AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Sadowsky 4-String Lefthanded Basses 2026
The top pick is Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ4 Mora LH BK ($1,025). Sadowsky MetroLine 24-Fret LTD 4 LH NTS leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 10 models, 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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- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a serious contender for lefties seeking a vintage-voiced bass with modern playability. The JJ pickups nail that classic growl, while the roasted maple neck keeps things comfortable. It's a premium-priced instrument perfect for players wanting a refined feel and versatile tones without the extreme cost of a top-tier custom shop bass.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with great sustain
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel
- Sadowsky JJ-style pickups deliver a punchy, vintage-inspired growl
Cons
- Morado fingerboard can be a bit harder than rosewood, requiring some acclimation
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, doesn't offer the same sustain as a neck-through design
49AudioFu
Index↓ 8.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,114 · Aug 17$1,025 now$1,025€919 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
This left-handed Sadowsky is a serious contender for players wanting vintage vibe with modern flexibility. The roasted maple neck and versatile pickup configuration make it incredibly playable and adaptable to various genres. It’s a premium-priced instrument, but the build quality and sonic range justify the investment for the discerning bassist.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- The Sadowsky P/H pickup combo delivers incredible tonal versatility, from vintage growl to modern punch.
Cons
- Okoume can be somewhat plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- The 12” radius, while comfortable, might feel less familiar to players used to flatter fingerboards.
49AudioFu
Index↓ 8.9%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,259 · Aug 17$1,147 now$1,147€1,029 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This Sadowsky MetroExp24 is a serious instrument for the modern bassist. The roasted maple neck feels fantastic, and the Soapbar pickups give you that punchy, defined low-end you want for funk, pop, and modern rock. It’s a premium-priced option that delivers a lot of value for the money, especially for lefties.
Pros
- Okoume body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
- Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer stability and a smooth feel.
- Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a punchy, articulate, modern tone.
Cons
- Okoume can be somewhat plain aesthetically compared to other tonewoods.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, isn't favored by some for vintage sustain.
47AudioFu
Index↓ 8.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,192 · Aug 17$1,092 now$1,092€979 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously refined fretless bass, perfect for players seeking a vintage-inspired tone with modern versatility. The JJ pickups nail that classic J-bass growl, while the active preamp adds some extra punch. It’s a great option for funk, soul, and any genre where a warm, articulate fretless tone is essential.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a resonant, lively tone with excellent sustain.
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- Sadowsky JJ-style pickups deliver a warm, articulate vintage tone with clarity.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard can be a bit harder on the fingers initially compared to ebony.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, isn't favored by some for its tonal characteristics.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 8.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,114 · Aug 17$1,025 now$1,025€919 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
This left-handed Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a serious contender for players wanting a blend of P-bass thump and J-bass articulation. The roasted maple neck and active electronics make it a joy to play and dial in a wide range of tones, perfect for session work or a gigging musician who needs versatility.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- HybPJ4 pickup configuration delivers versatile tones from growl to clarity.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be slightly drier feeling than rosewood.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the integrated resonance of a neck-through design.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 8.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,114 · Aug 17$1,025 now$1,025€919 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
This Sadowsky MetroExp is a fantastic left-handed option for players seeking a versatile, vintage-inspired tone. The combination of P and J pickups, paired with the active electronics, allows for a wide range of sounds, from warm and mellow to punchy and aggressive. It's ideal for session players or anyone wanting a high-quality, well-built bass with a comfortable feel.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- Sadowsky pickups deliver a balanced, articulate tone with surprising warmth.
- The 2-way active electronics offer subtle tonal shaping without harshness.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be slightly drier than rosewood.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 9.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,225 · Aug 17$1,114 now$1,114€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
This is a great left-handed bass for players who want a solid feel without the bulk of a big body. The roasted maple neck stays true and plays smoothly, while the active electronics let you cut through any mix. It is a smart choice for lefties who need reliable tone control and easy string changes.
Pros
- Left-handed configuration saves space for right-handed players
- Roasted maple neck provides a stable, fast playing surface
- Active electronics allow precise tone shaping and EQ control
Cons
- Okoume body material is less stable than solid wood
- Lefthanded design limits appeal to only lefty players
44AudioFu
Index↓ 7.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,114 · Aug 17$1,036 now$1,036€929 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This lefty Sadowsky MetroExpress is a fantastic all-arounder. The hybrid pickup setup gives you a wide palette of tones, from smooth vintage tones to more aggressive punch. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers serious value for the aspiring or working bassist who wants versatility and quality.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a lively resonance and comfortable feel.
- Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer exceptional stability and playability.
- Hybrid PJ pickup configuration delivers versatility from growl to clarity.
Cons
- Okoume can be a bit prone to dents and scratches with heavy use.
- Bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,002 now$1,002€899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38.5 mm (1.52")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This lefty bass feels special thanks to the roasted maple neck and Koa top. The active electronics let you shape your tone exactly how you like it. It's a solid choice for players who want smooth action and a warm sound.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck adds unique tonal character
- AAA Koa top provides warm, vintage resonance
- 24 nickel-silver frets ensure smooth playability
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction may feel less premium
- Limited left-handed market availability
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,239 now$5,239€4,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
This MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built bass, especially for a lefty. The hybrid P/J pickups give you a ton of tonal options, and the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. It's a great choice for players who want a versatile, professional-grade instrument without the premium price tag of their top-tier models.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a balanced tone with excellent resonance and sustain.
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- Hybrid pickup configuration delivers a versatile range from warm P-style to aggressive J-style tones.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be slightly softer and requires more diligent care.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, may lack the sustain of a neck-through design.
42AudioFu
Index↓ 1.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,036 · Aug 17$1,025 now$1,025€919 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
4-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 102 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,036 — half of all 4-String lefthanded basses here cost less.
median of 85 models · 760 mm (29.92")–864 mm (34.02")
most common · 81 models
most common · 62 models
median of 85 models · 38 mm (1.5")–42 mm (1.65")
How to choose the best 4-String lefthanded basses
Neck Profile
Sadowsky's 'C' shape is a sweet spot - comfortable for long gigs without being too chunky. It's a modern take on a vintage feel, giving you that effortless glide without sacrificing sustain. You won't be fighting the neck, just playing.
Pickup Voicing
Their humbuckers are the real deal. They're not scooped or overly bright; they deliver a balanced tone with that characteristic Sadowsky 'fat midrange honk' that cuts through a dense mix without sounding harsh. It's a warm, articulate growl - perfect for Motown, funk, or even heavier rock.
Construction & Hardware
The attention to detail is what sets them apart. Roasted maple necks offer stability and a smooth feel, and the Hipshot hardware provides rock-solid tuning stability even with aggressive playing. This isn't just about aesthetics; it's about a bass that will last.
String Spacing & Action
Sadowsky gets the spacing right. It's comfortable for players with larger hands and allows for accurate note placement, which is crucial for those complex slap lines. The action is typically set low, facilitating fast playing, but it's easily adjustable to your preference.
Finish & Aesthetics
While subjective, the finishes are impeccably applied. They aren't just pretty; the thin, even coats allow the wood to breathe, contributing to the overall resonance. The vintage-inspired aesthetics are timeless - no flashy gimmicks, just classic style.
Buying guide
Alright, lefty bass players, let's talk Sadowsky. Finding a quality left-handed bass can be a real pain, especially one that doesn't feel like a compromise. Sadowsky's approach - blending vintage aesthetics with modern playability - makes their 4-strings something special, and the left-handed models, while rarer, are worth the hunt if you're serious about tone and feel. They're not the cheapest, but they're a step up from the usual suspects.
Look, Sadowskys aren't cheap. The price reflects the quality of the materials and the meticulous construction. Be wary of used models that have been heavily gigged and abused - the roasted maple neck can develop issues if not properly cared for.
If you're serious about tone and playability, the extra investment is worth it; it's a bass you'll likely own for years, not just a few months.
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 12 4-String lefthanded basses from the Thomann catalogue (of 102 in the category). 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 Sadowsky basses worth the money compared to Fender or Ibanez?
It's a different league. Fender offers great value, but Sadowsky's attention to detail, pickup voicing, and neck feel are a significant step up. Ibanez often prioritizes features over tone - Sadowsky is about refined, focused sound.
What's the deal with the roasted maple neck?
Roasted maple is kiln-dried at high temperatures, which stabilizes the wood and reduces the impact of humidity changes. It also results in a smoother, more resonant feel - think of it like a well-seasoned baseball bat.
Do Sadowsky pickups sound like vintage pickups?
They're inspired by vintage tones, but they're voiced with a modern clarity and articulation. They won't sound exactly like a 60s Gibson, but they capture the essence with a more focused and defined character.
Are Sadowsky left-handed basses readily available?
Not really. They're made to order, so availability is limited. You'll likely need to order from a dealer or check for used models.
Can I get a custom Sadowsky?
Absolutely. They offer a wide range of customization options, from neck profiles to pickup choices. Be prepared for a longer wait time and a higher price tag.
