Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (13)
$499.99
Guitar Center
4.0 (27)
$499.99
Amazon
4.6 (97)
$499.99 New
$409.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (10)
$499.99 New
$400.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (14)
$499.99
Thomann
4.2 (6)
$539.00 $535.00 $4.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£509.00

Average Price: $492

Standard/Professional

$400

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Ibanez RG8". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Ibanez RG8 is a marvel of innovation and design, bringing an 8-string guitar to the masses at an irresistible price point. Drawing from the renowned RG series, it combines a sleek, fast, and exceptionally playable Wizard neck that is a trademark of the Ibanez brand.

Constructed with a resonant basswood body, this guitar is built for maximum sustain. From the through-body stringing to the fixed bridge, every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure the broad spectrum of frequencies an 8-string is capable of is evenly reproduced.

The RG8 features specially designed Ibanez IBZ humbucking pickups, which deliver clear articulation, long sustain, and impressive tonal versatility. No matter your tuning, you can expect the fattest lows and sparkling highs.

Designed to be more than just a 6-string with extra strings, the RG8 stands on its own as an amazingly playable instrument. It's perfect for laying down huge, thick chords, launching runs starting low, or even playing bass lines. The possibilities are endless.

Key Features:

  • 8-string electric guitar with basswood body for resonant sound
  • Features the slim, fast, and ultra-playable Wizard neck
  • Through-body stringing and fixed bridge for maximum sustain
  • Specially designed Ibanez IBZ humbucking pickups for even frequency reproduction
  • Offers versatility with a wide range of tuning options
  • Ideal for metal, fusion, and any flavor of rock music.

Product specs

Number of Strings 8
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape RG
Body Material Meranti
Body Finish Gloss Polyurethane
Neck Material 5-piece Maple/ Walnut
Neck Shape Wizard II-8
Neck Joint Bolt-on
Radius 15.75"
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 24
Scale Length 27"
Nut Width 2.165"
Nut Material Plastic
Bridge/Tailpiece F108 Bridge with Individual Saddles
Tuners Ibanez Closed Gear
Neck Pickup IBZ-8 Humbucker
Bridge Pickup IBZ-8 Humbucker
Controls 1 x master volume, 1 x master tone
Switching 3-way blade pickup switch
Strings D'Addario, .009-.065
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Ibanez RG8?

The Ibanez RG8 features a Wizard II-8 neck profile, known for its slim and fast feel, which is ideal for technical playing and extended range guitarists.

Are the pickups on the Ibanez RG8 suitable for metal music?

The Ibanez RG8 comes with IBZ-8 humbucker pickups, which provide a powerful and articulate tone suitable for metal and other heavy genres, although some players may prefer upgrading for more clarity in high-gain settings.

Is the Ibanez RG8 suitable for beginners?

While the Ibanez RG8 offers great playability and tone for experienced players, its 8-string setup may be challenging for beginners, who might prefer starting with a 6-string guitar.

What is the scale length of the Ibanez RG8 and why is it important?

The Ibanez RG8 has a 27" scale length, which provides better tension and intonation, especially for the lower strings, making it ideal for down-tuned styles.

Does the Ibanez RG8 come with a gig bag or case?

The Ibanez RG8 does not come with a gig bag or case; these must be purchased separately for protection and transport.

Serga Kasinets

Serga Kasinets

Ibanez RG8 || Tone Test || Djent || Metal

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG8 || Tone Test || Djent || Metal by Serga Kasinets

Ibanez RG8 || Tone Test || Djent || Metal

Serga Kasinets

Serga Kasinets

Video thumbnail for Sam Bell demos an Ibanez RG8 at Headstock Expo 2014 by Chris Bibby

Sam Bell demos an Ibanez RG8 at Headstock Expo 2014

Chris Bibby

Chris Bibby

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG8 Review (EMG 808s) by Brandon Burch Music

Ibanez RG8 Review (EMG 808s)

Brandon Burch Music

Brandon Burch Music

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG8 Guitar HONEST Review/Demo | I BOUGHT AN 8 STRING!! by Anthony DiFiglio

Ibanez RG8 Guitar HONEST Review/Demo | I BOUGHT AN 8 STRING!!

