AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String Semi-Acoustic Basses 2026
The top pick is Rickenbacker 4005V ($6,738). Harley Benton HB-60 WB w/Bag gives you the most for the money at $325. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 16 models across 7 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
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All 4-String Semi-Acoustic BassesTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale845 mm (33.27")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass has a bright maple top and vintage single coil pickups for a punchy sound. The set neck design keeps it stable, and the stereo jack lets you run it to two amps. It suits players who like classic tone and clear note definition.
Pros
- Solid maple top gives bright, punchy tone
- Vintage toaster coils for classic warm sound
- Set neck construction ensures perfect intonation
Cons
- Rosewood fretboard can be harder to read
- Single coil pickups may hum at high volume
79AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,738 now$6,738€5,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Epiphone Jack Casady Signature Bass
Jack Casady Signature Bass SB · Epiphone
24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width41.5 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Jack Casady Signature Bass is a fantastic option for players seeking a semi-hollow vibe with a vintage edge. It's surprisingly versatile thanks to the rotary switch, making it a great fit for classic rock, blues, and even some jazz. The build quality is solid for the price point, offering a lot of character and feel.
Pros
- Laminated maple body delivers a warm, resonant acoustic tone.
- JCB-1 humbuckers provide a focused, vintage-inspired growl.
- Mahogany neck offers comfortable playability and sustain.
Cons
- The semi-hollow body makes it prone to feedback at high volumes.
- Sparkling Burgundy finish might not appeal to all players’ tastes.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$785 now$785€699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale760 mm (29.92")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This H500/1 is a seriously cool instrument – instantly recognizable and dripping with vintage vibe. The sound is surprisingly versatile, going from mellow warmth to a punchy growl with that rhythm boost. It's perfect for players chasing that Beatles sound, or anyone wanting a unique, semi-hollow bass with German build quality.
Pros
- German craftsmanship ensures exceptional build quality and resonance.
- Spruce top delivers a bright, articulate tone with surprising clarity.
- Flamed maple back and sides add warmth and complexity to the sound.
Cons
- The semi-hollow body makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- Relatively short scale (760mm) may feel awkward for players used to longer scales.
61AudioFu
Index↓ 4.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,460 · Aug 17$2,358 now$2,358€2,099 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale770 mm (30.31")
- BodyBasswood body
The AFB200-TKS is a surprisingly versatile semi-acoustic bass, offering a warm acoustic voice with the punch of humbucker pickups. It's a great option for gigging musicians who want a stage-ready instrument with a unique vibe—especially those playing blues, jazz, or mellow rock where a little acoustic resonance is welcome.
Pros
- Basswood body delivers a warm, mellow acoustic tone.
- Maple/Mahogany neck provides comfortable playability and sustain.
- Classic Elite humbuckers offer a powerful, articulate sound.
Cons
- Basswood can lack upper-midrange clarity compared to premium woods.
- Semi-hollow construction might introduce feedback at higher volumes.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$673 now$673€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyMahogany body
This Marcus Miller GB5-4 Black is a seriously cool instrument. It’s a great option for players seeking a semi-acoustic vibe—think upright-like warmth with electric versatility—without the premium price tag. It’s ideal for session players, jazz, blues, and anyone wanting a unique tonal palette.
Pros
- Solid Spruce top delivers a surprisingly articulate and airy acoustic tone.
- Vividx-B preamp offers versatile EQ shaping for diverse musical styles.
- Edgeless fingerboard enhances playability and reduces hand fatigue during long sessions.
Cons
- The bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the inherent resonance of a set-neck.
- Semi-hollow body may be more susceptible to feedback at higher volumes.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$504 now$504€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Guild Starfire IV Cherry 1967
Starfire I Bass Vintage Walnut · Guild
3 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width38.1 mm (1.5")
- Scale781 mm (30.75")
- Frets21 frets
This Starfire I Bass is a seriously cool vibe. It’s got that classic Guild semi-hollow warmth and a surprisingly punchy low end thanks to those BiCoil pickups. It's perfect for players seeking a vintage-voiced bass with a unique look and feel, especially those in blues, jazz, or classic rock bands.
