Best Sadowsky 5-String Basses 2026
Alright, let's talk Sadowsky 5-strings. If you're serious about your tone and tired of basses that feel like you're wrestling a log, you're probably already familiar with the name. They're not the cheapest option out there, but a Sadowsky is an investment - a bass you'll likely keep for years and that'll genuinely elevate your playing, whether you're laying down a solid groove in a jazz quartet or cutting through a rock band's wall of sound.
Last updated: July 8, 2026 • Next update: July 15, 2026
⚡ The best 5-string basses in 2026 are Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado OBL (top pick), Sadowsky MetroExp24 Modern 5 RM BK for tighter budgets, and Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA OW for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $1,263–$1,318, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado OBL
by
Sadowsky
Extended Range
Professional Use
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This MetroExp24 Mod 5 is a seriously versatile 5-string – great for modern funk, rock, and even some heavier genres. The Sadowsky pickups have a focused, defined sound, and the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. It’s a premium-priced instrument perfect for the gigging musician who wants a reliable, high-performance bass.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a resonant, balanced tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups offer a punchy, articulate modern tone.
- • Quick Access compartment simplifies string changes and maintenance.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard can be a bit harder than rosewood, requiring acclimation.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • The active preamp, while versatile, might not appeal to purists seeking a purely passive sound.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 599585
$1,319
#2
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Modern 5 RM BK
by
Sadowsky
Unique Designs
Custom Features
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The MetroExp24 Modern 5 is a seriously well-built instrument—the roasted maple neck is a dream, and those Sadowsky pickups have a modern, punchy character perfect for funk, R&B, and contemporary styles. It's a premium-priced bass that delivers a lot of value and versatility for the discerning bassist who wants active electronics and a comfortable feel.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck & fretboard offer exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a punchy, articulate, and modern tone.
- • Active 2-way electronics provide precise tonal shaping with preamp bypass option.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and setup adjustments.
CONS
- • Okoume body, while resonant, can be a bit plain aesthetically for some players.
- • The 34" scale might feel long for bassists with smaller hands.
- • Active electronics require a power source, adding complexity for some users.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 599521
$1,286
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA OW
by
Sadowsky
Alternative Styles
Professional Use
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
This MetroExpress is a seriously well-built bass. The roasted maple neck and Sadowsky pickups give it a modern, defined sound with a surprising amount of warmth. It's a fantastic option for gigging musicians wanting a premium instrument without the high-end price tag – especially good for funk, pop, and modern rock.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a focused, articulate, and punchy low-end.
- • Quick Access compartment simplifies string changes and maintenance significantly.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • Active electronics, while excellent, might not appeal to purists seeking a purely passive tone.
- • The shorter 864mm scale can feel a little cramped for players with larger hands.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 599445
$1,286
#4
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MA CAR
by
Sadowsky
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Professional Use
Key Feature:
This MetroExpress is a seriously well-built bass offering a ton of tonal flexibility. The roasted maple neck is a joy to play, and the Quad Coil pickup delivers a surprising amount of punch and vintage character. It's a premium-priced instrument perfect for gigging musicians wanting versatility and a comfortable feel without the high-end boutique price tag.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a surprisingly resonant and lively tone.
- • Roasted maple neck and fretboard offer exceptional stability and feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil pickup provides a wide range of tones, from growl to clarity.
- • Quick-access compartment simplifies string changes and electronics access.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit soft and prone to dings with heavy use.
- • The active electronics, while versatile, add a touch of complexity for some players.
- • The 34” scale might feel slightly long for players with smaller hands.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 598296
$1,275
#5
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MO CAR
by
Sadowsky
Unique Designs
Experimental Music
Professional Use
Key Feature:
The MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MO CAR is a seriously well-built bass, offering a lot of Sadowsky quality at a more accessible price point. Its versatile pickup configuration and comfortable neck make it a fantastic choice for gigging musicians who want a wide range of tones – from punchy funk to growly rock – without needing multiple basses. This is a great option for players looking for a professional-grade instrument without the top-tier price tag.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast playing feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil pickup delivers a powerful, articulate, and versatile humbucker tone.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and internal adjustments significantly.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be slightly harder than rosewood to adjust to.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, doesn’t offer the same sustain as a neck-through design.
- • The 21-fret scale might feel a little short for players accustomed to longer scale basses.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 598302
$1,308
#6
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Modern 5 RM CAR
by
Sadowsky
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp24 is a serious contender for the modern bassist. The roasted maple neck feels fantastic, and those Sadowsky pickups deliver a powerful, defined low-end that cuts through any mix. It's a versatile instrument, perfect for funk, rock, and anything needing a punchy, modern voice.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a modern, articulate growl with clarity.
- • Quick Access Compartment is genuinely useful for battery changes and setup.
CONS
- • The bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the complexity of a set-neck.
