AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String P-Basses 2026
The top pick is Fender Standard Stratocaster ($599). Squier Sonic Precision Bass gives you the most for the money at $200. Fender ST-57 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 88 models across 15 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
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All 4-String P-BassesTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Fender Standard Stratocaster
Standard P Bass MN WPG CND · Fender
297 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyPoplar body
This Standard P Bass delivers that iconic Fender growl and feel at a very approachable price. The modern neck profile makes it comfortable for a wide range of players, and the candy cola finish is a real eye-catcher. It’s a fantastic choice for gigging musicians and anyone chasing that classic P Bass tone.
Pros
- Maple neck provides excellent clarity and sustain.
- Modern 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- Standard split-coil pickup delivers a classic P Bass growl with added articulation.
Cons
- Poplar body can be somewhat resonant, potentially muddying low frequencies in certain settings.
- Bolt-on neck construction lacks the integrated feel of a set-neck bass.
77AudioFu
Index↓ 2.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$615 · Aug 17$599 now$599€537 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster
Am Pro Clsc P-Bass MN FLPB · Fender
224 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
This bass sounds like a classic P-Bass but with modern playability. The alder body and maple neck give you a solid, responsive feel that works well for any style. It suits players who want that bright, punchy vintage tone without extra electronics.
Pros
- Classic Coastline '66 single coils for bright, punchy tone
- Modern C neck profile fits most hand sizes perfectly
- Solid alder body keeps midrange punch and clarity
Cons
- Greasebucket tone circuit lacks modern EQ flexibility
- No active preamp options for low-end boost
74AudioFu
Index↓ 2.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,737 · Aug 17$1,701 now$1,701€1,526 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster
Player II Mod P Bass MN DSK · Fender
175 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
This Player II Mod P Bass is a serious step up from the standard Player series. The active EQ and split coil P pickup give it a unique voice – powerful and articulate, perfect for modern rock, funk, and pop basslines. It’s a fantastic option for players wanting a versatile, professional-grade instrument without the premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Modified Precision Bass split coil delivers a thick, modern low-end growl.
- HiMass bridge enhances clarity and reduces unwanted vibrations for a tighter feel.
Cons
- The Dusk finish, while attractive, might be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
- The active EQ, while versatile, adds complexity for players preferring a simpler setup.
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,113 now$1,113€998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Player II Telecaster
LTD Player II P-Bass RW SHP · Fender
685 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass sounds warm and punchy thanks to the Alnico 5 pickups and rosewood neck. The maple neck feels smooth under your fingers, making it easy to play fast runs. It suits players who want a classic, clean tone without extra knobs or locking hardware.
Pros
- Classic alder body gives clear, mid-focused tone
- Maple neck provides smooth, fast playing feel
- Alnico 5 pickups deliver warm, punchy low end
Cons
- Only two controls limit tone shaping options
- Standard bridge lacks locking or active features
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 8Oct 8$1,103 now$1,103€989 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender American Ultra II Telecaster
Am Ultra II P Bass MN AVL · Fender
194 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Fingerboard radius254 mm (10")
- BodyAlder body
The Am Ultra II P Bass is a seriously well-thought-out instrument. Fender’s really nailed the blend of modern playability and classic P-Bass tones. It's a fantastic choice for players wanting a versatile, high-performance bass with exceptional clarity and noise reduction – perfect for session work or a wide range of genres.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Compound radius fingerboard enhances playability, catering to both chording and soloing.
- Ultra II pickups offer vintage tone with remarkably low noise for clean recordings.
Cons
- The modern 'D' neck profile might not suit players preferring a more traditional feel.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many bassists.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,619 now$2,619€2,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Squier Affinity Telecaster Electric Guitar
Affinity P Bass MN PJ OW · Squier
227 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
This Affinity P Bass MN PJ is a solid starting point for bassists wanting a P/J blend. The split coil neck pickup gives it a unique voice, and the bolt-on neck provides a lively feel. It's a great choice for beginners or players on a budget who want versatility and a decent growl.
