Which Baritone Should Quinton Buy - Taylor 326ce 8-String or 6-String??

Quinton is looking for your help!! He really is going to buy one of these Taylor 326ce Baritone guitars, but needs your feedback. Leave a comment to help him decide which one goes home with him!
BUY NOW:
Taylor 326ce 8-String Baritone: musicvilla.com...
Taylor 326ce 6-String Baritone: musicvilla.com...
ONLINE LESSONS with Music Villa's GUITAR PASS:
guitarpass.com
MORE INFO:
Give us a call at [phone] or email us at [e-mail] for more information.
Website: musicvilla.com
GET THE LETTER:
Sign up for the Letter! musicvilla.com...

[@altbouch]

I have the 8 string Taylor. It is the most amazing guitar I have ever owned. For ringing cowboy chords, it has no match. I recorded a whole album with it as the foundation of the basic tracks. The reaction from my fans has been overwhelmingly positive.

[@ahuman7403]

What's that album you recorded name of your band and album ???

[@jessekimes9540]

Have you tried removing the octave strings from the 8-string to get the best of both worlds?

[@hutchmusician]

@@jessekimes9540Awesome hack. Then put an arch bridge on it, take off the frets and play it with a bow. BOOM instant cello.

[@dibuccio]

8 string for the win. Bonus alert, you can use it as a 6 string as well...

[@Calatriste54]

Yep, that's the decision I'd make, (gettin the rollin pin aside). More variability, shimmer, bright to balance the depth. Both guitars are only Taylor's of my interest..

[@Sharakomusic]

You'd have to change the nut and bridge..

[@lettucetim]

@@Sharakomusic why

[@JoesBrandonomics]

@@lettucetim the middle two double sets are positioned symmetrically. so if you removed the higher octave on each set, the lower octave string will not be centered like a regular 6 string guitar.

[@hutchmusician]

⁠@@JoesBrandonomicsSo what if the string courses aren’t evenly spaced? It’s a matter of a millimetre or two, and you play them just fine when the other two strings aren’t missing, so why would you struggle when they are?

[@kylekromer8047]

WOW! How did I go this long without really looking into a baritone. I love bass and this is almost like having a bass built into your guitar, so cool.

[@silverhanddad7107]

The 8 string is definitely more distinct from a standard guitar. It’s the winner for me.

[@davidbarba4976]

I believe the 8 string would encourage new ideas and who doesn’t want that, not to mention it sounds wonderful.

[@andymartin740]

The way you play, which is great, I didn’t hear anything distracting on the 8 string. They both sound great. The 8 does give it that other dimension though.

[@Papayajoseph]

The 8 string is like a different creature that evokes a certain mood. Certainly stands out in a mix.

[@cordellg1966]

I use a standard Shubb capo on my Baritone-8. But I used latex tubing to make two rings that stretch over the shank of the capo to fret the octave strings. Cheap solution that is durable and easy to replace if needed. Works great.

[@kristinaelias3755]

8 string! You're playing it better & experimenting more, plus it sounds tremendous.

[@tgrift1]

I just love what the eight string added to the overall sound. Both sound great with your style of playing, but the eight string just had a little something extra to it. I think you should buy both and maybe let your wife get some extra shoes or whatever she likes.... lol

[@charlesgalvin9533]

I love the extra dynamic of the 8 string. Both excellent but maybe weigh the number of 6 strings you own against the diversity of the 8 string. Love these videos.

[@stankerr6218]

It's a win-win! But I'd go with the 8-string. Here's why...it provides a depth to the sound when other guitars are involved (sounds like you frequently play with other musicians and a different sound makes it better). Did you do the blindfold test? How did you feel when you heard someone else play them? Enjoy!

