Eight-string guitar

The eight-string guitar, a captivating evolution of the traditional six-string instrument, represents a significant leap in tonal range and expressive possibilities. It is a testament to the ongoing quest for sonic innovation in the world of guitar music, offering a deeper, richer soundscape that has found a place in various genres, particularly metal, jazz, and progressive music.

Description and Type of Instrument

The eight-string guitar is a multi-stringed, fretted musical instrument, fundamentally a variation of the guitar. It is classified as a chordophone, meaning its sound is produced by vibrating strings stretched between fixed points. Unlike the standard six-string guitar, which typically features tuning from E2 to E4, the eight-string adds two lower strings, significantly expanding its bass register. This extended range allows for deeper bass lines, complex harmonies, and a broader sonic palette, making it a versatile tool for musicians seeking to explore new sonic territories. The instrument can be either acoustic or electric, with the electric version being more prevalent due to its compatibility with amplification and effects, which are crucial for achieving the desired tones in many modern genres. The additional strings are usually tuned in a descending fashion, often with a low F# or B, and a low E or F#. This tuning provides a substantial lower range, allowing for the creation of powerful riffs and intricate bass lines that complement the standard guitar range.

History and Origin

The historical development of multi-stringed guitars, including the eight-string, spans several continents and centuries. Precursors to the modern eight-string guitar can be found in 19th-century Europe, where various multi-stringed guitars were experimented with. For example, musicians like Giulio Regondi and Luigi Legnani played eight-string guitars during that era. It is important to realize those older instruments were not the same thing that modern 8 string guitars have turned into. Those were more classical type instruments. However, the contemporary eight-string guitar, as we know it today, gained significant traction primarily in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, especially in North America. This resurgence is closely tied to the evolution of heavy metal and progressive music, which demanded greater sonic depth and power. Companies started to manufacture eight-string guitars in larger quantity in the last couple of decades. The increased interest in extremely low guitar tunings, and the need for a wider frequency response made eight-string guitars popular.

During the early development of modern extended range guitars, companies like Ibanez began pushing the limitations of what the guitar could do. With artist’s pushing the envelope of heaviness, and technicality, the evolution of the eight-string guitar was inevitable.

Construction and Design

The construction of an eight-string guitar shares many similarities with its six-string counterpart, but with crucial modifications to accommodate the additional strings. The body is typically made from tonewoods such as mahogany, ash, alder, or basswood, each contributing unique tonal characteristics. The neck, usually crafted from maple or mahogany, is wider and sturdier to support the increased string tension. The fretboard, made from rosewood, ebony, or other suitable materials, may also be wider to provide adequate space for playing. The bridge, responsible for anchoring the strings, is often a fixed bridge or a tremolo system designed to handle the increased tension of eight strings. The scale length, which is the distance between the nut and the bridge, is often extended to improve intonation and clarity in the lower registers. Pickups, which convert the string vibrations into electrical signals, are crucial for electric eight-string guitars. They are often high-output humbuckers designed to handle the extended frequency range and provide clear, powerful tones. The tuning machines, located at the headstock, must also be robust and precise to maintain the proper tuning of the eight strings. Modern eight-string guitars feature a variety of ergonomic designs, often with sculpted bodies and contoured necks to enhance player comfort. Overall, the structural integrity of the instrument is paramount to ensure stability and playability. Modern guitar construction methods, and materials have made the modern 8 string guitar much more playable than early iterations.

Types of Eight-String Guitars

Eight-string guitars are available in both acoustic and electric versions, with the electric variants being more common in contemporary music. Within these categories, several subtypes exist to cater to specific playing styles and musical genres.

Electric Eight-String Guitars: These are the most prevalent type, favored by metal, jazz, and progressive rock musicians.
They often feature high-output pickups, advanced electronics, and various bridge options.
Some models are designed for specific genres, such as extended-range metal guitars or jazz-oriented instruments with warmer tones.

Acoustic Eight-String Guitars: While less common, acoustic eight-string guitars offer a unique and rich tonal character.
They are often used in classical, folk, and experimental music. The wider neck and increased string tension can present challenges for some players, but the resulting sound is distinctive.

Extended-Range Guitars: This is a general category which the eight string guitar falls into. Also there are 9 string guitars, and even more strings. These guitars are designed to expand the traditional guitar range, pushing the boundaries of sonic possibilities. They are often customized or built by boutique luthiers to meet the specific needs of individual musicians.

