AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 5-String Electric Double Basses for Professional 2026
The top pick is NS Design CR5M-DB Zebra Wood Bass ($6,692). Ibanez UB805-MOB gives you the most for the money at $1,228. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 10 models across 2 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Strings5-string
The CR5M-DB Zebra Wood is a seriously impressive instrument—compact, but surprisingly full-sounding. It's perfect for gigging musicians needing portability without sacrificing tone, or for players wanting a modern, punchy voice with a unique aesthetic. The active preamp adds a professional edge, making it ready for any stage or studio.
Pros
- Zebra wood body offers stunning aesthetics and surprising resonance.
- EMG magnet pickups deliver a powerful, articulate, and modern tone.
- Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience with excellent note definition.
Cons
- The compact scale length might feel cramped for players accustomed to full-scale basses.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many bassists.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,692 now$6,692€5,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The NXT5a-OB-AB is a seriously well-thought-out 5-string. The Polar pickup system gives you a really articulate and present sound, perfect for modern pop, jazz, and anything needing clarity. It’s a great option for gigging musicians who want a reliable and versatile bass without the fuss of batteries.
Pros
- Richlite fingerboard offers exceptional playability and stability.
- Polar pickup system delivers a remarkably natural and balanced tone.
- Battery-less design simplifies setup and eliminates power concerns.
Cons
- The composite construction, while stable, lacks the warmth of traditional wood.
- The Omni Bass's versatility, while broad, might not suit extreme genres.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,285 now$3,285€2,940 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The NXT5 Omni Bass is a seriously cool instrument. The B-G tuning unlocks a whole new range of possibilities, and the active electronics give you a powerful, defined sound that cuts through a mix. It's an excellent choice for players who want a versatile, modern electric double bass for a variety of genres – especially those who appreciate a lighter, more responsive feel.
Pros
- Richlite fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
- Polar pickup system delivers a remarkably balanced and articulate tone.
- Battery-free design simplifies setup and eliminates charging hassle.
Cons
- The composite construction, while durable, lacks the traditional warmth of wood.
- The extended scale length (34 in) can be challenging for smaller players.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,285 now$3,285€2,940 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The NXT5a-DB-BK is a fantastic choice for gigging upright players wanting electric convenience. The 5-string range and active electronics make it incredibly versatile, and the maple/Richlite build feels solid and professional. It's a premium-priced instrument, but delivers serious bang for your buck for the quality and playability.
Pros
- Richlite fingerboard offers exceptional feel and stability.
- Polar pickup system delivers a surprisingly natural acoustic tone.
- Maple construction provides a balanced, resonant tonal foundation.
Cons
- The weight, while manageable, can still be tiring for extended gigs.
- Richlite, while excellent, lacks the traditional visual appeal of ebony.
41AudioFu
Index↑ 4.0%since Aug 17$3,106 · Aug 17$3,229 now$3,229€2,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The NXT5a-DB-SB is a fantastic option for gigging musicians who need a reliable and versatile electric double bass. The 5-string configuration expands your harmonic possibilities, and the active electronics give you a clean, amplified sound that cuts through any mix – it’s a real workhorse instrument for jazz, funk, and contemporary styles.
Pros
- Rich Lite fingerboard provides exceptionally fast and comfortable playing feel
- Polar pickup system delivers a remarkably natural and balanced amplified tone
- Dual mode switch offers versatile arco and pizzicato response for varied playing
Cons
- The composite construction, while durable, lacks the traditional resonance of a wood bass
- Satin sunburst finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,083 now$3,083€2,760 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The NS Design WAV5c is a fantastic option for gigging upright bass players wanting amplified acoustic tones without the back-breaking weight of a traditional double bass. The 5-string configuration opens up new harmonic possibilities, and the included accessories make it instantly usable. It's a premium-priced instrument, but offers a lot of value for the money.
Pros
- Coform fingerboard offers exceptional stability and smooth playability
- Polar Piezo pickup delivers a natural, amplified acoustic tone
- NXT multi-voicing system provides versatility across pizzicato and arco styles
Cons
- The Coform fingerboard, while stable, can feel slightly less 'traditional' than ebony
- The self-powered pickup requires an external amplifier for volume and tone shaping
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,335 now$2,335€2,090 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The NS Design WAV5c-OB-AB is a fantastic option for gigging musicians wanting a compact, self-contained 5-string setup. Its piezo pickup offers surprising arco potential, and the rosewood board feels great under the fingers—perfect for a bassist who needs versatility and portability without sacrificing tonal quality.
Pros
- Rosewood fingerboard offers smooth playability and warm tone
- Self-powered piezo pickup simplifies amplification and offers arco capability
- Amberburst high-gloss finish is visually striking and protects the wood
Cons
- The piezo pickup, while versatile, can sound brittle without careful EQ
- The body construction, while lightweight for a 5-string, can still feel cumbersome
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,112 now$2,112€1,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
This NS Design WAV5c-OB-TR is a fantastic option for gigging bassists who want a 5-string without the amp haul. The built-in pickup system is surprisingly good, offering both pizzicato and arco capabilities, and the Coform neck makes it a joy to play – really a great all-rounder for a wide range of genres.
