AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String Acoustic Basses Under $500 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. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 18 models across 7 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
Top 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 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")
- 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 GS-Travel-E is a neat little package, perfect for students, gigging musicians needing a backup, or anyone wanting a portable acoustic bass with amplified options. The mahogany gives it a pleasing warmth, and the built-in tuner is a real bonus. It's not a flagship instrument, but for the price, it's seriously impressive.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, woody tone with surprising resonance.
- Bone nut and saddle contribute to improved sustain and clarity.
- HB-03 preamp and tuner are surprisingly functional and convenient.
Cons
- Okoume neck, while stable, might feel less premium than maple.
- Purple heart fingerboard can be a bit brittle and prone to minor chipping.
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 width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale813 mm (32.01")
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
The CB-60SCE is a surprisingly capable acoustic bass, offering a good balance of affordability and playability. The solid top gives it a decent acoustic voice, and the Fishman electronics make it stage-ready. It's a great option for gigging singer-songwriters or anyone wanting a versatile acoustic bass on a budget.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a surprisingly bright, resonant acoustic tone.
- Mahogany back and sides add warmth and sustain, nicely balanced.
- Fishman CD preamp provides clean, amplified sound with useful EQ controls.
Cons
- Laminated mahogany back and sides limit high-end clarity compared to all-solid wood basses.
- 813mm scale can feel long for players accustomed to shorter bass scales.
51AudioFu
Index↓ 6.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$302 · Aug 17$282 now$282€251 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale604 mm (23.78")
- Fingerboard radius380 mm (14.96")
This mini bass packs a solid spruce top and warm rosewood body for a balanced sound. The Fishman pickup and built-in tuner make it ready to play out of the box. It fits small hands well with a smooth C neck, but you can't tell how heavy it is without trying it first.
Pros
- Solid Canadian Grade A spruce top for bright tone
- Selected Sonokeling rosewood sides and back for warmth
- Fishman Sonicore pickup with built-in chromatic tuner
Cons
- No specified weight makes portability unknown
- No listed output volume or preamp EQ controls
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$257 now$257€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale580 mm (22.83")
- Frets19 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
The Mini II Bass MH-E is a cleverly designed instrument – great for beginners, travel, or anyone wanting a smaller-bodied bass with a warm, approachable tone. Its compact size and comfortable neck make it a breeze to play, and the onboard electronics are surprisingly versatile for acoustic bass needs. It’s a fantastic option for folk, blues, or even light jazz, offering a big sound in a small package.
Pros
- Mahogany construction delivers a warm, woody tone ideal for fingerstyle and mellow genres.
- The Cordoba MB103 pickup system provides surprisingly clean amplified sound with useful EQ.
- Compact 580mm scale makes it exceptionally comfortable for smaller players or travel.
Cons
- Laminated construction limits the resonance and sustain compared to solid-wood basses.
- 45mm nut width might feel narrow for bassists accustomed to wider necks.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$288 now$288€256 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale812 mm (31.97")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
The Ortega D7CE-4 is a surprisingly capable acoustic bass for the price. It's a great option for gigging musicians or beginners who want a full-bodied acoustic bass sound with basic amplification – it's particularly well-suited to folk, blues, and country styles. The wider neck might take a little getting used to if you’re coming from a standard electric bass, but it offers a comfortable playing experience.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a bright, responsive tone with good projection.
- Mahogany back and sides add warmth and a pleasant mid-range focus.
- Ortega MagusPro/B pickup provides a usable amplified sound for stage or recording.
Cons
- Mahogany construction can lack the sustain of more premium tonewoods.
- The satin finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can feel a bit plasticky to some.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 18 4-String acoustic basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Ortega D7E-SBK-4Ortega42Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez PNB14E-OPN Acoustic BassIbanez41↓ 2.0%$277€247$277€247Check ↗
- 13
Ibanez PCBE12MH-OPNIbanez41↓ 1.4%$313€279$313€279Check ↗
- 14
Ibanez AEB8E StandardAEB8E-BK · Ibanez41Stable$352€313$352€313Check ↗
- 15
Gold Tone Micro Bass 23 w/BagGold Tone38Stable$499€444$499€444Check ↗
- 16
Applause Elite AEB4-7SApplause36Stable$344€306$344€306Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Spruce SetHarley Benton31Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Mahoga SetHarley Benton31Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
4-String Acoustic Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 29 models we track, not a sample.
Median $282 — half of all 4-String acoustic basses here cost less.
median of 27 models · 42.8 mm (1.69")–46 mm (1.81")
median of 28 models · 584 mm (22.99")–815 mm (32.09")
median of 22 models · 20–22
most common · 7 models
How to choose the best 4-String acoustic basses
Tonewoods
Expect laminate construction - mahogany, sapele, or similar. Solid tops are rare at this price, and the difference in acoustic projection is subtle, but a solid top can offer a little more resonance and complexity in the midrange. Don't expect vintage-grade tonewoods; it's about finding the best compromise.
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is crucial. Chunky necks can be a slog, while thin necks might feel flimsy. Playability is king, especially if you're planning on extended gigs. Watch out for high action - it's often a sign of a poorly set-up instrument, and can be a pain to play.
Pickup Voicing & Electronics
Acoustic bass pickups are always a compromise. Expect a slightly artificial tone - it's hard to capture the natural warmth of an acoustic. Look for onboard EQ to shape the sound, but don't expect miracles; the pickup voicing is the foundation. Some will have a brighter, more ice-picky top end; others will be muddier.
Bracing & Construction Quality
Cheaper basses often have less-refined bracing, which can lead to a boxier sound and less sustain. Check for clean fretwork and consistent glue joints - these are indicators of overall build quality. Loose hardware is a common issue to address.
Headroom & Articulation
Can the bass cut through the mix? Can you clearly hear individual notes? A lot of cheaper acoustic basses get lost in the sonic soup. Listen for how well the bass articulates - does it have a defined attack, or does it just rumble?
Buying guide
So, you're looking for an acoustic bass without breaking the bank? It's a tricky quest. You want something that'll lay down a solid low-end thump for your folk trio, or at least not sound like a cardboard box when you mic it up for a recording. Let's be real, under $500 you're making compromises, but we've found a few that deliver serious bang-for-the-buck.
At this price point, you're trading something. Don't expect a perfectly balanced, studio-ready tone. Focus on playability and a neck that feels good in your hands.
A little DIY setup work - adjusting the action, leveling frets - can go a long way. If you're serious about recording, budget for an external preamp to help shape the tone.
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 29 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 solid-top acoustic basses worth the extra money?
Generally, no, not at this price. The improvement in acoustic projection is minimal, and you're often paying a premium for a marginally better finish. Prioritize playability and a decent pickup.
Can I use this bass for recording?
Absolutely, but be prepared to work it. Acoustic bass pickups are inherently unnatural. EQ, compression, and careful mic placement are your friends. A good preamp can really help.
What about electric-acoustic basses?
They're a good option, offering more flexibility. However, the acoustic tone might be even more compromised than a purely acoustic model. It's a trade-off.
What's the deal with 'laminate' vs. 'solid' wood?
Laminate is layers of wood glued together - it's more stable and less prone to cracking in varying humidity, but generally has a less complex tone. Solid wood can sound better, but requires more care.
How important is the setup?
Hugely important! A bad setup can make even a decent bass unplayable. Factor in the cost of a professional setup - it's often worth it.
