AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String Acoustic Basses 2026
The top pick is Ibanez AEGB24E Standard ($447). Harley Benton B-30NT Acoustic Bass Series gives you the most for the money at $167. Taylor GS Mini-e Koa Plus leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 39 models across 14 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
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All 4-String Acoustic BassesTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale815 mm (32.09")
- Frets21 frets
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
The AEGB24E-MHS is a surprisingly capable acoustic bass, especially for the money. Its sapele construction delivers a pleasing warmth, and the built-in preamp makes it stage-ready. It's an excellent choice for gigging musicians or beginners who want a full-bodied acoustic bass tone without a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Sapele top offers a warm, resonant acoustic tone.
- Nyatoh/Maple neck provides a stable, comfortable playing feel.
- AEQ-2T preamp offers convenient tuning and basic EQ control.
Cons
- Saddle material limits high-end clarity and sustain.
- Sapele back/sides can sound a bit boxy compared to mahogany.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$447 now$447€398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale597 mm (23.5")
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
The GS Mini-e Bass is a surprisingly capable little instrument. Its torrefied spruce top gives it a warmer, more mature acoustic voice than you’d expect from a smaller bass. This is perfect for gigging musicians needing portability, or students wanting a manageable, well-built acoustic bass with amplified options.
Pros
- Solid torrefied spruce top delivers warm, mature acoustic tone.
- Sapele back & sides provide excellent projection and sustain.
- Mahogany neck offers comfortable playability and stability.
Cons
- Scale length limits low-end extension compared to full-size basses.
- Sapele back/sides can feel slightly less resonant than rosewood.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,066 now$1,066€949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale597 mm (23.5")
- Frets20 frets
This GS Mini-e Koa Bass is a seriously cool little instrument. It's perfect for gigging musicians who need something portable or for beginners wanting a premium acoustic bass feel. The Koa's sweet tone combined with the ES-B pickup makes it surprisingly versatile for a bass of this size.
Pros
- Solid koa top delivers a warm, articulate, and focused acoustic tone.
- Maple neck provides excellent stability and a comfortable playing feel.
- ES-B pickup system offers a surprisingly clean and usable amplified sound.
Cons
- Koa's inherent brightness may require EQ for certain playing styles.
- Shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to full-size basses.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,121 now$1,121€998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale815 mm (32.09")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardJatoba fingerboard
This Harley Benton B-30NT is a genuinely impressive offering for the price. It's a big, resonant acoustic bass that's surprisingly versatile thanks to the onboard pickup system. Ideal for singer-songwriters, campfire jams, or anyone wanting an affordable acoustic bass with amplified options.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a surprisingly bright and articulate acoustic tone.
- Mahogany back and sides contribute to a warm, resonant low-end presence.
- Built-in pickup system offers amplified versatility for gigs and recording.
Cons
- Factory strings are basic and will likely need upgrading for optimal tone.
- Super jumbo body can be unwieldy for smaller players or travel.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$167 now$167€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale812 mm (31.97")
- Frets21 frets
- BodySapele body
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
The AEGB25E-TKH is a solid, affordable acoustic bass perfect for gigging musicians or studio players needing a versatile, stage-ready instrument. Its comfortable neck and built-in preamp make it easy to dial in a good sound, and the Sapele/Spruce construction provides a pleasing, full tone. This is a great option for folk, country, or Americana players who want a bass with acoustic character.
Pros
- Sapele/Spruce combo delivers warm, resonant acoustic tones.
- Ibanez AEQ-2T preamp provides convenient onboard tuning and EQ.
- Bolt-on Nyatoh neck offers comfortable playability and stability.
Cons
- Sapele body can be a bit dense, resulting in a heavier instrument.
- Undersaddle pickup system can sound somewhat 'quacky' at higher volumes.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$537 now$537€478 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale815 mm (32.09")
- Frets21 frets
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
This acoustic bass uses spruce and sapele for a warm, punchy sound that stands up in a band. The cutaway shape makes reaching high frets easy, while the built-in tuner keeps you in tune. It suits players who want a solid, natural tone without extra gear or complex settings.
Pros
- Solid spruce top provides a bright, responsive attack for fingerstyle playing.
- Sapele back and sides offer rich, warm resonance without heavy bulk.
- Ibanez undersaddle pickup delivers clear, balanced output with minimal feedback.
Cons
- Plastic nut and saddle limit sustain compared to metal alternatives.
- Single preamp channel lacks EQ controls for custom tone shaping.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 21Oct 21$415 now$415€369 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale810 mm (31.89")
- Frets20 frets
The PCBE14MH-WK is a surprisingly capable acoustic-electric bass that hits a sweet spot for gigging musicians needing a versatile, affordable stage-ready instrument. The build quality is solid for the price, and that weathered black finish looks great. It’s perfect for singer-songwriters, folk artists, or anyone wanting a warm, full acoustic bass tone without the bulk of a traditional upright.