[@texhaines9957]

That capo looks like the ones Taylor markets under their brand

[@DavidSchmidt1]

Quinton, do you often play it with others in an acoustic (unplugged) setting? If so, the 326's may not have the volume you want. Get Paul to make another run of the custom GT-8 *dreadnought* (Indian Rosewood/Adirondack Spruce). While not as warm sounding as met 326e-b8, it has the punch so others can actually hear it in an acoustic jam. Also, the BEST capo for the 8-string I've found is the Paige 12-string capo which comes with additional rings that slide onto the capo to extend further for the octave strings for even tension. I just put two of the collars on for the 8-string and that gives best sound.

[@dufferjuice]

I prefer the sound of the 6 string but both are amazing!

[@roymoderatto]

Change the nut & saddle on the 8 string and, voila! A Taylor Mandocello!

[@MrHeliosoul]

As much as I wanted to like the 8 string, the six string definitely sounds more pleasing to the ear. Something about the extra strings causes this annoying mosquito like buzz that washes over the base notes in an unpleasing way. Single notes on those two doubled strings lack definition. The six string also seems to better compliment your playing style brother.

[@thomascorbitt]

I had an 8 string baritone from Taylor a few years ago. It was really cool, looked great, sounded great, but I could never find the right use for it. So I sold it for an HD28V. It was a good deal when I found it, but I still wish I had a 6 six string baritone.

[@ftlaud911]

I would say 8 string. You already have I assume plenty of 6 strings. Both sound great and look spectacular.

[@ryanbloom1738]

I liked the six string.

[@vaughnblaylock6069]

I'm having the same discussion with myself right now. I'm less a finger picker, and more a fan of drop tuned - Drop B/Drop C type tunings. I listen to a lot of Chevelle and other metal bands and really like an acoustic version of some of that music. I think that the 8 String may not be useful for that, but at the same time, I can certainly see where adding those additional two strings while I'm playing an acoustic version of Endlessly by Chevelle or Revenge would be really cool. I'm not a finger picker like this guy is - I am not nearly skilled yet as he is. What do you guys think?

[@tonymac7272]

I know I'm going agaisnt the "grain" from most other comments on here but I love the 6 string and to me its better than the 8. The 8 is great but sometimes more options isn't necessary. I try to keep things simple. I've played the 6 string one at my local shop, Tone Tailors and it spoke to me. Either way Quinton you will make these guitars sing. It's so much fun watching you and Paul on these videos. Good luck on your choice!

[@tonymac7272]

@Basil Ganglia that's a great point. I agree 100%.

[@Duckwalk52]

I don’t know if string budget plays into your purchase (shouldn’t if you’re purchasing a 2300 dollar guitar), but you’re going to pay a lot more for a pack of 8 string baritone strings.

[@reidkelly2730]

A friend I played with bought one, a six string, for us to use with another acoustic in a band- it turned super muddy in the mix. Sounded great solo or just with vocals, but with other guitars it was too muddy and boomy.

[@the_unkowngod_2328]

Now from a total honest standpoint Quinton get the 326 that is a 6 because, 12 strings are awsome, but you always go back to your 6 right?? Well on an 8 I feel the same way to be honest. Plus the 6 is all around easier to play and sounds just as good and if not better as the 8. Good luck!! And for a bluegrass player I think the choice is pretty obvious!

[@henryjirsak6844]

As an late addition, a general idea would be to flip the paired strings on the 8 string, as some 12 string players do, maybe that would give it some favor in your ears🤠

[@jerrycoursey7320]

Quitin They both sound great I lean a little more toward the 8 string Has that extra little shimmer I think you can’t go wrong with either one, Enjoy your picking Jerry from Ga.

[@thomasgaida7174]

Before buying a baritone 8string guitar I would experiment with downtuning my 12th string guitar. I have seen that John Pearse is offering a set of 12th strings specially for downtuning to C#. Maybe one can get it even lower.

[@Darltornjacket]

Thanks for the video. I’m going for a Taylor 816 8 string baritone. Cheers

[@MauriceCondie]

The 8 string sounds great. Fuller sound. However less good if you want to play finger style. The 6 string would focus melody or bass lines more precisely. Intonation could be an issue on the 8 string.

