Best Sadowsky 4-String P-Basses 2026
Alright, let's talk Sadowsky 4-strings. You're not just buying a P-Bass clone; you're investing in a meticulously crafted instrument that nails the vibe while adding a modern refinement. They've carved out a serious niche, and if you're tired of basses that feel like they were stamped out of a factory, and you crave that sweet spot between vintage feel and modern playability, Sadowsky deserves a serious listen. These aren't your dad's P-Bass - though they respect the tradition, they aren't afraid to evolve it.
Last updated: August 27, 2026
⚡ The best 4-string p-basses in 2026 are Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-Fret 4 MO SG (top pick), Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM SSM for tighter budgets, and Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM SGM for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $1,049–$1,165, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-Fret 4 MO SG
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
38.5 mm (1.52")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Okoume body
Weight
4.3 kg
Blues
Country
Rock
Key Feature:
This bass has a roasted maple neck and 21 nickel-silver frets that feel great to play. The active electronics let you boost bass and treble without a big EQ section. It suits players who want a modern feel but need standard pickup tones. The Okoume body keeps it light, though the exact weight isn't listed.
PROS
- • 21 nickel-silver frets for smooth playability
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stable tuning
- • Active two-band electronics with bass/treble boost
- • Split coil and single coil pickups for tone options
CONS
- • Okoume body material lacks traditional bass resonance
- • Weight not specified in available description
- • No active EQ controls beyond bass and treble boost
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 636793
$1,166
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM SSM
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Pop
Alternative
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky is a seriously well-made hybrid P/J bass. The roasted maple neck and fretboard really elevate the feel, and the active/passive electronics give you a ton of tonal options. It’s a fantastic choice for players wanting a versatile, reliable bass with a vintage vibe but modern features.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a lively, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck & fretboard provide exceptional stability and feel.
- • Hybrid P/J pickup configuration delivers versatility – growl and clarity.
- • Sadowsky 2-way electronics offer tonal shaping without excessive noise.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to figured woods.
- • Bolt-on neck, while stable, doesn't offer the same resonance as a neck-through design.
- • The balance might require a strap adjustment due to pickup placement.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596259
$1,131
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM SGM
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Rock
Alternative
Country
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky is a seriously well-built hybrid bass, blending classic P-bass tones with the articulation of a J-bass. The roasted maple neck and active electronics make it a joy to play and dial in a wide range of sounds – perfect for session players and gigging musicians needing versatility.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- • Hybrid pickup design delivers P-bass warmth with J-bass clarity.
- • Sadowsky’s 2-way active electronics provide tonal shaping without harshness.
- • Quick access compartment simplifies string changes and internal adjustments.
CONS
- • Okoume body, while resonant, can be slightly less dense than ash or alder.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, isn't preferred by some for vintage tone.
- • The push/pull preamp bypass can be a bit subtle, requiring careful EQ adjustment.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596231
$1,107
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM CHM
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Classic Rock
Pop
Blues
Key Feature:
This MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built hybrid bass, blending the warmth of a P-bass with the articulation of a J-bass. The roasted maple neck is a joy to play, and the active electronics give you a surprising amount of tonal flexibility. It’s a great choice for gigging musicians who want a versatile, reliable instrument without the ultra-premium price tag.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides excellent resonance and a balanced tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Hybrid P/J pickup configuration delivers versatility from growly vintage tones to modern clarity.
- • Sadowsky’s 2-way active electronics add tonal shaping without excessive coloration.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically for some players' tastes.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, doesn’t offer the same sustain as a neck-through design.
- • The quick-release string system might feel slightly less secure than traditional methods.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596229
$1,131
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM OBM
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Rock
Alternative
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky is a seriously versatile workhorse. The hybrid pickup setup gives you the best of both worlds – classic P-bass thump with a modern J-bass bite – and the roasted maple neck just feels incredible. It’s an excellent choice for gigging musicians needing a reliable, well-built bass that can handle a wide range of styles.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck and fretboard provide stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Hybrid pickup configuration delivers P-bass thump with J-bass clarity.
