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Description

Discover the Parker P-8E, a guitar that seamlessly marries traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. Perfect for musicians who crave a unique sonic experience, this acoustic-electric guitar stands out with its avant-garde design and premium construction.

The P-8E features a solid Canadian cedar top known for delivering a rich, resonant sound that is both warm and balanced. The back and sides are crafted from solid American flame maple, a choice that not only enhances the guitar's acoustic properties but also gives it an elegant visual appeal. Complemented by a three-piece Indonesian mahogany neck and an African ebony fingerboard, every element of the P-8E has been meticulously selected to achieve superior playability and tonal precision.

But the magic doesn't stop here. The P-8E is equipped with a Fishman Acoustic Matrix undersaddle pickup system that captures the authentic acoustic nuances whether you're on stage or in the studio. For those moments when you need to switch things up, the specially-designed Fishman hum-canceling neck pickup adds a raw, electric edge to your sound. The transition between acoustic warmth and electric bite is seamless, making this guitar a versatile companion for any gig.

Key Features:

  • Solid Canadian cedar top with rosewood binding
  • Solid American flame maple back and sides
  • Three-piece Indonesian mahogany neck with African ebony fingerboard
  • Fishman Acoustic Matrix undersaddle pickup and hum-canceling neck pickup
  • Includes a deluxe plush-lined hardshell case

The Parker P-8E is not just a guitar; it's an artistic statement for the discerning musician.

Product specs

Brand Parker
Model P-8E
Year 2006 - 2009
Categories Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Back Material Maple
Color Family Black, Natural, Tan
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 19
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Hybrid System
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Sides Material Maple
String Type Steel
Top Material Cedar
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of wood is the top of the Parker P-8E made from, and how does it affect the sound?

The Parker P-8E features a cedar top, which typically produces a warm, rich sound with a quick response, making it ideal for fingerstyle playing.

Does the Parker P-8E have an active preamp, and what benefits does it provide?

Yes, the Parker P-8E is equipped with an active preamp, which enhances the guitar's tonal range and allows for greater control over volume and EQ settings during live performances.

What is the neck material of the Parker P-8E, and how does it affect playability?

The neck of the Parker P-8E is made from mahogany, which offers a smooth playing experience and contributes to the guitar's warm tone.

What type of pickup system does the Parker P-8E use?

The Parker P-8E uses a hybrid pickup system, combining piezo and magnetic pickups to deliver a versatile sound suitable for various musical styles.

Is the Parker P-8E suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its active preamp and hybrid pickup system, the Parker P-8E is well-suited for live performances, offering a versatile sound and easy amplification.

Christopher Freedom

Christopher Freedom

Parker P8E Acoustic Guitar

Video thumbnail for Parker P8E Acoustic Guitar by Christopher Freedom

Parker P8E Acoustic Guitar

Christopher Freedom

Christopher Freedom

Video thumbnail for Soundcheck of my PARKER P8E Event Series Electro-Acoustic Guitar by MC´s Guitar Channel

Soundcheck of my PARKER P8E Event Series Electro-Acoustic Guitar

MC´s Guitar Channel

MC´s Guitar Channel

Video thumbnail for Test of Parker P8E Event Series with my "original" by MC´s Guitar Channel

Test of Parker P8E Event Series with my "original"

MC´s Guitar Channel

MC´s Guitar Channel

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Parker P-8E.

Build quality

  • Owners note that cracks near the bridge plate are common but often cosmetic; epoxy can prevent worsening without affecting playability.

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  • Fret wire on Parkers is unconventional: stainless with no tang, glued directly onto the fretboard.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Concerns about bridge stability are unfounded; common cracks rarely cause structural issues if tremolo is used carefully.

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  • Sourcing replacement parts is challenging; some owners recommend checking Reverb or eBay for original factory parts, especially for older models.

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  • Electronics can be problematic; some suggest consulting amp technicians for complex electronic repairs instead of standard guitar techs.

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User experience

  • Despite visible cracks, many owners continue using the tremolo bar frequently without further damage, indicating robust design.

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  • The Fly Clone Project website is a crucial resource for Parker guitar owners needing manuals or repair guidance.

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  • Owners appreciate the light weight of higher-end models, such as the Bronze Fly, which weighs only 3.5 lbs.

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Features and functionality

  • Piezos are typically the first to fail, but if functional, the guitar is usually in good working condition.

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  • Certain models like the Bronze Fly feature only a piezo pickup under the saddle, making it an electric-acoustic with bronze strings.

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  • Many Parker models include piezo pickups alongside standard pickups as a major selling point, offering versatile sound options.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Some Parker models use custom DiMarzio pickups that are smaller than standard humbuckers, complicating potential pickup replacements.

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Critic Reviews

Parker Guitars P8E and P8E | Vintage Guitar® magazine

vintageguitar.com

Parker's P8E acoustic guitar is a bold, modern triumph with a unique design that's sure to catch the eye. Its solid Canadian cedar top and flame-maple body deliver on aesthetics, while the fast neck and smart electronics, including dual pickup systems, make it stage-ready. Despite a quieter unplugged sound, it's crafted for live performance, offering versatile output options. Although priced higher than typical Chinese models, its impeccable build quality challenges preconceived notions about manufacturing origins. Ideal for musicians seeking a stylish, high-performance stage companion, the P8E is a testament to Parker's innovative spirit.

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