[@nicgundy]

The 8 String's BACK!!!!!! I've low key eyed on that one for the past 7 years & got to play one 6 years ago phew what an experience!!

[@the_unkowngod_2328]

6 is the better instrument, 8 sounds fantastic just not quite a real baritone

[@773Spair]

What if the doubled strings were some other two strings; such as the E and low B, or the A and the Low B, or another pair?

[@mikew9537]

I'm primarily a strummer, so it was hard for me to make a good judgment. I do wish there would have been more strumming, and strumming more center of the sound hole, or even slightly forward to get more of the low end growl. I'm sure pickers have their good reasons for playing more behind the sound hole, but for strumming and especially on Taylors that really accentuates the brightness of the guitar.

[@cabinnette]

Hi Guys - I was in a dealer's shop when the (2010) 8-String arrived way back in the day, myself and the sales guys agreed it was a thing of beauty but way beyond our pocket at the time. A few years later, they were trying to make space for more of the Taylor range (not just one-offs) so managed to snaffle this one. Even bumped into U2's Edge at a CHIC gig in Dublin (2013) and ranted about the wonder of the baritone guitar, still have it years later, don't think I'll part with it ever, far too unique.

[@AndyDion]

I’d go for 8 string. Like the shimmer of the d and g strings

[@DJWRailroad]

This has nothing to do with the volume, definition, clarity, etc of the 8 over the 6, nonetheless Doc, you just bought the 6-string! (2:37). Seriously, if you can afford the experiment or, rather, if YOUR wife will LET you afford that experiment, try something different, opt for the 8-string for a change up. I don't believe I've seen, watched or heard an 8-string in blue grass so, looking at that from a spectator's view, that would be interesting, entertaining. Could be personal perception but, briefly, that 8-string seems to have better volume, slightly better sustain. It just seems to produce a better overall, fuller sound. You're a powerful enough player that the 8-string could stand out in blue grass performances. Either way, we know you'll update us here on "the Letter" and give us a demo (blue grass of course).

[@Mabel90666]

So, two questions: 1. What did he finally choose? 2. What was the wife’s reaction to the purchase? :)

[@startreker8591]

Israel Antonio I tune down my dreadnaught y use alternative tunings.my generally baritone voice should match.So I skip this but interesting to listen to their blah

[@lli5091]

Hi Quinton, you seldom talk that much. Obviously you are in pain. When I listen, the 8 string gives more colour in soloing. The 6 string is stately. I shall suggest you try to play with 6 string on the 8 string. If that is similar to the 6 string, buy the 8 string, then you have 2-in-1. Anyway, your call, Have fun.

[@stevenotice2918]

Baritones are cool. I looked at the Taylor 8 but couldn’t afford it. I got an Ibanez baritone instead and it doesn’t sound half as good as the Taylor. But still it’s good to have a baritone especially if you write and sing. You can practice or record in a lower key without the need to transpose. The 8 string is even cooler, but make sure you can also play it comfortably as a 6 string. I had a 12 when younger but the novelty eventually faded so i took off all the doubles and just played it as a 6 string.

[@irtjames14]

I have a 8 string custom baritone and love it! The double string in the two middle strings give it the little bit of the jingle sound that I really like!

[@jessekimes9540]

Have you tried removing the octave strings from the 8-string to get the best of both worlds?

[@irtjames14]

​@@jessekimes9540I have not, do you prefer without the two octaves?

[@spotmfd9431]

The 8 string baritone is much more unique. The 8 string would be more difficult for me to play but someone at your level it should offer something different.

[@ematt98]

Would it be possible to remove the 2 octave strings on the 8? You could take em off when you don’t need em

[@dingalsbe88]

For your type of picking, get the 6 string... the 8 string does have that cool factor though.....

[@toddbeeman5933]

I have a 6 string Baritone I got a few months ago. I've been obsessed with it ever since. I'm not a huge fan of the 8 string, but that's just my personal feeling. Some days it's difficult to show any of my other acoustics the love they deserve because they're "just" standard E. Haha. I'm excited for you, sir Quinton!

