Looking for all kinds of information and sources about 8-string basses

[treevor23]

Hello fellow TalkBassists! I'm working on my senior year project, in which I build an 8-string (octave) bass and write about their history. I'm almost done with the build itself (about which I've already asked a few questions here) but I'm looking for some more sources about 8-string basses. Information about 8-strings and their history seems to be rarer than the actual instruments themselves, so I would really love any additional info or sources that you guys here might know about. Thank you in advance for your help, I appreciate it a lot.

And as always (?) don't forget to keep on BASSIN'

 

[Matt Liebenau]

These guys might have an insight or two.

https://www.talkbass.com/threads/the-official-8-string-octave-courses-bass-club.456609/

I'm guessing you're referring to a dual course bass. If you mean 8 individual strings ignore the link.

Edit: you did mention octave in the original post.

I believe the Hagstrom was the first kinda widely available commercial instrument. Used to good effect, if I recall correctly, on the recording to "All Along the Watchtower".

 

[Snert]

You might also find some helpful info here, as 12 strings are just 8s with an extra octave course.
12-String Bass Encyclopedia