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

28models in this chart
10brands
$336median price
6price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 4-String Acoustic Basses Showing: Under $800 · clear

Top 10

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

  1. Ibanez AEGB24E Standard

    AEGB24E-MHS · Ibanez

    41 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand86
    • Lineup67
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$447 now
    $447€398 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. Harley Benton B-30NT Acoustic Bass Series

    Harley Benton

    Not on Reverb yet7 finishes at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs83
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$167 now
    $167€149 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. 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 ↗
  4. Ibanez AEGB30E Standard

    AEGB30E-NTG · Ibanez

    14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand62
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Oct 21
    Oct 21$415 now
    $415€369 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Ibanez PCBE14MH Performance

    PCBE14MH-WK · Ibanez

    15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    • Demand64
    • Lineup33
    • Price53
    • Specs50
    • Maker91
    ↓ 1.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $325 · Aug 17$321 now
    $321€286 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Mahogany

    Harley Benton

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup53
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$190 now
    $190€169 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. Ibanez AEGB420-BOT

    Ibanez

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    • Demand30
    • Lineup33
    • Price100
    • Specs67
    • Maker91
    ↓ 18.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $538 · Aug 17$437 now
    $437€389 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Fender CA DLX Kingman Bass CE HSB

    Fender

    Not on Reverb yet3 finishes at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup67
    • Price50
    • Specs83
    • Maker79
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$504 now
    $504€449 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. 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
    Index
    • Demand69
    • Lineup33
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker42
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$538 now
    $538€479 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. Fender CB-60SCE A-Bass Black 2018

    Fender

    Not on Reverb yet3 finishes at Thomann

    • 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
    • Demand30
    • Lineup67
    • Price70
    • Specs50
    • Maker79
    ↓ 6.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $302 · Aug 17$282 now
    $282€251 at Thomann · in stock
    Check 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.

  1. 11
    Harley Benton CLB-70SRE Mini SBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$257€229
    $257€229Check ↗
  2. 12
    Guild Westerly Collection B-240E NaturalB-240E Acoustic Bass · Guild
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$617€549
    $617€549Check ↗
  3. 13
    Guild Westerly Collection Jumbo Junior MahoganyJumbo Junior Bass Westerly · Guild
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$628€559
    $628€559Check ↗
  4. 14
    Cordoba Mini II MH ClassicalMini II Bass MH-E · Cordoba
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$288€256
    $288€256Check ↗
  5. 15
    Fender Kingman Bass SEB WNFender
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$656€584
    $656€584Check ↗
  6. 16
    Ortega D7CE-4Ortega
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  7. 17
    Ortega D7E-SBK-4Ortega
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  8. 18
    Ibanez PNB14E-OPN Acoustic BassIbanez
    Index 41↓ 2.0%
    41
    ↓ 2.0%$277€247
    $277€247Check ↗
  9. 19
    Ibanez PCBE12MH-OPNIbanez
    Index 41↓ 1.4%
    41
    ↓ 1.4%$313€279
    $313€279Check ↗
  10. 20
    Ibanez AEB8E StandardAEB8E-BK · Ibanez
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$352€313
    $352€313Check ↗
  11. 21
    Ortega STRIPEDSU.ACBOrtega
    Index 40Stable
    40
    Stable$759€676
    $759€676Check ↗
  12. 22
    Gold Tone Micro Bass 23 w/BagGold Tone
    Index 38Stable
    38
    Stable$499€444
    $499€444Check ↗
  13. 23
    Ortega KTSM2-4 Ken Taylor SignatureOrtega
    Index 37Stable
    37
    Stable$763€679
    $763€679Check ↗
  14. 24
    Applause Elite AEB4-7SApplause
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$344€306
    $344€306Check ↗
  15. 25
    Takamine GB30CE-N2 NaturalTakamine
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$606€539
    $606€539Check ↗
  16. 26
    Ovation Celebrity Elite CEB44X-7C-GOvation
    Index 35Stable
    35
    Stable$538€479
    $538€479Check ↗
  17. 27
    Harley Benton GS-Travel-E Bass Spruce SetHarley Benton
    Index 31Stable
    31
    Stable$224€199
    $224€199Check ↗
  18. 28
    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 42 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $336 — half of all 4-String acoustic basses here cost less.

6
10
8
5
11
2
<$200$200–300$300–400$400–500$500–750$750+
Nut width43 mm (1.69")

median of 40 models · 38.1 mm (1.5")–46 mm (1.81")

Scale812 mm (31.97")

median of 40 models · 584 mm (22.99")–864 mm (34.02")

Frets21

median of 31 models · 19–22

Bodymahogany, sapele

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.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 74Ibanez AEGB24E Standard · $447€398
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