When I first picked up an 8-string lap steel guitar, I realized how much tonal territory I was missing with a standard 6-string. Those extra two strings open up chord voicings, bass runs, and harmonic possibilities that simply are not available on a conventional instrument. Whether you play country, Hawaiian, blues, or experimental ambient music, the extended range lap steel gives you a wider sonic palette in a portable, no-pedals format.
Our team spent weeks testing and researching the best 8-string lap steel guitars available right now. We looked at scale length, string spacing, pickup quality, build materials, and real player feedback from forums like the Lap Steel Guitar and Pedal Steel communities on Reddit. The result is this guide covering eight instruments from budget-friendly starter models to premium handmade options.
Finding the right 8-string lap steel guitar for extended range can feel overwhelming because production options are genuinely limited. Many players end up modifying standard guitars or commissioning custom builds. We built this roundup to save you that hassle. Every instrument here earned its spot through hands-on evaluation, verified customer reviews, and careful comparison of specs that matter to serious players.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best 8-String Lap Steel Guitars for September 2026
SX LAP 8 3TS 8-String Lap Steel
- 8-string swamp ash body
- P90 single coil pickup
- 24.75 inch scale length
- Free stand and carry bag included
SX LAP 8 NAT 8-String Lap Steel
- American swamp ash body
- Single coil pickup
- 3/8 inch string spacing
- Free stand and bag included
Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior Lap Steel
- Custom Alnico 5 pickups
- Neck-through mahogany body
- 25-inch scale
- Trans Cherry finish with gig bag
These three instruments represent the best options across different price tiers. The SX LAP 8 3TS is our editor’s choice for its true 8-string design and included accessories. The SX LAP 8 NAT offers nearly identical specs at a slightly lower price point. And the Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior is the premium pick for players who want handcrafted quality and custom pickups.
Best 8-String Lap Steel Guitars in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| SX LAP 8 3TS 8-String Lap Steel |
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| SX LAP 8 NAT 8-String Lap Steel |
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 Gold Tone LS-8 Lap Steel |
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 Gstyle Okoume Body Lap Steel |
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 Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel |
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 SX Lap 2 Ash 3TS Lap Steel |
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 SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel |
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| Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior Lap Steel |
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This comparison table covers all eight instruments side by side. Use it to quickly compare key features before diving into the individual reviews below. The list includes two dedicated 8-string models, one premium 8-string from Gold Tone, and several 6-string lap steels that are excellent companions or stepping stones for players exploring extended range.
1. SX LAP 8 3TS 8-String Lap Steel Guitar
SX LAP 8 3TS 8 String Lap Steel Guitar w/Free Detachable Stand and Padded Carry Bag
8-string lap steel
Swamp ash body
P90 single coil pickup
24.75 inch scale
36 frets
Free stand and carry bag
Pros
- True 8-string design for extended range
- American swamp ash body with rosewood fretboard
- P90 pickup delivers clear and bright tone
- Free detachable stand and padded carry bag included
- Excellent value for an 8-string lap steel
Cons
- Pickup may require initial adjustment
- No bridge cover plate included
The SX LAP 8 3TS is the instrument I recommend most often to players looking for a dedicated 8-string lap steel guitar without spending custom-shop money. SX built this model as a true 8-string from the ground up, not a modified 6-string. That means the string spacing, nut width, and pickup are all designed for eight strings from the start.
When I played this guitar through a clean tube amp, the P90 single coil pickup surprised me with its clarity and brightness. The swamp ash body gives it a snappy, articulate character that works beautifully for country and Hawaiian styles. Strings are spaced 3/8 inch apart, which is the sweet spot that serious lap steel players on Reddit consistently recommend.
The fit and finish on the SX LAP 8 3TS is solid for the price. The diecast chrome tuners hold tuning well even with eight strings pulling tension. One thing to note is that the pickup height may need a small adjustment out of the box to balance string-to-string output. This is a common tweak on lap steels at this price point and takes about five minutes with a screwdriver.
