How to Tune to 8-String Standard (F# Standard)
The standard eight-string guitar tuning (F#-B-E-A-D-G-B-E): a normal six-string set with two extra low strings, B and a subterranean F#, added beneath. It keeps every familiar chord shape on the top six strings while unlocking crushingly low riffs on the bottom two. It is the backbone of modern djent and progressive metal from Meshuggah to Periphery to Deftones.
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | F#1 | 46.25 Hz |
| String 5 | B1 | 61.74 Hz |
| String 4 | E2 | 82.41 Hz |
| String 3 | A2 | 110.00 Hz |
| String 2 | D3 | 146.83 Hz |
| String 1 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| String 0 | B3 | 246.94 Hz |
| String -1 | E4 | 329.63 Hz |
Fun Fact
Eight-string guitars were popularized in metal largely by Meshuggah's search for ever-lower, tighter riffs. The low F# sits roughly a tritone below a standard low E — low enough that guitar and bass ranges overlap, which is why eight-string metal often has such a dense, unified low-end wall.
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:An eight-string set with a very heavy 8th string (.070-.090) on a long multiscale/fanned-fret or 27"+ baritone guitar is strongly recommended so the low F# stays tight and articulate rather than floppy.
8-String Standard (F# Standard)Intermediate
F# - B - E - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
8-String Standard (F# Standard)Intermediate
F# - B - E - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
8-String Standard (F# Standard)Intermediate
F# - B - E - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
8-String Standard (F# Standard)Intermediate
F# - B - E - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is standard 8-string guitar tuning?
Standard eight-string tuning is F#-B-E-A-D-G-B-E, low to high. It adds a low B and an even lower F# below the standard six-string EADGBE, so all your normal shapes still work on the top six strings.
How do I tune an 8-string to standard?
Tune the top six strings as normal (E-A-D-G-B-E), then add B below the low E and F# below that. Use very heavy low strings and the tuner above to reach the deep B1 and F#1 targets.
Who uses 8-string standard tuning?
Meshuggah, Periphery, Deftones (Stephen Carpenter) and many progressive metal and djent players use eight-string guitars in this tuning for their extended low range.
What are the frequencies for 8-string standard?
F#1 = 46.25 Hz, B1 = 61.74 Hz, E2 = 82.41 Hz, A2 = 110.00 Hz, D3 = 146.83 Hz, G3 = 196.00 Hz, B3 = 246.94 Hz, E4 = 329.63 Hz.