Pros
- Okoume top and back deliver a warm, resonant acoustic tone.
- Ibanez AEQ-2t preamp offers convenient tuning and stage-ready amplification.
- Maple neck provides stability and a comfortable, familiar playing feel.
Cons
- Okoume, while pleasant, lacks the premium tonal complexity of mahogany or rosewood.
- Undersaddle pickups can sound slightly 'quacky' – EQ adjustments are key.
57AudioFu
Index↓ 1.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$325 · Aug 17$321 now$321€286 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale597 mm (23.5")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This little GS-Travel-E is a surprisingly capable acoustic bass, perfect for songwriters, travel, or smaller spaces. The spruce top gives it a sweet, articulate tone, while the built-in preamp makes it stage-ready. It’s a really clever and affordable option if you need a bass that’s portable and versatile.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers surprising warmth and projection for its size.
- Okoume neck provides a comfortable, stable platform for playing.
- Bone nut and saddle contribute to improved sustain and clarity.
Cons
- Mahogany body can sound a little boxy compared to larger acoustic basses.
- Travel-size limits low-end extension; lacks serious sub-bass response.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$190 now$190€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale815 mm (32.09")
- Frets21 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass feels solid with a spruce top that cuts through any mix. The Sapele wood adds warmth while the built-in tuner makes tuning quick and easy. It suits players who want a warm tone without needing external electronics.
Pros
- Solid spruce top for bright, punchy low-end response
- Sapele back and sides offer rich, warm harmonic depth
- Ibanez undersaddle pickup ensures consistent output volume
Cons
- Plastic nut and saddle may lack sustain compared to metal
- 32.1 inch scale length is longer than standard 32 inch
53AudioFu
Index↓ 18.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$538 · Aug 17$437 now$437€389 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale762 mm (30")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
This bass packs a warm, punchy voice thanks to its solid mahogany top and full mahogany body. The slim C neck makes it easy to play, while the built-in tuner and Micarta nut add practical value. It's a straightforward choice for players who want a reliable, budget-friendly option without complex electronics.
Pros
- Solid mahogany top drives strong, warm low-end response.
- Slim C neck profile plays comfortably for smaller hands.
- Fishman CD-1 pickup handles plucking and fretting cleanly.
Cons
- Mahogany body lacks the resonance of spruce or cedar tops.
- Single-ply tortoise pickguard offers less protection than modern options.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$504 now$504€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 39 4-String acoustic basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Gold Tone M-Bass25 Micro 25" Scale Acoustic/Electric Bass NaturalMicro Bass 25 w/Bag · Gold Tone53Stable$538€479$538€479Check ↗
- 12
Fender CB-60SCE A-Bass Black 2018Fender · 3 finishes51↓ 6.7%$282€251$282€251Check ↗
- 13
Warwick Rockbass Alien Deluxe Hybrid Thinline 4Alien Deluxe Hybrid 4 NTS · Warwick49↓ 1.1%$999€889$999€889Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton CLB-70SRE Mini SBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$257€229$257€229Check ↗
- 15
Guild Westerly Collection B-240E NaturalB-240E Acoustic Bass · Guild47Stable$617€549$617€549Check ↗
- 16
Guild Westerly Collection Jumbo Junior MahoganyJumbo Junior Bass Westerly · Guild47Stable$628€559$628€559Check ↗
- 17
Cordoba Mini II MH ClassicalMini II Bass MH-E · Cordoba45Stable$288€256$288€256Check ↗
- 18
Fender Kingman Bass SEB WNFender44Stable$656€584$656€584Check ↗
- 19
Ortega D7E-SBK-4Ortega42Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 20
Ortega D7CE-4Ortega42Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 21
Warwick Alien 4-string Natural SatinWarwick42Stable$1,684€1,499$1,684€1,499Check ↗
- 22
Ibanez PNB14E-OPN Acoustic BassIbanez41↓ 2.0%$277€247$277€247Check ↗
- 23
Ibanez PCBE12MH-OPNIbanez41↓ 1.4%$313€279$313€279Check ↗
- 24
Ibanez AEB8E StandardAEB8E-BK · Ibanez41Stable$352€313$352€313Check ↗
- 25
Ortega STRIPEDSU.ACBOrtega40Stable$759€676$759€676Check ↗
- 26
Warwick RB Alien 4 Dlx TL Hybrid SBBWarwick40Stable$1,010€899$1,010€899Check ↗
- 27
Martin Guitar 000C Jr E Bass Burst NewMartin Guitar40Stable$1,178€1,049$1,178€1,049Check ↗
- 28
Martin Guitar 000C Jr E Bass NewMartin Guitar40Stable$1,235€1,099$1,235€1,099Check ↗
- 29
Warwick Rockbass Alien Standard Fretless 4Alien Fretless 4 Natural Satin · Warwick40Stable$1,684€1,499$1,684€1,499Check ↗
- 30
Ovation Elite B778TX-5-GOvation39↓ 3.2%$1,032€919$1,032€919Check ↗
- 31
Cuntz Guitars CAB23 Bass M - 4-SaiterCuntz Guitars39Stable$6,133€5,459$6,133€5,459Check ↗
- 32
Gold Tone Micro Bass 23 w/BagGold Tone38Stable$499€444$499€444Check ↗
- 33
Ortega KTSM2-4 Ken Taylor SignatureOrtega37Stable$763€679$763€679Check ↗
- 34
Applause Elite AEB4-7SApplause36Stable$344€306$344€306Check ↗
- 35
Takamine GB30CE-N2 NaturalTakamine36Stable$606€539$606€539Check ↗
- 36
Ovation Celebrity Elite CEB44X-7C-GOvation35Stable$538€479$538€479Check ↗
- 37
Guild Westerly Collection B-140E NaturalB-140E Nat Westerly · Guild33Stable$999€889$999€889Check ↗
- 38
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Spruce SetHarley Benton31Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 39
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Mahoga SetHarley Benton31Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
4-String Acoustic Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 53 models we track, not a sample.
