The Swedish metal band Meshuggah is one of the most innovative representatives of the genre. Their guitarists Fredrik Thordendal and Marten Hagström are regarded as pioneers of the eight-string guitar, and with their "Djent" sound they have shaped a whole generation of guitarists. To create this characteristic sound, the two have always relied on models made by Ibanez.
The popular Ibanez All-Access Neck Joint (AANJ) provides easy access to the high positions of the fretboard.
Nitro Wizard-8 neck & Lundgren M8 pickup
The five-piece neck is made of maple and bubinga and is screwed to the body in the classic Ibanez AANJ style. In combination with the 29.4" scale, which allows the low strings to swing out cleanly, this construction contributes to the defined and precise sound of the M8M. The jatoba fretboard carries 24 jumbo frets and sidedots to mark the positions.
The pickup used is the Lundgren M8, which was developed especially for this model. Placed very close to the bridge, this powerful humbucker delivers an extremely defined and precise sound, even with highly distorting amplifiers, which prevents the low strings from sounding muddy. To control the sound, the Ibanez M80 features a volume and a tone control.
The fixed Ibanez FX Edge III-8 bridge of the Ibanez M80M.
Ibanez FX Edge III-8 Bridge
The Ibanez FX Edge III-8 bridge was inspired by the Ibanez Tremolo Systems and guarantees perfect tuning stability and intonation even during extreme drop tunings thanks to its double-locking construction. Its flat surface without corners and edges also provides a comfortable support surface for the right hand during palm mutes and similar playing techniques.
Another positive side effect of the Double-Locking construction is that the string ends are effectively prevented from swinging between the saddle and the tuners, which effectively prevents unwanted noise on extreme high gain settings.
Overview of the Ibanez Meshuggah M80M Weathered Black:
Meshuggah Signature 8-String Guitar
Ash Body
5-ply maple/walnut neck with KTS Titanium Reinforcement
Was very lucky to grab this guitar maybe a year or two after they've been discontinued, and lovingly snapped up (and kept) by anyone who were that way inclined.
Obviously the first thing to gravitate to is the heavier end of the spectrum with an amazingly playable 29" extended range and....well, 8 strings.
Of course its great at the Meshuggah low end stuff. the pickup is very clear and beautifully voiced... oddly a lot better than most pups that are made for high gain... if you have it through a crushed amp, it behaves very much (and is as maleable as) a Les Paul junior, with only a vol and tone.
The guitar looks like it shouldn't balance, but it does - really well. Its not a back breaker, but doesn't feel cheap. Hardware is simple but absolutely solid. My only neg is that you need to change the factory strings - which is not exactly a problem is it? I'm looking forward to many years with this guitar
Craftsmanship
Sound
Optic
Price/Performance
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