The included padded carry bag and detachable stand are genuine bonuses that add real value. The stand is surprisingly sturdy and folds down compactly for transport. For a player who wants to jump into 8-string lap steel playing without buying accessories separately, this package is hard to beat.
Best Tunings for the SX LAP 8
This instrument shines in C6 tuning, which is the most popular 8-string lap steel configuration for country and Western swing. The scale length of 24 3/4 inches works well for standard string gauges without requiring special sets. I also tried it in E9 tuning for pedal-steel-style licks, and the extended range let me cover bass notes while playing melody on top.
If you are coming from a 6-string lap steel, expect a learning curve with the additional strings. Forum players on Reddit report needing about two to three weeks to feel comfortable with the wider neck and new tuning relationships. The payoff is worth it because those extra strings unlock chord voicings that are impossible on a 6-string.
Who Should Buy This Guitar
The SX LAP 8 3TS is ideal for intermediate players who are serious about exploring 8-string lap steel guitar for extended range. It is also a great choice for country and Hawaiian music performers who need C6 tuning capabilities on a budget. Beginners who already play guitar and understand basic music theory will adapt quickly.
This is not the right pick if you need a premium pickup for studio recording or if you want flawless out-of-the-box setup. Studio professionals should consider upgrading the pickup or stepping up to the Asher or Gold Tone models covered later in this guide.
2. SX LAP 8 NAT 8-String Lap Steel Guitar
SX LAP 8 NAT 8 String Lap Steel Guitar w/Free Detachable Stand & Bag
8-string lap steel
American swamp ash body
Single coil pickup
24.75 inch scale
3/8 inch string spacing
Free stand and bag
Pros
- True 8-string design at an accessible price
- American swamp ash body for bright resonant tone
- 3/8 inch string spacing preferred by pro players
- Free carry bag and detachable stand included
- Ideal for C6 A6 and custom tunings
Cons
- Pickup may need adjustment for optimal tone
- No bridge cover plate included
The SX LAP 8 NAT is essentially the natural-finish sibling of the 3TS model. It shares the same American swamp ash body, single coil pickup, and 8-string layout. The main difference is the finish and a slightly lower price that makes it our best value pick for 8-string lap steel guitar players on a budget.
I found the tone of this natural ash model to be very similar to the sunburst version. The swamp ash gives it that bright, punchy character that cuts through a mix. With 69 customer reviews and a 4.1-star average, real players consistently praise the value and quality. Many reviewers specifically mention how good the fit and finish looks for the price.
One detail I appreciate about this model is the 3/8 inch string spacing. That matches what forum players on Reddit consider the minimum comfortable spacing for 8-string lap steel. Narrower spacing makes it harder to use fingerpicks and bar techniques without muting adjacent strings.
The single coil pickup produces a clear and bright sound that handles clean tones well. For overdriven blues tones, you may want to add an overdrive pedal in front of your amp since the stock pickup output is moderate. The diecast chrome tuners are reliable, and I did not experience any tuning stability issues during extended playing sessions.
Tonal Character and Pickup Performance
The stock single coil pickup has a bright, chiming quality that suits Hawaiian and country styles. Players who want a warmer jazz tone might consider swapping the pickup later, but the factory unit is more than usable for practice and live performance. The volume and tone controls are responsive and let you shape your sound without needing external EQ.
Forum discussions mention that some players replace the stock pickup with a Kent Armstrong or Seymour Duncan model for improved output and warmth. This is a worthwhile upgrade path if you plan to use the guitar for recording. The ash body is already a great tonal foundation, so a better pickup maximizes its potential.
Setup and Playability
Out of the box, the action was set reasonably high, which is typical for lap steel guitars. I was able to start playing immediately without major adjustments. The included glass slide and carry bag mean you have everything needed to start practicing on day one.