[@jancalhoun5087]

I own Taylor 316 E eight string. Like it very much. A concern I have is that the higher octive string is "above" the fourth " bass" string. You hit it with your thumb "first" when playing finger style, which takes away much of the bass sound. Not able to switch them because the string slots on nut are cut for string size.(I tried.) I contacted Taylor, they have no plans to change the string order like they did on their 12 string, or make a nut with different slot order.

[@davidglaser537]

Paul. You play well and I’ve watched you for a while in what you play and how you play. These are 2 lovely guitars that will make you really happy. I feel that you get a bigger kick in bouncing out of bluegrass to folk to blues. The 6 string to me sounds better with those styles of music. I’m not sure I find the 8-sting handles the blues as nicely as the 6. It gets a bit muffled mid way up the neck. The 8 sounds amazing in finger style folk and “new agey” triads you played. The 6 see,ms like a total winner. That said, if you have the best bluegrass guitar in the world - Martin D-28, why get another 6 string? Go big and different! In the end ask yourself what makes you the happiest when you play and that’s the one for you. Good luck! I happen to play a Martin D-28, and now have a new Taylor 614 ce. Damn,Taylor makes a fun playing guitar.! And they sound amazing!

[@TheShaneGuy]

If it was me I would get the six string. The change to Baritone opens up enough new sonic territory for me than always having the octave strings there. Unless you bought the 8 and sometimes opted to not string the octave strings all the time. I love baritones and would want something that felt familiar to my standard 6 strings but the baritone gave me more sonic room to explore. That’s why I would buy the 6 personally. I would find the 8 string too different for my style of play to have them there permanently which would stop me picking it up as much as I would if it was 6.

[@SilverTurtleZ28]

I think you'll be happier with the 6 string because of your playing style. If you were more chord or rhythm oriented, the 8 string would be the better choice. But bluegrass just isn't that type of music, especially when flat picking.

[@johnviolette5511]

Second comment, maybe you need to let the guitar direct your playing? Maybe the guitar is not in the element of pure blue grass? For sure in Irish style.

[@tomldove]

The 8-string. No contest. I don't care for the thin sound of Taylor guitars much. I play a custom Patrick Raymond Jumbo 12-string primarily and a Martin or PRS 6-string as secondaries in jams for folk, traditional and bluegrass music, so we're in the same genre -- though you're infinitely better than I. The baritone range makes up for much of the fullness that 6-string Taylors lack and the extra two strings on the top add the brilliance you need to make a high melody line stand out. Taylors do have very nice playable necks, so fingering is probably not an issue.

[@a.nonnamuss21]

Buy the 8 string. If you can have 8, why settle for 6? More is better.

[@6thwatergateplumber]

My personal preference is the six shooter. The 8 string thing is a play thing...goof around...it probably sounds great with Celtic music, and maybe DADGAD and a few other alternate tunings...I'd like to hear Tangled Up In Blue on that 8 string....to me it's like that Fender gimmicky thing they just introduced. It's got a place, but where who knows.

[@sundaystrummer]

Buy the 6 string that would be my choice👍

[@robertshamansky1912]

Nice playing! Did you buy one of them? I would go 6. I already have a 555 that I tune down. Both baritones sound great though.

[@LindaLooUK]

I think the 8 string adds an extra dimension that'll get the creative juices going a little more. I also prefer the sound of the 8 string as the 6 string sounds a bit dark and flat somehow.

[@giuliotoffano4763]

Go with the 8 and then you can always remove 2 strings if you feel so

[@jamesdykejr2980]

I really like the shimmer of the 8 string and wasn't aware Taylor made an 8 string baritone acoustic. Having not played that instrument I wonder about neck width? I use my baritone 6 strings to accommodate my vocal range on songs I write. As far as tone listening on a cell phone doesn't give me a real understanding of their capabilities. I like what I hear but would need real time experience to discriminate further.

