The 8-string guitar evolved from musicians’ desire to expand the range of the traditional 6-string guitar. It has gained popularity in genres like progressive metal and jazz due to its extended lower and upper range, providing more options for both rhythm and lead playing.
So, if you decided to tackle the beast that is the 8-string guitar, I say congratulations, or maybe I should say, good luck. It’s a journey that promises to be as rewarding as it is challenging. Let’s get into what makes this instrument tick and how you can conquer it.
The 8-String Guitar Essentials
First off, let’s talk about the anatomy of this monstrosity. An 8-string guitar has, you guessed it, eight strings. Usually, the extra strings are tuned to F# and B below the standard low E string.
The neck is wider, the fretboard longer, and if you thought your hand stretches were impressive before, you’re in for a surprise.
Tuning and Setup
Standard Tuning
The typical tuning for an 8-string guitar is F#-B-E-A-D-G-B-E, offering a sonic range that combines the familiar feel of a 6-string with the extended depth of lower bass notes.
Think of it as taking your favorite 6-string setup and adding a couple of bass strings—or if you’re used to a 7-string, you’re just stepping up the power. With this setup, you can dive into thunderous low-end riffs while still shredding your favorite licks on the higher strings. It’s the best of both worlds, letting you seamlessly blend heavy chugs with melodic solos.
For comparison, a standard 6-string is often tuned to E-A-D-G-B-E, or D-A-D-G-A-D for alternate setups. This shows just how much more range you unlock with those extra strings.
Alternate Tunings
Ready to explore new soundscapes? Alternate tunings can unlock entirely new musical possibilities:
- Drop E (E-B-E-A-D-G-B-E): Perfect for players who crave an even lower growl in their riffs while keeping the rest of the strings in standard tuning.
- Drop D (D-A-D-G-B-E-A-D): A classic tuning for heavy, chunky chords but tailored for 8-string guitars, giving you even more room for experimentation.
- Open Tunings: These can vary widely, designed for specific chord voicings, slide guitar techniques, or creating a unique tonal palette. Open tunings transform the way you approach the instrument, often inspiring fresh compositions.
Experimenting with alternate tunings can be a game-changer, expanding your creative horizons and helping you stand out as a player.
Setup
A proper setup is vital when dealing with an 8-string guitar. The wider neck and additional strings require more precise adjustments to maintain playability and tonal quality. Here are the key setup elements to focus on:
- Intonation: Ensure each string’s pitch is accurate along the fretboard. With extended-range guitars, poor intonation becomes glaringly obvious, especially on the lower strings.
- Action: The string height (action) must be adjusted carefully. Too high, and it becomes uncomfortable to play; too low, and you’ll get fret buzz, particularly on the added bass strings.
- String Gauges: Choosing the right string gauges is essential for proper tension and tone, especially for those thunderous lower strings. Skimp on this, and you might end up with strings that sound floppy and lifeless—or worse, snap during a critical moment.
Neglecting these aspects can turn your 8-string into a nightmare to play. A poorly set up 8-string will sound less like a guitar and more like a dying cat. Trust me, I’ve made that mistake, and it’s not pretty. Invest the time or get a professional setup, and your 8-string will sing with power, clarity, and dynamic range.
Techniques
Mastering an 8-string guitar introduces an entirely new set of challenges and opportunities for creativity.
The expanded range and additional strings demand adjustments in technique, finger strength, and fretboard navigation.
Embracing these technical aspects allows players to unlock the full potential of the instrument, crafting music that’s both dynamic and powerful.
Chords and Arpeggios
Playing chords on an 8-string can feel like wrestling with an oversized puzzle. Traditional shapes won’t always cut it, and new forms that include the lower strings become essential. Experiment with voicings that make use of the extended range, and don’t shy away from reimagining your favorite progressions.
The broader tonal palette can add a depth that’s impossible to achieve on a standard 6-string.
Arpeggios are another area where the 8-string shines. No longer reserved for classical guitarists, sweeping across all eight strings pushes your dexterity and fluidity to new levels. Practicing arpeggios regularly will strengthen your fingers and improve your coordination, setting a solid foundation for more intricate techniques.
Scales and Modes
The extended fretboard requires a fresh perspective on scales and modes. Familiarizing yourself with the full range of the instrument is essential. Begin by practicing scales on the lower strings to get comfortable with the deeper notes, gradually working your way up.
Modes such as Ionian, Dorian, and Phrygian are particularly useful for genres like progressive metal and jazz, where melodic complexity and dynamic phrasing shine. Unlocking the potential of these modes will bring a new dimension to your playing.
Picking Techniques
Adapting your picking technique is a crucial part of mastering the 8-string. Hybrid picking, which uses a combination of the pick and fingers, is highly effective for navigating complex passages with precision and speed.
Economy picking and sweep picking are invaluable for executing fast, smooth runs across multiple strings, enabling a level of fluidity that’s hard to achieve with standard alternate picking.
String skipping adds yet another layer of complexity. Think of it as an intricate game for your fingers, requiring focus and control to hit non-adjacent strings with accuracy. While challenging at first, it’s a rewarding skill that opens up creative possibilities for both rhythm and lead playing.
