AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 4-String Semi-Acoustic Basses Under $5,000 2026
The top pick is Epiphone Jack Casady Signature Bass ($785). Harley Benton HB-60 WB w/Bag gives you the most for the money at $325. Höfner Club Bass Green Line leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 15 models across 6 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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 width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale760 mm (29.92")
- Frets22 frets
The Höfner Ignition Cavern SE is a unique offering – a semi-acoustic bass with a distinctive violin-inspired shape. It’s surprisingly versatile, handling everything from Motown grooves to rockabilly with a character all its own. This is an excellent choice for players seeking a vintage vibe and a shorter scale for comfortable playability, particularly those exploring different sonic territories.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a surprisingly articulate acoustic tone
- Flamed maple back adds warmth and a touch of visual flair
- Ignition Staple pickups offer a distinctive, vintage-inspired growl
Cons
- The shorter 30in scale feels cramped for players with larger hands
- Budget-friendly build means some hardware components feel a little basic
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$448 now$448€399 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 15 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 SE w/BagHöfner46Stable$493€439$493€439Check ↗
- 12
Guild Starfire I Bass Pelham BlueGuild44Stable$785€699$785€699Check ↗
- 13
Höfner Ignition SEHöfner43Stable$448€399$448€399Check ↗
- 14
Höfner Verythin Bass-HCT-500/7 w/GigBHöfner38Stable$875€779$875€779Check ↗
- 15
Höfner Ignition SE BundleHöfner26Stable$493€439$493€439Check ↗
4-String Semi-Acoustic Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 20 models we track, not a sample.
Median $785 — half of all 4-String semi-acoustic basses here cost less.
median of 19 models · 38 mm (1.5")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 17 models · 760 mm (29.92")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 16 models · 20–22
most common · 11 models
How to choose the best 4-String semi-acoustic basses
Neck Profile
A comfortable neck is everything. Look for something that fits your hand - a slim C, a thicker D, whatever lets you play comfortably for hours without fatigue. Thin necks can feel flimsy, while overly thick ones can slow your playing down.
Pickup Voicing
Semi-hollows are all about that nuanced tone. You want pickups that don't choke the natural resonance - avoid anything too scooped or overly bright. Aim for a balanced voicing that captures that woody warmth and subtle harmonic complexity.
Body Wood & Construction
Mahogany is common for that warm, round tone, while maple adds brightness and clarity. Dovetail necks generally offer better sustain than bolt-ons, but they're also pricier. Construction quality - tight joints, clean finish - matters for longevity.
Hardware Quality
Cheap hardware will rattle, corrode, and generally be a pain. Tuners that hold their tuning are non-negotiable. A decent bridge will improve sustain and intonation, too. Don't skimp here.
Electronics & Controls
Simple is often better. A volume and tone knob are usually all you need. Look for quality pots and caps - cheap components create noise and instability. Consider coil-splitting or series/parallel wiring for added versatility, but don't expect miracles at this price.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're hunting a semi-hollow bass without dropping five figures? Smart move. That fat midrange honk and airy resonance is killer for jazz, blues, even rock - it just sits differently in a mix. We're focusing on 4-string models under $5000, because let's be real, that's a reasonable budget to get something genuinely usable and enjoyable, not just a compromise.
At this budget, you're trading something. Expect compromises - maybe the finish isn't flawless, or the hardware isn't top-tier. Don't chase the 'vintage vibe' too hard; modern manufacturing tolerances are a huge advantage.
Prioritize a comfortable neck and good pickups over fancy aesthetics. A good setup from a qualified tech is absolutely essential - even a great bass plays poorly with a bad setup.
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 20 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
What's the difference between a semi-hollow and a hollow body bass?
Hollow bodies are more resonant and airy, but prone to feedback at higher volumes. Semi-hollows have a solid center block, which tames the feedback while retaining a good portion of that hollow body warmth.
Can I realistically expect a bass under $5000 to sound as good as a $10,000 model?
Not exactly. You'll notice differences in wood quality, hardware refinement, and overall construction. However, a well-chosen bass in this range can get surprisingly close, especially with a good amp and a skilled player.
I'm a beginner - should I still get a semi-hollow bass?
Absolutely! The extra warmth and resonance can be very forgiving. Just be aware that they can be a bit more sensitive to feedback, so learn how to control your stage volume.
What kind of amp will pair best with a semi-hollow bass?
Something with a warm, clean tone and plenty of headroom. Tube amps are classic for a reason, but a solid-state amp with a good EQ section can also work well. Avoid anything overly bright or aggressive.
Are these basses suitable for rock music?
Definitely! While they excel in jazz and blues, a semi-hollow bass can bring a unique character to rock - that 'woody' thump cuts through the mix nicely. Just be mindful of feedback and adjust your amp settings accordingly.
