R-458MN WH Fanfret : Great project 8

For the money, simply untouchable value. Arrives intonated, almost fully in-tune, nut properly curved, with a medium action (which I prefer because I have a heavy right hand). Now if you're buying this 8 as a first one (like I did) with the intention to swap things around/tinker (like I will be doing) then this is perfect, because there are a few things to tweak that will take this absolutely to the next level.

Frets are absolutely playable as is, but could use a polish which I will do when my new strings arrive. Pickups are passable at best, but given that's the most expensive investment to upgrade in the guitar they'll serve for the time being. Electronics are the cheap chinese sort, with the sort of 3 way switch that you find on squier guitars and things of that sort.

Now I'll say I think the strings are the biggest let-down on this guitar, which is comical given that they can be easily swapped out so it's not even that big of a deal. But a low .65 on that low F# (or F if you're playing Meshuggah covers) is incredibly floppy and almost unusable, as your fretting hand with any regular amount of pressure will absolutely drive the pitch sharp. I'm going to be putting an .80 on as soon as my strings arrive in the mail.

My one complaint about the guitar that isn't easily fixed is the location of the 3 way selector, I hate how the volume pot is between the bridge and the selector. I fumble over it every time, but I suppose I will get used to it.

The biggest drawback about ordering this guitar was the 3 month (yes, you read that right) ship time due to the pandemic shortage. I knew it would take a while, and I'm not mad about it. I just figure people should know it's taking that long. Overall, strong recommend. Once you put in the time and elbow grease I doubt any sub-$1500 8 string would be able to compete with this beauty.