Best 4-String Acoustic Basses Under $500 2026
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.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
⚡ The best 4-string acoustic basses in 2026 are Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Mahoga Set (top pick), Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Spruce Set for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Mahogany for pros — selected from 15 options across 4 brands, priced $161–$487, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Mahoga Set
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Singer-Songwriter
Jazz
Folk
Key Feature:
This GS-Travel-E is a seriously impressive little bass, especially considering the bundled amp. The mahogany body gives it a really mellow, acoustic vibe, and the built-in tuner is a handy bonus. It's perfect for gigging musicians needing a portable option or students just starting out.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, woody tone ideal for fingerstyle playing.
- • Bone nut and saddle enhance sustain and improve string response.
- • The HB-03 preamp with tuner is surprisingly effective for its price point.
- • Compact 'Travel' size makes it genuinely portable and comfortable.
CONS
- • Purple heart fingerboard might feel a little 'grabby' to some players initially.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain compared to set-neck designs.
- • The 10W amp is adequate for practice, but lacks serious stage volume.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 611856
$243
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Spruce Set
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Singer-Songwriter
Folk
Unplugged
Key Feature:
This little Harley Benton is a seriously fun and surprisingly capable travel bass. The spruce top gives it a bright, clear voice that cuts through, while the mahogany back adds a touch of warmth. It's perfect for gigging musicians needing a compact, amplified bass or students wanting a budget-friendly instrument to learn on.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers a surprisingly resonant and articulate acoustic tone.
- • Okoume neck provides a comfortable feel and contributes to a lively response.
- • Built-in HB-03 preamp and tuner offer convenience for amplified performance.
- • Mahogany back and sides add warmth and sustain, balancing the bright spruce.
CONS
- • Travel-size body limits the low-end extension compared to full-scale basses.
- • Purple heart fingerboard might feel slightly harder than rosewood for some players.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the inherent warmth of a set neck.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 611853
$232
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Mahogany
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Folk
World Music
Unplugged
Key Feature:
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.
- • Compact size and gig bag make it genuinely travel-friendly and portable.
CONS
- • Okoume neck, while stable, might feel less premium than maple.
- • Purple heart fingerboard can be a bit brittle and prone to minor chipping.
- • Mini Grand Symphony body limits projection compared to full-size basses.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 568353
$197
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Spruce
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Acoustic Sessions
Unplugged
Folk
Key Feature:
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.
- • HB-03 preamp and tuner offer convenient amplified functionality.
CONS
- • Mahogany body can sound a little boxy compared to larger acoustic basses.
- • Travel-size limits low-end extension; lacks serious sub-bass response.
- • Purple heart fingerboard may show wear more readily than harder woods.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 568361
$197
Harley Benton B-30BK Acoustic Bass Bundle
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
815 mm (32.09")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
World Music
Jazz
Folk
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton B-30BK is a surprisingly capable acoustic bass bundle, ideal for beginners or players seeking an affordable, versatile instrument. The combination of a spruce top and sapele/mahogany body delivers a warm, full acoustic tone, while the onboard pickup system makes it stage-ready. It's a great option for folk, blues, or anyone wanting a bass with a unique acoustic flavor.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers surprisingly warm, resonant acoustic tones for the price.
- • Sapele/mahogany body provides a robust foundation and pleasing sustain.
- • Built-in pickup system adds versatility for amplified performance and recording.
- • Medium scale (815mm) offers comfortable string tension and easier playability.
CONS
- • Roseacer fingerboard might feel a little rough compared to ebony or maple.
- • Factory strings are serviceable, but an upgrade will significantly improve tone.