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • Active electronics introduce potential for noise if shielding isn't perfect.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599739
$1,319
#7
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint M5 Morado SGR
by
Sadowsky
Extended Range
Custom Features
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built 5-string, perfect for players wanting a vintage vibe with modern versatility. The Quad Coil pickup is a game-changer, offering a huge range of tones, and the roasted maple neck is a joy to play. It's a great choice for gigging musicians who need a reliable, high-quality instrument.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising clarity.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil delivers a versatile range from growl to articulate highs.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and internal adjustments.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard can be a bit harder than rosewood, requiring adjustment.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • Active electronics add complexity for players preferring purely passive circuits.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 598333
$1,308
#8
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Modern MA SS
by
Sadowsky
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Professional Use
Key Feature:
This MetroExpress is a fantastic blend of modern playability and Sadowsky’s signature tone. The roasted maple neck feels incredible, and those soapbar pickups cut through a mix beautifully. It’s a premium-priced option perfect for gigging musicians needing a versatile and reliable 5-string.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard provide exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a focused, articulate, and punchy low-end.
- • Active electronics offer precise tonal shaping and a versatile sonic palette.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the inherent resonance of a neck-through design.
- • The electronics, while excellent, might be too 'modern' for players seeking a strictly vintage tone.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 598710
$1,286
#9
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint M5 Morado SIL
by
Sadowsky
Unique Designs
Alternative Styles
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky is a serious contender for players wanting a 5-string with vintage vibes and modern versatility. The active/passive switching and pickup configurations give you a huge range of tones, from warm and woody to punchy and aggressive. It's a premium-priced instrument that's perfect for session players, gigging musicians, or anyone who demands a lot from their bass.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a lively resonance and excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil delivers a thick, articulate tone with surprising versatility.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and electronics access.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard can be a bit harder than rosewood, requiring a short adjustment.
- • Bolt-on neck design, while stable, lacks the inherent resonance of a neck-through design.
- • Active/Passive switching adds complexity, potentially overwhelming less experienced players.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 598353
$1,308
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint M5 Morado TSB
by
Sadowsky
Custom Features
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a serious contender for players wanting a modern, versatile 5-string with vintage vibes. The bolt-on neck and active/passive switching offer a great blend of playability and tonal options, making it ideal for session players and gigging musicians seeking a premium-priced instrument without the absolute top-tier cost.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a lively, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers incredible stability and a smooth, fast playing feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil pickup delivers a thick, punchy, and versatile humbucker tone.
- • Quick Access Compartment is a genuinely useful feature for easy electronics access.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be a bit harder than rosewood for some players.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, doesn't offer the same inherent resonance as a neck-through design.
- • The 34” scale might feel slightly long for players accustomed to shorter scales.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 598298
$1,308
#11
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Modern 5 RM SGR
by
Sadowsky
Professional Use
Alternative Styles
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp24 is a seriously well-built bass—the roasted maple neck is a dream to play. The Sadowsky pickups give you a modern, punchy tone that cuts through a mix, while the active preamp allows for a lot of tonal flexibility. Perfect for players wanting a versatile, professional-grade 5-string without the ultra-high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a balanced, articulate tone with surprising resonance.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard provide exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups offer a modern, punchy sound with excellent clarity.
- • Active electronics provide precise tone shaping with a bypass option for a passive feel.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • The bolt-on neck, while stable, might not appeal to purists seeking a traditional feel.
- • The 2-way active preamp, while versatile, adds complexity for those preferring simplicity.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 599529
$1,286
#12
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vintage M5 RM SIL
by
Sadowsky
Extended Range
Unique Designs
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
The MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built 5-string offering a unique blend of vintage vibe and modern functionality. The roasted maple neck is a joy to play, and the Quad Coil pickup provides a thick, punchy tone that works equally well for funk, rock, and even some jazz. This bass is perfect for players seeking a versatile, high-quality instrument without the extreme premium price tag.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck and fretboard offer exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil pickup delivers a powerful, articulate tone with vintage character.
- • The 3-way pickup configuration provides surprising versatility across many genres.
- • Bolt-on construction ensures a responsive, lively feel and easy adjustability.
CONS
- • Okoume body, while resonant, can be a bit plain aesthetically for some players.
- • Active electronics, while great, add a layer of complexity for those preferring purely passive circuits.
- • String spacing at the bridge might feel cramped for players with larger hands or a wider picking style.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 598350
$1,275
#13
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint M5 Morado OBL
by
Sadowsky
Experimental Music
Alternative Styles
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built 5-string with a fantastic blend of vintage vibe and modern versatility. That Quad Coil pickup is a game-changer, giving you everything from a warm, woody growl to a punchy, articulate low-end. This is a great choice for players wanting a premium-priced instrument with a unique voice and comfortable playability.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with great sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil delivers a versatile, powerful sound – vintage and modern.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and electronics access.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be a bit harder than rosewood to adjust to.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, isn't favored by some for ultimate sustain.