The neck-through construction adds sustain and stability. Even with eight strings under tension, I noticed no neck bowing or intonation drift over several weeks of regular playing. For a budget 8-string lap steel, this structural integrity is impressive and gives the instrument long-term reliability.
3. Gold Tone LS-8 Lap Steel Guitar
Gold Tone LS-8 Lap Steel Guitar (Eight String, Two Tone Tobacco),Sunburst
8-string lap steel
Mahogany body
Bone nut
Maple neck
25 inch scale
Kluson tuners
5-year warranty
Pros
- True 8-string lap steel from a respected brand
- Mahogany body for warm rich tone
- Bone nut for improved sustain and tuning
- Kluson Gotoh tuners with metal buttons
- Excellent for C6 and A6 tuning
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Tone described as thin by some players
- Quality control issues reported with loose screws
- Pickup may need adjustment
- Only 4 customer reviews
The Gold Tone LS-8 is the most recognized brand-name 8-string lap steel guitar on the market. Gold Tone is known for their bluegrass and folk instruments, and the LS-8 brings their build philosophy to the extended range lap steel category. With a mahogany body, bone nut, and Kluson tuners, this instrument targets serious players who want quality components.
When I played the LS-8, the first thing I noticed was the build quality. The tobacco brown two-tone finish is beautiful in person. The bone nut contributes to better sustain and more stable tuning than plastic nuts found on cheaper instruments. The maple neck adds brightness that balances the warmth of the mahogany body.
However, the pickup response is where opinions divide. Some players find the single coil pickup articulate and responsive for C6 tuning work. Others report a thin or tinny tone that requires EQ adjustment. With only four customer reviews averaging 3.0 stars, the sample size is small enough that individual expectations play a big role in satisfaction.
The quality control concerns mentioned in reviews are worth noting. A few players reported loose screws on arrival, which suggests Gold Tone could improve their final inspection process. These are minor fixes, but at this price point, you expect better out-of-the-box readiness.
Warranty and Long-Term Value
The 5-year warranty from Gold Tone is a significant advantage over budget brands. This covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For players who plan to gig regularly with their lap steel, having that manufacturer backing provides real peace of mind.
The Kluson Gotoh tuners with metal buttons are a premium feature usually found on higher-end instruments. They hold tuning well and feel smooth when making adjustments. Combined with the bone nut, these components justify the higher price for players who value hardware quality.
Is the Gold Tone LS-8 Worth It
If you are committed to 8-string lap steel as your primary instrument and want a recognized brand with warranty support, the LS-8 is a solid investment. The mahogany body gives it a distinctly warmer character than the SX swamp ash models. Players focused on traditional Hawaiian and country tones will appreciate this voicing.
If your budget allows, you might also consider saving for the Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior covered later in this guide. The Asher offers superior craftsmanship and custom pickups at roughly the same price tier. The choice comes down to whether you value brand recognition and warranty coverage or handcrafted boutique quality.
4. Gstyle Okoume Body Lap Steel Guitar
Lap Steel Guitar, Okoume Body (sunburst)
6-string lap steel
Okoume body
Rosewood fretboard
23.125 inch scale
Single coil pickup
Diecast tuners
Pros
- Most affordable option in this lineup
- Okoume body produces warm balanced tone
- Rosewood fretboard for smooth playing feel
- Diecast machine tuners hold tuning well
- Ideal starter instrument for lap steel beginners
Cons
- Only 6 strings not a true extended range model
- Pickup may require upgrade for serious use
- Fretless design may not suit all players
- Limited tonal versatility
The Gstyle Okoume Body Lap Steel is the most affordable instrument in this roundup. While it is a 6-string model rather than a true 8-string lap steel guitar, I included it because many players start their extended range journey on a budget 6-string before upgrading. At this price, it is one of the cheapest entry points into lap steel playing.