Pros
- Maple top delivers bright, articulate tone with excellent projection
- Mahogany neck provides comfortable feel and warm midrange character
- BiCoil humbuckers offer a thick, vintage-inspired growl with reduced noise
Cons
- Semi-hollow construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes
- Vintage Walnut finish might not appeal to players preferring modern aesthetics
52AudioFu
Index↓ 1.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$785 · Aug 17$774 now$774€689 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale760 mm (29.92")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The HCT-500-7 Verythin is a neat little bass – surprisingly resonant for a semi-hollow. It nails that classic, slightly woody Höfner vibe, perfect for Motown, vintage rock, or anyone wanting a compact instrument with a unique character. It's a fantastic option for smaller players or those who appreciate a more intimate feel.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a surprisingly articulate acoustic voice.
- Maple body and sustain block enhance resonance and note definition.
- Höfner Staple Top humbuckers provide a thick, vintage-inspired tone.
Cons
- The 760mm scale might feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- Hollowbody construction can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$841 now$841€749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale760 mm (29.92")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
This Club Bass Green Line is a premium-priced instrument evoking that classic Höfner vibe. The solid top and flamed maple back create a warm, woody tone perfect for Motown, classic rock, and vintage-inspired sounds. It's a fantastic choice for players seeking a unique, historically-rooted bass with exceptional build quality.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a surprisingly articulate and resonant tone.
- Flamed maple back and sides add warmth and sustain, avoiding boxiness.
- Höfner Staple humbuckers provide a distinctive, growly vintage tone with good output.
Cons
- The 30” scale can feel cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- Semi-hollow construction limits versatility – not ideal for high-gain or modern genres.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,022 now$3,022€2,690 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale775 mm (30.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
The Harley Benton HB-60 WB is a fantastic option for players seeking a vintage-voiced semi-hollow bass without the premium price tag. It's surprisingly well-built, offers a comfortable neck, and delivers a warm, punchy tone that's perfect for classic rock, blues, and laid-back jazz. If you're after that hollowbody vibe and don’t need extreme versatility, this is a great starting point.
Pros
- Maple/arched top delivers a surprisingly resonant and warm, vintage-inspired tone.
- Canadian maple neck provides comfortable playability with a classic 'C' profile.
- Vintage humbuckers offer a thick, punchy sound suitable for rock, blues, and jazz.
Cons
- Semi-hollow construction can make it prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- Medium scale strings are a must; standard bass strings will feel and play poorly.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$325 now$325€289 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale768 mm (30.24")
- Frets22 frets
This Ignition Violin Bass is a fantastic entry point into the Höfner sound – that instantly recognizable, upright-esque vibe. The spruce top gives it a surprising acoustic presence, and the Staple pickups nail that classic growl. It's a budget-friendly choice for players wanting a unique look and feel, especially those into rockabilly, blues, or vintage-flavored pop.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a surprisingly articulate and resonant acoustic tone.
- Jatoba fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience with excellent durability.
- Höfner Ignition Staple humbuckers provide a thick, vintage-inspired growl.
Cons
- Maple back and sides can contribute to a somewhat boxy, less nuanced low-end.
- 768mm scale feels shorter than standard, requiring slight adjustment for experienced players.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$448 now$448€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 16 4-String semi-acoustic basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Höfner Ignition Cavern SEHöfner46Stable$448€399$448€399Check ↗
- 12
Höfner Ignition Cavern SE w/BagHöfner46Stable$493€439$493€439Check ↗
- 13
Guild Starfire I Bass Pelham BlueGuild44Stable$785€699$785€699Check ↗
- 14
Höfner Ignition SEHöfner43Stable$448€399$448€399Check ↗
- 15
Höfner Verythin Bass-HCT-500/7 w/GigBHöfner38Stable$875€779$875€779Check ↗
- 16
Höfner Ignition SE BundleHöfner26Stable$493€439$493€439Check ↗
4-String Semi-Acoustic Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 23 models we track, not a sample.
