AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String P-Basses for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Fender American Ultra II Telecaster ($2,619). Fender American Professional Classic Telecaster gives you the most for the money at $1,701. Fender Custom Shop '59 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 88 models across 15 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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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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
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 width39.5 mm (1.56")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This German-made bass feels solid yet light thanks to its roasted maple neck and alder body. The split coil and humbucker pickups give you clear options for both vintage punch and modern grit. With active EQ controls, you can shape your sound without losing the core tone. It suits players who want a reliable, well-built instrument for gigging or studio work.
Pros
- Solid roasted maple neck for stability and playability
- Versatile split coil and humbucker pickup options
- Adjustable 2-band active EQ for tone shaping
Cons
- No specific string gauge or brand listed
- Active electronics may require battery power
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,009 now$3,009€2,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Custom Shop '59 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic
59 P-Bass B Journeyman Relic · Fender
65 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets20 frets
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This is a seriously special P-Bass, capturing the vibe of a '59 with a beautifully aged look and feel. The Josephina pickup is a real highlight, delivering that classic, woody tone. It’s a dream instrument for players chasing that authentic vintage P-Bass experience, especially those in blues, rock, and soul contexts.
Pros
- Josephina ’57 pickup delivers authentic, warm vintage tone.
- Flat-oval '60s neck profile offers comfortable, familiar feel.
- Relic finish provides aged aesthetics and broken-in playability.
Cons
- High-end price point places it out of reach for many players.
- Relic finish is subjective; some prefer a pristine look.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,689 now$6,689€5,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.5 mm (1.56")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
The California II VS 4 FR MHCA is a seriously well-made instrument – a real step up in quality. It’s got that classic P-bass thump, but with a modern edge thanks to the thermo-treated body and bolt-on neck. This bass is perfect for players seeking a vintage vibe with a refined feel and premium build quality, especially suited for rock, blues, and funk.
Pros
- Thermo-treated Alder body delivers exceptional resonance and sustain.
- Sandberg’s lightweight machine heads improve tuning stability and reduce headstock weight.
- Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy, responsive feel ideal for quick playing.
Cons
- Passive electronics limit tonal shaping versatility compared to active basses.
- Rosewood fretboard might require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,511 now$3,511€3,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Custom Shop '54 Reissue Stratocaster Journeyman Relic
54 P-Bass Journeyman Relic BP · Fender
30 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- BodyAsh body
This Journeyman Relic P-Bass is a serious contender for players chasing that authentic 50s Fender vibe. The ash body and vintage pickups deliver that classic growl, and the relic'd finish just adds to the charm. It’s ideal for session players and gigging musicians wanting a premium-priced instrument with a truly vintage feel.
Pros
- Ash body delivers a warm, resonant low-end with excellent sustain.
- Quartersawn maple neck provides stability and a comfortable, vintage feel.
- 55 P-Bass pickups offer classic, punchy tone ideal for rock and blues.
Cons
- The 'soft V' neck profile might not suit all players’ preferences.
- Paisley finish is a polarizing aesthetic; not universally appealing.
51AudioFu
Index↓ 5.5%since Aug 17$6,131 · Aug 17$5,797 now$5,797€5,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Custom Shop '55 Reissue Telecaster Journeyman Relic
55 P-Bass BB Journeyman Relic · Fender
36 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
- BodyAlder body
This is a seriously gorgeous and authentic recreation of a 1955 Precision Bass. The Josefina pickups nail that classic P-Bass growl, and the neck is a dream to play. If you’re a player chasing that vintage vibe and have the budget, this is a real gem.
Pros
- Hand-wound Josefina pickups deliver authentic, fat, and punchy vintage tone.
- The '55 Soft 'V' neck profile is exceptionally comfortable and familiar.
- Quartersawn alder body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
Cons
- The relic'd finish, while aesthetically pleasing, won’t appeal to everyone’s taste.
- Being a Custom Shop model, it’s premium-priced and a significant investment.
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,020 now$6,020€5,399 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 ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius184 mm (7.24")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass sounds like a classic P-bass with a warm, vintage tone. The roasted maple neck feels stable and plays nicely, while the rosewood fingerboard adds a nice touch. It's a solid choice if you love the traditional P-bass feel and sound.