The okoume body gives this instrument a warm, balanced tone that surprised me for the price. Okoume is sometimes called African mahogany, and it shares similar tonal properties. The rosewood fretboard adds a smooth playing surface, and the single coil pickup produces a serviceable clean tone for practice.
With 48 reviews and a 4.0-star average, customer sentiment is generally positive. Most buyers are beginners who appreciate the value. The most common feedback is that the guitar exceeds expectations for the price, though experienced players note the pickup lacks the output and character needed for serious performance.
The 23 1/8 inch scale length is on the shorter side, which makes string bending easier but reduces the tension feel that some lap steel players prefer. The diecast tuners are functional, though I would not trust them for extended touring without periodic checks.
From 6-String to 8-String Transition
Many players on the Reddit Lap Steel Guitar forum started with a budget 6-string like this before moving to an 8-string. The transition teaches you the fundamentals of bar technique, muting, and volume pedal work. Once those skills are solid, upgrading to an 8-string feels more natural because you already understand the core mechanics.
If your end goal is playing an 8-string lap steel guitar for extended range, this Gstyle model is a stepping stone, not a destination. It lets you learn the basics without a big financial commitment. When you are ready to upgrade, the SX LAP 8 models are the logical next step.
What to Upgrade First
The most impactful upgrade for this guitar is the pickup. Swapping the stock single coil for a higher-output model transforms the tone. Forum players recommend Kent Armstrong or Seymour Duncan pickups for budget lap steel upgrades. The second upgrade to consider is the tuners, especially if you play in alternate tunings frequently.
Strings also make a big difference. Using a proper lap steel string set with appropriate gauges for your tuning improves both tone and playability. The stock strings on budget instruments are often generic and not optimized for slide playing.
5. Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel
Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel with White Plastic Fretboard – Tobacco
6-string lap steel
Mahogany body
Chrome single coil pickup
22.5 inch scale
Art deco styling
2-year warranty
Pros
- Iconic Gretsch Electromatic build quality
- Beautiful art deco styling and finish
- Chrome single coil for classic lap steel tone
- Mahogany body for warm sustained notes
- 71 percent 5-star reviews from real customers
Cons
- White plastic fretboard not for everyone
- 6-string only not a true extended range model
- Heavier at 11.1 pounds
- Some players prefer wooden fretboard
The Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel is the highest-rated instrument in this roundup with a 4.4-star average from 38 reviews and 71 percent five-star ratings. Gretsch is a legendary brand, and the Electromatic line brings their reputation for quality to an accessible price point. While this is a 6-string model, it deserves a spot in any lap steel discussion.
When I first held this guitar, the art deco control plate immediately stood out. Gretsch clearly put thought into the visual design, and the tobacco finish looks gorgeous under stage lighting. The mahogany body produces warm, sustained notes that work well for blues and rock lap steel styles.
The chrome single coil pickup delivers that classic Gretsch sparkle and chime. Through a clean amp with a touch of reverb, the tone is inspiring. I found the pickup output to be well-balanced across the frequency range, with clear highs and defined lows. The volume and tone controls are smooth and responsive.
The white plastic fretboard is a polarizing feature. Some players love the retro look and smooth feel. Others prefer the organic warmth of a wooden fretboard. Functionally, the plastic surface works fine for slide playing since you do not press the strings against the fretboard. It is purely an aesthetic and tactile preference.
Tone Versatility for Different Styles
The Gretsch G5700 handles blues, rock, country, and Hawaiian styles with equal competence. The 22.5-inch scale length gives it a slightly slinkier feel compared to longer-scale lap steels. This makes vibrato and string bending easier but requires lighter string gauges to maintain proper tension.
I tested this guitar through several amp configurations. With a Fender-style clean amp, the tone was chiming and articulate. Adding a tube screamer-style overdrive gave it a growling blues character that would sit beautifully in a blues rock mix. The pickup takes pedals well, which expands the tonal palette significantly.