Median $447 — half of all 4-String acoustic basses here cost less.
median of 51 models · 38.1 mm (1.5")–46 mm (1.81")
median of 47 models · 597 mm (23.5")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 37 models · 19–23
most common · 8 models
How to choose the best 4-String acoustic basses
Tonewood
Spruce tops are common for brightness and articulation, mahogany for a warmer, woodier tone, and maple for a punchier, more focused sound. It's not just about the wood itself, but how it's braced - that's what really shapes the bass's resonance and headroom.
Bracing Pattern
X-bracing is generally stiffer and more responsive, good for aggressive playing. Scalloped bracing offers more warmth and sustain, but can be a little less defined in a mix. The bracing is the single biggest factor affecting acoustic volume and tone.
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is non-negotiable. Whether you prefer a slim C, a chunkier D, or something in between, make sure it fits your hand. Action (string height) matters too - too high, and it's a fight to play; too low, and you'll get fret buzz. This is where setup really matters.
Pickup Voicing (if applicable)
Many acoustic basses now come with pickups. Some are voiced to be as transparent as possible, aiming to capture the natural acoustic tone. Others have a more processed sound, often emphasizing the midrange for cut and clarity - which can be great for cutting through a band but less ideal for pure acoustic reproduction.
Scale Length & String Spacing
Standard bass scale (34") is common, but shorter scales (30.5" or 32") can be easier to handle, especially for smaller hands. Wider string spacing can make fingerstyle playing more comfortable, while narrower spacing can speed up your playing.
Buying guide
So you're thinking about an acoustic bass? Killer move. It's not just about campfire singalongs; a good acoustic bass can cut through a folk band, add some serious thump to a bluegrass ensemble, or even be surprisingly versatile in a studio setting. But getting the right one takes more than just picking a pretty woodgrain - we're talking about projection, tonal balance, and playability that actually holds up under gigging conditions.
Don't fall for the prettiest top. Pay attention to the bracing pattern - it's the soul of the acoustic bass. Cheaper models often skimp on bracing or use lower-grade wood, which means less volume and a muddy low end.
A good setup is absolutely essential; even a great bass will sound and feel terrible without it. Ultimately, the best acoustic bass is the one that feels right in your hands and delivers the tone you need for your music.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 53 4-String acoustic basses from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Can I amplify an acoustic bass?
Absolutely. Many come with built-in pickups, and even those without can be equipped. Just be aware that pickups will always color the sound to some extent - you're trading some of that natural acoustic character for stage volume.
Are acoustic basses harder to play than electric basses?
It depends. The thicker strings and often higher action can take some getting used to, but a well-setup acoustic bass can be just as comfortable as an electric. It's about finding one with a neck profile you like.
What kind of strings should I use?
Generally, roundwound strings will give you more brightness and projection, while flatwound strings will offer a smoother, more mellow tone. Experiment to see what you prefer - there's no right answer.
Are shorter scale acoustic basses any good?
They can be! Shorter scales are easier to play, especially for beginners or those with smaller hands. The trade-off is slightly less low-end thump and potentially a bit less sustain, but a well-built short scale bass can still be fantastic.
How important is the finish?
The finish primarily affects the bass's aesthetics and how it ages. A thicker finish will protect the wood better, but it can also dampen the resonance slightly. A thinner, more open finish allows the wood to breathe, but requires more care.





