Best 4-String Lefthanded Basses Under $800 2026
Alright, southpaw bassists on a budget, let's talk. Finding a decent left-handed bass under $800 can feel like searching for a unicorn, but it's totally doable. We're not chasing boutique instruments here; we're looking for reliable workhorses that won't choke on stage or sound like cardboard in the studio. This list is about getting the most thump and articulation for your hard-earned cash.
Last updated: August 27, 2026
⚡ The best 4-string lefthanded basses in 2026 are Marcus Miller Z3-4 Antique White LH (top pick), Marcus Miller Z3-4 Sparkle Black LH for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton JB-75MN LH NA Vintage Bundle for pros — selected from 15 options across 2 brands, priced $138–$745, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Marcus Miller Z3-4 Antique White LH
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Ergonomic Performance
Comfort
Natural Playing Position
Key Feature:
The Z3-4 is a fantastic option for left-handed players seeking a solid, versatile bass with a warm, vintage vibe. The Marcus Heritage-3 preamp gives you a lot of tonal control, and the overall build quality is surprisingly good for the price point. It's a great workhorse bass for funk, soul, and rock players on a budget.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
- • Sire Standard MM humbucker offers powerful, articulate output.
- • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp provides versatile tonal shaping options.
- • Edgeless fingerboard enhances playing comfort, especially for long sessions.
CONS
- • Open-gear tuners might not offer the absolute finest tuning stability.
- • Mahogany body can make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
- • 34 in scale length isn't ideal for extended range playing.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 619457
$559
Marcus Miller Z3-4 Sparkle Black LH
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Proper Technique
Comfort
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
The Z3-4 Sparkle Black LH is a solid choice for left-handed players seeking a modern, versatile bass with a punchy voice. The mahogany body and Sire pickup combo give it a real growl, while the Heritage-3 preamp lets you dial in a wide range of tones. It's a great option for funk, rock, and modern pop players wanting a quality instrument without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant low-end foundation.
- • Sire MM humbucker provides a punchy, aggressive tone suitable for many genres.
- • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp offers versatile EQ shaping capabilities.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel.
CONS
- • Open-gear tuners might not offer the absolute finest tuning stability.
- • Sparkle Black finish can be a fingerprint magnet and prone to minor cosmetic imperfections.
- • While versatile, it leans towards modern funk and rock; vintage tones require more tweaking.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 584182
$536
Harley Benton JB-75MN LH NA Vintage Bundle
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Correct Form
Comfort
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This left-handed bass has a solid ash body and a maple neck with a D profile. The vintage Alnico 5 pickups give a warm, classic tone. It is a great choice for players who want a budget-friendly option that looks and feels like a classic vintage instrument.
PROS
- • Left-handed build for right-handed players
- • Vintage-style Alnico 5 single coil pickups
- • American ash body with hard rock maple neck
- • D-profile neck for comfortable playing
CONS
- • No weight specification listed in description
- • Single coil pickups prone to hum
- • Only two volume controls available
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 410737
$291
Marcus Miller P6-4 Sandblasted BK LH
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Natural Playing Position
Comfort
Ergonomic Performance
Key Feature:
This lefty Marcus Miller P6-4 is a seriously capable instrument. The combination of mahogany and ash gives it a really pleasing, balanced tone, and the Heritage-3 electronics give you plenty of options to dial in your sound. It's an excellent choice for players looking for a versatile, well-built bass with a classic vibe.
PROS
- • Mahogany/Ash combo delivers warm, articulate low-end tones
- • Marcus Heritage-3 electronics offer versatile tonal shaping
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides comfortable, familiar feel and snap
- • Sandblasted finish looks fantastic and enhances the wood's character
CONS
- • Single volume/tone control can feel limiting for experienced players
- • Bass bridge, while solid, isn't as refined as higher-end options
- • The 'C' neck profile might not suit players preferring a flatter feel
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 610823
$641
Harley Benton PB-20LH SBK Bundle
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Weight
12 kg
Correct Form
Natural Playing Position
Proper Technique
Key Feature:
This lefty PB-20LH bundle is a seriously impressive value. The bass itself has a surprisingly good, classic P-bass vibe, and the included amp is more than adequate for bedroom practice and small gigs. It's a fantastic starting point for new bassists or anyone needing a reliable, affordable backup.
PROS
- • Basswood body offers surprisingly resonant and balanced low-end response.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, articulate feel ideal for faster playing.