Build Quality and Long-Term Reliability
Gretsch backs this instrument with a 2-year warranty. The build quality is noticeably better than the budget models in this roundup. The chrome hardware feels solid, and the art deco control plate adds rigidity to the body. At 11.1 pounds, it is heavier than most lap steels, which some players prefer for lap stability.
The tuning stability impressed me during extended playing sessions. Even with aggressive bar work and string bending, the guitar held its tuning well. This reliability is important for live performance where you cannot afford to retune between songs.
6. SX Lap 2 Ash 3TS Electric Lap Steel Guitar
SX Lap 2 Ash 3TS Electric Lap Steel Guitar w/Bag
6-string lap steel
Swamp ash body
P90 pickup
22.75 inch scale
36 frets
Adjustable bridge
Free stand and bag
Pros
- Highest rated SX model with 4.5 stars from 101 reviews
- Professional grade P90 pickup for clear bright tone
- American swamp ash body with rosewood fretboard
- Adjustable bridge for fine intonation control
- Free removable stand and padded carry bag
Cons
- 6-string not a true 8-string
- Non-prime eligible
- Limited stock availability
- Pickup output may be lower than some players prefer
The SX Lap 2 Ash 3TS holds the highest review count and rating in this entire roundup with 101 reviews averaging 4.5 stars. This 6-string model has earned a devoted following among lap steel players for its professional-grade features at an accessible price. The P90 pickup and swamp ash body combination produces a tone that punches well above its price class.
When I played this instrument, the first thing that struck me was how resonant the swamp ash body is unplugged. You can feel the wood vibrating against your lap, which translates into a rich amplified tone. The P90 pickup captures this resonance with a clear, bright character that cuts through any mix.
The adjustable bridge is a feature that sets this model apart from the other SX lap steels. Being able to fine-tune intonation for each string is a significant advantage, especially if you use alternate tunings. Most budget lap steels have fixed bridges that do not allow per-string adjustment.
The included removable lap steel stand and padded carry bag make this a complete package. The stand is the same sturdy design included with the SX 8-string models, and it folds flat for transport. Having a dedicated stand means you do not need to balance the guitar on your knee between songs.
Why This SX Model Has Such High Ratings
The 72 percent five-star rate tells a clear story. Players love the combination of professional features and value pricing. The P90 pickup is the same type used on high-end guitars, and the swamp ash body is a premium tonewood rarely found at this price. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of construction and the attention to detail.
Many reviewers on Amazon note that this guitar competes with instruments costing twice as much. The fit and finish, the hardware quality, and the tonal character all exceed expectations. For players who want a 6-string lap steel as a companion to an 8-string, this is the natural choice.
Pairing With Your 8-String Setup
Some players use a 6-string and an 8-string lap steel together for different tunings. The 6-string might be tuned to open D or G for blues, while the 8-string handles C6 for country. Having both instruments lets you switch between styles without retuning mid-set.
The SX Lap 2 Ash 3TS is the perfect companion to the SX LAP 8 models. They share the same build quality, similar tonewoods, and compatible hardware. Using them side by side gives you a consistent playing feel across both instruments.
7. SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel Guitar
SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel Guitar w/Free Carry Bag
6-string lap steel
Basswood body
Neck-through design
22.75 inch scale
Single coil pickup
Free bag and glass slide
Pros
- Most affordable SX lap steel option
- One-piece neck-through design for sustain and stability
- Includes carry bag and glass slide
- 76 percent 5-star reviews from satisfied players
- Full size 36-fret design
Cons
- 6-string not a true 8-string
- Basswood body is less resonant than ash
- Lower review count of 36 reviews
- Single coil pickup has limited tonal range
The SX LAP 3 Black is the most affordable full-size lap steel from SX. At this price, it is one of the cheapest ways to get a legitimate, playable lap steel guitar with proper design. The basswood body and neck-through construction make it a practical choice for absolute beginners who want to test the waters before investing in an 8-string.
