whats the point of an 8 string guitar?

Question

cant you just use a 6 string guitar and drop the tuning? really dont see the point of these guitars to be honest

Answer 1

I would consider it, at this point, to basically be a niche instrument. Meaning that, like the 7-string, it will get some usage out there, esp. in this age of (ugh!) detuned songs. But not as much usage as if it were a 6-string.

Just the same, I remember when the 7-strings came out back in the late 80s, & were marketed to the big, poofy haired guitar crowd who aspired to be the next 'shredder'. Ironically, when you consider that 7-strings these days are used mainly for the low B string, 7-strings back then were also marketed for allowing one to include a high "A" string! That way you could solo your weiner off doing some classical violin piece in the right key. The high "A" thing never caught on but 7 strings are still here, so I wouldn't write off the 8 string.



Still, note that there ARE 8-string &, yep, 12-string BASSES!

Answer 2

Yeah Tony, you can learn a lot around here.



Framus use to make a 9'r that just doubled up the 3 high strings for added tonal effects back in the 60's as well as an 8-string. And 8-strings today does just as said, provide access to bass notes that enhance a performance, especially for thumb players. Fender, as you may know, made a '6-string bass' which was tuned an octave below. Now, there are even true bass standards with 5 and 6 to play around with.



As well, there is still around, some harp guitars being made for custom players that are skilled at these odd instruments for reasons of sound, musical variety.



A matter of research and history. If not experience first hand. And, what the instrument will allow physically and musically in design applications or function.

Answer 3

an 8 string guitar adds two bass note strings to the bottom of the string set. Its purpose is to get that lower tone without being screwed to tune down to drop B or whatever. Primarily used for heavy metal.



Have a look at Dino Cazares, guitarist for Fear Factory, he uses an 8 string guitar, have a look at how he plays it.

Answer 4

I've never heard of an 8-string guitar - you learn something every day. I would presume it allows a greater range of notes to be played. If you're serious about playing the guitar, rather than just making silly noises, you can't tune a guitar down very far - a tone at most, and then, of course, you lose some of the high notes.

Answer 5

What's the point in a 6 string guitar when you can have an 8 string guitar? It's just a different instrument. They're all good in their own way.

Answer 6

its great for playing metal because you can hit some really heavy, low notes and chords. the additional strings also allow you to play different types of chords and scales, and you can experiment with different tunings too. it just extends the range of the guitar and gives a guitarist a unique challenge. www.guitarcasa.com has some useful info on the 8 string.