Pros
- Coform fingerboard offers exceptional comfort and speed for demanding players
- Self-powered piezo pickup delivers a surprisingly natural and versatile tone
- Boomerang strap provides excellent stability and comfort during extended playing
Cons
- The piezo pickup, while versatile, can lack the warmth of magnetic pickups in certain styles
- The body weight, typical for a 5-string, might be a concern for smaller players
42AudioFu
Index↑ 2.7%since Aug 17$2,056 · Aug 17$2,112 now$2,112€1,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
The NS Design WAV5c-OB-BK is a fantastic option for gigging musicians needing a versatile, amplified double bass. Its compact design, built-in preamp, and comfortable setup make it a great choice for smaller stages or players who want to avoid pedalboards. It’s particularly well-suited for folk, jazz, and contemporary styles.
Pros
- Rosewood fingerboard offers warm tone and comfortable playability
- Polar Piezo pickup delivers surprisingly natural and articulate amplified sound
- Boomerang strap provides excellent comfort for extended playing sessions
Cons
- The self-powered pickup might lack the nuance of a higher-end external preamp
- WAV basses are known to be a bit neck-heavy, requiring careful strap adjustment
42AudioFu
Index↑ 2.2%since Aug 17$2,067 · Aug 17$2,112 now$2,112€1,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardJatoba fingerboard
The UB805-MOB is a solid entry into the 5-string electric double bass market. It’s a great option for gigging musicians or students looking for a versatile, amplified instrument with a good feel and a decent acoustic foundation. The AeroSilk pickup system is a pleasant surprise, offering a surprisingly organic tone.
Pros
- Jatoba fingerboard offers a snappy, responsive feel for quick playing.
- AeroSilk piezo system delivers a surprisingly natural acoustic-like tone.
- Maple/Walnut neck-thru construction provides excellent sustain and resonance.
Cons
- The plastic nut can be a limiting factor for ultimate tuning stability.
- Mahogany Oil Burst finish might be prone to minor scratches and wear.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,228 now$1,228€1,099 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
5-String Electric Double Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 15 models we track, not a sample.
Median $2,344 — half of all 5-String electric double basses here cost less.
median of 15 models · 5-string–5-string
How to choose the best 5-String electric double basses
Neck Profile & Playability
Forget thin, shredder-style necks. A pro 5-string needs a comfortable, substantial feel, especially with the increased string tension. We're looking for something that allows for effortless access to those lower registers without feeling like you're wrestling a redwood tree. Neck relief, action adjustability - all crucial.
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
A muddy pickup is a dealbreaker. We need clarity and definition, especially on those lower strings, so your notes don't just become a rumble. The voicing should offer a usable range - from warm and woody for jazz to aggressive and punchy for rock, without getting ice-picky or overly compressed.
Body Resonance & Sustain
Electric uprights still rely on the body's resonance. A well-built body will provide sustain and warmth, even when plugged in. We're listening for that fundamental low-end thump and how the instrument responds to percussive playing - does it just die quickly, or does it sing?
Hardware Quality & Reliability
Cheap tuners and a flimsy bridge are going to be your downfall on stage. Pro gear needs to withstand the rigors of constant travel and tuning changes. We're checking for solid construction, smooth operation, and overall build integrity - because a gear failure mid-set is just bad karma.
Electronics & Headroom
Noise floor is the enemy. We're assessing the preamp's headroom, its ability to handle high output without introducing unwanted hum or distortion. A good preamp will also offer useful EQ controls to shape the tone and cut through a dense mix.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're a serious bassist looking to step up to a 5-string electric upright. It's a commitment - more range, more complexity, and a whole new level of nuance to master. Forget the beginner models; we're talking about instruments that'll hold up to punishing gig schedules, deliver that deep, resonant low-end you need to cut through a rock band, and record cleanly in a studio. This isn't just about adding notes; it's about expanding your sonic palette and demanding more from your instrument.
Don't be swayed by flashy finishes or boutique branding. A 5-string electric upright is a serious investment. Watch out for overly aggressive marketing claims - 'best tone ever' is meaningless.
Pay extra for a solid build, comfortable neck, and a preamp that doesn't introduce noise. The biggest corner that gets cut is often in the bracing and internal construction - a bass that feels 'dead' is a red flag.
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 15 5-String electric double 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 deal with piezo vs. magnetic pickups on a 5-string?
Piezo pickups generally offer a more acoustic, natural tone, great for jazz and upright-focused styles. Magnetic pickups are punchier and better for amplified genres. Many pro basses now use a hybrid system to combine the best of both worlds - it's a trade-off, though; often requiring careful EQing.
How much difference does the wood type really make?
It matters. Spruce is common for its resonance, maple for brightness and clarity, and mahogany for warmth and sustain. Each wood contributes to the overall tonal character, but construction quality is arguably more important than the wood itself.
Is a shorter scale length (33.5") easier to play on a 5-string?
Yes, the lower string tension makes it a little more forgiving, especially for smaller hands. However, you lose a bit of definition and low-end clarity. A longer scale (34-36") will give you more 'thump' but requires more finger strength.
What about active vs. passive preamps?
Active preamps offer more flexibility with EQ and often have a higher output, but they require a power source. Passive preamps are simpler and often sound more 'natural,' but have less tonal shaping ability. It's a matter of preference and the style of music you play.
How important is setup?
Crucially important. Even the best bass in the world will feel terrible with a bad setup. Invest in a professional setup - proper action, intonation, and neck relief are non-negotiable for a playable instrument.
