If you’re looking to elevate your metal sound, consider the power of an 8-string guitar. With their extended range and robust tones, these instruments can enhance your playing style considerably. From the high-output pickups of the Jackson JS Series to the customizable BexGears DIY kit, there’s a model for every preference. Let’s explore the top choices that can help you achieve that heavy sound you’ve been aiming for.
Jackson JS Series Dinky JS32-8 – Satin Black with Amaranth Fingerboard
If you’re a metal guitarist looking to expand your tonal palette, the Jackson JS Series Dinky JS32-8 is a fantastic choice. This 8-string solidbody electric guitar features a sleek satin black finish and an amaranth fretboard, perfect for smooth playability. Its poplar arched top body and maple neck contribute to a solid, resonant sound. With two high-output humbuckers and a strings-through-body fixed bridge, you’ll enjoy impressive sustain and note definition. Its extended scale length of 26.5 inches makes it ideal for down-tuned rock and metal. Plus, it’s an affordable option for both beginners and seasoned players alike.
Best For: Metal guitarists looking for an affordable 8-string guitar that offers excellent playability and tonal versatility.
Pros:
- Extended range suitable for down-tuned rock and metal genres.
- High-output humbuckers provide impressive sound quality and sustain.
- Affordable option for both beginners and experienced players.
Cons:
- Some users report volume discrepancies with specific strings (F# and B).
- Minor issues with fret edges noted by a few customers.
- Crafted in China, which may affect some purchasing decisions.
IYV 8 String Solid Body Electric Guitar (ISFF8-400)
The IYV 8 String Solid Body Electric Guitar (ISFF8-400) stands out as an exceptional choice for metal guitarists seeking versatility and power. With its stunning Green Sunburst finish and quilted maple top, this guitar not only looks great but also delivers incredible performance. Weighing 13.82 pounds, it features a neck-through design for enhanced sustain and stability. The H-H pickup configuration guarantees you get a rich, full sound, while the Tune-O-Matic bridge allows for precise tuning. Customers rave about its quality, rating it 5.0 out of 5 stars, making it a fantastic choice for players looking to elevate their sound.
Best For: Metal guitarists seeking a versatile and high-quality instrument for powerful performances.
Pros:
- Excellent sustain and stability due to the neck-through design.
- Rich, full sound from the H-H pickup configuration.
- Stunning aesthetics with a Green Sunburst finish and quilted maple top.
Cons:
- Heavier weight may not be suitable for all players.
- Limited availability as a niche instrument.
- Higher price point compared to entry-level guitars.
Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Electric Guitar Strings (8-38 Gauge)
For metal guitarists seeking a combination of light tension and vibrant tone, the Ernie Ball Extra Slinky Electric Guitar Strings (8-38 Gauge) are an ideal choice. Made in California with high-quality materials, these nickel-wound strings offer extra light tension, making it easy to shred across the fretboard. You’ll appreciate the bright, balanced tone that complements your playing style. Endorsed by legends like Slash, Jimmy Page, and Metallica, these strings deliver professional sound and feel. Plus, the Element Shield Packaging guarantees they stay fresh longer, giving you reliable performance every time you release your heavy sound on that 8-string guitar.
Best For: Metal guitarists seeking light tension strings with a vibrant tone for fast playing.
Pros:
- Extra light tension allows for easy shredding and quick playability.
- Bright, balanced tone enhances the overall sound quality of your guitar.
- Endorsed by legendary guitarists like Slash and Jimmy Page, ensuring professional quality.
Cons:
- May not provide enough tension for players who prefer heavier gauge strings.
- Bright tone may not suit all musical styles or personal preferences.
- Premium price compared to standard guitar strings.