Pros
- Poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- The split-coil neck pickup delivers a warm, round tone ideal for Motown and soul.
- Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy feel and bright upper-midrange response.
Cons
- The synthetic bone nut can feel a bit plasticky compared to bone or graphite.
- Pickups, while decent, lack the nuance and clarity of higher-end ceramic pickups.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$300 now$300€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender ST-57 Stratocaster Reissue MIJ
57 P-Bass MN Black CC · Fender
245 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This is a seriously refined P-Bass, built to nail that classic, foundational tone. The Josefina pickups are the real deal, offering a warm, punchy growl perfect for Motown, blues, and vintage rock. It's an investment, but delivers a level of authenticity and feel that’s hard to beat for the discerning player.
Pros
- Josefina pickups deliver authentic, warm vintage P-Bass tone.
- Maple neck with '57 profile offers comfortable, familiar playability.
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant foundation for the instrument.
Cons
- The '57 Soft 'V' neck isn't for everyone; some may find it less comfortable.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many bassists.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,462 now$5,462€4,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Squier Sonic Precision Bass
Sonic Precision Black · Squier
157 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Squier Sonic Precision is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players wanting a vintage P-Bass vibe on a budget. The ceramic pickup gives it a surprisingly assertive growl, and the bolt-on neck keeps things bright and punchy – ideal for rock, punk, and classic tones. It’s a solid, reliable instrument that's hard to beat for the price.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- Maple neck with laurel fingerboard provides a comfortable, familiar playing feel.
- Ceramic split-coil pickup delivers a powerful, focused low-end punch.
Cons
- Basic hardware limits upgrade potential for more serious players.
- Synthetic bone nut may lack the sustain and feel of a bone or graphite nut.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$200 now$200€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Custom Shop '59 Reissue Stratocaster Relic
59 P-Bass MN Black CC · Fender
104 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This 59 P-Bass MN Black CC is a seriously refined instrument, nailing that classic Fender growl and feel. The Josefina pickup is a standout, and the '60s neck profile is just lovely. It’s a fantastic choice for players seeking a vintage-inspired tone and premium build quality, especially those in blues, rock, and Motown settings.
Pros
- Josefina '57 pickup delivers authentic, warm vintage P-Bass tone.
- Closet Classic finish replicates aged nitrocellulose look and feel.
- '60s Oval-C neck profile provides comfortable, familiar playability.
Cons
- Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many bassists.
- Maple fingerboard can be prone to drying and cracking without care.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 4.1%since Aug 17$5,462 · Aug 17$5,239 now$5,239€4,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This bass is built for players who want a bright, clear tone without the extra gear. The poplar body keeps it light while the maple neck holds the tuning up tight. With just one ceramic pickup and a simple volume and tone knob, it cuts through the mix without needing much help.
Pros
- Poplar body offers light weight for easy playing
- Maple bolt-on neck ensures strong connection
- Ceramic pickup delivers clear, punchy tone
Cons
- No weight information provided in description
- Single pickup limits tonal variety options
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$200 now$200€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 88 4-String P-Basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Harley Benton MV-4PJ Natural w/CaseHarley Benton · 10 finishes61↓ 5.8%$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 12
Fender Player Fusion Telecaster HH Floyd RoseLTD Player Fusion P-Bass HH HM · Fender · 2 finishes60↓ 0.8%$1,381€1,239$1,381€1,239Check ↗
- 13
Sandberg California II VM 4 VW HCASandberg · 12 finishes59Stable$3,009€2,699$3,009€2,699Check ↗
- 14
Fender Player II P Bass RW CGRFender · 7 finishes58↓ 1.6%$1,053€944$1,053€944Check ↗
