8-string options?

[adde65]

Hi,

I'm thinking of buying an 8-string instrument (to supplement my 10-string Stick), with the intention of using it for both tapping and more conventional bass playing.
I'm aware of the NS/Stick and its capabilities in this area, but I would like to know if anyone could recommend an alternative as well (ADG-8 comes to mind?).
The issues I'm looking at are:

- Sound, including Stereo/Mono outputs.
- String spacing and action for tapping, slapping and picking.
- Adjustable components, mainly relating to nut and bridge.
- Comfort and playability.

Any comments would be most welcome,

Greetings,
Andy

[Fredrik]

I'm in de process of designing and building a custom 8 stringer. I had the same ideas as you when it comes to different playing techniques. I wantet to pick, strum and slap it as well as using the tap tech. I decided after discussing this with my buitar builder that super low action and tapping on higher pitched frets calls for medium to small string spacing (compared to 17-20 mm on standard bass) and also makes it difficult to avoid fret buzz seing as you always play harder when not tapping.

I've had a long talk with Don Schiff over e-mail concerning these things, and he is very happy with the NS/Stick. He plays it very well on all the manners you are looking for.

I think having an instrument for both tapping and other techniques will call for some sort of compromise.

[adde65]

Fredrik,

Thanks for your response.

I'm aware that there are always compromises when dealing with string instrument setups. As a bass player, I feel that heavy strings and higher action generally yield slightly better results in terms of tone - but not in playability.

My Stick (as set up by Chapman) is extremely easy to tap, but the low end response is slightly compromised by the bass strings being very close to the frets.
I think I remember reading that Don Schiff raised the bass saddle screws at the nut on his first Stick, which would explain his "beefy" bass sound. I do this on my instrument as well, and while it is slightly harder to tap, there is definitely a fuller bass sound.

Andy

[Fredrik]

That is certainly an interesting point Andy, raising the low(er) string (s). I'll try this when I get my tapper finnished. Check out the thread "update on DIY" if you want to take a closer look on my upcoming axe :-)

Fredrik