Pros
- Vintage P neck profile offers familiar playability for many players
- Roasted maple neck provides stable tuning and smooth action
- Classic P pickups deliver warm, vintage-inspired bass tone
Cons
- No specific scale length or string gauge listed in details
- High-gloss finish may show wear and scratches easily over time
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,459 now$4,459€3,999 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.
- 11
Fender 1965 P-Bass Deluxe CC SAVBFender · 3 finishes48Stable$5,797€5,199$5,797€5,199Check ↗
- 12
Fender Am Pro P-Bass MN NATFender · 8 finishes56Stable$2,452€2,199$2,452€2,199Check ↗
- 13
Fender 57 P-Bass MN Desert Sand CCFender44Stable$5,462€4,899$5,462€4,899Check ↗
- 14
Fender 59 P-Bass RW White Blonde CCFender44Stable$6,020€5,399$6,020€5,399Check ↗
- 15
Fender 60 P-Bass RW WBoA CCFender44Stable$6,020€5,399$6,020€5,399Check ↗
- 16
Fender LTD '54 P Bass HR ANBFender42Stable$6,689€5,999$6,689€5,999Check ↗
- 17
Fender Sean Hurley '61 CC P-Bass 3CSBFender41Stable$6,299€5,649$6,299€5,649Check ↗
- 18
Fender LTD '59 P-Bass Special NBFender40↓ 7.1%$5,797€5,199$5,797€5,199Check ↗
- 19
Fender Artisan Flame Maple P-Bass ACSFender39Stable$6,243€5,599$6,243€5,599Check ↗
- 20
Fender Custom Shop Pino Palladino Signature Precision Bass RelicPino Palladino Signature Bass · Fender38Stable$6,912€6,199$6,912€6,199Check ↗
- 21
Fender AV II 60 P Bass RW OWTFender43↓ 2.0%$2,536€2,274$2,536€2,274Check ↗
- 22
Fender AV II 60 P BASS RW WT3TBFender42Stable$2,563€2,299$2,563€2,299Check ↗
- 23
Sandberg California II VT 4 HCA RFBSandberg · 2 finishes42Stable$2,563€2,299$2,563€2,299Check ↗
- 24
Fender AV II 54 P BASS MN 2TSFender39Stable$2,675€2,399$2,675€2,399Check ↗
- 25
Sandberg California II VS 4 HCA MarleySandberg41Stable$2,563€2,299$2,563€2,299Check ↗
- 26
Vincent Akkurat 4 BTSVincent34Stable$3,901€3,499$3,901€3,499Check ↗
- 27
Yamaha BBP 34 Moonlight BlueYamaha · 3 finishes44Stable$2,340€2,099$2,340€2,099Check ↗
- 28
Sandberg California II VM 4 O. RiedelSandberg37Stable$2,653€2,379$2,653€2,379Check ↗
- 29
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 ↗
- 30
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 ↗
- 31
Sandberg California II VM4 NighthawkSandberg · 3 finishes43Stable$2,184€1,959$2,184€1,959Check ↗
- 32
Sandberg California II VT 4 Black MattSandberg41Stable$2,229€1,999$2,229€1,999Check ↗
- 33
Fender 50th Anniversary Steve Harris Signature Precision BassSteve Harris P-Bass · Fender49Stable$1,783€1,599$1,783€1,599Check ↗
- 34
Sandberg California II SLm VM4 PF CSBSandberg41Stable$2,117€1,899$2,117€1,899Check ↗
- 35
Fender Nate Mendel Artist Series Signature Precision Bass 2013 - 2017Nate Mendel P Bass · Fender46Stable$1,839€1,649$1,839€1,649Check ↗
- 36
Sandberg California II VT4 RW BLBSandberg43Stable$1,950€1,749$1,950€1,749Check ↗
- 37
Fender Vintera III L 60s P Bass FMGFender · 4 finishes53Stable$1,370€1,229$1,370€1,229Check ↗
- 38
Sandberg California II VS 4 MN CremeSandberg41Stable$1,939€1,739$1,939€1,739Check ↗
- 39
Lakland Skyline Geezer Butler 4 TBKLakland34Stable$2,107€1,890$2,107€1,890Check ↗
- 40
Lakland Skyline 44-64 Custom GZ 4 BKLakland · 2 finishes39↓ 2.4%$1,839€1,649$1,839€1,649Check ↗
- 41
Lakland Skyline 44-64 Deluxe 4 HOBLakland34↑ 5.7%$1,884€1,690$1,884€1,690Check ↗
- 42
Marcus Miller P10DX-4 NaturalMarcus Miller43↓ 3.9%$1,393€1,249$1,393€1,249Check ↗
- 43
Fender Standard StratocasterStandard P Bass MN WPG CND · Fender · 4 finishes77↓ 2.7%$599€537$599€537Check ↗
- 44
Fender Player II Modified StratocasterPlayer II Mod P Bass MN DSK · Fender · 4 finishes73Stable$1,113€998$1,113€998Check ↗
- 45
Fender Player II TelecasterLTD Player II P-Bass RW SHP · Fender72Stable$1,103€989$1,103€989Check ↗
- 46
Squier Affinity Telecaster Electric GuitarAffinity P Bass MN PJ OW · Squier · 3 finishes68Stable$300€269$300€269Check ↗
- 47
Squier Sonic Precision BassSonic Precision Black · Squier · 3 finishes64Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 48