DR Strings TF8-11 8 String Tite-Fit Nickel Plated Heavy Electric Guitar
Metal guitarists seeking powerful sound and durability will find the DR Strings TF8-11 8 String Tite-Fit Nickel Plated Heavy Electric Guitar strings an ideal choice. With a gauge of 11-80 and a unique construction of nickel-plated steel wrap wire on a round core, these strings deliver a rich tone perfect for rock, metal, and more. Users report impressive longevity and minimal breakage, even after extensive use. While you may need to adjust your guitar’s nut for the low F# and B strings, the higher tension provides a firmer feel, making these strings a reliable option for any 8-string setup.
Best For: Metal guitarists seeking powerful sound and durability in their 8-string setups.
Pros:
- High-quality nickel-plated construction ensures rich tone and excellent durability.
- Users report impressive longevity with minimal breakage after extensive use.
- Higher tension provides a firmer feel, enhancing playability for various styles.
Cons:
- Some users may need to file the nut for the low F# and B strings to fit properly.
- The thick gauge may not feel as tight as similar options from other brands.
- Adjustments may be required for compatibility with certain guitar models.
Seymour Duncan Nazgul 8-String Passive Guitar Pickup Black Metal Bridge
Aggressive tones and clarity in low tunings make the Seymour Duncan Nazgul 8-String Passive Guitar Pickup a must-have for metal guitarists. With a large ceramic magnet, it delivers the punchy, down-tuned chugging riffs you crave, accentuating the mid-range for better definition of your B and F# strings. You’ll appreciate the fluidity and articulation this pickup maintains, even under high gain. Designed specifically for the bridge position, it shines in creating deeper, darker tones that cut through the mix. If you’re seeking an aggressive sound that enhances your playing, the Nazgul is your perfect partner in crime.
Best For: Metal guitarists seeking aggressive tones and clarity in low tunings.
Pros:
- Delivers punchy, down-tuned chugging riffs with enhanced mid-range definition.
- Maintains fluidity and articulation even under high gain settings.
- Specifically designed for the bridge position, producing deeper, darker tones.
Cons:
- Limited to bridge position use, which may not suit all guitarists’ setups.
- May not be ideal for genres outside of metal due to its aggressive sound profile.
- Requires proper installation and setup, which might be challenging for beginners.
Ernie Ball 8-String Skinny Top Heavy Bottom Slinky Electric Guitar Strings
If you’re looking to elevate your playing on an 8-string guitar, the Ernie Ball 8-String Skinny Top Heavy Bottom Slinky Electric Guitar Strings are an excellent choice. These strings feature a unique 9-80 gauge setup, ensuring you get the perfect balance between playability and tone. Crafted from nickel-plated steel wrapped around a hex-shaped core, they deliver a bright, well-balanced sound. You’ll appreciate the signature Slinky feel, which guarantees comfort during long sessions. Plus, they’re precision-manufactured in California, ensuring consistency and longevity. Upgrade your tone and playing experience with these high-quality strings, perfect for releasing your heavy sound.
Best For: Guitarists seeking a balanced blend of playability and tone on their 8-string guitars.
Pros:
- Comfortable Playability: Designed with a signature Slinky feel for easy playing during long sessions.
- High-Quality Materials: Made from nickel-plated steel for a bright, well-balanced tone and longevity.
- Precision Manufacturing: Crafted in California with high standards for consistency and performance.
Cons:
- Limited Gauge Options: The specific 9-80 gauge may not suit all players’ preferences.
- Specialized Use: Primarily designed for 8-string guitars, making them less versatile for standard 6-string players.
- Higher Price Point: Potentially more expensive compared to standard string sets.
BexGears DIY 8 String Electric Guitar Kit
For DIY enthusiasts and aspiring guitar builders, the BexGears DIY 8 String Electric Guitar Kit stands out with its high-quality burl poplar veneer top and robust okoume body. This kit includes everything you need to assemble a complete, playable guitar, with all holes pre-drilled for your convenience. The sturdy maple neck and smooth composite ebony fingerboard guarantee excellent playability. Plus, you’ll receive strings and an electric cord to get started right away. Although it’s available in right-handed versions only, you can request PDF instructions to guide you through the building process. Release your creativity and craft your perfect metal machine!
