Best 5-String Double Basses for Jazz 2026
So, you're thinking about adding a 5-string double bass to your jazz arsenal? Smart move - that extra low B string opens up a whole new world of harmonic possibilities and that low-end thump can really fill out a trio or quartet. But not all 5-strings are created equal, especially when you're chasing that warm, woody tone and effortless articulation that defines classic jazz. Let's break down some solid options that'll actually hold up on stage and in the studio.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
⚡ The best 5-string double basses in 2026 are Thomann 44/5str 3/4 Europe Double Bass (top pick), Master Bucur Double Bass Bucur 5-S o.p.b. for tighter budgets, and Meister Rubner Double Bass No.69 4/4 5-Str. for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $2,429–$25,452, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Thomann 44/5str 3/4 Europe Double Bass
by
Thomann
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Size
3/4 size
Modern Ensemble
Jazz
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
This Thomann 3/4 double bass is a solid entry point for students and smaller-statured players looking for a 5-string instrument. The all-solid wood build and Pirastro strings give it a surprisingly mature voice, and the European workshop setup ensures it’s playable right out of the box. It's a great balance of quality and affordability for someone starting out or needing a travel bass.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a responsive, clear, and projecting tone.
- • European craftsmanship ensures quality construction and attention to detail.
- • The low H-string expands range and offers a richer bass foundation.
- • Pirastro Flexocor Deluxe strings provide a warm, focused, and reliable sound.
CONS
- • 3/4 size may feel cramped for taller or larger players.
- • Solid wood construction means it’s susceptible to humidity changes.
- • Tyrolean machine heads might not offer the smoothest tuning experience.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 317226
$3,707
#2
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Master Bucur Double Bass Bucur 5-S o.p.b.
by
Master Bucur
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Solo Performance
Jazz
Orchestra
Key Feature:
This is a seriously special instrument, folks. Ioan Bucur's one-off 5-string offers incredible depth and warmth thanks to that gorgeous one-piece ash back – a real investment for the serious solo bassist or someone wanting a unique voice. It's built to a very high standard, but that limited production run is something to consider.
PROS
- • One-piece ash back delivers exceptional warmth and resonance.
- • Solid spruce top provides clarity and projection across the spectrum.
- • Antique-style Rubner tuners ensure precise and stable tuning.
- • Bucur's workshop reputation guarantees top-tier craftsmanship and tonal quality.
CONS
- • The 5-string configuration limits versatility for certain orchestral playing.
- • One-off production means replacement parts and future servicing will be challenging.
- • The scale length (105cm) may feel short for players accustomed to longer basses.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 585113
$25,452
#3
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
2/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.69 4/4 5-Str.
Strings
5-string
Size
4/4 size
Contemporary Classical
Modern Ensemble
Orchestra
Key Feature:
This Meister Rubner No. 69 is a serious instrument – the viola da gamba shape and 5-string setup give it a unique voice. It’s ideal for advanced players and soloists seeking a rich, nuanced sound with exceptional projection; the build quality is truly top-tier, justifying the investment for the discerning double bassist.
PROS
- • Exceptional spruce top yields a warm, responsive, and complex tone.
- • Hand-applied spirit varnish enhances the wood’s resonance and beauty.
- • Rubner tuners offer precise and stable tuning, critical for 5-string work.
- • Viola da gamba shape provides unique aesthetic appeal and subtly altered ergonomics.
CONS
- • The spirit varnish, while beautiful, can be sensitive to humidity changes.
- • The 5-string configuration limits versatility for certain orchestral passages.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 480127
$16,736
#4
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
2/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.62 4/4 5-string
Strings
5-string
Size
4/4 size
Solo Performance
Jazz
Contemporary Classical
Key Feature:
The Meister Rubner No. 62 is a truly gorgeous instrument—the viola da gamba styling sets it apart, and the solid spruce top sings with a rich, resonant tone. This is a serious player’s bass, ideal for soloists or anyone wanting a historically-inspired voice. It's a statement piece for those who demand both beauty and exceptional performance.
PROS
- • Solid German spruce top delivers exceptional projection and warmth.
- • Rubner individual tuners ensure precise and stable intonation.
- • Viola da gamba shape offers a unique aesthetic and comfortable playing experience.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, responsive playing surface for effortless technique.