- • Gig bag is not included, a soft case would offer better protection.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 537146
$243
Harley Benton B-30NT Acoustic Bass Bundle
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Scale
815 mm (32.09")
Frets
22 frets
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Unplugged
Jazz
World Music
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton acoustic bass is a fantastic entry point for players wanting a versatile, amplified instrument. It's surprisingly loud and fun to play unplugged, and the pickup system makes it a solid option for casual gigs or practice. Perfect for beginners or those seeking an affordable acoustic bass with some electric capabilities.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers a surprisingly resonant and clear acoustic tone
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, woody foundation for the sound
- • Built-in pickup system offers decent amplification and tuning functionality
- • Roseacer fingerboard feels smooth and playable, especially for beginners
CONS
- • Factory strings are basic and will likely need an upgrade soon
- • Super Jumbo body can be unwieldy for smaller players or travel
- • Mahogany construction might lack the sustain of more premium tonewoods
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 537162
$208
Harley Benton B-30NT Acoustic Bass w/Bag
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Scale
815 mm (32.09")
Frets
22 frets
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Folk
Acoustic Sessions
Unplugged
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton B-30NT is a solid starting point for acoustic bass exploration, especially for beginners or players wanting a budget-friendly option for campfire jams or casual recording. The jumbo body provides a full sound, and the onboard electronics offer convenience. It's a surprisingly capable instrument for the price, though expect to upgrade those strings.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers a surprisingly resonant and articulate acoustic tone.
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and a pleasing mid-range focus.
- • Built-in pickup system offers basic amplification and tuning functionality.
- • Roseacer fingerboard provides a playable feel, especially considering the price point.
CONS
- • Factory strings are basic and will likely benefit from an immediate upgrade.
- • Super Jumbo body can be unwieldy for smaller players or gigging frequently.
- • EQ is rudimentary; lacks the precision of more sophisticated onboard systems.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 537151
$197
Harley Benton B-30NT Acoustic Bass Series
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Scale
815 mm (32.09")
Frets
22 frets
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Unplugged
Singer-Songwriter
Folk
Key Feature:
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.
- • Roseacer fingerboard provides a comfortable playing experience, especially for beginners.
CONS
- • Factory strings are basic and will likely need upgrading for optimal tone.
- • Super jumbo body can be unwieldy for smaller players or travel.
- • Mahogany construction may lack the sustain of more premium tonewoods.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 165298
$173
Harley Benton Kahuna CLU-Bass Ukulele
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
534 mm (21.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Jazz
Singer-Songwriter
Unplugged
Key Feature:
This Kahuna CLU-Bass is a seriously fun and affordable option for bass players wanting a unique, portable instrument. The spruce top gives it a surprisingly lively acoustic voice, while the mahogany body adds some warmth. It's perfect for singer-songwriters, travel, or anyone looking for a different vibe.
PROS
- • Spruce top offers a surprisingly bright and resonant acoustic tone
- • Mahogany body provides warmth and a focused low-end response
- • Ovangkol fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and good durability
- • Built-in tuner is a genuinely useful feature for beginners and gigging musicians
CONS
- • Traveller size limits low-end extension compared to full-scale basses
- • Open-gear tuners might require more frequent adjustments than sealed ones
- • Mahogany construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 319677
$162
Ibanez AEGB24E-BKH
by
Ibanez
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
815 mm (32.09")
Frets
21 frets
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Acoustic Sessions
Singer-Songwriter
Folk
Key Feature:
The AEGB24E-BKH is a surprisingly capable acoustic bass – a great option for gigging musicians or beginners who want a portable, amplified bass tone. Its sapele construction gives it a warm, woody character, while the preamp makes it stage-ready. It's a solid, affordable entry into the world of acoustic bass.
PROS
- • Sapele top delivers a warm, articulate acoustic tone.
- • Nyatoh/Maple neck offers comfortable playability and stability.
- • AEQ-2T preamp provides convenient tuning and basic EQ control.
- • Solid build quality for an instrument in this price bracket.
CONS
- • Under-saddle pickup can sound a bit 'quacky' when amplified.
- • Sapele construction can be a bit dense, making it slightly heavier.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to more expensive, all-wood acoustic basses.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 533879
$488
Ibanez AEGB24E-MHS
by
Ibanez
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
815 mm (32.09")
Frets
21 frets
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Singer-Songwriter
World Music
Folk
Key Feature:
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.
- • Solid build quality for an instrument in its price bracket.
CONS
- • Saddle material limits high-end clarity and sustain.
- • Sapele back/sides can sound a bit boxy compared to mahogany.
- • The .040-.095 strings require a bit more finger strength.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 533876
$463
Ortega D7CE-4
by
Ortega
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
812 mm (31.97")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Singer-Songwriter
Jazz
Acoustic Sessions
Key Feature:
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.
- • The 45mm nut width suits players familiar with wider bass necks, enhancing comfort.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction can lack the sustain of more premium tonewoods.
- • The satin finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can feel a bit plasticky to some.
