AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String Lefthanded Basses Under $500 2026
The top pick is Ibanez GSRM20 Gio miKro Soundgear ($269). Harley Benton PB-20BK LH Standard Series gives you the most for the money at $122. Ibanez SR300EB Standard Soundgear Bass leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 17 models across 4 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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- Scale726 mm (28.58")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyPoplar body
The GSRM20L-BK is a solid choice for beginners and players on a budget. It’s a surprisingly versatile little bass, offering a blend of P and J pickup tones that work well for rock, pop, and even some funk. The short scale makes it super easy to play, perfect for younger players or those who prefer a more compact feel.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly balanced, resonant tone.
- Dynamix P/J pickups deliver a versatile range of sounds.
- Jatoba fretboard provides a smooth playing experience.
Cons
- Entry-level hardware limits upgrade potential for serious players.
- Poplar body can be prone to finish checking with heavy use.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$269 now$269€241 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardJatoba fingerboard
The SR300EBL-WK is a solid choice for lefty bassists starting out or looking for a versatile, affordable instrument. The mahogany body gives it a nice warmth, and the PowerSpan pickups cut through nicely. It's a workhorse bass, well-suited for rock, pop, and funk – a great all-rounder for gigging or practice.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant low-end tone
- SR4 neck profile offers comfortable, fast playing feel
- PowerSpan Dual Coils deliver punchy, modern bass tones
Cons
- Mahogany body can contribute to a heavier overall feel
- Jatoba fingerboard might feel a bit drier than rosewood
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$434 now$434€389 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This lefty Harley Benton PB-20BK is a seriously impressive value. It nails that classic Precision Bass tone with a modern neck profile, making it a fantastic option for beginners or players needing a reliable, affordable bass for rock, blues, or Motown. The build is surprisingly solid for the price point.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel.
- Amaranth fretboard is durable and offers a smooth playing experience.
Cons
- Hardware quality is budget-level; tuner stability might be a concern.
- Poplar body can be a bit plain aesthetically, lacking premium wood grain.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez TMB100 Standard Talman Bass
TMB100L-BK Talman Bass · Ibanez
63 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyPoplar body
The Talman TMB100L is a solid, budget-friendly option for left-handed players seeking a vintage-inspired vibe. The split coil pickup delivers a great growl, while the J pickup keeps things versatile. It's a fantastic starter bass or a reliable workhorse for gigging musicians who don't want to break the bank.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- TMB4 neck profile is comfortable and fast, well-suited for various playing styles.
- Dynamic P split coil provides a thick, growly tone perfect for rock and funk.
Cons
- Jatoba fretboard can feel a bit dry initially; may benefit from conditioning.
- Standard bridge is functional, but higher-end upgrades could improve sustain.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$332 now$332€298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyAsh body
This left-handed bass offers a classic feel with its ash body and maple neck. The Alnico 5 pickups sound warm and punchy, perfect for vintage-style rock. It suits anyone needing a reliable, affordable bass without the weight of a full-size instrument.
Pros
- Left-handed build fits players who play left
- American ash body gives warm vintage tone
- Alnico 5 pickups deliver classic single coil punch
Cons
- Only two volume controls limit tone shaping
- No active electronics boost output clarity
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$200 now$200€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
This lefty PB-50 is a seriously impressive value. It nails that classic Precision Bass vibe with a warm, punchy sound and a comfortable neck. It's perfect for beginners or experienced players wanting a vintage-inspired tone without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Basswood body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the vintage tone.
- Roswell VTN4 pickups deliver a surprisingly authentic Precision Bass growl.
- Screwed maple neck offers stability and a comfortable, familiar C-shape profile.
Cons
- Basswood, while warm, can lack sustain compared to more premium tonewoods.
- Maple fretboard may feel a little dry to some players; consider oiling.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$133 now$133€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This lefty Harley Benton JB-62 is a seriously impressive value. It nails that classic Fender Jazz Bass vibe with its single-coil pickups and comfortable neck, making it perfect for beginners or experienced players wanting a vintage-inspired tone on a budget. The build quality is surprisingly solid for the price point.
Pros
- Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly authentic, vintage-voiced single-coil tone.
- Caramelized maple neck provides a comfortable, fast feel with a subtle sweetness.
- Bolt-on construction offers a bright, snappy response characteristic of classic basses.
Cons
- Poplar body, while comfortable, lacks the resonance of more premium tonewoods.
- Graphite nut, while stable, isn't quite as smooth as a Tusq or bone nut.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$188 now$188€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileD-shape neck
This MB-4LH is a seriously impressive value for a left-handed bassist. The D-profile neck is comfortable and the humbucker/coil-split pickup combo gives you a surprising amount of tonal flexibility – it's a great option for beginners or players wanting a versatile, affordable bass for rock, pop, or funk.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel for quick playing.
