale | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $290 |
| 24 | Cort KX508MS II Marina Blue Burst | Nut width 56.5 mm (2.22") · Strings 8-string · Body Okoume body | $1,005 |
8 String Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 24 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $336
from $208 to $1,221
Nut width
median 54 mm (2.13")
from 54 mm (2.13") to 56.6 mm (2.23") · 21 models
Scale
median 673 mm (26.5")
from 673 mm (26.5") to 711 mm (27.99") · 11 models
Fingerboard radius
median 355 mm (13.98")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 508 mm (20") · 15 models
Strings
median 8-string
from 8-string to 8-string · 24 models
Body
poplar, mahogany, meranti
most common · 23 models
Fingerboard
maple, jatoba, rosewood
most common · 10 models
Frets
median 24
from 24 to 24 · 6 models
How to Choose the Best 8 String Guitars
1
Neck Profile
This is HUGE. A thick, unwieldy neck will make those low strings feel like you're wrestling an octopus. Look for something comfortable - a modern C or even a D profile are usually safe bets, but try before you buy if possible.
2
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners will make keeping that low B in tune an exercise in frustration. Expect compromises here, but look for sealed tuners at the very least. The bridge is also critical; a flimsy bridge will kill sustain and clarity.
3
Pickup Voicing
8-strings need pickups that can handle low frequencies without getting muddy or flabby. A scooped midrange is common in extended-range guitars, but make sure it still has enough 'growl' to cut through a mix. Don't expect boutique-level articulation, but avoid pickups that sound completely lifeless.
4
Construction & Finish
Solid bodies are preferable, but don't sweat a well-built laminate - it's often more stable. The finish isn't critical, but sloppy fretwork or obvious gaps in the body are red flags. These guitars are often shipped with thinner finishes to save money.
5
String Spacing & Scale Length
A longer scale (30" or more) is almost mandatory for 8-strings to maintain tension and avoid a floppy feel. Wider string spacing is also a must for comfortable playing, especially when chording. Be prepared to adjust your technique slightly.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're trading off something. Expect the fretwork to be a little rough - a professional fret leveling and crowning can make a massive difference. The pickups won't be boutique-grade, but they can be serviceable. Prioritize a comfortable neck and stable tuning over flashy aesthetics. Don't be afraid to buy used - you can often snag a significant discount.
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 covers 24 8 string guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. 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
Absolutely, but manage your expectations. They'll handle the volume and low-end thump of a gig, but don't expect the same level of refinement as a $3000 instrument. Be diligent about tuning and setup.
Pickups are the most common upgrade, but a proper setup is usually the first and most impactful step. Better tuners are also a worthwhile investment for improved tuning stability.
Simply put, a longer scale provides better string tension for those super-low notes. Without it, your low B will sound like a wet noodle and be impossible to keep in tune.
You can, but it'll likely result in a floppy feel and intonation issues. Stick with the recommended gauge or slightly heavier to maintain tension and clarity. Experiment, but be prepared to adjust the truss rod.
Start with a comfortable neck profile and a slightly shorter scale (28.5" is a good starting point). Don't rush the process; adjusting to the wider neck and lower tunings takes time and practice.
