AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 4-String Acoustic Basses for Professional 2026

The top pick is Cuntz Guitars CAB23 Bass M - 4-Saiter ($6,133). Ibanez AEGB24E Standard gives you the most for the money at $511. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 39 models across 14 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 22, 2026

39models in this chart
14brands
$447median price
8price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 4-String Acoustic Basses Showing: For Professional · clear

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Cuntz Guitars CAB23 Bass M - 4-Saiter

    Cuntz Guitars

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width42 mm (1.65")
    • Scale810 mm (31.89")
    • Frets24 frets
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This German-made bass uses solid ovangkol for a big, warm tone and a spruce top for clarity. The vintage bone nut helps strings slide smoothly, but you need a battery for the active pickup. It suits players who want rich, traditional bass sound with modern electronics.

    Pros

    • Solid ovangkol back and sides for deep bass response
    • Alpine spruce top with modified scalloped X-bracing
    • Vintage bone nut and saddle for smooth string glide

    Cons

    • Active pickup system requires external power source
    • No passive pickup option for battery-free playing
    39AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker26
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$6,133 now
    $6,133€5,459 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. Warwick Alien 4-string Natural Satin

    Warwick

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width38.5 mm (1.52")
    • Strings4-string
    • FingerboardWenge fingerboard
    • Weight3.2 kg

    This guitar uses a spruce top for punchy sound and Ovangkol for warmth. The Fishman pickup system helps you hear every note clearly. It suits players who want a bright, responsive instrument without needing a heavy case.

    Pros

    • Solid spruce top provides bright attack
    • Ovangkol back and sides offer warm resonance
    • Fishman Under Saddle gives clear low-end

    Cons

    • High fret height requires adjustment time
    • No detailed weight information provided
    42AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker61
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,684 now
    $1,684€1,499 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. Warwick Rockbass Alien Standard Fretless 4

    Alien Fretless 4 Natural Satin · Warwick

    3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width38.5 mm (1.52")
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard
    • Weight3.2 kg

    This Alien 4 FL NT is a seriously impressive acoustic-electric bass. The combination of spruce and ovangkol creates a rich, balanced tone, while the Fishman electronics make it stage-ready. It's perfect for acoustic players wanting a fretless option, or gigging musicians seeking a versatile, organic sound.

    Pros

    • Solid spruce top delivers a warm, resonant acoustic tone.
    • Tigerstripe ebony fingerboard provides exceptional fretless feel and clarity.
    • Fishman electronics offer a remarkably natural amplified sound and tonal shaping.

    Cons

    • The 32in scale might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
    • The weight, while typical for an acoustic bass, could be fatiguing in extended play.
    40AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand32
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker61
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,684 now
    $1,684€1,499 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. Taylor GS Mini-e Koa Plus

    GS Mini-e Koa Bass · Taylor

    67 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand97
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker42
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,121 now
    $1,121€998 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Taylor GS Mini-e Special Edition

    GS Mini-e Bass · Taylor

    77 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker42
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,066 now
    $1,066€949 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Martin Guitar 000C Jr E Bass New

    Martin Guitar

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
    • Scale632.5 mm (24.9")
    • Frets20 frets
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This 000C Jr E Bass is a fantastic choice for gigging musicians needing a compact, amplified bass with Martin quality. The smaller body is comfortable for smaller players, while the E-1 pickup system delivers a surprisingly articulate and powerful tone – perfect for folk, blues, and even some lighter rock applications. It’s a well-built, versatile instrument at a premium price.

    Pros

    • Sapele back & sides deliver a warm, resonant low-end foundation.
    • Spruce top provides excellent projection and a bright, responsive character.
    • Martin E-1 pickup system offers a surprisingly natural amplified tone.

    Cons

    • Shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to standard basses.
    • Sapele can be a bit 'woody' sounding initially; requires some break-in.
    40AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker42
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,235 now
    $1,235€1,099 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. Martin Guitar 000C Jr E Bass Burst New

    Martin Guitar

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
    • Scale632.5 mm (24.9")
    • Frets20 frets
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This 000C Jr E Bass Burst is a fantastic option for gigging bassists needing a compact, amplified instrument. The smaller body is comfortable for smaller players or travel, while the Martin build quality and E-1 pickup system ensure a professional sound and feel—perfect for folk, blues, and Americana styles.

    Pros

    • Sapele back/sides offer a warm, focused low-end response.
    • Spruce top provides clarity and projection for articulate playing.
    • Ebony fingerboard delivers smooth, fast action and note definition.

    Cons

    • Shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to full-size basses.
    • Burst finish can be a matter of personal aesthetic preference.
    40AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker42
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,178 now
    $1,178€1,049 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Ibanez AEGB24E Standard

    AEGB24FE-MHS Fretless · Ibanez

    41 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width43 mm (1.69")
    • Scale815 mm (32.09")
    • FingerboardWalnut fingerboard

    This Ibanez AEGB24FE-MHS is a surprisingly capable and affordable fretless acoustic bass. It’s a great option for gigging musicians or students looking for a versatile, stage-ready instrument with a warm, mellow tone that lends itself well to fingerstyle and mellow genres. The build quality is solid for the price point and provides a surprisingly comfortable playing experience.

