AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String J-Basses for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass ($2,452). Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster gives you the most for the money at $1,727. Fender Custom Shop '64 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 99 models across 15 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass
AM Pro Jazz Bass MN ACB · Fender
141 for sale on Reverb8 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
This bass brings active electronics to the classic Jazz Bass sound, giving you clean control over volume and tone. The slim maple neck feels great in hand and the USA-built body is solid. It works well for players who want modern precision without losing that vintage feel. Perfect for gigs where you need a strong signal and clear tone.
Pros
- Active electronics let you control volume and tone precisely
- Slim neck profile offers fast playability for complex lines
- High-output V-Mod II pickups deliver strong, clear signal
Cons
- Requires external power source for full tone control
- Lacks traditional passive bass tone shaping options
80AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 14Oct 14$2,452 now$2,452€2,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass
Am Ultra II Jazz Bass EB UBST · Fender
108 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyAlder body
This Am Ultra II Jazz Bass is a seriously refined instrument. The build quality is top-notch, and those noiseless pickups give you a ton of versatility – from clean jazz tones to aggressive funk. It's perfect for the discerning bassist who demands performance and modern features without sacrificing classic Jazz Bass character.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- Modern 'inDin' neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability
- Ultra II Noiseless pickups deliver clarity and punch with minimal hum
Cons
- Ebony fingerboard can be brittle and susceptible to damage with aggressive playing
- Premium-priced, placing it outside the reach of many players
71AudioFu
Index↑ 6.4%since Aug 17$2,619 · Aug 17$2,786 now$2,786€2,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender JG-66 Jaguar Reissue MIJ
66 J-Bass JM Relic LTD Black · Fender
80 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
- BodyAlder body
This bass sounds like the real deal from the sixties. The maple neck feels smooth and the pickups give that warm, vintage tone. It suits players who want authentic sound without extra electronics.
Pros
- Authentic 1960s vintage J-Bass sound profile
- Premium quartersawn maple neck construction
- Hand-wound single-coil jazz pickups inside
Cons
- Heavy weight from solid alder body
- No modern electronics or preamp
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 22Aug 22$5,797 now$5,797€5,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass V
LTD AM Ultra Jazz Bass · Fender
56 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyAsh body
This bass mixes vintage warmth with modern control. The roasted ash body sounds great, and the active EQ lets you cut mids or boost bass on the fly. It fits players who want precise tone shaping without sacrificing playability.
Pros
- Roasted ash body offers solid resonance and stability.
- Active EQ controls let you shape tone precisely.
- HiMass bridge provides strong bottom-end response.
Cons
- Roasted ash can be unpredictable for some players.
- Active electronics require battery maintenance.
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,400 now$3,400€3,049 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Custom Shop '64 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic
64 J-Bass SB Journeyman Relic · Fender
52 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This Journeyman Relic is a seriously impressive tribute to the '64 J-Bass. The tone is undeniably authentic, and the build quality is top-notch. It's perfect for players chasing that vintage vibe and articulate punch – ideal for session work, classic rock, and anything needing a refined, woody low end.
Pros
- Exceptional Josefina pickups deliver classic, articulate J-Bass tone.
- Quartersawn maple neck offers superb stability and comfortable '60s U profile.
- Relic'd finish authentically replicates a vintage instrument's character and feel.
Cons
- The relic'd finish, while aesthetically pleasing, won't appeal to all players.
- Being a long-scale, it can be a bit unwieldy for smaller hands or players with shorter arms.
61AudioFu
Index↓ 5.2%since Aug 17$6,466 · Aug 17$6,131 now$6,131€5,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Custom Shop '64 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic
64 J-Bass OG Journeyman Relic · Fender
52 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This is a seriously impressive recreation of a '64 J-Bass. The growl is authentic, the feel is spot-on, and the relic'd look is beautifully done. If you're a player chasing that vintage Jazz Bass vibe and appreciate a premium-priced instrument, this is a real winner.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, articulate tone with excellent sustain.
- Josefina pickups deliver that classic, punchy Jazz Bass growl.