Fanned-Fret Eight-String Guitars: Also known as multi-scale guitars, these instruments feature angled frets, which provide optimal tension and intonation for each string. This design is particularly beneficial for extended-range guitars, as it enhances the clarity and definition of the lower strings. Fanned frets help to keep the lower strings from sounding muddy.

Characteristics

The eight-string guitar possesses several distinctive characteristics that set it apart from its six-string counterpart.

Expanded Tonal Range: The most notable characteristic is the extended bass register, which allows for deeper bass lines and richer harmonies. This expanded range opens up new creative possibilities for musicians, enabling them to explore uncharted sonic territories.

Increased String Tension: The additional strings and lower tunings result in increased string tension, which can affect playability. Players may need to adjust their technique to accommodate the higher tension.

Wider Neck and Fretboard: The wider neck and fretboard provide more space for playing, but can also present challenges for players with smaller hands. Proper hand positioning and technique are essential for comfortable and efficient playing.

Unique Tonal Qualities: The combination of the extended range and increased string tension creates unique tonal qualities, characterized by a deep, resonant sound. This sound is particularly well-suited for heavy metal, jazz, and progressive music, where depth and power are essential.

Versatility: Even though it is popular in genres that require very low tunings, the eight string guitar can be surprisingly versatile. When placed in the hands of the right player, many differnt generes of music can be played on an eight string guitar.

Complex Harmonies: The additional strings allow for extremely complex harmonies, and voice leading. These added harmonic possibilities are a large draw for jazz and progressive players.

Intonation Challenges: Due to the extended range, properly intonating an eight-string guitar can be difficult.
Well built guitars, and proper set-up, greatly reduce the intonation problems. In essence, the eight-string guitar represents a significant advancement in guitar design, offering musicians a broader sonic palette and enhanced expressive capabilities. While it presents some challenges in terms of playability and setup, the unique tonal characteristics and expanded range make it a valuable tool for those seeking to push the boundaries of guitar music.

Playing Techniques and Sound Modifications

Mastering the eight-string guitar requires a dedicated approach to technique. The wider neck and extended range necessitate adjustments in fingering, picking, and overall hand positioning. Players often find it beneficial to practice scales and arpeggios across the entire fretboard to develop familiarity with the instrument’s unique layout. The extended bass range demands a refined right-hand technique, particularly for palm muting and alternate picking. Palm muting, crucial for achieving the tight, percussive rhythms characteristic of djent, requires precise control to dampen the lower strings without affecting the higher ones. Alternate picking, essential for maintaining clarity and speed, becomes more challenging due to the wider string spacing. Sweep picking, another popular technique, can be used to create fluid, arpeggiated runs across the expanded fretboard. Tapping, which involves using both hands to tap notes on the fretboard, allows for complex polyphonic textures and intricate melodies. Chords on an eight-string guitar can be voiced in numerous ways, taking advantage of the extended range to create rich, full harmonies. Players often utilize drop tunings, such as drop E or drop D, on the lower strings to simplify power chord voicings and achieve a heavier sound. Beyond traditional techniques, the eight-string guitar invites experimentation with unconventional approaches. For instance, tapping with multiple fingers on both hands can produce intricate polyrhythms and complex melodic lines. The extended range also facilitates the use of extended chords and unconventional intervals, allowing for the creation of unique harmonic textures. Sound modifications play a crucial role in shaping the tone of an eight-string guitar.

The use of effects pedals, such as overdrive, distortion, and modulation effects, is common. Noise gates are often essential for controlling unwanted noise and maintaining clarity, especially when using high-gain amplifiers. Equalization (EQ) is vital for sculpting the tone and ensuring that the low-end frequencies remain clear and defined. Many players utilize impulse responses (IRs) and amp modeling software to simulate the sound of classic amplifiers and speaker cabinets. This allows for greater flexibility and consistency in tone, particularly in recording and live performance settings. The choice of pickups and strings also significantly impacts the sound. High-output pickups are often preferred for their ability to drive amplifiers into distortion, while different string gauges and materials can alter the tone and feel of the instrument. The use of multiscale necks, where the scale length varies across the strings, helps to optimize intonation and string tension, resulting in a more balanced and responsive playing experience. Sound modifications on an eight-string guitar are not simply about achieving a specific tone; they are about exploring the instrument’s vast sonic potential and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Applications in Music

