Is buying an 8 string bass dumb?

If you managed to break a GIO, you probably shouldn't be investing in more expensive instruments, because you'll break them too.

Joking aside, how the hell did you "break" the bass?

Also, muting a 8 string bass is hell, even if you have proper technique. Just stick to a 4 or 5 string for now.
 
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Long thread! I'm only chiming in because I've played the Galveston 7 string, which is the same bass with one less string. I would honestly not recommend it to anyone, least of all a beginner. The one I played had a questionable bridge, uneven string spacing, and a cheap-looking finish. It wasn't unplayable by any means, but the setup wasn't all that great either.

Like pretty much everyone's said, almost any beginning bass player would be best served by a four string. Maybe a five if you're playing modern country, church music or another style that regularly calls for notes below E. While you technically can play any four-string part on an eight, the extra mass of ERB necks can make certain things a little more cumbersome. Get it if you have specific goals think it will help you realize, but I'd advise getting a four or five as well if you want to play normal gigs. Take it from someone who owns a couple seven strings :)