- • Sadowsky's 2-way active electronics add tonal flexibility without harshness.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • Bolt-on neck, while reliable, lacks the inherent resonance of a neck-through design.
- • The balance might shift slightly with different string gauges; strap adjustments are key.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596228
$1,107
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM CAO
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Blues
Classic Rock
Country
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky is a seriously well-made hybrid bass, blending the best of P and J pickup sounds with Sadowsky’s renowned build quality. The roasted maple neck is a dream to play, and the active electronics offer subtle tonal enhancements. It’s perfect for players seeking a versatile, professional-grade instrument with a warm, defined tone—ideal for session work, funk, and a wide range of genres.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a lively resonance and comfortable playing feel.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer exceptional stability and a smooth, fast action.
- • Hybrid P/J pickup configuration delivers versatility, from warm growl to articulate bite.
- • Sadowsky's 2-way active electronics offer tonal shaping without excessive preamp coloration.
CONS
- • Okoume can be somewhat porous, potentially requiring more diligent finish care.
- • Bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the inherent sustain of a neck-through design.
- • The 12” radius fingerboard might not suit players accustomed to flatter profiles.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596221
$1,107
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM TSB
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Rock
Pop
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky is a seriously well-built hybrid bass – the roasted maple neck feels fantastic, and the P/J pickup combination gives you a wide range of tones. It's a great option for players who want a modern feel with a vintage vibe, perfect for session work or gigging where tonal flexibility is key.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Hybrid P/J pickup configuration delivers versatility from warm growl to bright articulation.
- • Sadowsky’s 2-way active electronics add tonal shaping without harshness.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, isn’t favored by some for vintage tone.
- • The 12” radius fingerboard might feel less familiar to players used to flatter profiles.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596218
$1,049
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 RM CAR
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Blues
Rock
Alternative
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky is a seriously well-made hybrid bass, blending the best of P and J styles. The roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play, and the 2-way electronics give you a lot of tonal control. It’s perfect for players wanting a versatile, premium-voiced instrument for funk, rock, and anything in between.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced tone with excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast playing feel.
- • Hybrid P/J pickup configuration delivers versatility; warm P-bass tones and J-bass bite.
- • Sadowsky 2-way electronics offer tonal shaping without excessive preamp noise.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard can be slightly drier feeling compared to rosewood or ebony.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, isn't favored by players seeking maximum sustain.
- • 12” fingerboard might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scale lengths.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596213
$1,131
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb PJ 4 BK
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Classic Rock
Alternative
Rock
Key Feature:
This MetroExpress 21 Hyb PJ is a seriously well-built bass – Sadowsky’s quality shines through. The hybrid pickup setup gives you a wide range of tones, from funky slap to classic Motown, and the roasted maple neck is a joy to play. It's a fantastic option for gigging musicians wanting a premium feel and sound without the top-tier price tag.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Hybrid PJ pickup configuration delivers versatility from growly P-style to snappy J-style tones.
- • Sadowsky's 2-way active electronics add clarity and punch with subtle shaping.
CONS
- • Okoume, while great sounding, can be prone to dents and scratches without care.
- • Bolt-on neck, while stable, isn't favored by players seeking a more integrated feel.
- • The 12” radius fingerboard might feel a bit flat for players accustomed to vintage curves.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596196
$1,107
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 4 SOWHP
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Rock
Blues
Alternative
Key Feature:
This MetroExpress is a seriously well-built instrument. The hybrid pickup setup is brilliant for versatility, covering everything from classic Motown to modern funk. It’s a fantastic option for players seeking a premium-feeling, comfortable bass with a wide range of tonal options without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard provide exceptional stability and feel.
- • Hybrid pickup design delivers P-bass warmth with J-bass clarity and bite.
- • Sadowsky's 2-way electronics offer tonal shaping without excessive preamp noise.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • Bolt-on neck, while reliable, isn't favored by some for its tonal characteristics.
