Best 8 String Guitars Under $500 2026
Okay, so you want an 8-string. Smart. That low-end thump is addictive, especially for modern metal and djent. But let's be real, dropping serious cash on an 8-string isn't always feasible. We've hunted down the best 8-string guitars you can realistically get for under $500, focusing on bang-for-your-buck and actual playability - not just spec sheets.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
⚡ The best 8 string guitars in 2026 are Harley Benton R-458MN LH WH (top pick), Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Case for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton R-458MN WH Progressive w/Bag for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $208–$476, 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
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
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
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
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 561137
$476
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QEB
Nut width
56.6 mm (2.23")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
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
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 461578
$465
Harley Benton MultiScale-8 QBB
Nut width
56.6 mm (2.23")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 461579
$465
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
Djent
Experimental
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This R-458BK MS is a surprisingly capable 8-string for the price. The multiscale design is the real win here, making those lower strings playable without a muddy sound. It's perfect for modern metal and djent players looking to expand their sonic palette on a budget.
PROS
- • Multiscale design enhances clarity and eliminates fret buzz
- • Amaranth fingerboard offers smooth playability and durability
- • Speed D neck profile is comfortable for fast playing
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver aggressive, modern tones.
CONS
- • Poplar body might lack the sustain of denser woods
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end resonance
- • Hardware, while decent, could be upgraded for better tuning stability.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539140
$255
Harley Benton R-458BK MultiScale
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
Progressive Metal
Extended Range
Ambient
Key Feature:
This R-458BK is a surprisingly solid entry into the 8-string world. The multiscale design is a huge win for playability, and the pickups offer a modern, aggressive sound perfect for progressive metal and djent. It’s a fantastic option for players looking for extended range without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Multiscale design eases fret-hand strain across extended range.
- • Nubone nut improves sustain and tuning stability.
- • Speed D neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability.
- • Hi-Gain humbuckers deliver aggressive, modern metal tones.
CONS
- • Poplar body may lack the resonance of more premium tonewoods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction can slightly diminish sustain compared to set-neck.
- • Factory strings are light; heavier gauge strings are recommended for optimal feel.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 410821
$232
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
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543905
$220
Harley Benton R-458 BK Progressiv Series
Nut width
54 mm (2.13")
Scale
673 mm (26.5")
Strings
8-string
Body
Poplar body
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 279568
$208
Every 8 string guitars that matches
16 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 R-458FFB Roasted MultiScale | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $290 |
8 String Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 16 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $255
from $208 to $476
Nut width
median 54 mm (2.13")
from 54 mm (2.13") to 56.6 mm (2.23") · 16 models
Scale
median 673 mm (26.5")
from 673 mm (26.5") to 673 mm (26.5") · 5 models
Fingerboard radius
median 355 mm (13.98")
from 350 mm (13.78") to 400 mm (15.75") · 13 models
Strings
median 8-string
from 8-string to 8-string · 16 models
Body
poplar
most common · 16 models
Fingerboard
maple
most common · 8 models
How to Choose the Best 8 String Guitars
1
Neck Profile
This is HUGE. A thick, unwieldy neck on an 8-string is a nightmare. Look for something comfortable, ideally a C or D profile. If the neck feels like a baseball bat, it's going to be a slog to play extended chords and sweep picking.
2
Pickup Voicing
Many budget 8-strings ship with generic pickups. You're not going to get boutique clarity or a perfectly scooped modern tone. Expect a slightly muddy low-midrange, but listen for articulation - can you still hear individual notes in a palm-muted riff?
3
Hardware Quality
Tuners are critical. Cheap tuners mean constant retuning, especially when dropping to lower tunings. Look for sealed tuners, even basic ones, over flippy vintage-style tuners. Bridge stability is also important for sustain and minimizing string buzz.
4
Construction & Finish
Don't expect flawless finishes or premium woods. Look for solid construction - no obvious cracks or glue issues. A decent satin finish is preferable to a thick, glossy one that can feel sticky.
5
Action & Setup
A poorly set-up guitar is frustrating regardless of price. Be prepared to take it to a tech for a proper setup - lowering the action, adjusting intonation, and ensuring the neck is straight. This is almost mandatory on budget instruments.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're making compromises. The woods will likely be basswood or mahogany - functional, but not tonewoods that'll inspire poetry. The pickups will probably be serviceable, but not stellar. The key is to find something with a comfortable neck and decent hardware that a tech can tweak into shape. Factor in the cost of a setup - it's essential to get the most out of these guitars.
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 16 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
Potentially, yes. But be realistic. Don't expect it to withstand a brutal thrashing like a $2000 instrument. Solid construction and a good setup are vital for gigging.
Absolutely. Pickups are the easiest and most impactful upgrade you can make. Aftermarket pickups can dramatically improve clarity and articulation, especially in the low-midrange.
Budget guitars often have thinner finishes. Handle it with care, especially during setup and transport. A little lemon oil and careful cleaning can help.
8-strings need longer scale lengths (typically 28.5" or longer) to maintain reasonable tension when tuned low. This can feel different than a standard 25.5" scale - give it some time to adjust.
Often, yes. You can sometimes find a higher-end model used within your budget. Just be sure to inspect it thoroughly for any damage or setup issues.