CONS
- • The spirit varnish, while beautiful, can be sensitive to humidity changes.
- • 5-string configuration limits versatility for certain orchestral passages.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 453501
$9,983
#5
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Georg Walther Concert Double Bass 4/4 5S DB
Strings
5-string
Size
4/4 size
Contemporary Classical
Solo Performance
Modern Ensemble
Key Feature:
This German-made bass sounds like a viola da gamba with a deep, rich tone thanks to its solid spruce top. The low B string lets you play lower notes than standard models. It is a fully solid instrument built to last, but you won't know how heavy it feels without a weight spec. It suits players who want that classic, resonant sound and need extra low range.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top for strong fundamental tone
- • Gamba shape offers unique resonance characteristics
- • Rubber individual tuners ensure stable tuning
- • Low B string enables extended range playing
CONS
- • No weight measurement provided for handling
- • High price point limits buyer options
- • Lack of pickup info for stage use
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 580073
$7,891
#6
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Georg Walther Concert Double Bass 3/4 5S DB
Strings
5-string
Size
3/4 size
Jazz
Orchestra
Contemporary Classical
Key Feature:
This Georg Walther 5-string is a seriously refined instrument. The viola da gamba design gives it a uniquely warm and complex tone, perfect for orchestral work or players seeking a more antique sound. It's a premium-priced option built for the discerning double bassist who prioritizes tone and craftsmanship.
PROS
- • Solid European spruce top delivers exceptional projection and warmth
- • Viola da gamba shape offers a unique, resonant tone and aesthetic
- • Rubner tuners ensure precise and stable intonation, crucial for 5-string playing
- • Hand-applied spirit varnish enhances beauty and protects the instrument's voice
CONS
- • 3/4 size might be restrictive for taller players or those with longer arms
- • The dark spirit varnish, while traditional, can be challenging to repair
- • 5-string basses inherently require more bow control and a steeper learning curve
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 580070
$7,891
#7
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Thomann 44AS/5str. 3/4 Europe Bass
by
Thomann
Strings
5-string
Size
3/4 size
Orchestra
Contemporary Classical
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Thomann 44AS is a surprisingly capable 5-string bass, especially considering the price point. The solid construction and spruce top give it a nice warmth, while the 3/4 size makes it very manageable for younger or smaller players. It's a fantastic option for students or anyone needing a reliable, affordable 5-string without sacrificing too much in terms of tone and feel.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a warm, responsive fundamental tone.
- • Tyrolean machine heads offer smooth, precise tuning stability.
- • 3/4 size is ideal for students and smaller players.
- • Pirastro Flexocor Deluxe strings provide excellent projection and clarity.
CONS
- • Satin antiqued finish might not appeal to players preferring a glossier aesthetic.
- • Solid maple back can be a bit dense, potentially impacting sustain slightly.
- • While playable, the 3/4 scale may feel cramped for experienced, larger players.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 535172
$3,707
#8
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Thomann 33/5str 3/4 Europe Double Bass
by
Thomann
Strings
5-string
Size
3/4 size
Modern Ensemble
Solo Performance
Contemporary Classical
Key Feature:
This Thomann 33/5str is a solid entry point into the 5-string double bass world. The 3/4 size is a great option for students or players who prefer a more manageable instrument, and the all-solid wood construction provides a surprisingly mature sound for its class. It’s a well-built instrument ready to play, offering good value for the money.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a warm, responsive fundamental tone.
- • European craftsmanship ensures consistent build quality and attention to detail.
- • 3/4 size makes it ideal for younger or smaller players.
- • Pirastro Flexocor Deluxe strings offer a reliable, balanced sound profile.
CONS
- • Solid maple back may lack the projection of more figured woods.
- • Tyrolean machine heads can feel a bit stiff compared to premium tuners.
- • 3/4 scale length limits low-end extension compared to full-size basses.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 317225
$3,010
#9
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Thomann 33AS/5str. 3/4 Europe Bass
by
Thomann
Strings
5-string
Size
3/4 size
Jazz
Contemporary Classical
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
This Thomann 33AS is a surprisingly capable 5-string bass for the price. The 3/4 size makes it a great choice for younger players or those who prefer a more compact instrument, and the solid wood construction gives it a mature, resonant tone. It's a solid entry point into the world of 5-string double basses.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a warm, resonant, and projecting tone.
