ESP LTD B208 8-String Electric Bass

Feature:
The wood and construction on this bass are lack luster. I thought since it was maple that it would hold up rather well. The thing is, there are eight large gauge strings on it, that puts alot of tension on the neck. It is very easy to get the neck underbowed.

Quality:
I think it is a great introduction into eight string basses. I think it would be a little odd taking it on stage since it does not have that great of quality. Though, I do not see any problem with it. It has a solid construction, but don't go crazy with it.

Desirability:
The novelty of an eight string bass is a great thing to show off. In particualr, if you can play it well. However, it's novelty also hurts the design. As far as I know, this is the only eight string bass ESP makes. Which means that not much attention was put into the design and aesthetic. However, wielding an eight string monster still has it's appeal.

Sound:
I can't really say much about the sound of the bass since my amp is not all that great in the first place. But I like the sound of having the two octaves played at once. I find that it is always nice to retune the strings to make interesting chords.

Ease of Use:
When I first recieved the bass the strings buzzed and rattled like crazy. I spent a good amount of time trying to take care of the problem by adujsting the height of the strings as well as the tension rod. After I was done, the strings stopped rattling but they ended up being to high off the frets. Honestly, it does not bother me. I jus have to press harder on the higher frets.