There are four strings in a ukulele. For this reason, this instrument has gained popularity and at the same time proven itself as an easy-playing tool for beginners. But if someone becomes an expert once, a tendency comes to become more adventurous on his uke journey. So if exploring something for a new adventure is your plan, the best 8-string ukulele may be an excellent one for you, in this case.
They are not as well-known as the standard four-strings, but the 8-string ukes are gaining popularity day by day, of course. Choosing the most suitable model for you can be a crucial task. Rightly, it is natural that everyone will have their own choice.
However, let’s see some of the best 8-string ukuleles that might become a perfect one for you.
Read also: Best 6-string ukuleles
Top 5 Best 8 String Ukulele for advanced players
1. KALA Mahogany KA-8E 8-string Tenor Ukulele
This Kala 8-string ukulele comes at a reasonable price compared to other Kala models, yet it gives a superb sound. Its look does not appear to be premium, but its tone will make you pleased, sure.
Kala utilizes laminate mahogany to make its body and neck. As a result, it produces a loud tone and uninterrupted sound, no doubt. Maybe, it has no flashy designs. But when you think of quality sound, you keep it on your choice list, okay?
Its construction structure does not shape it like an acacia wood uke, but the properties make it unique to ensure longevity for years. If you are accustomed to traveling frequently, you can use it as the best travel ukulele without any hesitation.
The dials might not be the most sensitive, yet you will get enough room to handle between treble and bass tones. It will deliver you well in gigs wherever you require it to be plugged in.
Above all, if you want to get a simple and traditional-looking instrument with a lovely sound, it brings features enough to make you happy. This Kala uke review will help you go with new-type instruments.
Pros:
- Durable and well-constructed
- Loud tune and sound
- Classy finish
- Surprisingly reasonable in price
Cons:
- Not eye-catching in design
2. Lanikai MA8T 8 string Ukulele
Are you searching for a well-rounded ukulele with reliable sound and flexibility? Well, the Lanikai MA-8T is a suitable one to meet your demand and features a traditional one. One of the significant features is the slotted headstock, making it more different than others.
This Lanikai 8-string ukulele is a combination of a wide nut and neck profile, bone nut and saddle, and a single-ply white ABS fingerboard that ensures its unique construction with an authentic and eternal look and sound. Most importantly, it works well to balance quality and features at an affordable price.
Due to the build of mahogany, there is no doubt of its loud and pleasantly warm tone. It may not look eye-dazzling, but its quality will impress you so much that you will appreciate it.
Necessary to mention that this model comprises strap buttons. Perhaps, many players are not willing to take a strap. But Lanikai Uke always provides the option, essential to playing the uke, undoubtedly praiseworthy. Needless to say, you will not be a fool if you buy it.
Pros:
- Classic look
- High-quality tone and sound
- Comfortable to play
- Strap buttons included
Cons:
- Lack of loud volume
3. Oscar Schmidt OU28TE 8-String Uke
This 8-string tenor becomes dependable for its sound and quality. Besides, it comes at an affordable price compared to other models. As a new player in this sector, you can experiment with it.
Despite being affordable, the OU28TE never compromises on its features and quality. Although it uses laminate mahogany and does not look like a premium instrument, its sound, and playability make it more appealing.
Maybe, it seems that it has thick wood. For this, the sound is a bit tied up, but it does not have any problem while staying in. You will notice that it has a soft tone in comparison with other models. Nonetheless, it is bright and sweet.
A pickup and UKE-2000 preamp installed are available with this model. In case of dislike this option, you can take the OU28T, although the construction quality is not similar to this model.
This Oscar Schmid uke contains sensitive volume controls and dials that allow you to find your desired levels. Overall, it is one of the best 8-string ukuleles at a case of reasonable price. Hopefully, you consider it by its merits, sound, and construction, regardless of its price.
Pros:
- Cheapest 8-string instrument
- Handcrafted Quality
- Excellent sound
- Best value for the price
Cons:
- Simple design
4. AKLOT 8-Strings Tenor Uke
You are an experienced player. So, you are exploring an instrument that holds 8 strings with a rhythmic sound and offers characteristical chorus affect outcomes. Okay, this AKLOT 8 Strings Tenor Ukulele is for you.
