AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 4-String Heavy Basses Under $500 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton WB-20BK Rock Series ($133). Epiphone Thunderbird IV Bass leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 4 models across 3 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 4
Full detail for the 4 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyBasswood body
If you want a black 4-string bass with a simple setup, this one is worth a look. It has a basswood body, a Canadian maple neck, and a PB-style split coil pickup, with one volume and one tone knob. It suits you if you want a straightforward bass you can start playing right away.
Pros
- Basswood body, a lightweight wood commonly used for bass bodies
- Canadian maple set neck paired with a laurel fingerboard
- PB-style split coil pickup suits a classic bass style
Cons
- Only one volume and one tone control, with no extra tone shaping
- Gig bag is sold separately and not included
67AudioFu
Index↓ 14.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$155 · Aug 17$133 now$133€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
You get a Thunderbird-shaped bass with a mahogany body, a maple neck and two humbuckers. It has a long 34-inch scale and an Indian Laurel fretboard. It suits you if you want a classic Thunderbird look and a bass built for rock at an affordable price.
Pros
- Mahogany body and bolt-on maple neck give it a classic build
- Two humbuckers built for crisp, thrusting rock tones
- Indian Laurel fretboard on a long 34-inch scale
Cons
- The matching case (#161567) is not included and must be bought separately
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$496 now$496€444 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyOkoume body
This is a 4-string bass with an 864 mm scale, 20 frets, and two mini humbuckers with active electronics. It suits you if you want a bass with a D-profile neck, a Blackwood fingerboard, and a push-pull volume control on one knob. Plan to buy a gig bag separately if you want one to carry it in.
Pros
- Okoume body is a lightweight wood choice for the bass
- Set-in mahogany neck with a D profile for a comfortable grip
- Two Roswell GB4 mini humbuckers paired with active electronics
Cons
- Gig bag is not included, so you will need to buy one separately
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$222 now$222€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius406 mm (15.98")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This is a four-string electric bass with a mahogany body, a maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard. It has two passive humbuckers and a simple set of controls, so you get a classic setup without extra features. It suits you if you want a straightforward bass for everyday playing and practice.
Pros
- Mahogany body with a maple bolt-on neck
- Rosewood fingerboard with mini dot inlays
- Two passive bass humbuckers at the neck and bridge
Cons
- Fixed bridge means no tremolo or vibrato system
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 5 4-String heavy 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
What should I look for when buying 4-string heavy basses?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on 4-string heavy basses?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive 4-string heavy basses worth the investment?
Higher-priced 4-string heavy basses typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for 4-string heavy basses?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy 4-string heavy basses online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.