- • The quick-release string system might feel a little less secure to some players.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 595885
$1,049
Sadowsky MetroExpress 20-Fret MO 4 SG
by
Sadowsky
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Weight
4.3 kg
Pop
Rock
Blues
Key Feature:
This bass feels great to play thanks to its roasted maple neck and light body. The active electronics let you cut through a mix easily, and the extra frets help with higher notes. It is a solid choice for players who want a reliable workhorse without the heavy price tag.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stable tuning and smooth playability.
- • 20-fret scale extends range for complex modern bass lines.
- • Active electronics allow precise tone shaping with push/pull bypass.
- • Lightweight Okoume body makes long sessions comfortable to carry.
CONS
- • Single pickup limits low-end warmth compared to full bridge models.
- • Okoume wood may lack the resonance of traditional maple bodies.
- • No active EQ options restricts detailed mid-range tonal control.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 637769
$1,049
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-Fret 4 RM SG
by
Sadowsky
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Weight
4.3 kg
Classic Rock
Rock
Blues
Key Feature:
This bass feels great to play thanks to its roasted maple neck and twenty-one frets. The active electronics let you boost bass or treble when you need more punch. It is a solid choice for players who want a reliable workhorse without extra weight.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stable intonation and playability.
- • Active electronics let you boost bass and treble easily.
- • 21-fret scale offers extended reach without fretting out.
- • Okoume body keeps the instrument light and easy to carry.
CONS
- • Single pickup option limits tone variety compared to dual systems.
- • No active EQ controls for shaping the mid-range frequency.
- • Missing weight specification makes carrying comfort unknown.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 636708
$1,131
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 Morado SSM
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Country
Classic Rock
Alternative
Key Feature:
The MetroExp21 HybPJ4 is a seriously well-built bass—Sadowsky’s attention to detail shines. The hybrid pickup setup and active/passive switching give you a surprising amount of tonal flexibility, perfect for gigging musicians who need a workhorse instrument that can cover a wide range of styles. It’s a premium-priced instrument, but the quality and versatility justify the investment.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising clarity.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Hybrid pickup configuration delivers P-bass warmth with J-bass articulation.
- • Sadowsky 2-way electronics offer versatile tonal shaping and preamp bypass.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard can feel slightly harder than rosewood for some players.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the inherent sustain of a neck-through design.
- • The quick-release string system, while convenient, might feel less secure to some.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596260
$1,166
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 Morado CHM
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Country
Classic Rock
Rock
Key Feature:
This MetroExp21 is a seriously well-thought-out hybrid. The Morado board adds a unique visual flair and a bit more snap, while the P/J combo gives you a ton of tonal options—from smooth vintage tones to more modern punch. It’s a fantastic choice for players who want versatility and a premium feel without going completely overboard.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Hybrid P/J pickup configuration delivers versatility and a unique tonal palette.
- • Sadowsky’s 2-way active electronics add clarity and shaping without harshness.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard can be slightly harder than rosewood, requiring some adjustment.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, isn’t favored by all for vintage tone.
- • The quick-release string system, while convenient, might feel less secure to some.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596255
$1,107
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 Morado SGM
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
39.2 mm (1.54")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Okoume body
Pop
Alternative
Rock
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a fantastic blend of classic P-bass warmth and J-bass articulation, elevated by Sadowsky's superb build quality and electronics. The roasted maple neck and morado fingerboard make for a comfortable playing experience, and the hybrid pickup configuration offers serious tonal versatility. It’s a premium-priced instrument ideal for gigging musicians seeking a refined, adaptable bass with a modern edge.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Hybrid pickup design delivers P-bass thump with J-bass clarity.
- • Sadowsky’s 2-way electronics provide tonal flexibility and active boost.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard can be slightly harder than rosewood, impacting some players.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, isn't favored by some for vintage tone.