Practice Routine
Warm-Ups
Start your practice sessions with warm-up exercises that cover all eight strings. Chromatic exercises, finger stretches, and basic scales are great for getting your hands ready and improving dexterity.
Metronome Practice
A metronome is your best friend here. Developing timing and rhythm is critical. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you get more comfortable. Focus on playing cleanly and accurately at each speed.
Repertoire Building
Learning songs and pieces that utilize the 8-string’s range is practical and motivating. Progressive metal bands like Meshuggah and Animals as Leaders are excellent examples of how to incorporate the 8-string guitar into music. Learn from the masters.
Musical Applications
Genre Exploration
The 8-string guitar isn’t just for metalheads. Sure, it excels in progressive metal and djent, but it also shines in jazz and even classical music. Explore different styles to see how versatile this instrument can be. You might be surprised at what you find.
Composition
Use the extended range for composing new music. The lower strings can provide deep, resonant bass lines, while the upper strings offer traditional lead and rhythm possibilities.
Experiment with different tunings and chord voicings to find unique sounds. Your audience will thank you for it.
Learning Resources
Books and Guides
There are several excellent books and guides available. “Complete Mode Diagrams for Eight String Guitar” by Rob Silver is a valuable resource for scales and modes.
Online Lessons
Websites like MusicRadar and Guitareo offer tutorials and lessons specifically for the 8-string guitar. These resources often include video demonstrations and tabs, which can be incredibly helpful if you’re a visual learner.
Community and Forums
Joining online communities and forums such as Reddit’s r/Djent or dedicated guitar forums can provide support and advice from other 8-string guitarists.
Sharing experiences and tips can accelerate your learning process. Plus, it’s always nice to know you’re not alone in your struggle.
Songs That Will Test Your 8 String Guitar Skills
If you’re looking to challenge yourself and take your 8-string guitar skills to the next level, these songs and bands will provide all the inspiration and technical mastery you could ask for. Known for their intricate compositions, these tracks highlight the extended range and complexity of 8-string guitars, particularly in metal and progressive genres.
Animals as Leaders
This instrumental progressive metal band has mastered the art of crafting intricate, otherworldly compositions that showcase the full potential of the 8-string guitar.
Songs like “Waves of Babies” and “Earth Departure” demand a deep understanding of advanced techniques, while tracks like “Crescent” and “Nephele” incorporate sweeping arpeggios, odd time signatures, and intricate melodic phrasing. Tosin Abasi’s innovative approach makes their catalog a goldmine for players eager to push their limits.
Periphery
A cornerstone of modern progressive metal, Periphery seamlessly blends heavy riffs, melodic interludes, and technical wizardry.
Tracks like “Ji” and “Four Lights” feature complex rhythms and fast-paced picking patterns that demand precision and stamina. “22 Faces” and “Stranger Things” take it a step further with intricate harmonies and layered arrangements that challenge both your rhythm and lead playing.
Meshuggah
Known as the pioneers of djent, Meshuggah set the standard for the heavy, chugging sound often associated with 8-string guitars. Tracks like “Demiurge” and “Combustion” are built on relentless polyrhythms and crushing low-end riffs.
“Rational Gaze” offers a workout for your picking hand and your ability to lock into intricate rhythmic patterns, making it an essential song for any aspiring 8-string player.
Deftones
While not exclusively 8-string players, Deftones incorporate the extended range into their atmospheric and heavy sound. Tracks like “Diamond Eyes” and “CMND/CTRL” feature melodic riffs combined with powerful low-end grooves, striking a balance between aggression and beauty.
These songs provide a great introduction to incorporating extended-range guitars into alternative and experimental rock.
Hacktivist
Hacktivist blends heavy guitar riffs with rap and electronic elements, creating a style that’s both modern and technically challenging. Songs like “Unlike Us” showcase tight, aggressive riffs that utilize the 8-string’s extended range for maximum impact.
Their music pushes rhythmic precision and alternate picking to the forefront, making it a fun and challenging addition to your practice routine.
After the Burial
This progressive metalcore band is synonymous with technical precision and heavy riffs. “Mire” is a standout track that combines rapid-fire alternate picking, intricate rhythmic changes, and brutal breakdowns.
It’s an excellent choice for players looking to master the heavier side of 8-string guitar playing.
Haken
Haken’s progressive style combines technical brilliance with an experimental edge. Tracks like “Invasion” and “Darkest Light” require mastery of odd time signatures, fast runs, and seamless dynamic transitions. Their music is a playground for advanced players eager to explore the full expressive range of the 8-string guitar.
Unprocessed
Known for their modern, polished sound, Unprocessed takes the 8-string to uncharted territories with tracks like “Abandoned.” Their intricate riffs, progressive grooves, and use of unique phrasing make their songs challenging yet rewarding.
Their approach combines melody and heaviness, pushing your creativity and technical skills.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the 8-string guitar is not for the faint of heart. It’s a challenging but rewarding journey that opens up new musical possibilities.
By grasping its unique characteristics, adopting suitable techniques, and maintaining a structured practice routine, you can unlock the full potential of this instrument.
It doesn’t matter if you aim to play progressive metal, jazz, or anything in between, the 8-string guitar offers a rich palette of sounds that can enhance your musical expression.