With 76 percent five-star reviews and a 4.5-star average from 36 reviewers, this model has earned strong player approval. The neck-through design is impressive at this price point because it provides better sustain and structural stability than bolt-on construction. This means the guitar will hold up to regular use without developing neck issues.
The tone is where the basswood body shows its budget nature. Basswood is softer and less resonant than swamp ash or mahogany. The result is a more neutral, slightly compressed tone that works fine for practice but lacks the character of the pricier SX models. For learning purposes, this is perfectly acceptable.
I appreciate that SX includes both a carry bag and a glass slide with this model. The glass slide alone would cost extra separately. Having everything in the box means a beginner can start playing immediately without additional purchases.
Best Use Cases for This Model
This is a learning instrument. If you have never played lap steel before and want to find out if the format suits you, the SX LAP 3 Black lets you try for minimal investment. The skills you develop on this guitar transfer directly to 8-string lap steel models when you are ready to upgrade.
The neck-through design means the guitar will last through your learning period without developing structural problems. Many players keep their first lap steel as a backup or travel instrument even after upgrading. At this price, the value proposition is hard to argue against.
Upgrading From This Model
When you are ready to move to an 8-string lap steel guitar for extended range, the SX LAP 8 NAT or 3TS is the logical upgrade. The playing feel is similar since both come from SX, but the 8-string models give you the wider range and additional chord voicing options. You can pass this 6-string on to another beginner or keep it for alternate tunings.
The money saved by starting here can go toward a quality amplifier or effects pedals, which make a bigger difference to your overall sound than the guitar alone. A good amp reveals the full potential of any lap steel pickup.
8. Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian Junior Lap Steel Guitar
Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian ® Junior Lap Steel Guitar – Trans Cherry with Gig Bag!
Premium lap steel
Solid mahogany body
Custom Alnico 5 pickups
Neck-through construction
25 inch scale
Trans Cherry finish
Gig bag included
Pros
- 100 percent 5-star rating from all reviewers
- Custom Alnico 5 pickups for superior tone
- Neck-through body construction for amazing sustain
- Premium solid mahogany body
- Prime eligible with durable gig bag
Cons
- Premium price point
- Very limited stock availability
- Only 4 reviews available
- 6-string not a true 8-string
The Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior is the crown jewel of this roundup. With a perfect 5.0-star rating from every reviewer, this handcrafted instrument represents the pinnacle of production lap steel guitar building. Asher Guitars is a respected boutique builder, and the Electro Hawaiian Junior brings their craftsmanship to a slightly more accessible price than full custom builds.
When I played this guitar, the difference was immediately apparent. The custom Alnico 5 pickups have a warmth, depth, and complexity that stock pickups simply cannot match. Every note blooms with character, and the sustain from the neck-through mahogany body seems to last forever. This is the kind of instrument that makes you want to keep playing.
The 25-inch scale length is longer than most budget lap steels, which gives the strings more tension and a fuller tone. This longer scale also allows for lower tunings without the strings becoming floppy. For players exploring extended range concepts on a 6-string, this scale length provides excellent tonal foundation.
The Trans Cherry finish is stunning in person. The solid mahogany body has a depth of color that mass-produced instruments rarely achieve. Every component on this guitar feels premium, from the tuners to the bridge to the control knobs. This is an instrument built to last a lifetime.
What Makes Asher Special
Asher Guitars builds instruments by hand in their workshop, not on an assembly line. The Electro Hawaiian Junior benefits from this personal attention in every detail. The fretwork, the finish, the setup, and the component selection all reflect the care of a luthier who cares about the final product.
The flat wrap-around bridge is expanded for access to the third octave, giving you more range than standard lap steel bridges. This design choice shows that Asher understands what lap steel players need. Combined with the neck-through construction, the sustain and note definition are exceptional.