Median $785 — half of all 4-String semi-acoustic basses here cost less.
median of 22 models · 38 mm (1.5")–42.9 mm (1.69")
median of 20 models · 760 mm (29.92")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 19 models · 20–22
most common · 14 models
How to choose the best 4-String semi-acoustic basses
Body Construction
The depth and bracing of the body cavity are everything. A thin, unbraced body will resonate like a tin can and feedback like crazy onstage. Look for thicker bodies and internal bracing - it's the difference between a usable instrument and a liability. Cheaper ones often cut corners here.
Pickup Voicing
Semi-acoustics aren't known for ice-picky brightness. You want a pickup that emphasizes that warm, woody low-end and that fat midrange honk, but with enough clarity to articulate individual notes. Avoid pickups that sound brittle or thin - they'll just highlight the hollow body's weaknesses.
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is crucial, especially when you're playing those walking basslines or upright-inspired grooves. A slim C or a comfortable D profile is generally a safe bet. Also, pay attention to the action - semi-acoustics are often set up higher than solidbodies to prevent fret buzz, which can impact sustain and feel.
Hardware Quality
Cheap hardware - tuners, bridges, tailpieces - will drag down the overall feel and performance. Sloppy tuners mean frustrating mid-gig retunes. A flimsy bridge can kill sustain and negatively impact intonation. These are small details, but they add up.
Feedback Resistance
Let's be honest, feedback is a constant battle with semi-acoustics. The larger body area acts like a giant speaker cone. Look for models with feedback suppression systems, or be prepared to learn how to EQ and adjust your stage volume to manage it. It's a tradeoff - that hollow body tone comes with a responsibility.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at a semi-acoustic bass? Smart move. That hollow body vibe, the warmth, the potential for a woody growl... they're something special. But they're not just thump machines; they're a different beast than a solidbody, demanding a little more consideration when it comes to tone and stage presence. Let's break down what makes a good 4-string semi-acoustic bass tick, and what to watch out for.
Don't chase the vintage vibe blindly. A cheap semi-acoustic often has a thin body and weak pickups that sound more brittle than warm. Spend a little more for better bracing and a more balanced pickup voicing.
And seriously, check the neck - a comfortable neck makes all the difference when you're playing long gigs or tracking basslines in the studio. If it's a mail-order deal, factor in the cost of a proper setup - it's almost always needed.
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 23 4-String semi-acoustic 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 semi-acoustic basses good for rock music?
They can be, but it's a different vibe than a solidbody. You'll get a warmer, more rounded tone, but you might lack the aggressive bite. It's fantastic for blues, jazz, and vintage-inspired rock, but for heavy, distorted tones, you might miss the punch.
Do I need a compressor with a semi-acoustic bass?
It's often beneficial. The hollow body can exaggerate dynamics, making your bass sound inconsistent in a band mix. A compressor can help even things out and give you a more controlled sound, especially when recording.
Why do semi-acoustic basses tend to feedback so easily?
The hollow body acts as a resonant chamber, amplifying sound and making it more susceptible to feedback. The larger surface area also picks up more stage vibrations. Careful EQing, amp placement, and sometimes feedback suppressors are your friends.
What's the difference between a semi-acoustic and a hollow body bass?
A semi-acoustic has a solid center block running through the body, reducing feedback and adding sustain. A fully hollow body has no center block, offering more resonance but also more feedback potential. The semi-acoustic is the more practical choice for most players.
Can I use a pick with a semi-acoustic bass?
Absolutely! While a lot of players use fingers or thumb-style, a pick can give you a more aggressive attack and a different tonal color. Experiment and see what works best for your style - just be mindful of the increased resonance and potential for feedback.