- • Active electronics require a power source, adding complexity for some players.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 598324
$1,308
#14
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado BK
by
Sadowsky
Professional Use
Alternative Styles
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky is a serious contender for players wanting a modern 5-string with a vintage vibe. The roasted maple neck and Sadowsky pickups deliver a fantastic blend of punch and clarity, making it ideal for funk, rock, and even some heavier genres. It's a premium-priced instrument, but the build quality and tonal versatility justify the investment.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising warmth.
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a silky-smooth playing feel.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups provide a focused, articulate growl with excellent clarity.
- • Active 2-way electronics offer precise tonal shaping and a quiet, noise-free signal.
CONS
- • Okoume, while nice, isn't the most visually striking body wood.
- • The 34” scale might feel a little long for players with shorter fingers.
- • Morado fingerboards can show wear more readily than ebony, requiring care.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 599733
$1,264
#15
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado CH
by
Sadowsky
Experimental Music
Alternative Styles
Professional Use
Key Feature:
This MetroExp24 is a serious contender for players wanting a modern 5-string with a vintage vibe. The Morado fingerboard adds a unique feel, and those Sadowsky pickups provide a focused, powerful tone perfect for funk, modern rock, and anything needing a tight, defined low-end. It's a premium-priced instrument built for the working musician.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Sadowsky soapbar pickups deliver a punchy, articulate low-end with clarity.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and electronics access.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to figured woods.
- • The active preamp, while excellent, might not appeal to purists seeking a purely passive tone.
- • String spacing at 18mm might feel narrow for players with wider finger styles.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599522
$1,264
How to Choose the Best 5-String Basses
1
Neck Profile
Sadowsky's necks are a thing of beauty - consistently slim and comfortable, with a feel that just works. They avoid that overly thick, vintage feel that can feel clunky, especially when you're trying to fly up and down the neck. It's a modern feel that inspires speed without sacrificing sustain.
2
Pickup Voicing
The pickups are crucial. Sadowsky's pickups aren't trying to be anything they're not - they're articulate, balanced, and deliver a really sweet, creamy low-end without getting muddy. You get that fundamental low-end thump you need, but with enough clarity to hear each note individually, which is huge for complex lines.
3
Body Wood & Construction
Their bodies are typically alder or ash, often with a figured top (maple). The construction is solid - no hollow bodies here. This contributes to the sustain and resonance, giving you a really responsive instrument that reacts well to your playing dynamics. The finish is also consistently excellent; it's not just pretty, it allows the wood to breathe.
4
Bridge Design
The Sadowsky bridges are designed for intonation stability and sustain. They're not overly complicated, but they do the job incredibly well. You'll spend less time tweaking and more time playing, and the string spacing is generally comfortable for most players - not too wide, not too narrow.
5
Hardware & Electronics
The hardware is high-quality - the tuners are smooth, the pots are reliable, and the overall build feels rock-solid. It's the kind of attention to detail that separates a good bass from a great one. Little things add up; you don't want your volume pot crackling after a few gigs.
Buying Guide
Look, Sadowskys are premium instruments, and you're paying for it. Don't skimp on a setup - even a perfectly built bass needs to be dialed in. Used models are a great way to save some cash, but be sure to check the neck relief and overall condition carefully. The figured tops are gorgeous, but don't let aesthetics dictate your choice - play the bass first!
Our Methodology
We don't just look at spec sheets here at Audiofu. We've spent countless hours playing these basses - live, in the studio, and just noodling around. Our evaluations are based on how they feel in your hands, how they respond to your touch, and, most importantly, how they sound in a band context. We're comparing them to other high-end basses - Fender Custom Shop, Allis, Fodera - to give you a real sense of where Sadowsky fits in the landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
That depends on your budget and playing needs. If you want a bass that feels incredible, sounds fantastic, and will last a lifetime, then absolutely. If you're on a tight budget, there are other good options, but you'll likely compromise somewhere.
Both are excellent, but Sadowsky often has a more modern feel and a slightly more refined tone. Fender Custom Shop can lean towards a more vintage vibe, depending on the spec. It really comes down to personal preference - try both if you can.
They're versatile enough for almost anything - jazz, funk, rock, blues, even metal. The clarity and articulation really shine in complex, layered arrangements. They're not a one-trick pony.
No, they'll work fine with most string brands. However, I've found that roundwound strings tend to bring out the best in their pickups - you get that nice blend of punch and clarity. Experiment to find what you like.
The kickers provide a more stable neck pocket and improved sustain. They're a subtle but noticeable upgrade, especially if you play aggressively or like a lower action. It's a worthwhile feature, not a gimmick.