    Pros

    • Sapele construction delivers a warm, resonant acoustic tone.
    • Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth, fretless experience with good note definition.
    • Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp provides reliable amplification and a convenient tuner.

    Cons

    • The plastic nut can be a point of friction and may benefit from an upgrade later.
    • Sapele top, while warm, lacks the projection of a spruce top for louder acoustic gigs.
    73AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand86
    • Lineup67
    • Price56
    • Specs50
    • Maker91
    ↓ 2.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $522 · Aug 17$511 now
    $511€455 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. Ibanez AEGB25E

    AEGB25E-TKH · Ibanez

    13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand61
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs83
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$537 now
    $537€478 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. Warwick Rockbass Alien Deluxe Hybrid Thinline 4

    Alien Deluxe Hybrid 4 NTS · Warwick

    9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width38.5 mm (1.52")
    • FingerboardWenge fingerboard
    • Weight3.1 kg

    This hybrid bass mixes spruce top warmth with dark wenge fingerboard tones. The titanium frets stay smooth longer than steel, while the laminated wood resists warping. It suits players who want a unique, dark sound without sacrificing modern playability.

    Pros

    • Titanium brass alloy frets offer smooth playing and long life.
    • Wenge fingerboard provides a rich, warm, and dark tonal character.
    • Hybrid Shadow pickups blend magnetic and piezo signals for clear tone.

    Cons

    • 20-inch fingerboard radius is steeper than standard flats for some players.
    • No detailed specifications are given for the Shadow preamp electronics.
    49AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand53
    • Lineup33
    • Price53
    • Specs50
    • Maker61
    ↓ 1.1%since Aug 17
    $1,010 · Aug 17$999 now
    $999€889 at Thomann · in stock
    Check 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.

  1. 11
    Guild Westerly Collection Jumbo Junior MahoganyJumbo Junior Bass Westerly · Guild
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$628€559
    $628€559Check ↗
  2. 12
    Guild Westerly Collection B-240E NaturalB-240E Acoustic Bass · Guild
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$617€549
    $617€549Check ↗
  3. 13
    Gold Tone M-Bass25 Micro 25" Scale Acoustic/Electric Bass NaturalMicro Bass 25 w/Bag · Gold Tone
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$538€479
    $538€479Check ↗
  4. 14
    Fender Kingman Bass SEB WNFender
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$656€584
    $656€584Check ↗
  5. 15
    Fender CA DLX Kingman Bass CE NATFender · 3 finishes
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$504€449
    $504€449Check ↗
  6. 16
    Ortega STRIPEDSU.ACBOrtega
    Index 40Stable
    40
    Stable$759€676
    $759€676Check ↗
  7. 17
    Warwick RB Alien 4 Dlx TL Hybrid SBBWarwick
    Index 40Stable
    40
    Stable$1,010€899
    $1,010€899Check ↗
  8. 18
    Ibanez AEGB30E StandardAEGB30E-NTG · Ibanez
    Index 58Stable
    58
    Stable$415€369
    $415€369Check ↗
  9. 19
    Ovation Elite B778TX-5-GOvation
    Index 39↓ 3.2%
    39
    ↓ 3.2%$1,032€919
    $1,032€919Check ↗
  10. 20
    Ortega KTSM2-4 Ken Taylor SignatureOrtega
    Index 37Stable
    37
    Stable$763€679
    $763€679Check ↗
  11. 21
    Ibanez AEGB420-BOTIbanez
    Index 53↓ 18.8%
    53
    ↓ 18.8%$437€389
    $437€389Check ↗
  12. 22
    Takamine GB30CE-N2 NaturalTakamine
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$606€539
    $606€539Check ↗
  13. 23
    Guild Westerly Collection B-140E NaturalB-140E Nat Westerly · Guild
    Index 33Stable
    33
    Stable$999€889
    $999€889Check ↗
  14. 24
    Ibanez PCBE14MH PerformancePCBE14MH-WK · Ibanez
    Index 57↓ 1.0%
    57
    ↓ 1.0%$321€286
    $321€286Check ↗
  15. 25
    Ovation Celebrity Elite CEB44X-7C-GOvation
    Index 35Stable
    35
    Stable$538€479
    $538€479Check ↗
  16. 26
    Gold Tone Micro Bass 23 w/BagGold Tone
    Index 38Stable
    38
    Stable$499€444
    $499€444Check ↗
  17. 27
    Fender CB-60SCE A-Bass Natural w/BagFender · 3 finishes
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$331€295
    $331€295Check ↗
  18. 28
    Ibanez AEB8E StandardAEB8E-BK · Ibanez
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$352€313
    $352€313Check ↗
  19. 29
    Ortega D7E-SBK-4Ortega
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  20. 30
    Ortega D7CE-4Ortega
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  21. 31
    Cordoba Mini II MH ClassicalMini II Bass MH-E · Cordoba
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$288€256
    $288€256Check ↗
  22. 32
    Ibanez PCBE12MH-OPNIbanez
    Index 41↓ 1.4%
    41
    ↓ 1.4%$313€279
    $313€279Check ↗
  23. 33
    Applause Elite AEB4-7SApplause
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$344€306
    $344€306Check ↗
  24. 34
    Harley Benton B-30NT Acoustic Bass SeriesHarley Benton · 7 finishes
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$167€149
    $167€149Check ↗
  25. 35
    Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass SpruceHarley Benton · 2 finishes
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$190€169
    $190€169Check ↗
  26. 36
    Harley Benton CLB-70SRE Mini SBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$257€229
    $257€229Check ↗
  27. 37
    Ibanez PNB14E-OPN Acoustic BassIbanez
    Index 41↓ 2.0%
    41
    ↓ 2.0%$277€247
    $277€247Check ↗
  28. 38
    Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Spruce SetHarley Benton
    Index 31Stable
    31
    Stable$224€199
    $224€199Check ↗
  29. 39
    Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Mahoga SetHarley Benton
    Index 31Stable
    31
    Stable$235€209
    $235€209Check ↗

