ĒMI 8 // MASTER SERIES // LATTE [RELIC]

Most guitar brands tend to ignore the fact that an 8-string is not just a regular guitar with extra strings. They often take designs that work for standard guitars and simply scale them up, instead of rethinking what actually needs improvement.
Abasi Concepts not only addressed this issue but also took the next logical steps in guitar design. The result is a truly modern upgrade for guitars in 2025.

Here are some of the general improvements:

Tuners: At first glance, the tuners may seem small and might feel unusual if you’re used to traditional ones. However, they allow for more precise adjustments, making tuning more accurate overall.

Neck Access: The neck is set deeper into the body, which improves access—especially helpful with the extended range.

Armrest: The armrest is higher than on most guitars, which naturally lifts the neck when you rest your arm. This relieves pressure from your left thumb while playing.

Ergonomics: The guitar's shape promotes better posture—both seated and standing—making it more comfortable for longer playing sessions. It's also lightweight, which is a relief for your shoulders.

Multiscale & Fanned Frets: These provide optimal string tension and align better with your natural hand position as you move along the fretboard. The angled nut combined with the individual string saddles (a feature seen in Skervesen guitars), helps keep the string spacing tight, which compensates for the wider neck of an 8-string.

The oviform + - neck profile stays out of your way without feeling too thin. It supports full use of the extended range while maintaining a natural feel when switching between different guitars. Unlike Strandberg’s EndurNeck—which, while ergonomic and lightweight, can feel restrictive—this design offers flexibility without locking you into one particular feel.

Abasi Guitars are visual masterpieces, but photos don’t do them justice. Seeing one in person reveals how much thought went into the design. The tasteful relic treatment removes the fear of damaging a pristine finish.
Of course, you'll still handle the guitar with care—especially at first—but this finish helps you get past the worry of small dings or scratches.

The subtle visibility of the natural wood under the finish gives the design a more organic, earthy look. The modern body shape combined with the vintage-style treatment is a clever homage, blending contemporary features with the soul of traditional craftsmanship.

Shipping from the USA to Germany took just 4 business days. The guitar arrived safely in a well-padded gigbag (not a hard case), and was in perfect condition. I only had to make minor adjustments, and it even arrived nearly in tune—an impressive testament to both the build quality and the gigbag's protection.

I had originally ordered another Emi 8 in a different color. There was a small mix-up with the order, but the team handled it immediately. They offered alternative options, kept me informed about upcoming stock, and ultimately helped me get a guitar that’s even more beautiful than the one I originally chose.

Even though there was a hiccup, it turned out to be a "happy little accident". It's clear they genuinely care about their customers and making things right.

The only challenge I’ve encountered with this guitar so far is finding a suitable stand. Not only does the stand need to accommodate the guitar’s asymmetrical shape and wider neck (compared to a typical 6-string), but you also have to consider the materials it’s made from, due to the nitrocellulose finish. This type of finish is more sensitive than the polyurethane coatings commonly used on modern guitars. While it’s not as big of a hassle as some forums might make it seem, it’s still something you shouldn’t completely overlook.