- • Tyrolean machine heads offer smooth, precise tuning stability.
- • 3/4 size is ideal for students and players needing a more manageable instrument.
- • Pirastro Flexocor Deluxe strings provide a balanced, responsive playing experience.
CONS
- • The satin antiqued finish might not appeal to players wanting a glossier look.
- • 3/4 size, while beneficial for some, may feel cramped for larger players.
- • Solid maple back, while tonally good, can be a bit less complex than figured maple.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 535169
$2,894
#10
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Thomann 22AS/5str. 3/4 Europe Bass
by
Thomann
Strings
5-string
Size
3/4 size
Contemporary Classical
Solo Performance
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Thomann 22AS is a seriously well-equipped 5-string, especially considering the price. The 3/4 size makes it comfortable for younger players or those who prefer a more manageable instrument, while the spruce top and quality strings deliver a surprisingly mature tone – it’s a great option for students and gigging musicians alike.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top provides a responsive, clear, and articulate tone.
- • Tyrolean machine heads offer smooth, precise tuning stability.
- • The 3/4 size is ideal for students and players with shorter arms.
- • Pirastro Flexocor Deluxe strings deliver a warm, full, and professional sound.
CONS
- • Semi-solid construction may lack the resonant depth of a fully hollow body.
- • Satin antiqued finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to fingerprints.
- • 3/4 size limits projection and power compared to full-size basses.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 535167
$2,545
#11
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Thomann 11/5str 3/4 Europe Double Bass
by
Thomann
Strings
5-string
Size
3/4 size
Orchestra
Jazz
Modern Ensemble
Key Feature:
This Thomann 3/4 double bass is a great entry point for aspiring bassists, especially those needing a smaller instrument. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price, offering a warm, full sound suitable for jazz, classical, and even rockabilly, thanks to that low B string. It's a solid, playable instrument ready to go.
PROS
- • Solid European construction ensures quality and reliable intonation.
- • Laminated maple back provides warmth and projection for varied styles.
- • The 3/4 size is ideal for students and smaller players.
- • Pirastro Flexocor Deluxe strings offer a balanced, responsive tone.
CONS
- • Laminated top limits potential for exceptional high-end complexity and resonance.
- • Tyrolean machine heads can feel a bit stiff compared to premium options.
- • 3/4 size may still feel large for very young or petite players.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 317223
$2,429
#12
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
2/10
Scala Vilagio Double Bass Bucur 5-Str. IB
Strings
5-string
Solo Performance
Contemporary Classical
Orchestra
Key Feature:
This bass has a bright spruce top and fancy flamed maple. It comes with a low B-string for extra range. Only five tuners are on the neck. It is built by a famous luthier in Romania. Great for players who want more bass notes and a solid sound.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top offers bright, articulate attack.
- • Beautifully flamed arched maple back and sides.
- • Low B-string extends range for modern players.
- • Handcrafted in Ioan Bucur's master workshop.
CONS
- • No weight rating provided for player comfort.
- • Single tuners on the neck may be less stable.
- • No internal volume or pickup system details.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 528007
$8,112
#13
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
2/10
Scala Vilagio Double Bass Ceruti 5-Str. IB
Strings
5-string
Orchestra
Jazz
Contemporary Classical
Key Feature:
This Vilagio Ceruti 5-string is a gorgeous instrument, truly echoing the classic Italian sound. Ioan Bucur’s workshop has done an incredible job – the tone is rich and focused, with that deep, resonant low B adding serious depth. It’s ideal for serious students and seasoned players looking for a beautifully crafted, historically-inspired double bass.
PROS
- • Ceruti-inspired design offers exceptional tonal projection and beauty.
- • Solid spruce top provides clarity and responsiveness across the spectrum.
- • Ebony fingerboard ensures smooth playability and precise intonation.
- • The low B string expands range and adds a powerful, resonant low end.
CONS
- • The larger body size can be cumbersome for smaller players or those with limited space.
- • Master workshop construction means a premium price point; a significant investment.
- • Single tuners may require more frequent adjustments compared to geared tuners.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 527996
$8,112
#14
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
2/10
Scala Vilagio Double Bass Rogeri 5-Str. IB
Strings
5-string
Orchestra
Jazz
Modern Ensemble
Key Feature:
This Vilagio is a seriously impressive instrument, channeling the classic Rogeri sound with a modern 5-string twist. Ioan Bucur’s workshop delivers a refined, powerful bass – perfect for advanced players and orchestral musicians who want a rich, complex tone and expanded low-end capabilities.