Squier Sonic TelecasterSonic P Bass LRL MNB · Squier62Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 49
Harley Benton MV-4PJ Natural w/CaseHarley Benton · 10 finishes61↓ 5.8%$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 50
Fender Player II P Bass RW CGRFender · 7 finishes58↓ 1.6%$1,053€944$1,053€944Check ↗
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 & Playability
Forget thick, unwieldy necks. Advanced players need a profile that allows for effortless access to the higher registers and precise control over dynamics - think slimmer C shapes, or even a modern 'D' profile for comfort and speed. It's gotta feel right under your fingers.
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
A muddy, indistinct low-end won't cut it. We're after pickups that deliver a defined, articulate thump, with enough clarity in the mids to cut through a dense mix without sounding harsh. That 'fat midrange honk' is crucial, but it needs to be controlled.
Hardware Quality & Stability
Loose tuners, rattling hardware - those are beginner problems. Advanced players need gear that tracks well, stays in tune under the stress of a gig, and feels solid and reliable. Upgraded bridges and high-quality pots are a must.
Wood Resonance & Sustain
The wood choices - ash, swamp ash, mahogany - significantly impact the bass's overall tone and sustain. Advanced players appreciate the subtle nuances these woods bring to the table; a resonant body translates to a more vibrant and responsive instrument.
Electronics Complexity & Customization
Beyond simple volume and tone controls, advanced players often want more control over their sound. Consider basses with series/parallel switching, coil splitting, or onboard EQ for shaping your tone to suit different musical contexts.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're not a beginner anymore. You're chasing nuanced tone, digging into complex grooves, and demanding a P-Bass that can hang with your evolving skills. Forget the cookie-cutter models - this list is for players who want a P-Bass that's a genuine extension of their musicality, something that inspires you to dig deeper and pushes your playing forward. We're looking beyond the basics here; we're talking about instruments with personality and responsiveness.
Don't fall for the hype. A vintage reissue might sound amazing in a YouTube demo, but it's a gamble. Newer instruments with upgraded hardware and electronics often offer better value and more consistent performance.
Be wary of basses with overly aggressive, ice-picky highs - they rarely translate well live. Pay attention to the neck relief; a bass that needs constant adjustments is a pain.
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
Are vintage P-Basses really worth the money?
Sometimes. The mojo is real, but you're paying a premium for history and potential wear. A well-maintained modern bass with quality components can often deliver a similar or even better playing experience for significantly less.
What's the deal with different body woods?
Ash tends to be brighter and more articulate, while mahogany offers a warmer, rounder tone. Swamp ash is generally lighter and more resonant than standard ash. It's a subtle difference, but it's there.
Should I get a bass with active electronics?
Active electronics give you more tonal shaping options, but they require batteries and can sometimes sound sterile. Passive basses offer a more classic, raw tone. It depends on your playing style and the music you play.
What's a good string gauge for a P-Bass?
Generally, .045-.105 is a sweet spot for P-Basses. Heavier strings offer more tension and a thicker tone, while lighter strings are easier to play. Experiment to find what feels comfortable and sounds best with your setup.
I'm struggling to get a good 'growl' from my P-Bass. What can I do?
Try rolling back the tone knob slightly and digging into the strings with a more aggressive attack. Pickup height adjustments can also make a big difference - raising the pickups slightly can increase output and add harmonic content.
