AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 5-String Acoustic Basses Under $500 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton B-35NT Acoustic Bass w/Bag ($212). Ortega D8CE-5 Deep leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 3 models across 2 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
Top 3
Full detail for the 3 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width47 mm (1.85")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Strings5-string
- FingerboardJatoba fingerboard
This 5-string bass packs a solid build with spruce top and mahogany neck. It comes with a gig bag and has a built-in pickup so you can play anywhere. Perfect for players who want extra strings without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Includes gig bag with backpack straps and padding
- Built-in pickup with four-band equalizer and tuner
- Uses durable Jatoba wood for fretboard and bridge
Cons
- Weight is not specified in the description
- No mention of string tension or playability feel
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- Frets22 frets
- Strings5-string
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
The Ortega D7CE-5 Deep is a surprisingly good value for a 5-string acoustic bass. It offers a pleasant acoustic voice with a decent amplified tone, making it a solid choice for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a versatile, affordable stage-ready bass. This is perfect for folk, blues, and roots music where a natural, woody tone is desired.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a surprisingly articulate and responsive acoustic tone.
- Mahogany back and sides contribute a warm, woody resonance and sustain.
- Ortega MagusPro/G pickup system provides a usable amplified signal with decent clarity.
Cons
- Mahogany neck can be prone to movement with humidity changes; requires attentive care.
- Walnut fingerboard might feel slightly harder than rosewood for some players.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$368 now$368€328 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Frets22 frets
- Strings5-string
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
The Ortega D8CE-5 Deep is a solid choice for acoustic bass players wanting a rich, warm tone with decent amplification. It's a surprisingly affordable instrument offering a good balance of features and build quality, perfect for folk, blues, or Americana styles where a natural acoustic bass sound is paramount.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a bright, responsive tone with good projection.
- Mahogany back and sides contribute a warm, woody resonance and sustain.
- Ortega MagusPro/G pickup system provides a surprisingly clean amplified sound.
Cons
- Mahogany neck might be a bit thick for players preferring a thinner profile.
- Walnut fingerboard can feel slightly harder than rosewood, impacting feel.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$370 now$370€329 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
5-String Acoustic Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 8 models we track, not a sample.
Median $224 — half of all 5-String acoustic basses here cost less.
median of 6 models · 47 mm (1.85")–47 mm (1.85")
median of 6 models · 864 mm (34.02")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 8 models · 5-string–5-string
most common · 8 models
How to choose the best 5-String acoustic basses
Neck Stability
A 5-string's neck needs to handle more tension. Look for a truss rod and a neck joint that feels solid - no excessive wobble is a good sign. A warped neck is a nightmare to deal with.
Bracing & Tonewood
Acoustic basses rely heavily on good bracing to project sound. Expect softer woods like mahogany or sapele in this price range. Don't expect the sustain and clarity of a maple or rosewood top - it's a trade-off.
Pickup Voicing (if equipped)
Many of these will have onboard pickups. The voicing on budget pickups can be... interesting. Expect a tendency towards a scooped midrange or a brittle high-end - something that might need EQing in a PA system.
Action & Playability
Lower action is generally desirable, but too low and you'll get fret buzz. Finding a balance that allows for comfortable playing without sacrificing intonation is key. Be prepared to potentially have a setup done.
Overall Construction
Check the finish for flaws, the hardware for quality, and the general feel of the instrument. Sloppy construction often indicates corners cut elsewhere, potentially affecting longevity and resonance.
Buying guide
So, you want a 5-string acoustic bass without blowing your rent? It's a tricky proposition. You're adding two extra strings, which demands more from the instrument's bracing, neck stability, and overall construction - and that costs money. But it is possible to find something decent that won't sound like a cardboard box if you know what to look for. Let's dive into some options that deliver the most bang for your buck.
At this price point, you're making compromises. Don't expect a pristine, studio-grade acoustic bass. Focus on neck stability and playability - a bad neck can ruin the experience.
If it has a pickup, be prepared to tweak your EQ; it probably won't be naturally balanced. A solid setup from a local tech is almost essential to getting the most out of any of these instruments.
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 8 5-String 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
Will this sound as good as my friend's $1500 acoustic bass?
No. Not even close. You're getting a functional instrument at a fraction of the cost. It'll serve its purpose, but don't expect the same level of tonal complexity or projection.
What about electronics? Are they any good?
Budget pickups are a mixed bag. They'll amplify the sound, but don't expect a high-end, natural acoustic tone. Be ready to use EQ to tame harshness or add back lost midrange. Consider it a bonus, not a core feature.
Can I gig with one of these?
You can, but manage your expectations. It'll hold up for smaller gigs, but don't expect it to withstand the abuse of constant touring. Handle it with care, and a gig bag is a must.
What's the deal with the 'setup' everyone talks about?
A setup involves adjusting the action, intonation, and neck relief to optimize playability. Most new basses need one, especially in this price range. It's a worthwhile investment.
What's the difference between mahogany and sapele?
Both are common tonewoods. Mahogany tends to have a warmer, more mellow low-end, while sapele is often a bit brighter and more articulate. The difference is subtle, and bracing and construction will have a bigger impact on the overall tone.