- 15
Fender Vintera III L 60s P Bass LPBFender · 4 finishes57↓ 7.9%$1,239€1,111$1,239€1,111Check ↗
- 16
Fender Am Pro P-Bass MN OLWFender · 8 finishes56Stable$2,396€2,149$2,396€2,149Check ↗
- 17
Sandberg California II VS 4 RW SFGSandberg · 9 finishes56Stable$2,418€2,169$2,418€2,169Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton PB-62CC Olympic WhiteHarley Benton · 6 finishes55Stable$177€159$177€159Check ↗
- 19
Yamaha BB434BB 434 Teal Blue · Yamaha · 3 finishes55Stable$813€729$813€729Check ↗
- 20
Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS2P IVJS2 Spectra Bass QSV · Jackson · 3 finishes54↓ 5.2%$263€236$263€236Check ↗
- 21
Marcus Miller P6-4 Sandblasted ButterscotchMarcus Miller · 4 finishes54↓ 3.8%$568€509$568€509Check ↗
- 22
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM SSMSadowsky · 7 finishes54↓ 7.2%$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 23
Fender Artist Series Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision BassDuff McKagan DLX P Bass RW BK · Fender · 2 finishes54Stable$1,749€1,569$1,749€1,569Check ↗
- 24
Fender Custom Shop '59 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic59 P-Bass B Journeyman Relic · Fender54Stable$6,689€5,999$6,689€5,999Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton PB-50 FR Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 5 finishes53Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
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Harley Benton PJ-74 VW Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes52Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 27
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 Morado SSMSadowsky · 7 finishes52↓ 8.0%$1,025€919$1,025€919Check ↗
- 28
Charvel Pro-Mod San Dimas Bass PJ IV MAHPM Bass SD PJ IV Satin Black · Charvel · 3 finishes52Stable$1,158€1,039$1,158€1,039Check ↗
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Fender Custom Shop '54 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic54 P-Bass Journeyman Relic BP · Fender · 2 finishes51↓ 5.5%$5,797€5,199$5,797€5,199Check ↗
- 30
Fender Custom Shop '55 Reissue Telecaster Journeyman Relic55 P-Bass BB Journeyman Relic · Fender51Stable$6,020€5,399$6,020€5,399Check ↗
- 31
Marcus Miller P5 Alder-4 MLGMarcus Miller · 7 finishes50Stable$478€429$478€429Check ↗
- 32
Suhr Custom Shop Classic TClassic P OWT RW · Suhr50Stable$4,459€3,999$4,459€3,999Check ↗
- 33
Marcus Miller P7 4 New Gen Tobacco SunburstMarcus Miller · 3 finishes49Stable$724€649$724€649Check ↗
- 34
Fender 50th Anniversary Steve Harris Signature Precision BassSteve Harris P-Bass · Fender49Stable$1,783€1,599$1,783€1,599Check ↗
- 35
Harley Benton PB-20 BK Standard SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes48Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
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Harley Benton PJ-4 HTR Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 4 finishes48Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 37
Harley Benton Enhanced MP-4MN NaturalHarley Benton · 4 finishes48Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
- 38
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-Fret 4 MO SGSadowsky · 2 finishes48↓ 7.0%$1,036€929$1,036€929Check ↗
- 39
Fender 1965 P-Bass Deluxe CC SAVBFender · 3 finishes48Stable$5,797€5,199$5,797€5,199Check ↗
- 40
Yamaha BBP 34 Vintage SunburstYamaha · 3 finishes47↓ 8.6%$2,140€1,919$2,140€1,919Check ↗
- 41
Squier Paranormal Precision Bass VWTSquier · 3 finishes46↓ 1.9%$568€509$568€509Check ↗
- 42
ESP LTD Surveyor-204DXLTD Surveyor-204DX RB · ESP · 2 finishes46↓ 1.7%$634€569$634€569Check ↗
- 43
Fender Nate Mendel Artist Series Signature Precision Bass 2013 - 2017Nate Mendel P Bass · Fender46Stable$1,839€1,649$1,839€1,649Check ↗
- 44
Marcus Miller P7-4 Sandblasted CAR TEMarcus Miller45Stable$668€599$668€599Check ↗
- 45
Marcus Miller P8-4 NTMarcus Miller · 2 finishes45Stable$779€699$779€699Check ↗
- 46
Sandberg California II VT 4 PF 3TSSandberg · 2 finishes44Stable$1,861€1,669$1,861€1,669Check ↗
- 47
Fender 57 P-Bass MN Desert Sand CCFender44Stable$5,462€4,899$5,462€4,899Check ↗
- 48
Fender 59 P-Bass RW White Blonde CCFender44Stable$6,020€5,399$6,020€5,399Check ↗
- 49
Fender 60 P-Bass RW WBoA CCFender44Stable$6,020€5,399$6,020€5,399Check ↗
- 50
Fender 75th Anniv Player II PBass DDSFender43↑ 2.2%$1,047€939$1,047€939Check ↗
4-String P-Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 216 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,025 — half of all 4-String P-Basses here cost less.