- Humbucker with coil-split delivers versatility from thick growl to bright single-coil tones.
Cons
- Factory strings are basic; an immediate upgrade is highly recommended.
- Bolt-on construction, while responsive, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
This is a solid left-handed bass for players who need space in a small room. The mahogany neck and blackwood fretboard feel great to play. You get active electronics to shape your sound exactly how you like it. It suits anyone looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option that fits left-handed style.
Pros
- Left-handed build saves space for right-handed players in small rooms.
- Mahogany set neck provides a solid, stable foundation for the neck.
- Blackwood fingerboard offers a smooth feel under the fingers.
Cons
- Okoume body material is less dense than maple or mahogany.
- No gig bag is included with the instrument.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$222 now$222€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This lefty Harley Benton JB-20 is a seriously fun bass for the money. It nails that classic JB tone – think early Motown or punchy funk – with a surprisingly playable neck. It's a great entry point for beginners or a cool, affordable workhorse for experienced players.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly balanced and resonant tone.
- JB-style single coils deliver a punchy, articulate, and vintage-inspired sound.
- Modern C neck profile is comfortable and facilitates fast playing for many.
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction lacks the sustain of a set-neck design.
- Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and may benefit from upgrades.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 17 4-String lefthanded basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Harley Benton PB-62CC LH BlackHarley Benton47Stable$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton Beatbass VS LH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton47Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton RB-414LH BK Classic SeriesHarley Benton47Stable$255€229$255€229Check ↗
- 14
Höfner Ignition VSB LH SEHöfner47Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. SeriesHarley Benton45Stable$110€99$110€99Check ↗
- 16
Harley Benton B-450LH BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton45Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 17
Ortega Neo Series Solid U-Bass TGB LHOrtega37Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
4-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 29 models we track, not a sample.
Median $200 — half of all 4-String lefthanded basses here cost less.
median of 27 models · 38 mm (1.5")–42 mm (1.65")
median of 28 models · 726 mm (28.58")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 19 models · 19–22
most common · 24 models
How to choose the best 4-String lefthanded basses
Pickup Voicing
Cheap pickups often sound brittle and lack warmth. We're looking for something with a usable low-end and a little bit of growl - even if it needs tweaking. Thin, ice-picky highs are a no-go.
Neck Profile & Playability
A neck that's uncomfortable to play will kill your enthusiasm faster than a bad amp. We're prioritizing necks that feel good in the hand, with reasonable action and decent fretwork, even if it's not boutique-level.
Hardware Quality
Pots that crackle, tuners that slip - these are the little things that make a bass frustrating to play. We're looking for hardware that at least holds tune and doesn't introduce unwanted noise, understanding that higher-end upgrades are likely down the line.
Body Wood & Construction
Don't expect mahogany or alder at this price point. Most will be basswood or nato, which are fine for the money, but contribute to a certain "generic" tone. Solid construction is more important - we want something that won't fall apart after a few gigs.
Overall Articulation
A good bass responds to your playing - it has dynamics. Cheap basses often feel lifeless and lack articulation, blurring notes together. We're searching for something that can handle a groove and define its space in the band.
Buying guide
Finding a decent left-handed bass that won't bleed your wallet dry is tougher than it looks. You want something that can handle a gig, lay down a solid foundation in rehearsal, and not sound like a strangled cat when you plug it in. This list focuses on 4-string lefties under $500 that actually deliver reasonable performance - we're not chasing miracles, but we are hunting for value.
At this price, you're making compromises. The biggest trade-offs are usually in pickups and hardware. Expect to potentially upgrade those down the road if you're serious.
Don't get hung up on aesthetics - focus on feel and sound. A good setup from a local tech can do wonders, even on a budget bass - it's often the difference between playable and unplayable.
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 29 4-String lefthanded 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 these basses gig-worthy?
Absolutely, but with realistic expectations. They'll handle the basics - rehearsals, smaller gigs - but don't expect pristine studio tone. Be prepared for potential hardware tweaks or upgrades.
Can I record with these?
You can, but you'll likely want to EQ and compress to smooth out any harshness or lack of low-end. A decent preamp can help significantly.
What's the difference between basswood and nato?
Both are soft woods. Basswood is generally considered a bit more neutral-sounding, while nato can have a slightly warmer, more mid-focused tone. It's subtle, and often masked by the pickups anyway.
Should I buy new or used?
Used is almost always a better value at this price point. You can often snag a higher-end model for the same price as a new budget bass. Just inspect it carefully for neck warps or major hardware issues.
What does 'action' mean?
Action refers to the height of the strings above the frets. Lower action means easier playing but can lead to fret buzz. Higher action is harder to play but might eliminate buzz. A good setup adjusts this to a comfortable level.
