Tosin Abasi Guitar — Signature Models & the Gear They Play
Tosin Abasi is a guitarist and founding member of the progressive metal band Animals as Leaders, known for his virtuosic technical playing and innovative approach to extended-range guitars. He is widely regarded as a pioneer in modern progressive metal and djent, bringing complex polyrhythmic compositions and atmospheric soundscapes to the genre.
Known for: His revolutionary use of 8-string and 7-string guitars to create intricate, rhythmically complex progressive metal compositions. Abasi is celebrated for blending tapping, sweep picking, and unconventional tunings into fluid, musically expressive performances.
Gear played by Tosin Abasi
Both the Schecter Damien-8 Multiscale and Ibanez RGRB720 are built for extended-range playing with modern metal in mind, offering the stability and tonal clarity needed for the percussive, rhythmically demanding styles Abasi pioneered. These instruments suit players seeking to explore complex polyrhythms and extended tuning ranges with professional-grade hardware and playability.
Frequently asked questions
What guitars does Tosin Abasi play?
Abasi is known for playing extended-range guitars from Ibanez and Schecter, including 7-string and 8-string models that enable the complex tapping and rhythmic techniques central to his style.
What is a multiscale guitar and why would I want one?
A multiscale guitar features frets angled progressively to match string length, improving intonation and tension consistency across extended ranges. This design is ideal for players working with 8+ strings or dropped tunings who want clarity and playability.
Are 7-string and 8-string guitars difficult to learn?
Extended-range guitars require adjustment from standard 6-string playing, but modern instruments like the Ibanez RGRB720 and Schecter Damien-8 are designed with accessible fret access and balanced ergonomics to ease the transition for intermediate and advanced players.
What genre of music are these guitars best suited for?
These instruments excel in progressive metal, djent, and modern metal styles where extended ranges, percussive playing, and rhythmic complexity are central. They are also used in progressive rock and fusion contexts.