Anthony DiFiglio

Anthony DiFiglio

Video thumbnail for The Ibanez RG8-WH || PLAYTHROUGH AND REVIEW by GuyLikesGuitar

The Ibanez RG8-WH || PLAYTHROUGH AND REVIEW

GuyLikesGuitar

GuyLikesGuitar

Video thumbnail for 8 strings guitar METAL demo - Ibanez RG8L +EMG / Engl Fireball 100 - nomakills by nomakills

8 strings guitar METAL demo - Ibanez RG8L +EMG / Engl Fireball 100 - nomakills

nomakills

nomakills

Video thumbnail for FULL REVIEW Ibanez RG8 WH Eight String Electric Guitar by hgmedia1

FULL REVIEW Ibanez RG8 WH Eight String Electric Guitar

hgmedia1

hgmedia1

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG8 Unboxing/First Impressions/Review by Richard Mauricio

Ibanez RG8 Unboxing/First Impressions/Review

Richard Mauricio

Richard Mauricio

Reviews

PROS

  • Thin neck design facilitates easy transition from 6 or 7-string guitars.

  • Impressive build quality with a five-piece neck for stability.

  • 27" scale length helps maintain clarity on lower notes.

  • Lightweight and well-balanced, making it comfortable to play.

  • Affordable price for an 8-string guitar with a quality feel.

  • Versatile sound that suits multiple music genres.

  • Stock pickups are decent, with potential for easy upgrades.

  • Great for experimenting with extended range and tunings.

  • Excellent starter guitar for those new to 8-string guitars.

  • Good intonation and tuning stability, with a sturdy bridge.

CONS

  • Neck issues reported, including warping and bulges.

  • Stock pickups may sound muddy for high-gain distortion.

  • Requires setup upon arrival, including adjustments for buzzing and action.

  • Lower strings can become floppy without heavier gauges.

  • Susceptible to temperature and humidity changes.

  • Some reports of poor finish quality, including glue marks.

  • Tuners may struggle with heavier string gauges.

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez RG8.

Build quality

  • The neck finish and fretboard materials are frequently criticized for feeling and looking cheap, resembling lower-end guitar models.

    Source
  • Owners often report that the tuners have poor gear ratios, making tuning lower strings challenging and frustrating.

    Source

Comparisons

  • One user noted the Agile Septor 8 was worse in stock form compared to the RG8, highlighting the Ibanez's potential when modified.

    Source
  • The RG8's scale length of 27" offers better tuning stability in lower tunings like drop E compared to the Omen 8's 26.5" scale.

    Source
  • The RG8's neck heel is perceived as more comfortable compared to the Schecter Omen 8, making it better suited for lead playing.

    Source
  • The Ibanez RG8 is often unfavorably compared to models like the Carvin and the RGA8, with owners reporting fewer issues on those models.

    Source
  • Some players find the RG8's tension to be looser compared to a Schecter 7-string with a 26.5" scale, despite the RG8's longer 27" scale.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner reported the RG8 became their favorite guitar after substantial modifications, including a pickup swap and fret leveling.

    Source
  • Multiple owners describe the RG8 as feeling "slinkier" than expected for its scale length, impacting playability compared to other 8-string guitars.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Fishman Fluence Abasi pickups are recommended by users for the RG8 for improved sound quality.

    Source
  • Replacing the stock bridge with a Hipshot high-mass Ibanez 8-string bridge is recommended to improve tuning stability and intonation.

    Source
  • Many suggest replacing stock pickups immediately due to their lack of definition and muddy tone; a common pickup swap is for higher clarity and output.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The RG8's glossy black finish is prone to scratches, which can detract from its appearance over time.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Reports indicate that the truss rod requires frequent adjustments as the neck is prone to bowing, especially in earlier models without reinforcement rods.

    Source
  • Owners report consistent intonation problems with the F# string, requiring string gauge adjustments up to 90 to achieve proper tuning.

    Source
  • Adjustments such as fret leveling, neck shimming, and nut slot refiling are frequently necessary to optimize playability on this guitar.

    Source
  • A common solution for intonation issues involves shortening the screw on the 8th string saddle to allow more travel for adjustment.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Feature - Gear Review: Ibanez RG8 8-string - NZ Musician

nzmusician.co.nz

The Ibanez RG8 offers immense value for money, especially for metal enthusiasts looking to explore 8-string guitars. Its robust construction and comfortable neck make it a joy to play. While the stock pickups deliver a tight, focused sound, lead players might seek warmer tones. A pickup upgrade could satisfy even discerning tone enthusiasts. Overall, it's a great buy under a grand, well-suited for both studio and live settings.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 9 Reviews and 32 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
fiskburger

Acceptable with some adjustments and maintenance.