- • PB-style split coil pickup delivers a thick, vintage-inspired tone with good clarity.
- • HB-40B amp provides decent power and surprisingly usable tube emulation for practice.
CONS
- • Basswood, while resonant, lacks the sustain of mahogany or ash.
- • Amaranth fingerboard can feel a little harder than rosewood or ebony.
- • Budget hardware, particularly the machine heads, may feel a little rough.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 537994
$267
Harley Benton PB-20LH SBK Bundle
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Proper Technique
Correct Form
Comfort
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PB-20LH is a fantastic entry point for left-handed bassists, especially beginners or those wanting a classic Precision Bass vibe on a budget. The included amp is surprisingly usable for practice, though it won’t replace a higher-end setup. It’s a solid package delivering a lot of bang for the buck.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, resonant low-end tone.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel.
- • PB-style split coil pickup offers a surprisingly versatile sound.
- • HB-20B amp provides a decent starting point for practice.
CONS
- • Basswood can be a bit 'woody' and lack sustain compared to mahogany.
- • Bolt-on neck joint might not appeal to players preferring set necks.
- • The amp's TEC circuit is a gimmick – don't expect true tube warmth.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 537991
$232
Harley Benton TB-70VS LH Deluxe Series
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Okoume body
Left-Handed Bass Players
Correct Form
Comfort
Key Feature:
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.
- • Active electronics give full control over bass tone and balance.
CONS
- • Okoume body material is less dense than maple or mahogany.
- • No gig bag is included with the instrument.
- • Weight is not listed so you cannot know the total mass.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 612323
$232
Marcus Miller V7-4 Sandblasted BK TE LH
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Ergonomic Performance
Proper Technique
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This lefty bass gives you a solid feel with its maple neck and mahogany body. The single-coil pickups sound clear and punchy without extra knobs to fiddle with. It fits players who want a reliable instrument ready to play right away.
PROS
- • Mahogany body pairs with swamp ash top for solid resonance.
- • Maple bolt-on neck ensures strong connection and stability.
- • Marcus Super-J Revolution pickups deliver crisp, clean single-coil tone.
- • Left-handed design offers immediate comfort for lefty players.
CONS
- • Only two tone controls limit basic EQ adjustments.
- • Push/pull bass switch adds complexity for simple setups.
- • Black finish may show fingerprints easily on the body.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 615140
$746
Marcus Miller Z7-4 Natural Swamp Ash LH
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Ergonomic Performance
Comfort
Proper Technique
Key Feature:
This lefty Z7-4 is a serious contender for players wanting a versatile, well-built bass with a natural feel. The swamp ash body provides a lively tone, while the Sire pickups and Heritage-3 preamp give you a ton of tonal flexibility – perfect for gigging musicians and studio work who want a premium instrument without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers resonant, articulate low-end tones.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- • Sire pickups offer a versatile range from growl to clarity.
- • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp provides extensive tonal shaping options.
CONS
- • Swamp ash can make it slightly heavier than some other bass body woods.
- • The 'Blender' control can be tricky to dial in consistently.
- • Neck profile, while comfortable, might not suit all hand sizes.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 592121
$641
Harley Benton JB-75MN LH NA Vint Ser. Bundle
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Comfort
Proper Technique
Ergonomic Performance
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton JB-75MN is a seriously impressive value. It nails that classic P-Bass vibe with its ash body and Roswell pickups – surprisingly good for the price. It's a fantastic option for left-handed players looking for a vintage-inspired tone and feel without emptying their wallet, especially great for rock, blues, and Motown.
PROS
- • American ash body provides resonant, balanced tonal foundation
- • Roswell pickups deliver surprisingly articulate and punchy vintage tones
- • Canadian maple neck offers comfortable D profile and stable feel
- • Bolt-on neck construction contributes to a snappy, responsive playing experience
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck might lack the sustain of a set-neck design
- • Sung Il hardware, while functional, isn’t premium-grade
- • Ash body can be prone to finish checking with age and temperature changes
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 540140
$221
Harley Benton JB-75MN LH NA Vint Ser. w/Bag
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Left-Handed Bass Players
Correct Form
Proper Technique
Key Feature:
This lefty bass feels right at first touch with its ash body and maple neck. The Alnico pickups give it that classic warm sound vintage players love. It's a budget-friendly option for left-handed players who want solid wood without the big price tag.
