An Aggressive RG with Modern Metal DNA
Whether you're dialing in low-end chugs for a djent-heavy breakdown or soaring through extended-range solos, the Ibanez RGMS8 proves why the 8-string is a modern metal essential. This evolution of the iconic RG series delivers crushing tone and fluid playability, built for players who specialize in lower tunings and demand comfort, versatility, and serious sonic firepower. The RGMS8 features a multi-scale design that accommodates a wide range of string gauges, eliminating unwanted jangle and excessive tension. Its fast 5-piece Wizard III-8 maple/walnut neck offers a smooth playing experience, while Array 8 MS pickups and 5-way selector provide a broad tonal palette. From tight, gritty lows to shimmering highs, the RGMS8 delivers the clarity and punch to slice through any mix — its nyatoh body offers mahogany-like warmth, while a striking poplar burl top adds a bold, modern edge. With its ability to dish out technical metal riffs, crushing rhythms, and soaring lead lines, the RGMS8 is a high-gain powerhouse.
Multi-scale versatility
Ibanez has long been a cornerstone of the metal world, crafting guitars that Sweetwater’s shredders and low-end contingent rely on for their tonal range and unmistakable character. The RGMS8 pushes this legacy further into darker territory with a multi-scale design that extends to 27 inches on the low end while maintaining a familiar 25.5 inches on the high strings. This setup ensures proper tension for the lowest tunings without compromising playability or feel. Paired with a rock-solid Mono-rail bridge and a flexible 5-way pickup selector, the RGMS8 can handle deep, aggressive chugs while keeping upper-register lead work fluid and articulate.
RG style for modern players
The RGMS8's distinctive look stems from the iconic Ibanez RG shape, renowned worldwide for its sleek contours and comfortable feel. Introduced in 1987, the RG series marked a bold evolution of the classic S-style guitar and was quickly embraced by the rising rock and metal scenes. Its sharp lines and thin profile project an aggressive aesthetic, while the contoured top and belly cut enhance playing comfort. Building on its legacy, the RG body style charges into the modern metal arena with the extended-range, multi-scale versatility of the RGMS8 8-string.
A battery of tones
Offering an entry point to multi-scale extended-range guitars, the RGMS8 comes loaded with pickups built specifically for the task. The Array 8 MS passive pickups offer plenty of output across any gain setting — but their real strength lies in their slanted, scale-matched design. Each pickup aligns with the varied scale lengths of the strings, delivering consistent output and response. With a tight low end and growling aggression, they cut through without muddying up your tone, giving you all the darkness and punch you want while preserving clarity and intonation.
Ibanez RGMS8 Features:
- Striking multi-scale 8-string guitar equipped for lower tunings
- Popular RG body shape lends classic looks and comfort
- 27-in.– 25.5-in. scale maintains a balanced string tension with thicker gauges
- 5-piece maple/walnut Wizard III-8 neck offers time-tested playability
- Passive Array 8 MS high-output pickups are slanted for multi-scale tonal balance
- 5-way switch offers unique tonal selections, offering additional variety
- Mono-rail bridge and Ibanez tuners for rock-solid tuning stability
