AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String Lefthanded Basses Under $800 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. Marcus Miller V7 4 New Gen Antique White LH leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 34 models across 9 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 width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
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.
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.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$512 now$512€459 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This lefty Marcus Miller P5R is a serious contender for players seeking a vintage-inspired tone without the premium price tag. The roasted maple neck feels fantastic, and the pickups deliver a surprisingly wide range of sounds, from smooth jazz to gritty rock. It’s a great all-rounder for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a solid, reliable bass with a classic vibe.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a warm, punchy low-end response.
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- Marcus Vintage-Fat pickups provide a versatile, growly tone.
Cons
- Alder body can make it a bit weighty for extended playing sessions.
- Rosewood fingerboard might feel a little dry for some players.
56AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$556 · Aug 17$534 now$534€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
This left-handed bass uses a roasted maple neck for better stability. The single coils give a bright tone, while the preamp lets you switch between active and passive modes. It suits players who want a smooth fret feel and a classic look without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck stays stable in humidity changes.
- Marcus Heritage-3 preamp offers active and passive switching.
- 20 stainless steel frets provide a smooth playing feel.
Cons
- Single coil pickups may need shielding in noisy areas.
- No specified weight makes carrying comfort uncertain.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$779 now$779€699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This V6-4 is a serious contender for players wanting a versatile, vintage-voiced bass. The combination of mahogany and swamp ash gives it a great tonal foundation, and the Marcus Heritage-3 electronics unlock a wide range of sounds, making it ideal for funk, blues, and rock players seeking a premium feel without the high-end price tag.
Pros
- Swamp ash top delivers bright, articulate highs and excellent resonance.
- Marcus Super-J Revolution pickups offer a vintage-inspired, punchy tone.
- Heritage-3 electronics provide versatile tonal shaping and passive switching.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make it feel slightly heavier than some basses.
- Rosswood fingerboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
All 34 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 Z7-4 Natural Swamp Ash LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes54Stable$612€549$612€549Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez SR500AL Soundgear Left-HandedSR500AL-MHL · Ibanez53↓ 5.6%$768€689$768€689Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton JB-62 LH CC SFGHarley Benton · 2 finishes52Stable$188€169$188€169Check ↗
- 14
Marcus Miller V5 24-4 NT LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes51Stable$590€529$590€529Check ↗
- 15
Marcus Miller V3 4 New Gen Antique White LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes51↓ 3.6%$590€529$590€529Check ↗
- 16
Marcus Miller V7-4 Sandblasted BK TE LHMarcus Miller50↓ 1.6%$701€629$701€629Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton MB-4LH SBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes49Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton TB-70VS LH Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton49Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 19
Marcus Miller P6-4 Sandblasted BK LHMarcus Miller49Stable$612€549$612€549Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton JB-20 SB LHHarley Benton47Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton PB-62CC LH BlackHarley Benton47Stable$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton Beatbass VS LH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton47Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 23
Harley Benton RB-414LH BK Classic SeriesHarley Benton47Stable$255€229$255€229Check ↗
- 24
Höfner Ignition VSB LH SEHöfner47Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. SeriesHarley Benton45Stable$110€99$110€99Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton B-450LH BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton45Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 27
Marcus Miller U5 TS MN Short LHMarcus Miller41Stable$556€499$556€499Check ↗
- 28
Warwick Corvette RB 4 Med Scale BK LHWarwick41↓ 1.5%$757€679$757€679Check ↗
- 29
Ortega Neo Series Solid U-Bass TGB LHOrtega37Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
- 30
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray4 CH Blue LHSterling by Music Man37Stable$523€469$523€469Check ↗
- 31
Steinberger Guitars Spirit XT-2 Bass BK LefthandSteinberger Guitars35Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 32
Danelectro 58 Longhorn Lefthand Bass CBDanelectro34Stable$735€659$735€659Check ↗
- 33
Danelectro 59DC Long Scale Bass Copperburst59DC Long Scale Bass LH B · Danelectro34Stable$779€699$779€699Check ↗
- 34
Höfner Ignition Beatles Bass V BundleHöfner24Stable$545€489$545€489Check ↗
4-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 55 models we track, not a sample.
Median $434 — half of all 4-String lefthanded basses here cost less.
median of 47 models · 38 mm (1.5")–42 mm (1.65")
median of 48 models · 755 mm (29.72")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 29 models · 20–24
most common · 43 models
How to choose the best 4-String lefthanded basses
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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 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 55 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 any of these basses suitable for recording?
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.
What does 'bolt-on neck' mean, and is it bad?
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.
Can I upgrade the pickups later?
Yes! Pickups are relatively easy and affordable to swap. It's a common upgrade path for budget basses looking to improve their tonal character.
What's the deal with active vs. passive electronics?
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.
I'm a beginner. Which one should I choose?
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.
