AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String J-Basses Under $5,000 2026
The top pick is Fender Player II Jazz Bass ($1,053). Harley Benton JB-62CC LPB gives you the most for the money at $177. Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass V leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 88 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 Player II Jazz Bass
Player II Jazz Bass MN CGR · Fender
307 for sale on Reverb8 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
This bass has a sturdy maple neck and a classic alder body that feels great to play. The Alnico 5 pickups give it a warm, vintage vibe, though they might pick up interference in big venues. It is a solid, straightforward choice for players who want a reliable workhorse without extra bells and whistles.
Pros
- Solid alder body keeps the tone tight and balanced.
Cons
- Single coil pickups can sound noisy in loud rooms.
88AudioFu
Index↓ 4.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,103 · Aug 17$1,053 now$1,053€944 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 American Professional II Jazz Bass
AM Pro Jazz Bass RW 3TSB · 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 the classic Jazz sound with modern control. The active pickups let you drive amps harder without losing clarity, while the slim neck makes long solos feel easy. It suits players who want that tight, singing tone but need a built-in boost for live mixes.
Pros
- Active electronics give you clean, controlled output for any mix.
- Slim C neck profile offers a comfortable, fast playing feel.
- Alder body and maple neck combine durability with solid resonance.
Cons
- Active circuit requires fresh batteries to function properly.
- Limited to just two controls instead of full EQ options.
80AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 14Oct 14$2,385 now$2,385€2,139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster
Player II Mod J Bass RW HGM · Fender
175 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
The Player II Mod J Bass HGM is a seriously versatile instrument. The active EQ really lets you dial in some unique sounds, and the noiseless pickups keep things clean. It's a fantastic choice for gigging musicians needing a reliable, modern J Bass with a touch of vintage vibe.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a warm, resonant foundation for the tone.
- Player II Noiseless pickups offer classic J Bass tone with reduced hum.
- Modern 'C' neck profile provides comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
Cons
- Rosewood fingerboard may feel a bit dry for some players, requiring occasional conditioning.
- Harvest Green Metallic finish, while striking, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
79AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,114 now$1,114€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender American Ultra II Jazz Bass
Am Ultra II Jazz Bass EB NBL · 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 serious contender for the discerning bassist. The blend of modern features like the compound radius and noiseless pickups with classic Jazz Bass tones creates a versatile and comfortable instrument. It’s ideal for players seeking a refined, professional-grade bass with exceptional clarity and articulation, especially in funk, Motown, and modern jazz contexts.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- Modern inDin neck profile offers comfortable playability for diverse hand sizes
- Ultra II pickups deliver a remarkably quiet, articulate Jazz Bass voice
Cons
- The ebony fingerboard, while slick, can feel a bit harder than rosewood for some players
- The compound radius might take a little getting used to if you're accustomed to a standard radius
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,619 now$2,619€2,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Player II Jazz Bass
LTD Player II Jazz Bass RW SHP · Fender
307 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass feels great in hand with its smooth rosewood neck and maple neck. The Alnico 5 pickups punch hard while the three knobs let you dial in your sound. It suits players who want a solid, reliable instrument without too many extra features.
Pros
- Modern C neck profile offers comfortable playing for everyone
- Alnico 5 pickups deliver strong, clear low-end response
- Rosewood fretboard provides a warm, smooth feel under fingers
Cons
- Alder body material lacks the warmth of maple alternatives
- Standard open-gear tuners may struggle with heavy strings
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 8Oct 8$1,103 now$1,103€989 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 ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyBasswood body
This Harley Benton JB-62CC is a seriously impressive offering for the price. It nails that classic J-Bass vibe with the Roswell pickups and comfortable neck, making it perfect for players wanting a vintage tone without the vintage price tag. A great starter bass or a fun addition for seasoned players on a budget.
Pros
- Roswell pickups deliver surprisingly punchy, vintage-voiced tones.
- Comfortable basswood body offers a lightweight and resonant feel.
- Bolt-on neck with caramelised maple provides snappy response and easy playability.
Cons
- Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and may benefit from upgrades.
- Basswood body can lack sustain compared to mahogany or ash alternatives.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$177 now$177€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
This Harley Benton MV-4JB Natural is a fantastic value for players seeking a classic J-Bass tone and feel. The caramelized maple neck is a real highlight, and the VJB pickups deliver a surprisingly authentic vintage growl. It's a great option for beginners or experienced players on a budget who want a reliable and versatile workhorse bass.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- Custom VJB pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and punchy vintage J-Bass voice.
