Pricing and availability

Average Price: $500

Standard/Professional

$400

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step into a world of sonic exploration with the Ibanez RGA8QM, the ultimate weapon for extended range guitarists craving versatility and power. Engineered to deliver a seamless blend of aesthetic allure and unparalleled performance, this 8-string beast is the perfect companion for the stage and studio. The RGA8QM's archtop design is not just a visual delight, but a functional innovation that offers musicians the freedom to execute heavy riffs and power chords effortlessly, without the common pitfalls of body interference.

Expertly crafted with a quilted maple top, this guitar doesn't just look stunning; it resonates with a rich tonal depth that will elevate your sound to new heights. The lightweight construction encourages freedom of movement, whether you’re prowling the stage or immersed in a recording session. Each note you play on the RGA8QM rings with clarity, thanks to its precision-engineered components and attention to detail.

Join a community of musicians who value both form and function in their instruments. The Ibanez RGA8QM isn't just a guitar; it's a statement of your musical ambition and a tool to transcend the ordinary.

Key Features:

  • Quilted maple top for enhanced tonal richness and aesthetic appeal
  • 8-string configuration for extended range and versatility
  • Arched top design minimizes interference, ideal for powerful riffs and chords
  • Lightweight body for increased mobility and stage presence
  • Precision-engineered components for superior sound clarity and performance

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model RGA8QM-TGB Standard
Finish Transparent Gray Burst
Year 2012
Made In Indonesia
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Grey
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Ibanez RG
Model Sub-Family Ibanez RGA
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple, Walnut
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 8-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Ibanez Standard
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Quilted

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Ibanez RGA8QM, and how does it affect playability?

The Ibanez RGA8QM features a Wizard II-8 neck profile, which is known for its slim and fast feel, making it ideal for technical playing styles and fast solos.

Are the pickups on the Ibanez RGA8QM suitable for heavy metal music?

Yes, the LZ8-N neck and LZ8-B bridge pickups are designed to deliver powerful, high-output tones that are well-suited for heavy metal and other aggressive music styles.

How does the 27" scale length of the Ibanez RGA8QM impact its performance?

The 27" scale length provides better string tension and clarity, especially for lower tunings, making it ideal for extended range playing and genres that require tight, articulate low-end response.

Is the Ibanez RGA8QM a good choice for a beginner looking to play an 8-string guitar?

While the Ibanez RGA8QM offers professional features and quality, its extended range and advanced design may be more suited for intermediate to advanced players familiar with 8-string guitars.

What type of bridge does the Ibanez RGA8QM use, and how does it affect tuning stability?

The Ibanez RGA8QM uses a Fixed Edge III-8 bridge, which provides excellent tuning stability and sustain, making it reliable for both live performances and studio recording.

EMGtv

EMGtv

Javier Reyes, of Animals as Leader, play solo 8 String guitar, Luz y Cielo, EMGtv

Video thumbnail for Javier Reyes, of Animals as Leader, play solo 8 String guitar, Luz y Cielo, EMGtv by EMGtv

Javier Reyes, of Animals as Leader, play solo 8 String guitar, Luz y Cielo, EMGtv

EMGtv

EMGtv

Video thumbnail for Javier Reyes, Animals as Leaders, talks Ibanez, Fractal Audio, metal, with EMGtv by EMGtv

Javier Reyes, Animals as Leaders, talks Ibanez, Fractal Audio, metal, with EMGtv

EMGtv

EMGtv

Video thumbnail for Ibanez 2012 RGA8QM 8-String Electric Guitar by GordonLaSalleMusic

Ibanez 2012 RGA8QM 8-String Electric Guitar

GordonLaSalleMusic

GordonLaSalleMusic

Video thumbnail for Есть ЧЁ! |Ibanez RGA8QM [RAIN Custom]| Адекватный обзор by Sound In Your Head

Есть ЧЁ! |Ibanez RGA8QM [RAIN Custom]| Адекватный обзор

Sound In Your Head

Sound In Your Head

Video thumbnail for Есть ЧЁ! [2] Ibanez RGA8QM (Rain Custom) by Sound In Your Head

Есть ЧЁ! [2] Ibanez RGA8QM (Rain Custom)

Sound In Your Head

Sound In Your Head

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez RGA8QM.

Features and functionality

  • The Ibanez RGA8QM originally uses Ibanez Lo-Z active pickups, which run on two AA batteries, not compatible with standard 9v EMGs without modification.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users recommend the Gotoh flip door 9-volt battery box for easier access and reliability when replacing the existing problematic battery system.

    Source
  • Fishman Fluence Modern pickups are suggested for those seeking a hotter active voice, with a recommendation to pair them with a five-way switch for more tonal options.

    Source

Comparisons

  • EMG 808 pickups are criticized for being muddy on the RGA8QM, while Fishman Fluence Moderns are noted for delivering a clearer and hotter tone.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Replacing the battery box involves checking the existing cavity size, as many replacements are a standard size and available on platforms like Amazon.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Zac Tiessen uses Ibanez RGA8QM

Zac Tiessen

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

As seen in post about guitars used on "Traverse" EP: https://www.instagram.com/p/BL16Mp5jjby/

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 RGA8QM, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

1 alternative for Ibanez RGA8QM, curated by the Equipboard community.

Ibanez RGA8

$553.33

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound

The Ibanez RGA8 is a similar model, the main difference being that the RGA8 does not feature a quilted maple top.

More Ibanez Extended Range Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    ztms
    ztms

    Gear IQ 304