It is recognized that a solid soundboard becomes too durable and produces an authentic and enriched tone compared to laminated ukes due to its tight nature of construction. Keeping it in mind, the brand has used solid mahogany to make it.
This Aklot tenor 8-string ukulele gives the best-geared ukulele tuner machine to keep the instrument remaining in tune more excellent in comparison to 15:1 gear tuning pegs. As a result, you will not fall into trouble tuneless rapidly.
This 26-inch model offers an installed truss rod and an original Allen wrench. Consequently, you can adjust the action of this instrument to your needs.
For comfort with the arms, the Aklot does round the edge of the ukulele in the process of manufacture. Its gorgeous design will create an extra attraction for uke lovers, and we are sure about it. So, try it to improve your skills.
Pros:
- Solid top of the Mahogany wood
- Adjustable action
- A rounded edge
- No buzzing sound
Cons:
- The frets are a bit sharp
5. Kmise 8-String Tenor Uke
As an experienced musician, you find the best 8-stringed ukulele, containing better strumming, and a louder and fuller sound. Okay, this ukulele from Kmise has been brought on the market with those performances.
Rightly, Kmise uses the 18:1 gear tuning machine, which works better than the 15:1 gear tuning pegs. Hence, you can tune this uke more precisely, and it will stay tuned without a problem with tunelessness quickly. Moreover, the pure copper-made gear remains stiff and is affected low by rust.
The superior Aquila String from Italy and a high-quality Walnut bridge generate a brilliant, percussive tone. They also give an accurate intonation while staying in tune.
Furthermore, you will get an original Allen wrench that allows you to adapt the action freely, depending on your habit. So, you can pick it for yourself.
Pros:
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Thick sound
- Replacement strings included
- Smooth finish and design
Cons:
- The size of the gig bag is too small
8 String Ukulele Tuning
When you think of tuning an 8-string uke, you will find a few different options. The G4-C4-E4-A4, standard tuning for a traditional 4-string ukulele, is the most common for an 8-stringed ukulele.
Its extra four strings are usually tuned in octaves. The lower octave is tuned to the same note as the resembling string in standard tuning.
High G Tuning
Several musicians prefer to tune the extra strings to a high G, producing a more lively and brighter sound. Indeed, it is fantastic for players wishing to research different tonal potentialities and affix something extra to their playing style.
Low G Tuning
Tuning the additional strings to a low G is another popular option for an 8-string uke. In truth, it creates a richer and deeper sound. Players preferring a more conventional uke sound with a bit of a twist often use this tuning.
Baritone Tuning
Sometimes, a few players pick to tune their 8-string instrument to a baritone tuning D3-G3-B3-E4. Indeed, this method produces an entirely varied sound and lets musicians find new musical ways to use their instruments.
FAQs
Q: Do I require particular strings for an 8-string uke?
Sure, I recommend utilizing strings made for eight-stringed instruments to confirm precise tension and sound quality.
Q: What is the standard tuning for an 8-string uke?
The G# C# F A D G B E tuning is the standard tuning for 8-string ukes.
Q: May I tune my 8-string ukulele to a different tuning?
Sure, depending on the choice of the song, 8-string ukes can be tuned in different tunings.
Q: How can I tune an 8-string uke?
Tuning an 8-string uke is possible using an electronic tuner, online tuning guides, or videos.
Q: Are 8-stringed ukuleles more troublesome to play than 4-stringed ukuleles?
Although players accustomed to 4-stringed ukes might need a few adjustments due to the extra strings, playing 8-stringed ukes might be just as cozy with practices.
Q: Why does someone pick an 8-string uke over a 4-string ukulele?
Some players exploring a fuller sound prefer 8-stringed ukes because they generate a richer and more resonant sound.
Q: Are there different types of 8-string ukes?
Sure, 8-string ukes come in different types – the Taro Patch uke, Octave uke, and Double-course uke. Each of them has unique characteristics.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, the list of the best 8-string ukulele has supported you on the way to choosing the correct one. It is one step forward from the traditional ukulele, of course. But, your effort to master this skill will add a new variation to your musical career, no doubt.
Finally, happy about your new endeavor. Best of luck!
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