- • The quick-release string system might feel unnecessary for some users.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596250
$1,107
Every 4-string p-basses that matches
20 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 Morado OBM | Nut width 39.2 mm (1.54") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Okoume body | $1,166 |
| 17 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 Morado CAO | Nut width 39.2 mm (1.54") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Okoume body | $1,166 |
| 18 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 Morado TSB | Nut width 39.2 mm (1.54") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Okoume body | $1,162 |
| 19 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ4 Morado CAR | Nut width 39.2 mm (1.54") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Okoume body | $1,166 |
| 20 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 4 MO WH | Nut width 39.2 mm (1.54") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Okoume body | $1,166 |
4-String P-Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 228 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,107
from $174 to $6,067
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 864 mm (34.02") to 864 mm (34.02") · 183 models
Fingerboard radius
median 241 mm (9.49")
from 184 mm (7.24") to 305 mm (12.01") · 104 models
Body
alder, poplar, ash
most common · 184 models
Fingerboard
maple, laurel, rosewood
most common · 147 models
Nut width
median 40 mm (1.57")
from 38 mm (1.5") to 43 mm (1.69") · 189 models
Frets
median 20
from 20 to 22 · 116 models
Neck profile
C, D, U
most common · 50 models
Weight
median 4.3 kg
from 3.74 kg to 7.5 kg · 7 models
Strings
median 4-string
from 4-string to 4-string · 6 models
How to Choose the Best 4-String P-Basses
1
Neck Profile
Sadowsky's necks are the first thing players notice. They offer a range of profiles, but their 'Asymmetrical' is a standout - thinner on the treble side, thicker on the bass - providing serious comfort and speed without sacrificing sustain. It's a real improvement over some of the chunkier vintage-style necks out there.
2
Pickup Voicing
The Sadowsky pickups are where they really diverge from a standard Fender P-Bass. They've got a slightly more refined, scooped midrange that avoids that boxy, honky sound you sometimes get. It's still got that P-Bass thump, but it's cleaner, more articulate, and cuts through a mix beautifully - especially crucial in a busy band setting.
3
Hardware & Electronics
It's the little things. The tuners are smooth, the bridge is well-engineered for sustain and intonation, and the electronics are generally silent. No crackling pots or microphonic pickups - that's a huge deal for reliable gigging.
4
Body Wood & Construction
Sadowsky uses premium alder and ash bodies, often with a gorgeous figured top. Their construction is tight and resonant, and the finish work is consistently excellent. You're paying for that attention to detail - it's not just aesthetics; it contributes to the overall tone and feel.
5
String Spacing & Action
Sadowsky's wider string spacing (often around 1 3/4") is a game-changer for players with larger hands or those who like to dig in. It gives you more room to maneuver without muting adjacent strings and allows for a lower action without fret buzz - seriously improves playability and speed.
Buying Guide
A Sadowsky isn't cheap, but you're getting a lot for your money. Don't be swayed by flashy finishes; focus on the neck profile - make sure it feels right in your hand. The slight tonal differences between models (like the Vintage or Modern series) are subtle, so prioritize feel and aesthetics. Be prepared to spend a bit more on a good setup, as even the best basses benefit from a professional touch.
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 20 of 228 4-string p-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
They're an investment. You're paying for quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a unique voice. If you're a serious player who appreciates those things, absolutely. If you're just starting out, there are more budget-friendly options, but you'll likely outgrow them.
They're similar, but Sadowsky's are a bit more refined - less aggressive midrange, more clarity. They don't have that raw, in-your-face vintage vibe, but they're more versatile for modern styles.
It's designed for comfort and speed. The thinner treble side makes fast runs easier, while the thicker bass side provides stability for lower notes and prevents hand fatigue during long gigs.
Not really. They're pretty dialed in from the factory. A good setup is always recommended, but you shouldn't need to swap out pickups or hardware unless you're chasing a very specific tone.
The Vintage series aims for a more traditional P-Bass feel and tone, while the Modern series incorporates slightly more contemporary features and a more scooped midrange. Both are excellent; it's a matter of personal preference.