PROS
- • Left-handed design plays naturally for lefties
- • Vintage series body uses American ash wood
- • Canadian hard rock maple neck offers solid feel
- • Alnico 5 pickups deliver warm vintage tone
CONS
- • Weight not listed makes carry less clear
- • Single coil pickups may need active EQ
- • No active electronics mentioned in specs
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 540144
$221
Harley Benton JB-75MN LH NA Vintage Series
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Ergonomic Performance
Comfort
Correct Form
Key Feature:
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
- • Bolt-on neck ensures solid connection and stability
CONS
- • Only two volume controls limit tone shaping
- • No active electronics boost output clarity
- • Weight not listed so user must check feel
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 290771
$209
Harley Benton PB-50 LH FR Vintage Ser Bundle
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Natural Playing Position
Correct Form
Proper Technique
Key Feature:
This left-handed Harley Benton PB-50 is a seriously impressive budget-friendly option. It nails the classic Precision Bass vibe, with a comfortable neck and surprisingly good pickups. Ideal for beginners or players seeking a reliable, vintage-inspired bass without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, resonant low-end ideal for vintage tones.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickups provide a surprisingly authentic Precision Bass growl.
- • Screwed maple neck enhances sustain and adds a touch of brightness.
- • Complete accessory pack provides immediate playability and value.
CONS
- • Basswood body can be somewhat prone to resonances if not properly EQ'd.
- • Maple fretboard may feel a little 'slick' for players preferring a more textured feel.
- • Hardware, while functional, isn't quite on par with higher-end components.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 560984
$151
Harley Benton PB-50 LH FR Vintage Series
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Natural Playing Position
Correct Form
Proper Technique
Key Feature:
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.
- • Deluxe chrome hardware elevates the aesthetic beyond the budget price point.
CONS
- • Basswood, while warm, can lack sustain compared to more premium tonewoods.
- • Maple fretboard may feel a little dry to some players; consider oiling.
- • Limited tonal versatility; designed specifically for vintage-style music.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 422547
$139
Marcus Miller V3 5 New Gen TS LH
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Correct Form
Comfort
Ergonomic Performance
Key Feature:
This lefty bass offers a solid mahogany body and comfortable rosewood neck. The single coil pickups give a punchy sound while the left-handed setup is rare. It suits players who want a direct, warm tone without too much electronic tweaking.
PROS
- • Left-handed option available for right-handed players
- • Mahogany body for warm, thick bass tone
- • Rosewood fingerboard with rolled edge comfort
- • J-Revolution single coils for clear attack
CONS
- • Only two controls limit tone shaping options
- • No preamp EQ beyond standard two-band
- • Missing standard bass weight spec in data
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 636976
$699
Every 4-string lefthanded basses that matches
51 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Harley Benton RB-414LH BK Classic Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Okoume body | $267 |
| 17 | Marcus Miller Z7-4 Skyburst Sparkle LH | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $746 |
| 18 | Marcus Miller V7 Alder-4 BK Sp. 2nd Gen LH | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $676 |
| 19 | Marcus Miller V6-4 Sandblasted BK LH | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $641 |
| 20 | Harley Benton MV-4P LH Black | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $267 |
| 21 | Harley Benton PB-20LH SBK w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $162 |
| 22 | Harley Benton PB-20LH SBK Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $162 |
| 23 | Harley Benton PB-20LH SBK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $151 |
| 24 | Harley Benton PB-20BK LH Standard Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $127 |
| 25 | Harley Benton JB-20 SB LH | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $127 |
| 26 | Marcus Miller V7 Alder-4 BUR 2nd Gen LH | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $652 |
| 27 | Marcus Miller V5 24-4 NT LH | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $617 |
| 28 | Marcus Miller P5R Alder-4 NT LH | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $559 |
| 29 | Harley Benton JB-62 LH CC SFG Bundle | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile D-shape neck · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $221 |
| 30 | Harley Benton JB-62 LH CC SFG | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile D-shape neck · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $197 |
| 31 | Harley Benton PB-62CC LH Black | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile D-shape neck · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $181 |
| 32 | Marcus Miller V3 4 New Gen Antique White LH | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Body Mahogany body | $641 |