- '60s U-neck profile offers a comfortable, familiar feel for vintage enthusiasts.
Cons
- The relic'd finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be fragile.
- Passive electronics limit tonal versatility compared to active systems.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,856 now$6,856€6,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.5 mm (1.56")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyAlder body
The California II TM4 MP Black is a seriously well-made bass. The Delano pickups give you a great range of tones, from smooth jazz to aggressive rock, and the build quality is top-notch. This is perfect for the discerning player wanting a premium-priced instrument with a vintage vibe and modern versatility.
Pros
- Alder body delivers warm resonance and sustain.
- Delano pickups offer a versatile blend of growl and clarity.
- Thermo treatment enhances wood stability and resonance.
Cons
- The alder body can make it a bit heavier for some players.
- The 2-band EQ, while effective, lacks the flexibility of more complex systems.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,957 now$3,957€3,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster
Am Pro Clsc J-Bass RW FFMG · Fender
224 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
This bass feels great to play with its smooth rosewood neck and comfortable C profile. The vintage pickups give it a warm, classic tone that cuts well in a band. It is perfect for players who want that old-school sound without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Modern C neck profile fits small hands comfortably
- Coastline '66 pickups deliver classic vintage tone
- Rosewood fingerboard offers smooth playability
Cons
- Master Greasebucket circuit lacks modern EQ options
- Faded Firemist Gold finish may show wear easily
81AudioFu
Index↓ 6.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,850 · Aug 17$1,727 now$1,727€1,549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender MIM Geddy Lee Artist Series Signature Jazz Bass
US Geddy Lee Bass BK · Fender
42 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets20 frets
- BodyAlder body
This bass brings a classic, thick sound straight from the vault thanks to those custom single coils. The long scale and heavy frets give it a solid, pro feel, though it might feel heavy in your hands. It is perfect for players who want a direct, vintage tone without extra electronics.
Pros
- Custom voiced vintage pickups deliver classic tone
- Solid alder body ensures consistent sustain
- Maple neck offers a thick, stable feel
Cons
- Long scale length may be uncomfortable for some
- No preamp allows no EQ adjustments
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,009 now$3,009€2,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.4 mm (1.55")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyAsh body
This J-bass plays like a classic instrument thanks to its maple bolt-on neck and Kloppmann pickups. The swamp ash body keeps the sound warm and focused. It suits players who want a vintage feel without the extra electronics.
Pros
- Solid swamp ash body for a balanced tone
- Maple bolt-on neck ensures tight intonation
- Kloppmann J-style pickups deliver classic Jazz bass sound
Cons
- Limited to only two volume controls
- Single tone control lacks mid-sweep options
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,790 now$3,790€3,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 99 4-String J-Basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Sandberg California II TT4 RW CR MHCASandberg · 7 finishes50Stable$4,124€3,699$4,124€3,699Check ↗
- 12
Fender Custom Shop '66 Jazz Bass Journeyman Relic66 Jazz Bass VW U-Relic MBJS · Fender48Stable$10,024€8,990$10,024€8,990Check ↗
- 13
Fender AV II 66 Jazz Bass RW LPBFender52↓ 15.4%$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 14
