Essential Information About the Schecter Hellraiser 8-String Guitar
- 8-string format with a long 28" / 711 mm scale length: ideal for low tunings with better bass response.
- Active EMG 808 pickups with dual coils: sharp attack, high output level, and remarkable precision in distortion.
- Modern comfort: glued-in Ultra Access neck for easy reach to all 24 frets, with carbon reinforcement.
- Premium look: flamed maple top (depending on finish), multi-ply abalone binding, and "gothic cross" inlays.
A Hellraiser Designed for Heavy Modern Sound
Introduced in 2006, the Hellraiser series has established itself as one of Schecter's flagship lines, combining meticulous craftsmanship with electronics tailored for demanding styles. This 8-string version retains the iconic aesthetic markers (abalone, glossy finishes, detailed inlays) while emphasizing playability and power, thanks to a glued-in neck with an Ultra Access profile and an active EMG setup.
Who Is It For, and What Styles?
The Schecter Hellraiser 8 is primarily aimed at intermediate to advanced guitarists who want to explore the extended range of an 8-string without sacrificing comfort. It excels in modern metal, djent, prog, death, hardcore, and broadly in any context where firm lows, clear definition, and excellent stability in low tunings are sought.
Sound Characteristics
The mahogany body provides a dense sonic foundation, with present mids and naturally generous sustain, perfect for heavy riffs and sustaining leads. The pair of EMG 808 pickups (active dual coils) enhances precision: tight lows, ultra-clear palm mutes, and distortion that remains defined even on the thickest strings. The Hipshot Hardtail through-body bridge reinforces tuning stability and attack, while the active EQ (via EMG electronics) maintains a punchy and consistent tone both on stage and in the studio.
Recommended Compatible Accessories
The guitar comes equipped with Ernie Ball .009/.012/.016/.026/.036/.046/.064/.080 strings: sticking to an 8-string set with equivalent gauge is an excellent starting point to maintain the tension balance of the 28" / 711 mm scale length. A SGR-1C case/bag is sold separately (optional).
Technical Specifications
Body
- Type: Electric guitar
- Number of strings: 8
- Wood: mahogany
- Top: flamed maple for Black Cherry finish
- Finish: Gloss Black (BLK) / Black Cherry (BCH)
Neck
- Type: glued-in with Ultra Access profile
- Wood: 3-piece mahogany with carbon reinforcement
- Shape: c-shaped
- Nut width: 54 mm / 2.125"
- Nut thickness: 20 mm / 0.787"
- Thickness at 12th fret: 22 mm / 0.866"
- Nut type: Graph Tech XL Black Tusq
Fingerboard
- Wood: rosewood
- Fingerboard radius: 406 mm / 16"
- Fret type: X-Jumbo
- Number of frets: 24
- Scale length: 28" / 711 mm
- Inlays: gothic crosses
Hardware
- Tuning machines brand: Schecter
- Tuning machines type: locking
- Bridge brand: Hipshot Hardtail (0.125")
- Bridge type: fixed, through-body strings
- Finish: Black Chrome
Electronics
- Pickup brand: EMG
- Pickup type: dual coil
- Pickup models: 808
- Selector switch: 3 positions
- Controls: 2 volumes / 1 tone
- Power supply: 9V battery slot
Miscellaneous
- Strings: Ernie Ball (0.009/0.012/0.016/0.026/0.036/0.046/0.064/0.080)
- Comes with case/bag: optional, SGR-1C sold separately