How to Play an 8-String Guitar

Let’s be honest, the 8-string guitar looks like a beast. But don’t let those extra strings intimidate you. If you’re into heavy metal or any of its subgenres, adding a couple more strings can open up a whole new world of sound. This guide will walk you through the essentials of playing an 8-string guitar, from the basics to some advanced techniques. So, grab your guitar, and let’s get started on this 8-string adventure!

Why Choose an 8-String Guitar?

So, why bother with an 8-string guitar at all? Simple: more strings mean more range. You’re not just adding two lower notes; you’re adding a whole new dimension to your music. This is especially useful in genres like djent and progressive metal, where extended range is not just appreciated but often necessary.

Having those additional strings allows you to play both bass and melody lines simultaneously. It’s like having a mini bass guitar at your fingertips. The extended range can make your riffs more complex and your sound more full-bodied. Plus, let’s face it, wielding an 8-string guitar looks pretty darn cool on stage!

But it’s not just about the aesthetics or the range. It’s also about how those extra strings can inspire creativity. You might find yourself writing riffs and melodies you never would have thought of with a standard 6-string guitar. And if you’re into Riffhard, you’ll find plenty of lessons to help you explore these new sonic territories.

Getting Familiar with the Tuning

Alright, now that we’ve established why an 8-string is worth your time, let’s talk tuning. The most common tuning for an 8-string is F# B E A D G B E. This gives you two lower strings, F# and B, which are perfect for those heavy, chugging riffs.

If you’re coming from a 6-string background, this tuning might seem a bit daunting at first, but it’s not as complicated as it sounds. The top six strings (E A D G B E) remain the same as your standard 6-string guitar, so there’s some familiarity to fall back on.

To get started, you might want to spend some time just noodling around with the new tuning. Play some scales, try out some riffs, and get a feel for how the extra strings fit into your playing style. And if you’re looking to dig deeper, Riffhard offers lessons that cover a variety of tunings, helping you make the most out of your 8-string setup.

Adjusting Your Technique

Switching to an 8-string guitar isn’t just about adding more notes; it also requires some adjustments in your technique. For starters, the neck is wider, and the strings are thicker, which means your hand positioning might need to change.

Focus on a relaxed grip to avoid fatigue. You might find that your thumb needs to slide a bit further down the neck to comfortably reach the lower strings. Also, consider investing in a strap that allows you to position the guitar in a way that is comfortable for your posture. This is crucial for long jam sessions or gigs.

When it comes to picking, you’ll need to be more precise. Those extra strings mean there’s less room for error. Practice slow, deliberate picking patterns to build up your accuracy. You can find exercises for this on Riffhard, where experts break down complex picking techniques into manageable steps.

Building Strength and Endurance

Playing an 8-string guitar can be physically demanding, especially when you’re doing it for extended periods. Your fingers will need to build up strength and endurance to handle the wider fretboard and thicker strings.

Start by incorporating finger exercises into your daily routine. Simple chromatic exercises can work wonders. Use all four fingers and practice moving up and down the strings. This will help strengthen your fingers and improve your dexterity.

Don’t forget about your picking hand. Alternate picking exercises are great for building speed and endurance. Try using a metronome to gradually increase your picking speed. Remember, consistency is key, so make this a regular part of your practice routine.

Exploring New Chords and Scales

One of the joys of playing an 8-string guitar is the opportunity to explore new chords and scales. The additional strings allow for more complex and richer harmonies.

Start by understanding how the lower strings fit into scales you already know. For example, in a standard tuning, the F# and B strings can be used to extend the lower range of scales like the minor pentatonic or the natural minor scale.

Experiment with chords that utilize the extra strings. Try adding a 7th or even 9th to your power chords, giving them a fuller sound. The possibilities are endless, and you might stumble upon a new favorite chord shape.

If you’re looking for inspiration, Riffhard offers lessons that dive into advanced chord shapes and scales, helping you expand your musical vocabulary.

Writing Riffs with Depth

When it comes to writing riffs on an 8-string guitar, the sky’s the limit. The extended range gives you the freedom to experiment with different tonal textures and rhythmic patterns.

To start, focus on integrating the lower strings into your riffs. These strings are perfect for creating heavy, driving basslines. Try pairing them with the higher strings for contrast and depth.

Play around with different rhythmic patterns. The lower strings can be used for percussive, palm-muted chugs, while the higher strings can add melodic content. This contrast can make your riffs more dynamic and engaging.

Remember, writing great riffs takes time and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try out new ideas, and be sure to check out Riffhard for lessons from top metal guitarists who share their riff-writing secrets.

Integrating the 8-String into Your Band

Adding an 8-string guitar to your band can dramatically change your sound, but it also requires some adjustments. The extended range can easily overpower other instruments if not managed properly.

Communication is crucial. Work with your bandmates to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the sonic space each instrument occupies. This might mean adjusting the EQ settings on your amp or pedals to ensure you’re not stepping on the bass player’s toes.

Consider how the 8-string guitar fits into your band’s overall sound. It can add depth and complexity, but it can also become muddy if not used thoughtfully. Experiment with different playing styles and see what complements the existing instruments.

For more insights on integrating the 8-string into band settings, the instructors at Riffhard offer tips and tricks based on their own experiences playing in successful metal bands.

Recording and Producing with an 8-String

Recording an 8-string guitar presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. The extended range can introduce tonal richness, but it can also make mixing tricky.

When recording, it’s important to capture the full range of the instrument. Use a combination of mics and direct input to ensure you’re capturing both the low-end thump and the high-end clarity.

In the mixing process, be mindful of how the 8-string sits in the mix. The lower frequencies can easily become overpowering, so consider using EQ to carve out space for other instruments. A slight cut in the lower mids can help prevent muddiness.

Experiment with effects to enhance your sound. Delay, reverb, and modulation effects can add depth and character to your recordings. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too many effects can drown out the nuances of the 8-string.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, a crash course into the world of 8-string guitar playing. It’s all about expanding your musical horizons and challenging yourself. If you’re eager to learn more, Riffhard offers a treasure trove of lessons and insights from some of the best metal guitarists out there. Keep practicing, and don’t forget to have fun with it!