- Caramelized maple neck offers a smooth, fast feel with a pleasant warmth.
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the integrated resonance of a neck-through design.
- Roseacer skunk stripe may not appeal to all players aesthetically.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$255 now$255€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This bass feels great to play with its light neck and easy frets. The two single coil pickups give a clear, bright sound that cuts through a mix. It suits players who want a classic vintage tone without extra knobs or heavy electronics.
Pros
- Lightweight C profile neck for comfortable playing
- Two single coil pickups for bright tone
- Alder body for warm midrange resonance
Cons
- No active electronics for extended play
- Only two control knobs limit tone shaping
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$735 now$735€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 88 4-String J-Basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Ibanez MDM1000 ModeMDM1000-PW · Ibanez · 2 finishes59↓ 9.3%$1,092€979$1,092€979Check ↗
- 12
Fender MIJ Hybrid II Jazz BassMIJ Hybrid II Jazz Bass MCM · Fender · 4 finishes59Stable$1,727€1,549$1,727€1,549Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton JB-75 SB Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 10 finishes58Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 14
Marcus Miller V5 Alder-4 CARMarcus Miller · 9 finishes57Stable$556€499$556€499Check ↗
- 15
Sandberg California II TM4 NighthawkSandberg · 13 finishes56Stable$2,340€2,099$2,340€2,099Check ↗
- 16
Fender Laura Lee Signature Jazz BassLaura Lee J Bass RW VWT · Fender55Stable$1,761€1,579$1,761€1,579Check ↗
- 17
Sandberg California VS Lionel Short Scale 4California TT MN NT · Sandberg · 2 finishes55Stable$2,140€1,919$2,140€1,919Check ↗
- 18
Marcus Miller V6-4 Sandblasted OTBMarcus Miller · 5 finishes54Stable$556€499$556€499Check ↗
- 19
Fender Standard J-Bass MN BPG BLKFender · 4 finishes54↓ 0.9%$706€633$706€633Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton JB-20 SB Standard SeriesHarley Benton · 6 finishes53Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 21
Marcus Miller V3P-4 ORGMarcus Miller · 3 finishes53Stable$411€369$411€369Check ↗
- 22
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vintage JJ4 RM OWHSadowsky · 6 finishes53↓ 7.4%$980€879$980€879Check ↗
- 23
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ4 Morado BKSadowsky · 8 finishes53↓ 8.0%$1,025€919$1,025€919Check ↗
- 24
Fender MIM Geddy Lee Artist Series Signature Jazz BassUS Geddy Lee Bass BK · Fender53Stable$3,009€2,699$3,009€2,699Check ↗
- 25
Fender Vintera III E60s Jazz Bass OWTFender · 2 finishes52↓ 4.5%$1,284€1,152$1,284€1,152Check ↗
- 26
Fender AV II 66 Jazz Bass RW LPBFender52↓ 15.4%$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 27
Marcus Miller V3 4 New Gen Tobacco SunburstMarcus Miller · 7 finishes51Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 28
Marcus Miller U7-4 SGMMarcus Miller · 2 finishes51↓ 4.0%$534€479$534€479Check ↗
- 29
Sandberg California II TM 4 MN RBSandberg · 4 finishes51Stable$2,340€2,099$2,340€2,099Check ↗
- 30
Sandberg Electra TT 4Electra TT4 RW 3TSB · Sandberg · 3 finishes50Stable$1,047€939$1,047€939Check ↗
- 31
Fender Vintera III E 60s J Bass SNBFender50↓ 5.4%$1,281€1,149$1,281€1,149Check ↗
- 32
Sandberg California II TT 4 BTW BKSandberg · 5 finishes50Stable$2,396€2,149$2,396€2,149Check ↗
- 33
Sandberg California II TT4 RW GB HCASandberg · 7 finishes50Stable$2,786€2,499$2,786€2,499Check ↗
- 34
Fender MIM Geddy Lee Artist Series Signature Jazz BassGeddy Lee Jazz Bass BK · Fender49Stable$1,560€1,399$1,560€1,399Check ↗
- 35
Squier Affinity ACT Jazz Bass OWTSquier · 2 finishes48Stable$329€295$329€295Check ↗
- 36
Squier CV 70s Jazz Bass LRL AZGSquier · 4 finishes48Stable$556€499$556€499Check ↗
- 37
Sandberg Electra TT 4Electra TM EF MH SB · Sandberg48Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 38
Marcus Miller V8-4 NTMarcus Miller · 2 finishes47Stable$735€659$735€659Check ↗
- 39
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 4 MA CAOSadowsky · 2 finishes47↓ 7.2%$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 40
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-Fret MF 4 SGSadowsky47↓ 8.0%$1,025€919$1,025€919Check ↗
- 41
Marcus Miller V10-4 TGRMarcus Miller47↓ 2.0%$1,092€979$1,092€979Check ↗
- 42
Fender Vintera III E 70s Jazz Bass BKFender47Stable$1,448€1,299$1,448€1,299Check ↗
- 43