I got this for my 17th birthday and it was sooo bad at the beginning, mostly cause I wasn't used to an 8-string but also cause the bridge was like 2mm off to the right så the high e-string was unplayable. But after a couple of months I finally got it to a playable state and I use it if I need the low strings.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

I've modded mine a lot so it only has a bridge pickup, 1 volume and a killswitch. Before I modded it I thing I just had both vol and tone at max.

howhows

Great value!

Really awesome guitar to get started with an 8 string. Neck plays fantastically and it's a very sturdy instrument. I'm not a fan of the fact that the guitar strings become floppy on the lower strings, but that's an issue with the scale length that can only be solved by having a fanned fretboard, which might be scary for some. All in all great instrument.

From Gear Setup
T

Amazing for crushing lows.

Got it almost brand new. Stays in tune. Stock pickups sound great. Low end is crushing. Not used as much as my others but still sounds great.

adam_keith_williams

Great 8 string for a great price

I own a RG8 with EMG 808s and its an amazing instrument. The neck is very playable. Its not as heavy I expected. Great starter guitar for those wanting to branch out into 8 strings.

tacohellion

It does have the brown note built in...

And it is a good thing. If you drop the drop then you have a low A and E string. you can actually drop your own standard tuning song and not lose you mind. So much fun.

mightyjake182

GR8 Beginner 8

This was my first 8 string guitar and I hardly touch it compared to all my other guitars. I would strongly recommend this for a first 8 string guitar.

purnadika

Best 8 String for Beginner

This is the best and cheap 8 strings for you who wanna play 8 strings.

nomakills_officialgear

great 8 !

great 8 strings (body) , I changed the mics for emg's 808 , and it goes very well for the price .

sole_technician

Amazing Low End

Very brutal, crushing low ends, and ultra clean highs for a cheaper model Ibanez.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jim Root uses Ibanez RG8

Jim Root

Guitarist

Slipknot

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 0:30 mark you can see Jim playing through an RG-8 in the song "Got Money"

See how Tim Henson uses Ibanez RG8

Tim Henson

Guitarist, Music Producer

Polyphia

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Die on the Cross of the Martyr," Tim Henson plays a custom shop Ibanez 8-string guitar, referred to as the TOD8. This instrument is distinct from the standard Ibanez RG8 model.

See how Javier Reyes uses Ibanez RG8

Javier Reyes

Guitarist, Composer

Animals as Leaders

...
Verified via Premierguitar

"Javier plays a Custom RG8 with an ash body, quilted-maple top, DiMarzio Ionizer pickups, and a stock RG8 neck."

See how Scott Hull uses Ibanez RG8

Scott Hull

Guitarist, Music Producer

Pig Destroyer

...
Verified via Photo

Scott Hull is pictured with an Ibanez RG8 in a user-uploaded photo on Flickr.

See how Sithu Aye uses Ibanez RG8

Sithu Aye

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Photo
Color/Finish: White

In an Instagram post by Sithu Aye dated October 18, 2014, titled "Guitar stand swag," a photo shows an Ibanez RG8 in his guitar rack, confirming his use of this specific gear.

See how BNYX uses Ibanez RG8

BNYX

Rapper, Music Producer

Working on Dying

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "BNYX® IS CÖOKING [Feb 11, 2025]" by ONB on YouTube, BNYX is seen using an Ibanez RG8 guitar to initiate a new musical idea in his studio.

See how Nomakills uses Ibanez RG8

Nomakills

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

He has the black left-handed version. First seen on August 23rd, 2015.

See how Masaru Teramae uses Ibanez RG8

Masaru Teramae

Guitarist, Bassist

Demetori

...
Verified via Photo

There is a picture of him with this guitar that he posted on his blog. It has a black finish.

See how Devin Shidaker uses Ibanez RG8

Devin Shidaker

Guitarist

The Acacia Strain

...
Verified

In this Instagram post, Devin Shidaker can clearly be seen playing a blue Ibanez RG8.

See how Nomakills official uses Ibanez RG8

Nomakills official

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

Nomakills official uses a black, left-handed Ibanez RG8 equipped with EMG 808 pickups, as demonstrated in their YouTube video titled "8 strings guitar METAL demo - Ibanez RG8L +EMG / Engl Fireball 100."

See how Cameron Losch uses Ibanez RG8

Cameron Losch

Drummer

Born of Osiris

...
Verified via Photo

In this post cam can be seen playinh his ibanez rg 8 string

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ibanez RG8, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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howhows

howhows

Gear IQ 126

spellbound1

spellbound1

Gear IQ 247

1 alternative for Ibanez RG8, curated by the Equipboard community.

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