8 string basses

B45-12 · Post by **B45-12** » Wed Aug 11, 2004 10:58 am

I recall there was a vogue for those at one stage - doubled strings like on a 12 string. Has anyone played one and what were they like to play/how did you tune them? For example, going off my knowledge, I reckon it takes about 25% more finger strength to play accoustic 12 string but the electrics are less perhaps only an extra 5%. I wondered what is was like for bass.

Rog · Post by **Rog** » Wed Aug 11, 2004 11:03 am

I tried out an 8 string Ricky bass.

I didn't have to tune it, so can't comment, but it sounded like the same octavo tuning as a std 12.

It was a rarity, but didn't spin my wheels.

Like you say, it was somewhat harder to play. I think it would be easier to play with a pick, rather than fingers, but that's just my opinion based on about 20 minutes pissing around with it.

philipnz · Post by **philipnz** » Wed Aug 11, 2004 11:20 am

Listen to the into to Jeremy by Pearl Jam, 8 string bass.

The bass player from Cheap Trick used 8 and even 12 string basses too.

MaloS · Post by **MaloS** » Fri Aug 13, 2004 5:09 am

heh, what about 10 string bass with all singles? someone take a dare on fingering the lowest string?