Fender Contemporary Jazz Bass Special 1985 - 1990Jazz Bass Special JRN TS · Fender46Stable$6,020€5,399$6,020€5,399Check ↗
- 15
Fender 64 J-Bass SG Journeyman RelicFender45Stable$5,462€4,899$5,462€4,899Check ↗
- 16
Fender 64 J-Bass BLK RelicFender45Stable$6,187€5,549$6,187€5,549Check ↗
- 17
Fender LTD Jazz Bass Re Black PaisleyFender45Stable$6,800€6,099$6,800€6,099Check ↗
- 18
Sandberg California VS Lionel Short Scale 4California II TSBS HCA · Sandberg · 2 finishes54↓ 3.1%$2,430€2,179$2,430€2,179Check ↗
- 19
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-4 Vin MO BKSadowsky · 3 finishes43Stable$3,790€3,399$3,790€3,399Check ↗
- 20
Sandberg California II TT 4 BuckeyeSandberg42Stable$3,343€2,998$3,343€2,998Check ↗
- 21
Sandberg California II TM 4 BB RWSandberg · 4 finishes51Stable$2,452€2,199$2,452€2,199Check ↗
- 22
Sadowsky MetroLine 24-4 Vintage OWSadowsky · 2 finishes41Stable$4,347€3,899$4,347€3,899Check ↗
- 23
Fender LTD 60s J-Bass DLX CC AWBFender41Stable$6,243€5,599$6,243€5,599Check ↗
- 24
Fender Artisan Maple Burl J-Bass ANFender · 2 finishes41Stable$6,912€6,199$6,912€6,199Check ↗
- 25
Sadowsky MetroLine 24-4 Modern BlueSadowsky39Stable$3,790€3,399$3,790€3,399Check ↗
- 26
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-4 Vin MO 59 BurstSadowsky39Stable$4,570€4,099$4,570€4,099Check ↗
- 27
Fender 75 Jazz Bass MN AAA NAT NOSFender39Stable$8,919€7,999$8,919€7,999Check ↗
- 28
Sadowsky MetroLine 22 Will Lee NT MNSadowsky38↓ 2.9%$3,789€3,398$3,789€3,398Check ↗
- 29
Sandberg California II TT 4 BocoteSandberg45Stable$2,563€2,299$2,563€2,299Check ↗
- 30
Sandberg California II Marlowe DK 4 BKSandberg · 2 finishes43Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 31
Vincent Metropol 4 WhiteVincent37Stable$3,678€3,299$3,678€3,299Check ↗
- 32
Mayones Guitars Jabba Bassic 4 TNBBMayones Guitars36Stable$3,678€3,299$3,678€3,299Check ↗
- 33
Franz Bassguitars Merak 4 SN AshFranz Bassguitars35Stable$3,790€3,399$3,790€3,399Check ↗
- 34
Fender MIJ Hybrid II Jazz BassMIJ Hybrid II Jazz Bass MAB · Fender · 4 finishes59Stable$1,727€1,549$1,727€1,549Check ↗
- 35
Sandberg California II SLm TT4 RM BKSandberg · 2 finishes45Stable$2,340€2,099$2,340€2,099Check ↗
- 36
Mayones Guitars Jabba Basic 4 TABMMayones Guitars33Stable$3,455€3,099$3,455€3,099Check ↗
- 37
Sandberg Martin Mendez Signature California 4California TT Martin Mendez VW · Sandberg38Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 38
Sandberg California II SLm TM4 BLBSandberg · 3 finishes41Stable$2,452€2,199$2,452€2,199Check ↗
- 39
Fender Laura Lee Signature Jazz BassLaura Lee J Bass RW VWT · Fender55Stable$1,761€1,579$1,761€1,579Check ↗
- 40
Sandberg California II TT 4 GreenburstSandberg42Stable$2,340€2,099$2,340€2,099Check ↗
- 41
Sandberg California II SLm TM 4 PF TBSandberg · 2 finishes45Stable$2,062€1,849$2,062€1,849Check ↗
- 42
Sandberg California TM4 Marley Blue RWSandberg42Stable$2,117€1,899$2,117€1,899Check ↗
- 43
Sandberg California II TM 4 GreenburstSandberg42Stable$2,117€1,899$2,117€1,899Check ↗
- 44
Fender MIJ Act Modern Jazz Bass VNTFender45Stable$1,783€1,599$1,783€1,599Check ↗
- 45
Fender MIM Geddy Lee Artist Series Signature Jazz BassGeddy Lee Jazz Bass BK · Fender49Stable$1,560€1,399$1,560€1,399Check ↗
- 46
Sandberg California II TTp 4 MN CSBSandberg42Stable$1,805€1,619$1,805€1,619Check ↗
- 47
Lakland Skyline 44-60 Custom 4 CARLakland · 2 finishes40Stable$1,884€1,690$1,884€1,690Check ↗
- 48
Marcus Miller V10DX-4 TSMarcus Miller46↓ 3.6%$1,504€1,349$1,504€1,349Check ↗
- 49
Lakland Skyline 44-60 4-String 3TSBLakland40↓ 6.4%$1,773€1,590$1,773€1,590Check ↗
- 50
Lakland Skyline Darryl Jones 4 WHLakland35Stable$1,884€1,690$1,884€1,690Check ↗
4-String J-Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 264 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,025 — half of all 4-String J-Basses here cost less.