4-String Acoustic Basses by the numbers

Measured across all 53 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $447 — half of all 4-String acoustic basses here cost less.

6
18
16
10
2
1
<$200$200–400$400–750$750–1.5k$1.5k–3k$3k+
Nut width43 mm (1.69")

median of 51 models · 38.1 mm (1.5")–46 mm (1.81")

Scale812 mm (31.97")

median of 47 models · 597 mm (23.5")–864 mm (34.02")

Frets21

median of 37 models · 19–23

Bodymahogany, sapele

most common · 8 models

How to choose the best 4-String acoustic basses

Playability (Neck Profile & Action)

A thick, unwieldy neck profile will kill your speed and dexterity. Professionals need a neck that feels comfortable and allows for effortless legato runs. Action needs to be low enough for comfortable playing without excessive fret buzz, especially when dealing with the inherent resonance of an acoustic.

Tonewood & Construction

Spruce tops are common, but the back and sides (mahogany, rosewood, ovangkol) drastically affect the tonal character. Solid wood construction is a must for resonance and sustain - laminates sound lifeless and often lack that crucial low-end thump. The bracing pattern also plays a huge role in how the instrument vibrates.

Pickup Voicing (If Equipped)

Many acoustic basses have pickups, and the voicing can range from bright and brittle to muddy and indistinct. A good pickup should enhance the natural acoustic tone, not mask it. Consider how it handles both fingerstyle and pick playing - a harsh breakup with a pick is a deal-breaker.

Sustain & Projection

Acoustic basses need to project. A well-built instrument with quality tonewoods will resonate longer and carry better, cutting through a band mix or filling a recording space. Poor construction will result in a dampened, lifeless sound that struggles to be heard.

Intonation & Tuning Stability

It's a bass. It needs to stay in tune, especially when you're bending strings or playing with aggressive dynamics. Inferior hardware and construction can lead to tuning instability, which is a nightmare in a live setting or during critical recording takes.

Buying guide

Let's be honest, most acoustic basses feel like a compromise. You're not plugging into a massive rig, so you need something that delivers a usable, articulate voice unamped, and responds well when you do decide to mic it up. This isn't about campfire singalongs; we're talking about tracking, gigging, and laying down a solid foundation for a band - so here's what you need to know about 4-string acoustic basses that actually hold up to professional scrutiny.

Don't fall for looks alone. Acoustic basses are inherently compromised - you're getting a bass guitar designed to be played acoustically, which means there's always a trade-off. Budget instruments often skimp on solid wood, leading to a dull, lifeless tone.

Pay attention to the neck profile; a comfortable neck is worth more than fancy inlays. And if you plan on micing it up, research the pickup voicing - a bad pickup can ruin an otherwise good instrument.

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

Are acoustic basses as versatile as electric basses?

No. They're best suited for folk, Americana, country, and unplugged settings. While you can mic them up, they generally lack the headroom and aggressive tone of an electric bass. Expect a more nuanced, organic sound.

What's the difference between a dreadnought and a grand auditorium acoustic bass?

Dreadnoughts are generally louder and have more low-end thump, good for cutting through a band. Grand auditoriums are more balanced tonally and offer better articulation for fingerstyle playing and recording.

Can I use an acoustic bass for recording without a microphone?

You can, but the pickup quality is often the limiting factor. Expect a quieter, more mellow sound than a miked signal. A good preamp can help, but it won't magically transform a mediocre pickup.

What should I look for in the neck profile?

It's subjective, but try before you buy. A 'C' shape is generally considered comfortable for most players, but a 'D' or 'V' shape might suit your hand better. Consider the neck width and string spacing too, especially if you're a fingerstyle player.

Are higher-end acoustic basses really worth the price?

Generally, yes. You're paying for better tonewoods, superior construction, and more attention to detail - all of which translate to a better playing experience and a more pleasing sound. The difference between a $500 bass and a $1500 bass is noticeable, especially in a live or recording scenario.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 39Cuntz Guitars CAB23 Bass M - 4-Saiter · $6,133€5,459
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗

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