- • The included pickguard is an afterthought and feels cheap compared to the instrument.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 534352
$348
Ortega D7E-SBK-4
by
Ortega
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
812 mm (31.97")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Unplugged
Singer-Songwriter
World Music
Key Feature:
The Ortega D7E-SBK-4 is a surprisingly capable acoustic bass. It's a great option for gigging musicians needing a portable, amplified bass or for players who enjoy the unique vibe of an acoustic instrument. The build is solid, the tone is warm and resonant, and the pickup system provides a decent amplified signal for smaller venues.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers surprising clarity and projection for an acoustic bass.
- • Mahogany back and sides provide a warm, woody tone with excellent sustain.
- • Ortega MagusPro/B pickup system offers a usable, amplified sound without excessive feedback.
- • Walnut fingerboard feels smooth and comfortable, aiding playability across the longer scale.
CONS
- • The satin black finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
- • 812mm scale length requires a bit of an adjustment for players used to shorter basses.
- • While usable, the pickup isn't high-end and may need external preamp for stage use.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 534356
$348
Cordoba Mini II Bass MH-E
by
Cordoba
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
580 mm (22.83")
Frets
19 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
World Music
Acoustic Sessions
Folk
Key Feature:
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.
- • Composite fretboard offers a smooth playing experience and resists humidity-related issues.
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.
- • Composite bridge lacks the tonal complexity and transfer of a wood bridge.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 463975
$298
Harley Benton B-30BK Acoustic Bass Bundle
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
815 mm (32.09")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Folk
Acoustic Sessions
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton B-30BK is a solid entry point into the world of acoustic bass. The super jumbo body provides a full, resonant voice, and the medium scale makes it easier to play than a full-scale bass. It's perfect for singer-songwriters, campfire jams, or anyone wanting a unique acoustic bass sound on a budget-friendly platform.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers surprisingly warm and articulate acoustic tone.
- • Sapele/mahogany body provides robust resonance and sustain.
- • Built-in pickup system offers basic amplification and tuning convenience.
- • Medium scale (815mm) makes it more comfortable for smaller hands.
CONS
- • Factory strings are basic; an upgrade is highly recommended for optimal tone.
- • High-gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and scratches.
- • Acoustic bass inherently lacks the punch of an electric bass; limited low-end.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 537144
$208
Every 4-string acoustic basses that matches
26 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Harley Benton B-30BK Acoustic Bass w/Bag | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 815 mm (32.09") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $197 |
| 17 | Harley Benton B-30BK Acoustic Bass Series | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 815 mm (32.09") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $173 |
| 18 | Applause Elite AEB4-7S | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 23 frets | $356 |
| 19 | Ibanez PCBE14MH-WK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 810 mm (31.89") · Frets 20 frets | $336 |
| 20 | Harley Benton CLB-70SRE Mini SBK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 604 mm (23.78") · Fingerboard radius 380 mm (14.96") | $267 |
| 21 | Fender CB-60SCE A-Bass Natural w/Bag | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 813 mm (32.01") · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $343 |
| 22 | Fender CB-60SCE A-Bass Black 2018 | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 813 mm (32.01") · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $313 |
| 23 | Fender CB-60SCE A-Bass Natural IL | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 813 mm (32.01") · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $312 |
| 24 | Ibanez PCBE12MH-OPN | Scale 810 mm (31.89") · Frets 20 frets | $330 |
| 25 | Ibanez PNB14E-OPN Acoustic Bass | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 628.7 mm (24.75") | $293 |
| 26 | Ibanez AEB8E-BK | not published | $364 |
4-String Acoustic Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 26 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $267
from $173 to $364
Nut width
median 43 mm (1.69")
from 42.8 mm (1.69") to 46 mm (1.81") · 24 models
Scale
median 813 mm (32.01")
from 580 mm (22.83") to 815 mm (32.09") · 25 models
Frets
median 21
from 19 to 22 · 20 models
Neck profile
C
most common · 6 models
Body
mahogany
most common · 8 models
Fingerboard
jatoba, walnut, laurel
most common · 14 models
Fingerboard radius
median 350 mm (13.78")
from 350 mm (13.78") to 350 mm (13.78") · 5 models
How to Choose the Best 4-String Acoustic Basses
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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 This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 26 4-string acoustic basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