[@TheAcousticLetter]

The nut width is 1 3/4"

[@stephenblyskal5666]

I played both of these at my store. I went with the six string version for two reasons. One, my fingers are long enough to handle the longer scale length but not strong enough to consistently hold down the extra strings. Two, I use a capo extensively with it and could not find one that would hold down all the eight strings. I finally got one of the new Taylor capos with a similar design to what you showed in your video. The curve of the clamping piece is matched with the neck curve of Taylor guitars. Voila I have a great capo that requires minimal retuning!

[@JurBols477]

Interesting question; what to play on a baritone? Both these Taylors sound great played by Quinton! In a bluegrass band it could be a more melodic bass-line, a bit away from the banjo rolls and banji guitar playing. However nice the doubled 3rd and 4th string sound for my they would interfere with the playability of the total instrument. So unless you really know what you are going to do with the 8 string version, I would stick to a 6-string. If you like the Bose S1... I can recommend my personal setup: a Headrush Looperboard and the frfr108. The Looperboard gives a wide variety of sounds and effects for all types of instruments and even voice and the bass response of the 108 is amazing.

[@evansmith7359]

In 2012, I bought the Taylor 6-string Baritone (Spruce top with Rosewood back and sides) before it was discontinued. For my context and background, my Baritone has given me the versatility that I've needed from it. There certainly has been no shortage of inspiration from it and I strongly believe that every guitar player should have a Baritone acoustic in their arsenal. My application is worship band (drums, EG, BG, and keys, but also acoustic sets), and while I knew the 8-string would work in that setting, I have felt more comfortable with the 6. I know I'm at the mercy of whoever mixes the band, so I go with what I like to hear when unplugged. Also, when songs are done in band to suit the lead vocalists' ranges and the songs are done in the key of E or F, I can capo it at the 2nd or 3rd fret and use my comfortable G-shapes (it also gives it that drop-tuned feel). I also have two Shubb cut capos (one for 3 strings and the other for 5 strings) to give my guitar that drop tuned feel without having to adjust my standard tuned acoustics. I have also found that the 6-string plays better with other acoustics and I've recorded it with two other standard tuned acoustics (one at capo-4 and the other open) creating a rich sonic pallette. The 8-string takes up more sonic space so I would assume it would have more limitation with other acoustic stringed instruments such as banjo and mandolin. I have no doubt that the 8-string would fit in very nicely with keys, EG, BG, and drums or as a standalone! This is just my two cents worth. But given your talent, I know you could make either work!!!

[@bvs5164]

My 326e has served me well.If playing with others is the priority go 6 string, if playing alone 8 string will inspire you more...get the 6 now and a 12 string Bari down the road. Good luck its a win win.

[@MINNAZONA]

Always love your playing. I would recommend the 8 string simply because you could play the 8 string for a period of time, then remove the two octave strings and enjoy the baritone 6 string experience. Much like having two guitars and only having to explain one guitar to your wife....

[@michaelkaicher9569]

Hello. Obviously, this is a couple years old, but I'm just beginning my exploration into baritone guitars and this was one my first thoughts. Do you personally have experience playing an 8-string with the two octave strings removed? It seems like the most practical way to go, but I'm concerned about any potentially different engineering and construction differences between the 6- and 8-string models. From the photos, it looks like the 6 primary strings on the 8-string model are equally spaced at the bridge and nut, but I haven't been able to confirm this. Also, I'm curious how the reduced tension without the extra 2 octave strings affects the tone. Do manufacturers just swap out the bridge, nut, and headstock on otherwise identical guitars? Is the bracing/internal construction identical? Are the dimensions of the neck the same? Thanks.

[@Factless_Wonder]

Also curious...

[@landonmatthew]

after listening to your jam session, i genuinely think the 8 works great for you. but you convinced me to buy the 6! i’ll probly go with the guild tho.

[@anthonyrighi9743]

Both sound amazing but the 8 string adds to the dynamic range of the baritone sound. If you play with other guitarists, I think it would be helpful to hear how each of them sounds in the mix of that ensemble. Just a thought.