Best For: DIY enthusiasts and aspiring guitar builders looking to create a unique 8 string electric guitar.
Pros:
- High-quality materials including burl poplar veneer and okoume body ensure durability and great sound.
- All parts included with pre-drilled holes make assembly easy and convenient.
- Comes with strings and electric cord, allowing you to start playing immediately after assembly.
Cons:
- Available in right-handed versions only, limiting options for left-handed players.
- Instructions are only available upon request as a PDF, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- May require additional tools or skills for those who are less experienced in guitar building.
ESP LTD EC-258 8-String Electric Guitar, Black Satin
The ESP LTD EC-258 8-String Electric Guitar in Black Satin is an excellent choice for musicians seeking to explore the depths of metal music with extended range capabilities. Its comfortable mahogany body and three-piece neck provide great playability, while the 22 extra-jumbo frets on the roasted jatoba fingerboard enhance your performance. With ESP Designed pickups and a hardtail design, you can immerse yourself in heavy soundscapes effortlessly. Although some users recommend upgrading the stock tuners for improved tuning stability, the guitar’s visual appeal and overall value make it a solid option for any metal guitarist looking to expand their sonic palette.
Best For: Musicians exploring lower pitches in metal music seeking an affordable extended range guitar.
Pros:
- Affordable price point for an 8-string guitar, making it accessible for budget-conscious players.
- Comfortable playability with a well-designed neck and body, suitable for various playing styles.
- Versatile sound options with ESP Designed pickups and a coil-splitting feature for tonal variety.
Cons:
- Tuning stability issues reported with stock tuners, necessitating potential upgrades.
- Mixed feedback on intonation and nut/bridge performance, which may require adjustments.
- Upgrades recommended for optimal sound clarity, suggesting initial limitations with stock components.
Schecter Damien-8 Multiscale 8-string Electric Guitar – Satin Black
Engineered for metal enthusiasts, the Schecter Damien-8 Multiscale 8-string Electric Guitar in Satin Black delivers unparalleled performance and versatility. Its mahogany body and maple neck provide a solid foundation, while the rosewood fretboard features striking bat inlays. The multi-scale design, ranging from 25.5 to 27.5 inches, guarantees perfect string tension and intonation. Equipped with two Diamond Heretic humbucking pickups, it offers high-gain chug and modern metal aggression. With 24 jumbo frets and a comfortable deep double-cut shape, you’ll enjoy exceptional playability. Weighing in at just 9 pounds, this guitar is designed for serious metal players who crave a heavy sound.
Best For: Metal guitarists seeking an 8-string guitar that offers versatility, high-gain sound, and exceptional playability.
Pros:
- High-quality construction with a mahogany body and maple neck for durability and resonance.
- Multi-scale design ensures perfect string tension and intonation for various tunings.
- Versatile sound profile from Diamond Heretic pickups, suitable for modern metal and lead tones.
Cons:
- Weight of 9 pounds may be cumbersome for some players during extended use.
- Limited to 8 strings, which may not appeal to traditional guitarists or those unfamiliar with extended-range instruments.
- Dark color scheme might not suit everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
Gstyle 8 String Electric Guitar (ES-800)
With its robust construction and versatile sound, the Gstyle 8 String Electric Guitar (ES-800) stands out as an excellent choice for metal guitarists seeking to expand their tonal range. Made with an Okoume body and a burl poplar top, it’s both beautiful and durable. The maple neck and composite ebony fretboard enhance playability, while the 24 frets and 2 1/8-inch nut width provide ample room for intricate riffs. Though some users mention needing setup adjustments and replacing the original strings, once dialed in, you’ll appreciate its sound quality and sustain. Plus, it comes with a handy canvas carrying case!