median of 193 models · 38 mm (1.5")–39.5 mm (1.56")
median of 203 models · 864 mm (34.02")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 140 models · 20–22
most common · 184 models
How to choose the best 4-String J-Basses
Neck Profile & Playability
Forget a chunky C shape - advanced players need a neck that feels like an extension of their hand. We're looking for comfortable profiles (think modern slim-C, or even a more asymmetrical feel) that allow for effortless legato runs and accurate intonation across the entire fretboard, especially up in the 12th fret where things can get wonky.
Pickup Voicing & Flexibility
That generic 'J-Bass growl' isn't enough. Advanced players demand pickups that offer a wide palette of tones, from a scooped, modern funk sound to a thick, vintage growl. Consider how the pickups interact with different amps and effects - do they retain their character, or get muddy?
Hardware Quality & Stability
Cheap pots and flimsy hardware are deal-breakers. We're talking about smooth, consistent pot taper, stable tuning, and hardware that can withstand the abuse of regular gigging. A bass that's constantly going out of tune or has scratchy pots is a massive frustration.
Construction & Resonance
The wood choices and construction methods directly impact the bass's sustain and overall tonal character. A well-built bass will have a clear, focused low-end and a responsive upper register - it'll sing when you want it to, and punch through the mix without sounding harsh.
Electronics Complexity & Customization
It's not just about volume and tone knobs. Consider active/passive switching, onboard EQ, and the possibility of pickup swapping. Advanced players often tweak their tone to fit different genres and recording situations, and having the flexibility to do so is invaluable.
Buying guide
So, you're past the beginner thump-thump and looking for a J-Bass that can actually play? Forget those cookie-cutter models - we're talking about instruments that respond to your nuances, offer real tonal flexibility, and won't fall apart mid-gig. This isn't about looks; it's about what a seasoned player needs from a 4-string J-Bass to elevate their game.
Don't chase the hype. A bass that looks cool won't magically make you a better player, but a poorly made one will hold you back. Pay attention to the neck - a comfortable, well-set neck is worth more than fancy pickups.
And remember, a bass's tone isn't just about the pickups; it's the sum of all its parts - wood, hardware, and construction - working together. A little extra spend on a well-built instrument will save you headaches and frustration down the road.
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 264 4-String J-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's the difference between active and passive electronics?
Active basses have a preamp powered by a battery, allowing for more complex EQ shaping and a hotter signal. Passive basses rely on the pickups alone, offering a more 'vintage' tone and often less noise. It's a tonal preference - active is more versatile, passive is often considered warmer.
I'm struggling to get my J-Bass to cut through the mix. What can I do?
Check your pickup blend - a little more of the bridge pickup often helps. EQ is your friend - a slight mid-range boost can add clarity. Also, consider your amp and speaker cabinet - a brighter speaker will help the bass 'pop' more.
Should I be concerned about the wood used in the body?
Absolutely. Alder is common and versatile, ash offers a more scooped tone, and mahogany is warmer and more sustain-rich. Each wood contributes to the bass's overall tonal character, so consider what you're after.
What's a good neck radius for an advanced player?
Most advanced players prefer a modern 'C' shape with a compound radius (e.g., 9.5" to 12") - it's comfortable for chording and provides lower action for fast playing. A flatter radius (like 12") is becoming increasingly popular for its ease of shredding.
I'm on a budget. What corners are usually cut on cheaper J-Basses?
You'll often find cheaper pots, lower-quality hardware (tuners, bridge), and less attention to detail in the neck set and fretwork. The wood might be lower grade, leading to a less resonant tone. It's a trade-off - you'll get a playable instrument, but it won't have the feel or tone of a higher-end model.
