AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String Acoustic Basses Under $800 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 28 models across 10 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.
-
- 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")
- 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 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 width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale762 mm (30")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
This bass sounds like a real instrument because of its solid spruce top and mahogany body. The Fishman preamp makes it easy to plug in without losing that acoustic feel. It works well for players who want a blend of natural tone and reliable pickup output.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers strong, responsive acoustic projection
- Mahogany back and sides add warmth to the low end
- Fishman CD-1 preamp offers clear, balanced electric tone
Cons
- No specific weight rating listed for player comfort
- Single-ply strings may feel thin for some players
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$504 now$504€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gold Tone M-Bass25 Micro 25" Scale Acoustic / Electric Bass Natural
Micro Bass 25 w/Bag · Gold Tone
19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets20 frets
This bass has a rich mahogany sound that cuts through small gigs easily. The active pickup lets you shape the tone, but you need a battery pack to hear it right. It's great for players with shorter fingers thanks to the compact scale. Just keep in mind it's active, so check if you have power before heading out.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body gives warm, deep acoustic tone
- Bones saddles ensure smooth string action and playability
- Built-in active pickup with adjustable EQ for clear sound
Cons
- No listed weight makes it feel unbalanced in hand
- Active electronics require external power source to work
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$538 now$538€479 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 ↗
All 28 4-String acoustic basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Harley Benton CLB-70SRE Mini SBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$257€229$257€229Check ↗
- 12
Guild Westerly Collection B-240E NaturalB-240E Acoustic Bass · Guild47Stable$617€549$617€549Check ↗
- 13
Guild Westerly Collection Jumbo Junior MahoganyJumbo Junior Bass Westerly · Guild47Stable$628€559$628€559Check ↗
- 14
Cordoba Mini II MH ClassicalMini II Bass MH-E · Cordoba45Stable$288€256$288€256Check ↗
- 15
Fender Kingman Bass SEB WNFender44Stable$656€584$656€584Check ↗
- 16
Ortega D7CE-4Ortega42Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 17
Ortega D7E-SBK-4Ortega42Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 18
Ibanez PNB14E-OPN Acoustic BassIbanez41↓ 2.0%$277€247$277€247Check ↗
- 19
Ibanez PCBE12MH-OPNIbanez41↓ 1.4%$313€279$313€279Check ↗
- 20
Ibanez AEB8E StandardAEB8E-BK · Ibanez41Stable$352€313$352€313Check ↗
- 21
Ortega STRIPEDSU.ACBOrtega40Stable$759€676$759€676Check ↗
- 22
Gold Tone Micro Bass 23 w/BagGold Tone38Stable$499€444$499€444Check ↗
- 23
Ortega KTSM2-4 Ken Taylor SignatureOrtega37Stable$763€679$763€679Check ↗
- 24
Applause Elite AEB4-7SApplause36Stable$344€306$344€306Check ↗
- 25
Takamine GB30CE-N2 NaturalTakamine36Stable$606€539$606€539Check ↗
- 26
Ovation Celebrity Elite CEB44X-7C-GOvation35Stable$538€479$538€479Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Spruce SetHarley Benton31Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 28
Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Mahoga SetHarley Benton31Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
4-String Acoustic Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 42 models we track, not a sample.
Median $336 — half of all 4-String acoustic basses here cost less.
median of 40 models · 38.1 mm (1.5")–46 mm (1.81")
median of 40 models · 584 mm (22.99")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 31 models · 19–22
most common · 8 models
How to choose the best 4-String acoustic basses
Tonewoods
Expect laminate woods like mahogany or sapele in this price range. Solid tops (like spruce) are a plus, offering more resonance and sustain, but are rare. Laminates are perfectly usable, just don't expect the same complexity of tone as a solid wood instrument - it'll be more focused, less 'airy'.
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is paramount. Look for a C or D profile that fits your hand. Action (string height) is crucial too; too high, and it's a workout; too low, and you'll get fret buzz. Most will need a setup - factor that into your budget.
Pickup Voicing & Electronics
Acoustic basses often rely on piezo pickups. Piezoes can be a bit brittle and lack warmth, so listen for ones that have a smoother, more natural voicing. Some models might have preamp EQ - this can help shape the tone, but don't expect miracles. The goal is to minimize that ice-picky harshness.
Bracing & Construction
Internal bracing affects sustain and resonance. Cheaper basses sometimes skimp here, leading to a boxier, less responsive sound. Check for clean bracing and well-fitted joints - signs of better attention to detail.
Hardware & Finish
This is where corners get cut. Expect basic tuners - they'll get the job done, but don't expect lightning-fast locking tuners. The finish is mostly cosmetic, but a well-applied finish can protect the wood and improve the overall feel.
Buying guide
So, you want an acoustic bass? Awesome. They're a seriously cool vibe, whether you're laying down a walking line in a folk trio, adding some warmth to a jazz ensemble, or just digging the unplugged thump in your bedroom. Finding a good one under $800 takes a bit of digging, but it's totally doable - you just need to know what to look for. Let's break down the best options without breaking the bank.
At this price point, you're trading off something. It's rarely going to be perfect. Don't expect a solid wood top or premium hardware.
Prioritize a comfortable neck and a pickup that doesn't sound offensively harsh. Getting a professional setup is essential - even a great bass can sound terrible with a bad setup. Consider a used instrument; you can often find higher-end models at a discount.
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 42 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 piezo pickups always bad?
Not always, but they often require careful EQing to tame the harshness. Look for models with preamp EQ to help shape the tone. Experiment with different amp settings to find a sweet spot.
Should I get a solid top or laminate?
A solid top can offer better tone, but a well-built laminate bass can still sound great. Focus on overall construction and playability first.
What's a 'setup' and why do I need it?
A setup involves adjusting the neck relief, action, intonation, and pickup height. It optimizes the bass's playability and tone. Budget $50-$100 for a professional setup.
Can I record an acoustic bass directly?
You can, but it'll likely sound thin and brittle. An amp or DI box with EQ will almost always improve the sound. A microphone on the soundhole can also add warmth.
What's the difference between an acoustic bass and a semi-acoustic bass?
Generally, a semi-acoustic bass has a hollow body with a pickup system, designed to be amplified. A purely acoustic bass relies solely on the body's resonance, though many have pickups for amplification. The distinction is often blurred.