[@CornyChalky]

For a similar instrument 8 strings baritone, but 5 times cheaper you could also check out the Alvarez ABT60CE-8SHB ... this would solve the wife issue

[@hamiltonmackenzie3340]

Furch Blue baritone - utterly exceptional guitar and cheaper xx

[@xxx-tj6cj]

How does it sound with normal strings?

[@supersqueegee3276]

8 string is just too much. 6 string for bluegrass-6 string for the win

[@stuartsullenbarger2471]

The 8 string sounds the best,,,most depth...in between a 12..

[@ericcross7863]

You don't pick a guitar..........the guitar picks you.

[@ElyasChange]

Struggling here too, that's a pickle and a half. I'd say the 8 is a nice gimmick but somehow i feel the 6 is a more solid option for long term, But in a sense u could always use the 8 as a 6. What's the difference in price? Great vidja btw like always 👌 What instrument does Paul play?

[@guitarzana688]

Wow let me know which one you buy and I might grab the other as both are great! Just don’t tell my husband and I will not rat you out to your wife. I liked the bluegrass licks with the 8 string. The jangle added sparkle. The more bluesy lines seemed a bit muddy with the 8 string. Good luck as this is a tough all!🤔

[@josephadambery6278]

The 8 is more complete sonically the extra strings expand the attraction to buy into ...connected and processed would am sure sound amazing...horses for courses but capoed both do the business as standard guitars....why do you want a lower reg that is the bugbear I guess

[@user-zk2mv8tw9e]

Dear Quinton! I don't think that a Baritone is the right machine for Bluegrass. Certainly not an 8string. I owned the Taylor 8string which is for sure an important experience, but made for strumming accompaniment for your singing if you don't have a tenor voice or even higher...But it's with certainty not a Bluegrass-guitar! LOL and like your videos!😚

[@ianwagnerunplugged]

I bought the 326ce-LTD 6 string a few months back. It is a creative instrument. Playing it is making me a better musician all the way around. One of my favorite things to do is capo the top 5 strings on the 2nd fret. Haven’t found the perfect capo for this, but am using a g7th brand 5-string capo in the meanwhile. This created a “drop-b” sound, and allows easy access to different voicings of some commonly used chords, like E, A, and B. Not ideal for playing in F... I still have much to discover. I’m sure you’ll enjoy either of them!

[@reverberating]

If the goal is to just play what you already play in a slightly lower register, then get the six string, but if the goal is to expand your horizons, get something truly different - get the 8 (it's also a better argument to make with your wife :-)

[@DoU12Rock]

I’ve been playing for a long time, I’ve also listened to your playing for a good amount of time. Contrary to what I have seen in the comments, I think you would me most happy with the six string. The eight string makes it a combo instrument. Go with the six I think it serves your playing style better.

[@johnviolette5511]

8 string. It’s just been mentioned but it’s worth repeating. Get the 8 string. If you need a 6 string, remove the 2 extra D G octave strings.

[@josephullman1526]

Probably the Guild 8 string...!

[@davesinsane]

If you got the 8 string, you could take off two strings and play it normally. The guitar is not different except you would have two unused tuning machines and bridge pins. But you essentially get more options with the 8 string. So for that, the 8 string is a bonus with no trade off

[@hyenik]

Definitely 8 string... because I have another three 6 string baritones already 🤘😎🤘 And you can take out 2 strings and you have 6 string = double win 👌

[@ReeceTatarka]

I have a Washburn baritone, and to me they really shine in alternate tunings like DADGAD and Open D. The drone you get in thoss tunings is only amplified more and because you're tuning down it just keeps getting deeper. They're great for finger picking, where individual notes have more room to shine. Chords can get a bit muddy though.

[@drovja]

So, what’s DADGAD on baritone? AEADEA? Like Yoko Ono singing the word idea?

[@jdstan9650]

6 string for sure...8 string had too much of a banjo sound/feel for me, unless that's what you're looking for.