| 33 | Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray4 CH Blue LH | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $547 |
| 34 | Harley Benton B-450LH BK Progressive Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Body Alder body | $209 |
| 35 | Harley Benton MB-4LH SBK w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $169 |
| 36 | Harley Benton MB-4LH SBK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck | $151 |
| 37 | Harley Benton PB-50 LH SB Vintage Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck | $139 |
| 38 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 19 frets · Body Poplar body | $127 |
| 39 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 19 frets · Body Poplar body | $116 |
| 40 | Marcus Miller P5 Alder-4 TS LH | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $617 |
| 41 | Marcus Miller P5 Alder-4 MLG LH | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body | $582 |
| 42 | Ibanez SR300EBL-WK | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $454 |
| 43 | Ortega Neo Series Solid U-Bass TGB LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 512 mm (20.16") · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Purpleheart fingerboard | $349 |
| 44 | Marcus Miller V5 Alder-4 CGM LH | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $536 |
| 45 | Höfner Ignition Beatles Bass V Bundle | Nut width 39.8 mm (1.57") · Frets 22 frets · Weight 4.5 kg | $571 |
| 46 | Steinberger Guitars Spirit XT-2 Bass BK Lefthand | Scale 866 mm (34.09") · Frets 24 frets · Body Basswood body | $536 |
| 47 | Ibanez GSRM20L-BK | Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Frets 22 frets · Body Poplar body | $281 |
| 48 | Danelectro 58 Longhorn Lefthand Bass CB | Scale 755 mm (29.72") · Frets 24 frets | $769 |
| 49 | Marcus Miller U5 TS MN Short LH | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") | $582 |
| 50 | Höfner Ignition VSB LH SE | Nut width 39.8 mm (1.57") · Frets 22 frets | $466 |
| 51 | Ibanez TMB100L-BK Talman Bass | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body | $348 |
4-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 51 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $291
from $127 to $699
Nut width
median 42 mm (1.65")
from 38 mm (1.5") to 42 mm (1.65") · 46 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 755 mm (29.72") to 864 mm (34.02") · 44 models
Frets
median 20
from 19 to 24 · 27 models
Body
poplar, alder, mahogany
most common · 42 models
Fingerboard
maple, laurel, rosewood
most common · 33 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 23 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 241 mm (9.49") to 305 mm (12.01") · 21 models
How to Choose the Best 4-String Lefthanded Basses
1
Neck Profile
A comfortable neck is crucial. Expect thinner profiles on some budget models, which can be great for speed but might lack sustain. Chunky necks offer a different feel and can add to the bass's perceived low-end grunt.
2
Pickup Voicing
Budget pickups often lean towards either a scooped midrange (lacking that fat midrange honk) or a harsh, brittle high-end. We're looking for a balance - something that can deliver a punchy, defined tone without sounding ice-picky.
3
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners will be a constant frustration. Expect some play in the nut slots and potentially less precise intonation. Upgrading hardware is often a worthwhile investment down the line.
4
Body Wood & Construction
Don't expect resonant, figured woods like mahogany or alder. Most basses in this range will be basswood or poplar - perfectly functional, but lacking some of the sonic character of pricier options. Bolt-on necks are common, which can affect sustain compared to set-neck construction.
5
Electronics Quality
Potentiometers (pots) are a common weak point. Expect some scratchiness or inconsistent taper. A quick pot swap can often improve the overall feel and usability.
Buying Guide
Realistically, at this price point, you're making trade-offs. Expect to compromise on things like premium hardware, exotic woods, and flawless finish work. Focus on the neck - a comfortable, straight neck is non-negotiable. Don't be afraid to factor in a basic setup from a local tech; even a minor adjustment can make a huge difference in playability and intonation. And honestly, a bass that feels good in your hands is worth more than a fancy finish.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 51 4-string lefthanded basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. While you won't get the same pristine tone as a $2000 bass, a good preamp and some EQ can work wonders. Focus on a balanced pickup voicing to start - less ice, more thump.
It means the neck is screwed onto the body, rather than glued. It's a cost-saving measure. It can slightly reduce sustain compared to a set-neck, but it's not always a huge difference, and a good setup can compensate.
Yes! Pickups are relatively easy and affordable to swap. It's a common upgrade path for budget basses looking to improve their tonal character.
Passive basses are simpler and often more reliable. Active basses have a built-in preamp, which can give you more headroom and tonal shaping options, but they require a battery and can be more complex to troubleshoot.
Prioritize playability. A comfortable neck and easy action are more important than fancy features. A versatile pickup voicing will also allow you to explore different styles.