PROS
- • Rogeri model delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Solid spruce top provides excellent projection and clarity.
- • Ioan Bucur's craftsmanship ensures exceptional build quality and stability.
- • 5-string setup expands harmonic possibilities and low-end range.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- • Single machine heads can be less precise than double or geared tuners.
- • 114cm body length may feel cumbersome for smaller players.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 528002
$8,008
#15
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
2/10
Scala Vilagio Double Bass Panormo 5-Str. IB
Strings
5-string
Orchestra
Modern Ensemble
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
This Vilagio Panormo from Scala is a seriously impressive instrument, especially if you appreciate the classic Italian sound. The solid build and Ioan Bucur’s attention to detail really shine, making it ideal for orchestral players or those seeking a warm, focused tone with that low B string adding extra depth. It’s a premium-priced option, but the quality justifies it.
PROS
- • Ioan Bucur’s craftsmanship delivers exceptional tonal clarity and projection
- • Solid spruce top provides a responsive, lively, and nuanced sound
- • Flamed ayhorn sides enhance the bass’s aesthetic appeal and resonance
- • Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and excellent note definition
CONS
- • The 106 cm scale may feel short for players accustomed to longer basses
- • Solid construction contributes to a potentially heavier instrument for some players
- • Panormo design might limit versatility for extremely modern playing styles
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 527997
$7,775
Every 5-string double basses that matches
16 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Scala Vilagio Double Bass Gamba 5-Str. IB | Strings 5-string | $7,659 |
5-String Double Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 16 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $7,775
from $2,429 to $16,736
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 5-string · 16 models
Size
3/4, 4/4
most common · 10 models
How to Choose the Best 5-String Double Basses
1
Tone
Jazz demands a specific character - warm, woody, with a clear fundamental and manageable overtones. Too bright, and it's ice-picky; too muddy, and it gets lost in the mix. We're looking for that sweet spot where the low B doesn't overwhelm the upper registers.
2
Action & Playability
Jazz playing is about nuance and subtlety. A high action will kill your speed and dynamic range, while a too-low action can lead to buzzing and intonation issues. A comfortable neck profile is crucial for those long gigs.
3
Construction & Materials
Spruce top, maple back and sides, ebony fingerboard - these aren't just buzzwords, they directly impact tone and response. A well-built bass with solid wood construction will resonate better and age gracefully.
4
Pickup Voicing (if applicable)
Many jazz players use pickups for recording or amplifying their sound. The pickup needs to capture the natural acoustic tone without adding harshness or unwanted coloration. A smooth, balanced voicing is key.
5
Bass Response & Projection
A 5-string needs to project well, especially in a small jazz club setting. You need to be able to cut through the piano and drums without fighting the room. A good bass will have a strong fundamental and clear articulation across all five strings.
Buying Guide
A 5-string double bass is a significant investment. Be wary of super-cheap options - they almost always cut corners on wood quality or construction, resulting in a thin, lifeless tone. Paying a bit more for a bass with a solid spruce top and a well-set-up neck will pay dividends in the long run. Don't be afraid to shop around, play as many basses as possible, and trust your ears - what sounds amazing to one player might not work for you.
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 16 5-string double 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
Not strictly, but it expands your harmonic palette and gives you a richer low-end. If you're primarily playing walking basslines, a 4-string might suffice, but the B string offers a lot of creative potential.
Generally, a luthier-built bass means it's handcrafted by a skilled individual, often with more attention to detail and higher-quality materials than mass-produced instruments. This can translate to a better tone and playability, but it also comes at a premium.
Crucially important. The bridge position directly impacts the bass's tone and projection. A poorly positioned bridge can lead to uneven string response and intonation problems. Make sure it's properly aligned.
It depends on your needs. If you primarily record in a studio, a pickup isn't essential. But if you gig regularly and need amplification, a good pickup can be a lifesaver. Just be mindful of the pickup's voicing - you don't want it to color your tone too much.
Most 5-string basses follow the standard 34" scale, but occasionally you'll see longer or shorter scales. A longer scale generally offers slightly better clarity and definition, while a shorter scale can feel a bit more comfortable and easier to play.
