AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String Lefthanded Basses Under $5,000 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. Sandberg California VS Lionel Short Scale 4 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 72 models across 14 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.
-
- 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 ↗ -
Warwick Rockbass Corvette Basic 4 Active (Long Scale)
RB Corvette $$ LH 4 NB TS · Warwick
25 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width38.5 mm (1.52")
- Scale866 mm (34.09")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- BodyAsh body
This left-handed RB Corvette $$ is a solid choice for gigging musicians wanting a well-built, punchy bass. The long scale and MEC pickups give it a modern, aggressive tone that cuts through a mix, while the bolted neck provides reliable playability. It’s a great value for a bass with this level of quality and character.
Pros
- Ash body delivers a punchy, articulate low-end response.
- Bolted maple neck offers excellent stability and a snappy feel.
- MEC pickups provide a versatile, growly tone suitable for many genres.
Cons
- The weight (4.0 kg) might be fatiguing for some players during long gigs.
- The 2-band RockBass electronics offer limited tonal shaping options.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,002 now$1,002€899 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 ↗ -
Sandberg California VS Lionel Short Scale 4
California VS RB LH · Sandberg
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyAsh body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This lefty bass brings solid German craftsmanship to the table with a warm ash body and smooth rosewood neck. It feels like a reliable workhorse for players who want a sturdy instrument without the extra weight. Perfect for someone looking for a ready-to-play setup at a fair price.
Pros
- German-made precision ensures consistent quality and durability.
- Solid ash body delivers a warm, punchy low-end response.
- Maple bolt-on neck provides a sturdy, responsive connection.
Cons
- Split coil pickup configuration limits standard single-coil tone options.
- No string gauge options listed for user customization.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,616 now$1,616€1,449 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 ↗ -
Warwick Rockbass Star Bass 4
RB Star Bass 4 SBHP LH · Warwick
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width38.5 mm (1.52")
- Scale813 mm (32.01")
- Frets21 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- FingerboardWenge fingerboard
This left-handed RB Star is a solid, well-built instrument that nails that vintage-inspired tone. The medium scale makes it surprisingly accessible, and the MEC pickups deliver a warm, punchy sound that cuts through a mix. It's a great option for players seeking a reliable, workhorse bass with a classic vibe.
Pros
- Maple construction delivers a focused, articulate tone with excellent sustain.
- MEC Vintage pickups offer a classic, warm growl suitable for many genres.
- Medium scale (813mm) provides comfortable string tension and easy playability.
Cons
- High-gloss finish can be a fingerprint magnet and require frequent polishing.
- Wenge fingerboard can be prone to dryness; requires occasional oiling.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,114 now$1,114€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sandberg California VS Lionel Short Scale 4
California VS Lionel BK LH · Sandberg
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale762 mm (30")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyAsh body
This lefty Sandberg California VS Lionel BK is a seriously well-made instrument. The ash body and split coil pickups give it a punchy, defined sound that’s great for rock, funk, and even some blues. It’s a fantastic choice for left-handed players seeking a premium-priced, reliable bass with a vintage vibe.
Pros
- Ash body delivers a tight, focused low-end response.
- Sandberg split coil pickups offer a balanced, articulate tone.
- Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel.
Cons
- The maple fretboard can feel a bit sharp for some players initially.
- Passive electronics limit tonal flexibility compared to active basses.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,560 now$1,560€1,399 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 ↗
All 72 4-String lefthanded basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Marcus Miller Z3-4 Sparkle Black LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes56Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 12
Marcus Miller P5R Alder-4 NT LHMarcus Miller · 3 finishes56↓ 4.0%$534€479$534€479Check ↗
- 13
Marcus Miller V7 4 New Gen Antique White LHMarcus Miller · 3 finishes56Stable$779€699$779€699Check ↗
- 14
Marcus Miller V6-4 Sandblasted BK LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes55↓ 9.1%$556€499$556€499Check ↗
- 15
Marcus Miller Z7-4 Natural Swamp Ash LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes54Stable$612€549$612€549Check ↗
- 16
Ibanez SR500AL Soundgear Left-HandedSR500AL-MHL · Ibanez53↓ 5.6%$768€689$768€689Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton JB-62 LH CC SFGHarley Benton · 2 finishes52Stable$188€169$188€169Check ↗
- 18
Sandberg California II TT 4 BLK LHSandberg · 3 finishes52Stable$1,950€1,749$1,950€1,749Check ↗
- 19
Marcus Miller V5 24-4 NT LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes51Stable$590€529$590€529Check ↗
- 20
Marcus Miller V3 4 New Gen Antique White LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes51↓ 3.6%$590€529$590€529Check ↗
- 21
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 4 BK LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes51Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 22
Marcus Miller V7-4 Sandblasted BK TE LHMarcus Miller50↓ 1.6%$701€629$701€629Check ↗
- 23
Marcus Miller V8-4 NT LHMarcus Miller50↓ 5.9%$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 24
Sandberg California Central 4California Central LH RBL · Sandberg50Stable$2,786€2,499$2,786€2,499Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton MB-4LH SBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes49Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton TB-70VS LH Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton49Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 27
Marcus Miller P6-4 Sandblasted BK LHMarcus Miller49Stable$612€549$612€549Check ↗
- 28