The eight-string guitar has found its place in a diverse range of musical genres, though it is most prominently associated with progressive metal and djent. In these genres, the instrument’s extended range and low-end power are used to create dense, complex rhythms and intricate harmonies. Djent, a subgenre characterized by its percussive, syncopated riffs and heavily distorted tones, relies heavily on the eight-string guitar’s ability to produce tight, articulate rhythms in the lower register. Progressive metal bands utilize the eight-string guitar to create expansive soundscapes and complex arrangements, often incorporating elements of jazz, classical, and other genres. Beyond metal, the eight-string guitar has also made inroads into jazz, particularly in the realm of extended-range jazz. Jazz guitarists are drawn to the instrument’s ability to create rich, harmonically complex voicings and explore new melodic possibilities. The extended range allows for the creation of bass lines and chord voicings that would be impossible on a standard six-string guitar.

The instrument has also been used in experimental and avant-garde music, where its unique sonic characteristics are employed to create unconventional textures and soundscapes. In contemporary classical music, composers have incorporated the eight-string guitar into their works, exploring its potential for creating new timbres and harmonic structures. The eight-string guitar’s versatility extends to studio recording, where its extended range and sonic depth can add a unique dimension to any genre. Producers and engineers often utilize the instrument to create layered textures and complex arrangements, adding depth and richness to the overall sound. The instrument’s ability to cover a wide frequency range makes it a valuable tool for creating dense, layered mixes. Live performance is another area where the eight-string guitar shines. Its powerful low-end and clear articulation make it ideal for delivering impactful performances in a variety of settings. The instrument’s visual presence also adds to its appeal, making it a striking centerpiece on stage. The eight-string guitar’s applications in music continue to evolve as musicians discover new ways to utilize its unique capabilities. Its versatility and sonic depth make it a valuable tool for any musician seeking to expand their creative horizons.

Most Influential Players

Several influential players have played a pivotal role in popularizing the eight-string guitar and shaping its sound. Tosin Abasi, guitarist for Animals as Leaders, is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential eight-string guitarists. His virtuosic technique, unconventional approach to rhythm and harmony, and pioneering use of extended-range guitars have inspired countless musicians. Meshuggah, a Swedish progressive metal band, is another influential force in the development of the eight-string guitar. Their use of heavily distorted, syncopated riffs and complex polyrhythms has defined the sound of djent and influenced a generation of metal guitarists. Dino Cazares, guitarist for Fear Factory, is another pioneer of the eight-string guitar. His use of low tunings and aggressive riffs has been instrumental in shaping the sound of industrial metal. Charlie Hunter, a jazz guitarist known for his innovative use of extended-range instruments, has also contributed to the development of the eight-string guitar. His unique approach to harmony and improvisation has expanded the instrument’s potential in jazz. Stephen Carpenter of Deftones has also used 8 string guitars, and helped introduce the sound into a broader alternative metal audience. Javier Reyes, also of Animals as Leaders, is another influential player, adding complex melodies and harmonies to the band’s sound. These players have not only demonstrated the technical capabilities of the eight-string guitar but have also pushed the boundaries of musical expression, inspiring others to explore its potential. Their contributions have helped to establish the eight-string guitar as a legitimate and versatile instrument, capable of producing a wide range of sounds and styles. The legacy of these players continues to inspire new generations of guitarists, ensuring that the eight-string guitar remains a vital and evolving instrument.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining an eight-string guitar requires a dedicated approach to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. The increased scale length and wider neck necessitate regular cleaning and adjustments to maintain proper intonation and playability. Cleaning the instrument involves wiping down the body and neck with a soft cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. The fretboard should be cleaned periodically with a specialized fretboard cleaner to prevent buildup and maintain its moisture content. String changes are essential for maintaining tone and playability. The lower strings on an eight-string guitar are particularly prone to accumulating dirt and grime, so frequent string changes are recommended. Intonation adjustments are crucial for ensuring that the instrument plays in tune across the entire fretboard. The extended scale length and lower tunings can make intonation more challenging, so it is important to check and adjust it regularly. Truss rod adjustments are necessary to maintain the proper neck relief.

The truss rod controls the curvature of the neck, and adjustments may be needed to compensate for changes in temperature and humidity. Proper storage is essential for protecting the instrument from damage. The guitar should be stored in a hard case when not in use, and it should be kept in a stable environment with consistent temperature and humidity. Regular setups by a qualified luthier are recommended to ensure that the instrument is playing at its best. A professional setup can address issues such as fret buzz, intonation problems, and neck relief.