Best For: This guitar is best for metal guitarists looking to expand their tonal range with an affordable yet quality instrument.
Pros:
- Beautiful appearance with a durable build from quality materials.
- Versatile sound quality and sustain once properly set up.
- Comes with a convenient canvas carrying case for easy transport.
Cons:
- Original strings often require replacement for optimal performance.
- Setup adjustments may be necessary for tuning and action.
- Some components may feel cheap, particularly plastic parts.
Factors to Consider When Choosing 8 String Guitars for Metal
When choosing an 8-string guitar for metal, you’ll want to contemplate several key factors. Pickup configurations, scale length, and body materials can all greatly affect your sound and playability. Don’t forget to think about neck profiles and string gauges to find the perfect fit for your style.
Pickup Configuration Options
Since the right pickup configuration can make or break your sound, it’s vital to contemplate your options when choosing an 8-string guitar for metal. Most 8-string guitars feature humbucker pickups (H-H configuration), delivering the high output and power essential for heavy metal. Consider whether you prefer passive pickups for a warmer tone or active pickups for higher gain and clarity. High-output pickups shine in down-tuned settings, enhancing the definition of low B and F# strings commonly used in metal. Some models offer specialized pickups that provide aggressive tones and improved articulation for complex riffs. Additionally, coil-splitting capabilities can add versatility, allowing you to switch between humbucking and single-coil tones for varied sound options.
Scale Length Considerations
Choosing the right scale length for your 8-string guitar can greatly impact your playing experience and sound quality. Typically, scale lengths range from 25.5 inches to 27 inches, which is essential for the lower tunings common in metal. A longer scale length increases string tension, delivering a tighter and more defined sound, especially for those heavy chugging riffs. An extended scale length, like 26.5 inches, enhances intonation and clarity for the B and F# strings. Conversely, shorter scale lengths make playability easier and facilitate note bending but can create a looser feel, potentially sacrificing clarity in heavier styles. Ultimately, consider your personal comfort with scale length, as it directly affects both playability and tonal quality.
Body Material Impact
The body material of your 8-string guitar plays a crucial role in shaping its overall sound and feel, especially for metal genres. Mahogany offers warm, resonant tones, while poplar provides a balanced sound with good sustain. If you’re after brightness and clarity, consider guitars with maple tops; they enhance articulation for heavy, down-tuned riffs. Keep in mind the weight of the body material: heavier woods like mahogany can add stability but may lead to fatigue during long sessions. Different body shapes and materials influence resonance and sustain, with solidbody designs delivering focused sound ideal for high-gain amplification. Finally, the construction quality directly affects durability and sound, so choose wisely for your heavy sound.
Neck Profile Types
When it comes to selecting an 8-string guitar for metal, neck profile types play a pivotal role in your playing experience. You’ll typically encounter C, D, and U shapes, each catering to different preferences. If you’re into fast playing, a thinner neck profile can help you access higher frets with ease. On the other hand, a thicker profile offers stability for heavy strumming. Consider the scale length too; longer scales, like 27 inches, are often best for lower tunings while maintaining string tension. Multi-scale necks can enhance intonation, especially if you frequently switch tunings. Finally, remember that wider necks (around 2 inches) are standard for 8-string guitars, so be prepared to adjust your hand positioning accordingly.
String Gauge Preferences
While selecting the right string gauge for your 8-string guitar can seem intimidating, it’s crucial for achieving the desired sound and playability in metal music. Generally, string gauges range from lighter options like 8-38 to heavier ones such as 11-80. Heavier strings offer more tension, enhancing sustain and clarity, especially beneficial for lower tunings typical in metal. However, lighter gauges can be easier to play but may result in a thinner tone and less volume, particularly on the lower strings (F# and B). You might also need to adjust the nut or bridge for heavier strings to guarantee a proper fit. Ultimately, your preference will depend on whether you seek versatility or a specific sound in your playing style.