Marcus Miller P7 4 New Gen TS LHMarcus Miller49Stable$835€749$835€749Check ↗
- 29
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ4 Mora LH BKSadowsky · 2 finishes49↓ 8.0%$1,025€919$1,025€919Check ↗
- 30
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ4 Mora LH BKSadowsky · 2 finishes49↓ 8.9%$1,147€1,029$1,147€1,029Check ↗
- 31
Sandberg California II VS 4 RW BB LHSandberg · 2 finishes49Stable$1,727€1,549$1,727€1,549Check ↗
- 32
Sandberg California II TM 4 PF BKB LHSandberg · 2 finishes49Stable$1,917€1,719$1,917€1,719Check ↗
- 33
Harley Benton JB-20 SB LHHarley Benton47Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 34
Harley Benton PB-62CC LH BlackHarley Benton47Stable$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 35
Harley Benton Beatbass VS LH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton47Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 36
Harley Benton RB-414LH BK Classic SeriesHarley Benton47Stable$255€229$255€229Check ↗
- 37
Höfner Ignition VSB LH SEHöfner47Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 38
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Modern 4 RM LH BKSadowsky47↓ 8.4%$1,092€979$1,092€979Check ↗
- 39
Sandberg Florence 4Florence 4 LH MN BRG · Sandberg47Stable$1,917€1,719$1,917€1,719Check ↗
- 40
Höfner H500/1 LH Artist Violin BassHöfner · 2 finishes46↓ 4.2%$2,340€2,099$2,340€2,099Check ↗
- 41
Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. SeriesHarley Benton45Stable$110€99$110€99Check ↗
- 42
Harley Benton B-450LH BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton45Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 43
Schecter Stiletto-4 Stealth Pro EX Left-HandedStiletto Stealth-4 LH SB · Schecter45Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 44
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 Morado LH BKSadowsky45↓ 8.0%$1,025€919$1,025€919Check ↗
- 45
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vin JJ4 Mo FL LH BKSadowsky45↓ 8.0%$1,025€919$1,025€919Check ↗
- 46
Sadowsky MetroExp 21 Vint MJ 4 RM LH BKSadowsky45↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 47
Sandberg California II TM 4 Short BK LHSandberg45Stable$2,006€1,799$2,006€1,799Check ↗
- 48
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 4 SOWH LHSadowsky44↓ 7.0%$1,036€929$1,036€929Check ↗
- 49
Warwick RB Corvette B 4 Shortsc. LH BKWarwick44Stable$1,058€949$1,058€949Check ↗
- 50
Tobias Killer B IVKiller B IV LH · Tobias44↓ 8.3%$1,225€1,099$1,225€1,099Check ↗
4-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 101 models we track, not a sample.
Median $768 — half of all 4-String lefthanded basses here cost less.
median of 84 models · 760 mm (29.92")–864 mm (34.02")
most common · 81 models
most common · 61 models
median of 84 models · 38 mm (1.5")–42 mm (1.65")
How to choose the best 4-String lefthanded basses
Neck Profile & Feel
This is everything. A bass with a neck that doesn't feel right is useless, no matter how good the pickups sound. We're looking for comfortable profiles - not too thick, not too thin - that allow for effortless playing, especially during long gigs.
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
Cheap pickups often sound muddy or brittle. We're prioritizing pickups that offer a balanced frequency response, clear articulation of notes, and enough definition to cut through a dense mix without getting lost in the low-end rumble.
Hardware Quality & Tuning Stability
You don't want a bass that goes out of tune every other song. We're checking tuners, bridge construction, and overall hardware robustness to ensure gig-ready reliability. Poor hardware is a huge drag.
Body Wood & Resonance
Different woods impart different tonal characteristics. Mahogany will give you that warm, sustain-rich thump, while alder is more balanced and versatile. This matters for overall tone and how the bass responds to your playing dynamics.
Construction & Finish Quality
While we're not expecting boutique-level craftsmanship, sloppy fretwork, uneven finishes, and cheap hardware are dealbreakers. We're looking for solid construction that indicates a bass built to last, even if it's a budget-friendly option.
Buying guide
Alright lefty bass players, let's talk about getting serious thump without emptying your bank account. Finding a quality 4-string bass under $5000, especially when you're left-handed, can feel like a quest. We're cutting through the noise and looking at basses that deliver genuine feel, reliable performance, and enough tonal flexibility to cover gigs, rehearsals, and tracking without breaking the gig economy.
At this price range, expect some trade-offs. You're not going to get figured maple tops or custom-wound pickups, but you can find basses with solid fundamentals. Pay close attention to the neck - that's the most crucial element.
Don't be swayed by flashy finishes or unnecessary features; focus on feel and tone. If the action is too high or the neck feels awkward, it's not worth the money, even if it's a steal.
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 101 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 there any truly 'vintage-voiced' left-handed basses under $5000?
Authentic vintage tones are tough to replicate at this price point. You'll find basses that try to emulate classic sounds, but don't expect a direct clone. Focus on finding a bass with a versatile tonal palette that you can shape with your amp and EQ.
What about active electronics? Are they worth it?
Active electronics can offer more tonal shaping options and often a hotter output, but they require a power source. For a gigging bass, passive electronics are generally more reliable - one less thing to worry about. If you want more flexibility, an active bass is fine, but factor in battery changes.
Should I consider used options?
Absolutely! The used market is your friend. You can often snag a higher-end model for less than its original price. Just be sure to thoroughly inspect the neck, frets, and electronics before committing.
What's the difference between 'alder' and 'basswood'?
Alder is a more common and generally preferred wood for bass bodies, offering a balanced tone with good sustain. Basswood is softer and lighter, often used for its comfortable feel, but it can lack some of the tonal complexity of alder. It's not bad, just different.
I'm a beginner, what should I prioritize?
Focus on playability above all else. A comfortable neck and easy action will make learning much more enjoyable. Don't get hung up on fancy features; a simple, reliable bass is the best tool for developing your technique.