median of 180 models · 38 mm (1.5")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 109 models · 20–22
median of 176 models · 864 mm (34.02")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 96 models · 184 mm (7.24")–305 mm (12.01")
How to choose the best 4-String P-Basses
Neck Profile
This is HUGE. A thick, slab C neck might feel great to some, but a slim C or even a modern 'D' shape can be a game-changer for faster playing. Consider your hand size and playing style - a thick neck can strangle your articulation if it's not a good fit.
Pickup Voicing
The split-coil P-Bass pickup is iconic, but voicing varies. Some have that classic, scooped midrange thump perfect for Motown, while others have a more aggressive, 'bark' that cuts through a dense rock mix. Listen for that sweet spot where it has both punch and warmth.
Body Wood & Construction
Alder is the standard for a reason - it's balanced and versatile. Ash offers a snappier, more articulate tone with a bit more bite. Bolt-on necks are common on cheaper models, which often lack the sustain and resonance of a set-neck construction. That's a trade-off - cheaper, but less...alive.
Hardware Quality
Check the tuners! Cheap tuners will make staying in tune a constant battle, especially on stage. A solid bridge is also essential for good sustain and intonation. Replacing these later is a hassle, so it's worth investing upfront.
Finish & Fretwork
A sloppy finish isn't a dealbreaker, but it's a sign of attention to detail (or lack thereof). More importantly, check the fretwork. Sharp fret ends will make playing uncomfortable and can even cause buzzing. A good setup is essential, regardless of the bass's quality.
Buying guide
So, you're in the market for a Precision Bass? Smart move. It's the workhorse of the bass world, and for good reason. Whether you're laying down a solid groove in a rock band, cutting through a funk ensemble, or tracking a tight bassline for a pop record, a P-Bass is a reliable foundation. But 'P-Bass' covers a LOT of ground - from budget instruments to museum-quality axes, and knowing what to look for can be overwhelming.
Don't chase the hype. A vintage P-Bass is a legend, but a modern, well-made instrument can deliver incredible results at a fraction of the cost. Pay attention to the neck profile - that's the most personal aspect.
And don't be afraid to buy used; you can often score a fantastic deal on a bass that's been properly cared for. Cheap P-Basses often cut corners on the neck joint and hardware - those are the first things to fail.
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 216 4-String P-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
What's the difference between an American and a Mexican P-Bass?
Generally, American P-Basses have better wood selection, tighter tolerances, and higher-quality hardware. Mexican models are a fantastic value, though, and often represent a huge step up from entry-level instruments.
Do I need to upgrade the pickups?
Not necessarily. Many stock P-Bass pickups are perfectly usable. However, aftermarket pickups can tailor the tone to your specific needs - more aggression, more clarity, etc. It's a later upgrade, not a priority.
What about active P-Basses?
Active electronics add preamps and onboard EQ, offering more tonal flexibility. While useful for certain genres, a true P-Bass tone is often best achieved with a passive signal chain. It's another layer of complexity to troubleshoot, too.
How important is a setup?
Absolutely critical. Even a great bass will sound and feel awful without a proper setup - intonation, action, neck relief. Factor in the cost of a professional setup when budgeting.
Is a 5-string P-Bass worth it?
If you need the extended range, sure. But the wider string spacing takes getting used to. A 4-string P-Bass is the classic for a reason - it's versatile and comfortable.