Fender Vintera III E70s Jazz Bass CARFender47Stable$1,471€1,319$1,471€1,319Check ↗
- 44
Fender Vintera III E 70s J Bass 3CSBFender47Stable$1,471€1,319$1,471€1,319Check ↗
- 45
Sandberg California II SLm TM4 MN BKSandberg · 3 finishes47Stable$2,006€1,799$2,006€1,799Check ↗
- 46
Marcus Miller V10DX-4 TSMarcus Miller46↓ 3.6%$1,504€1,349$1,504€1,349Check ↗
- 47
Fender MIJ Act Modern Jazz Bass VNTFender45Stable$1,783€1,599$1,783€1,599Check ↗
- 48
Sandberg California II SLm TT4 MN BKSandberg · 2 finishes45Stable$2,028€1,819$2,028€1,819Check ↗
- 49
Sandberg California II SLm TM 4 PF NTSandberg · 2 finishes45Stable$2,062€1,849$2,062€1,849Check ↗
- 50
Sandberg California II TT 4 BocoteSandberg45Stable$2,563€2,299$2,563€2,299Check ↗
4-String J-Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 252 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,002 — half of all 4-String J-Basses here cost less.
median of 190 models · 38 mm (1.5")–39.5 mm (1.56")
median of 200 models · 864 mm (34.02")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 128 models · 20–22
most common · 176 models
How to choose the best 4-String J-Basses
Neck Profile
This is HUGE. A thick, unwieldy neck will kill your speed and comfort. Look for something in the C or D profile range - something that feels natural in your hand, especially if you're playing long sets.
Pickup Voicing
J-Basses can range from scooped and funky to thick and growly. Consider the style of music you play - a brighter pickup might be great for funk, but muddy in a rock band. Listen for clarity and articulation, not just 'bass'.
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners will make staying in tune a nightmare on stage. Better hardware doesn't always mean boutique, but it should be reliable and functional. Look for smooth action and solid construction.
Body Wood & Construction
Alder is the standard for a reason - balanced tone. Ash can add a bit more bite. Bolt-on necks are common at this price, and that's fine, but check for clean routing and a secure fit. Set-necks are a rarity under $5000.
Finish & Fretwork
These are the details that separate a playable instrument from a joy to play. A rough finish or poorly dressed frets will constantly distract you. Even in this price range, attention to detail matters.
Buying guide
Alright, so you want a Jazz Bass that doesn't require selling a kidney? Smart move. The J-Bass is the workhorse for a reason - versatile enough for Motown, funky enough for Parliament, and solid enough to cut through a loud rock band. We're focusing on 4-stringers under $5000 that'll actually feel good and deliver the goods, not just look pretty in a catalog.
Don't chase the fancy figured maple tops. Those are purely cosmetic. At this price, you're making trade-offs - expect some compromises in hardware or finish.
Prioritize a comfortable neck and reliable electronics. A good setup from a qualified tech is essential, regardless of the price tag - a poorly set up expensive bass is worse than a well-set up affordable one.
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 252 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
Is a Fender American Professional II J-Bass worth the money?
It's a solid choice, but there's a lot of competition now. You're paying for the Fender name and that classic feel. There are other basses that offer similar specs for less, but the Pro II is consistently reliable and well-built.
What about Sadowsky or Lakland? Are they out of the question?
They can be, but you can find used Sadowsky and Lakland basses within this budget. You'll be getting higher-end hardware and often a more refined neck profile, but be prepared for some potential wear and tear on a used instrument.
I'm a beginner, does it matter which bass I choose?
Absolutely! A comfortable neck and a bass that inspires you to play will make learning much easier. Don't get hung up on specs - find something that feels good in your hands and sounds decent through an amp.
What's the deal with 'roasted' necks?
Roasted necks are kiln-dried at high temperatures, supposedly to stabilize the wood and improve resonance. The effect is subtle, and honestly, you're probably better off focusing on neck profile and fretwork. It's often a marketing gimmick.
Should I buy online or try it in a store?
Ideally, try it in a store. But if that's not possible, buy from a retailer with a generous return policy. Basses feel different in everyone's hands, and you need to be sure it's a good fit before committing.
