Best 8 String Guitars Under $800 2026
So, you're chasing that extended range vibe but your bank account isn't exactly overflowing? Eight-string guitars used to be a luxury, but the market's shifted. We've rounded up the best 8-string guitars you can realistically snag for under $800 - instruments that'll actually inspire you to write some low-end mayhem, not just gather dust in your room. Let's be clear, we're not expecting boutique quality here, but we can find some serious value.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
⚡ The best 8 string guitars in 2026 are Harley Benton R-458MN LH WH (top pick), Ibanez RG8EX-BKF for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton R-458MN WH MS w/Case for pros — selected from 15 options across 3 brands, priced $208–$645, 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
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
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
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
Every 8 string guitars that matches
18 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-458 BK Prog. Series w/Bag | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Scale 673 mm (26.5") · Strings 8-string · Body Poplar body | $220 |
| 17 | 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 |
| 18 | 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 18 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $255
from $208 to $546
Nut width
median 54 mm (2.13")
from 54 mm (2.13") to 56.6 mm (2.23") · 17 models
Scale
median 673 mm (26.5")
from 673 mm (26.5") to 673 mm (26.5") · 7 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 · 18 models
Body
poplar, meranti
most common · 18 models
Fingerboard
maple, jatoba
most common · 9 models
How to Choose the Best 8 String Guitars
1
Neck Profile
This is huge. A thick, unwieldy neck will make those low strings a wrestling match. Look for something comfortable, ideally a modern C or D profile - anything too vintage-shaped might feel clunky with eight strings.
2
Hardware Quality (Tuners & Bridge)
Cheap tuners will have you retuning every other song. A flimsy bridge will kill sustain and make intonation a nightmare. Don't expect locking tuners, but decent sealed tuners are a must.
3
Pickup Voicing
Eight-string guitars need pickups that can handle low frequencies without getting muddy. We're looking for pickups with clarity and a bit of punch - something that can cut through a dense mix without losing definition in the lower registers.
4
Build Quality & Setup
Let's be honest, corners get cut. Check the fretwork carefully - sharp fret ends are a pain. A decent setup from the factory is a bonus; be prepared to adjust the action and intonation yourself.
5
Overall Ergonomics
Body shape and weight matter, especially when you're playing for hours. A neck dive can kill your enthusiasm faster than a bad tone. Consider the balance and how it feels hanging from a strap.
Buying Guide
At this price point, expect compromises. You're unlikely to find flawless fretwork or top-tier pickups. Prioritize a comfortable neck profile and decent hardware - those are the foundation for a playable and enjoyable experience. Don't chase 'amazing' tone; aim for a solid, reliable platform that you can upgrade later if you choose. A good setup from a tech can often make a bigger difference than a pricier pickup.
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 18 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
Eight-string guitars have a steeper learning curve than six-string. While these are playable, be prepared for a bit more finger stretching and coordination required. Start slow and build up your strength.
Absolutely! While you won't get boutique studio tones, these guitars can record very well, especially with a decent preamp and some EQ. Just be mindful of muddiness in the low end - careful EQing is key.
Djent, progressive metal, modern rock - anything that utilizes extended range. They're not ideal for blues or country unless you're deliberately going for a weird vibe.
Yes, pickups are easily swapped. It's often a cost-effective way to improve the tone of an affordable guitar, but factor in the cost of the pickups and potentially professional installation.
You'll need heavier gauge strings to maintain proper tension and intonation on an 8-string. Expect to be using 56-126 gauge strings or heavier. Experiment to find what feels comfortable and sounds best with your setup.