[@trisailing1]

I owned a 12 string Gibson for a while and loved the sound of it strumming, but at that point in my playing, it was very difficult to get clean individual notes. YOu are clearly better than I was back then, but I think the 8 string, which sounds similar to the 12 string when strumming sounds a bit weird in individual play, as well as going out of tune when capoed. Go for the 6 string baritone.

[@DomTianoJr]

I personally prefer the 6-string. I love the sound of the 8-string, of course........but, 6-string for me all the way.

[@bsmetal]

@acoustic letter what capo is he referring to exactly?

[@Papayajoseph]

I loved your playing with that 8 string koa baritone. That was magical.

[@dennispurdy3533]

I don't see the point of buying the 6 string and capoing it up. i would get tje 8 string. It sounds good for a Taylor.

[@Diddithewerseck]

Dear Quinton, I would pefer the 8 String. It sounds kind of sublime but nevertheless down to earth. It blew me away.

[@briang768]

In my opinion, my ears prefer the six string, however, the octave strings sound fine and are not muddled on the single note runs.. My question, for you Quinton is how did they feel? You are usually quite vocal about a guitar's playability. My impression was that you looked as if you weren't playing very relaxed. Not a criticism, just my impression. Best of luck making your decision.

[@Sharakomusic]

Is this a gimmick guitar that will get old fast?

[@yogarich]

I prefer the 6 string. Better note clarity. I suspect it is also stylistically more versatile.

[@JAGProductionss]

Don't go with any Taylor. Go for that special Taylor that speaks to u, whether 6/8 strings

[@owenconnors9119]

6 string. finger picking and bar chords could really pose a challenge, especially during fast transitions. Plus, just seems more versatile.

[@charlesamery-behr3153]

Both the 6 & 8 strings have a standard 1 3/4" nut, so you could easily convert the 8 to a 6 with a new nut (and maybe saddle) if you ended up not liking it.

[@michaelhuebner2413]

On my Guild 8 string I think I could simply skip the two octave strings to make it a 6 string, as far a I can see the separation on the main strings is allmählichste same. Infill try next time I change strings

[@michaelkaicher9569]

@@michaelhuebner2413 Hello. I'm just beginning my exploration into baritones and I'm super curious whether this is possible/practical. Did you ever try this out? Is the spacing equal, and if not, did it interfere with normal play? I'm also wondering whether there are any significant construction differences between the 6- and 8-string models. Would the reduced tension alter the tone significantly, etc.? Appreciate any feedback!

[@michaelhuebner2413]

I recently restrung my 8 String Guild and left the octave strings off in the first place just to try it. It works nicely, no problem at all. But after 1 day I decided that I like the 8 String better, I was really missing the sound of the octave strings. Maybe I will do it again next time, I will see. Anyway with a little bit practice you can also skip the octave strings be doing an upstroke when picking. Another nice way to extend the tonal variety of this 🎸

[@mikebrooks2905]

The six string sounds cleaner to my ear.

[@A2an]

A difficult one, for strumming eight string for Finger pick six string, but it always sounds grate when Quinton plays 👍

[@dat7820]

They both sound great with your style of playing so I understand your dilemna. However, I would go with the 6 string. If you went with the 8 string, you'd likely always second guess your decision but not so if you went with the 6 string, because it sounds awesome and you'll be transfixed every time you play it. Like a 12 string, the 8 string is a bit of a novelty and you'd play it once in a while, when in the mood for that chime. I'd love to hear some drop tunings played on that 6 string baritone.

[@LexingtonDaniel]

I've had my 326 8-string for about 2 years playing it as a second instrument in a Celtic group (mando being my primary). For me, the 8 is awesome for chord/strumming work but doing melody/single lines across the board gets weird as you transition from single to course and back. It's less of a deal if you work up-down the neck sticking to either the paired or unpaired strings.

[@LexingtonDaniel]

I use the Kyser 12-string acoustic capo on mine and it works pretty well.