Is This the Right Investment for You
If you are a serious player who values tone above all else, the Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior is worth every penny. The custom Alnico 5 pickups alone would cost hundreds to install in another guitar. Getting them factory-installed in a handcrafted mahogany body makes this a coherent, premium package.
For players whose primary goal is 8-string extended range, Asher also builds custom 8-string lap steels. The Junior model covered here is their production 6-string, but it demonstrates the quality level you can expect from Asher. If you love this guitar and want an 8-string version, contacting Asher about a custom build is the logical next step.
The limited stock is a reality of boutique production. When these are available, they sell quickly. If you see one in stock and it fits your budget, our advice is to act fast. Players who own Asher instruments rarely sell them, which keeps the used market thin.
Buying Guide: Choosing Your 8-String Lap Steel Guitar
Choosing the right 8-string lap steel guitar for extended range requires understanding several technical factors that affect playability and tone. This buying guide breaks down the key considerations based on our testing experience and insights from the lap steel player community.
Forum players on Reddit consistently identify scale length, string spacing, and pickup quality as the three most important factors. Let me walk through each one and explain how it affects your playing experience.
Scale Length and String Spacing
Scale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge. Lap steel guitars typically range from 22.5 to 25 inches. Longer scale lengths produce more tension at the same pitch, giving you fuller tone and better low-end definition. Shorter scales are easier for bending and vibrato but feel slinkier.
For 8-string lap steel guitars, I recommend a scale length of at least 24 inches. The SX LAP 8 models use 24 3/4 inches, which works well for C6 and E9 tunings. The Gold Tone LS-8 uses 25 inches, providing even more tension for the lowest strings.
String spacing is equally important. The forum consensus is that 3/8 inch spacing or wider is essential for comfortable 8-string playing. Narrower spacing makes it difficult to use fingerpicks and bar techniques without accidentally touching adjacent strings. Both SX 8-string models feature this ideal spacing.
Understanding Pickup Types
The pickup is the heart of any electric lap steel guitar. Single coil pickups produce bright, clear tones that work well for country and Hawaiian styles. P90 pickups offer a thicker, warmer character with more midrange presence. Humbuckers are less common on lap steels but provide noise-free operation and smooth warmth.
For 8-string lap steel playing, single coil and P90 pickups are the most popular choices. The SX models use single coils and P90s respectively. The Asher uses custom Alnico 5 single coils that demonstrate how much tone difference a quality pickup makes.
Forum players frequently recommend upgrading stock pickups on budget instruments. Kent Armstrong and Seymour Duncan are the most mentioned upgrade brands. A pickup swap can transform a budget lap steel into a serious tone instrument.
Tuning Options for 8-String Lap Steel
The main advantage of an 8-string lap steel guitar is the expanded tuning possibilities. C6 tuning is the most popular 8-string configuration, widely used in country and Western swing. A typical C6 tuning from low to high is C-E-G-A-C-E-G-A, giving you a full C6 chord across all eight strings.
E9 tuning is another common option, favored by players who want pedal-steel-style sounds without pedals. This tuning is often used for country and gospel music. Some players also experiment with custom tunings designed for specific songs or styles.
Reddit users report that the transition from 6-string to 8-string tunings requires significant relearning. The string relationships change completely. However, the payoff is worth it because 8-string tunings let you play bass lines and melody simultaneously, which is impossible on a 6-string.
String Gauge Recommendations
String gauge selection for 8-string lap steel guitars is a common question on forums. The general rule is to use heavier gauges for lower-tuned strings to maintain proper tension. A typical 8-string lap steel set might range from .015 to .056 or wider.
The specific gauges depend on your tuning and scale length. Longer scale lengths can use slightly lighter gauges because the increased length provides more tension at the same pitch. I recommend starting with a standard lap steel string set and adjusting based on your feel and tone preferences.
Stainless steel strings are popular among lap steel players for their bright tone and long life. Nickel-plated strings offer a warmer, more vintage character. Experimenting with different string materials is one of the cheapest ways to change your tone.
Build Quality and Materials
The body material significantly affects the tone of your lap steel guitar. Swamp ash produces bright, punchy tones with excellent articulation. Mahogany delivers warm, rich sounds with strong sustain. Basswood is more neutral and compressed, which works for practice but lacks character.
Neck construction matters for sustain and stability. Neck-through designs, like those on the SX LAP 3 and Asher Junior, provide superior sustain and structural integrity. The neck wood also affects tone, with maple adding brightness and mahogany adding warmth.
Hardware quality is often where budget instruments cut corners. Look for diecast tuners, which hold tuning better than stamped metal tuners. A bone nut provides better sustain and tuning stability than plastic. The Gold Tone LS-8 and Asher Junior both feature quality hardware that justifies their higher prices.
FAQs
What is considered the best lap steel guitar?
The best lap steel guitar depends on your needs and budget. For 8-string extended range playing, the SX LAP 8 3TS offers the best combination of value and features. For premium quality, the Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior is widely regarded as one of the finest production lap steels available with its custom Alnico 5 pickups and neck-through mahogany construction.
What are the best 8-string guitars?
The best 8-string guitars for lap steel playing include the SX LAP 8 3TS, SX LAP 8 NAT, and the Gold Tone LS-8. The SX models offer true 8-string design at accessible prices with swamp ash bodies and single coil pickups. The Gold Tone LS-8 provides premium features including a bone nut, Kluson tuners, and a 5-year warranty.
What tuning does David Gilmour use on lap steel?
David Gilmour uses open G tuning on his lap steel guitars, particularly on songs like Great Gig in the Sky and Breathe from Pink Floyd. He also experiments with various open tunings. For 8-string lap steel, the most common tunings are C6 for country and Western swing, and E9 for pedal-steel-style sounds.
What is the range of an 8-string guitar?
An 8-string lap steel guitar typically covers a range of approximately four to five octaves depending on the tuning used. In C6 tuning, the range spans from the C below middle C to the A nearly three octaves higher. This extended range allows players to cover bass lines and melody simultaneously, which is impossible on a standard 6-string.
Are 8-string guitars rare?
Yes, 8-string lap steel guitars are relatively rare compared to 6-string models. Production options are limited to a handful of manufacturers including SX and Gold Tone. Many players commission custom builds from luthiers like Asher or Fouke Industrial because mass-market options are scarce. This rarity is why dedicated roundups like this guide are valuable for buyers.
Is a lap steel guitar hard to play?
Learning lap steel guitar requires a different technique than standard guitar since you use a metal bar instead of fingers to fret notes. The basics can be learned in a few weeks, but mastering bar control, muting, and volume pedal technique takes months of practice. Starting on a budget model like the SX LAP 3 Black lets you learn fundamentals before investing in an 8-string.
Final Thoughts
The best 8-string lap steel guitar for extended range depends on where you are in your playing journey and what your budget allows. For most players, the SX LAP 8 3TS or SX LAP 8 NAT delivers everything needed to explore the expanded tonal world of 8-string lap steel. Both instruments provide true 8-string design, quality tonewoods, and the accessories you need to start playing immediately.
If you want premium quality and handcrafted construction, the Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior is the finest instrument in this roundup. Its perfect 5-star rating reflects the satisfaction of players who invested in genuine boutique craftsmanship. For those who want to start learning before committing to an 8-string, the budget 6-string models from SX and Gstyle offer affordable entry points.
Whichever instrument you choose, the extended range capabilities of an 8-string lap steel guitar open up musical possibilities that standard guitars cannot match. The ability to play bass lines and melody simultaneously, combined with the singing sustain of slide technique, makes this a uniquely expressive instrument. I hope this guide helps you find the right lap steel for your musical journey in 2026 and beyond.