AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 5-String J-Basses for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster ($1,288). Marcus Miller V5 Alder-5 CGM gives you the most for the money at $586. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 50 models across 12 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster
Player II Mod J Bass V RW ELB · Fender
175 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Strings5-string
This Player II J Bass V is a seriously capable instrument. The active EQ gives you a ton of tonal shaping options, and the noiseless pickups make it stage-ready. It's a great choice for gigging musicians who want versatility and modern features without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- Player II Noiseless pickups deliver clean, articulate sound with minimal hum.
- Modern 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
Cons
- Rosewood fingerboard may feel dry to some players, requiring occasional conditioning.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the inherent warmth of a set-neck.
80AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,288 now$1,288€1,154 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This is a 5-string bass with a Swamp Ash body and a maple neck. It has two Marcus Super J Revolution single coil pickups, a Heritage-3 preamp, and a mini-switch so you can pick active or passive mode. It suits you if you want a J-style 5-string with a few extra controls to shape your tone.
Pros
- Swamp Ash body with a burl poplar veneer top
- Two Marcus Super J Revolution single coil pickups
- Marcus Heritage-3 preamp with Blender and Middle/Freq controls
Cons
- Bolt-on maple neck rather than a set neck
68AudioFu
Index↓ 9.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$836 · Aug 17$758 now$758€679 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built instrument, offering a vintage-inspired J-bass tone with modern refinements. The roasted maple neck and comfortable radius make it a joy to play, and the active/passive electronics give you a lot of tonal flexibility. It's a fantastic choice for players seeking a versatile, high-quality 5-string with a classic vibe.
Pros
- Okoume body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Roasted maple neck and fretboard offer incredible stability and a smooth feel.
- Sadowsky J-style pickups provide a focused, articulate, and punchy vintage tone.
Cons
- Okoume can be somewhat prone to dents and scratches without careful handling.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the seamlessness of a neck-through design.
62AudioFu
Index↓ 8.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,194 · Aug 17$1,093 now$1,093€979 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built instrument, offering a fantastic blend of vintage vibe and modern features. The JJ#5 pickups are a sweet spot for punch and clarity, and the roasted maple neck just begs to be played. It’s a premium-priced option that’s ideal for players wanting a versatile, professional-grade 5-string with a comfortable feel.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- Sadowsky JJ#5 pickups deliver articulate lows and clear, defined highs.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard can be slightly harder than rosewood, requiring a short adjustment period.
- Bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the inherent resonance of a neck-through design.
58AudioFu
Index↓ 9.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,227 · Aug 17$1,115 now$1,115€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This is a 5-string bass with a mahogany body, a swamp ash top, and a maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard. You get two Marcus Super-J Revolution single coil pickups and Marcus Heritage-3 controls, including a blend knob and a push/pull bass control for passive switching. It suits you if you want a 5-string J-style bass with a 34-inch scale and a simple, classic layout.
Pros
- Mahogany body with a swamp ash top
- Maple bolt-on neck with a rosewood fingerboard and dot inlays
- Two Marcus Super-J Revolution single coil pickups at bridge and neck
56AudioFu
Index↓ 1.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$713 · Aug 17$702 now$702€629 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This bass has a warm mahogany body topped with swamp ash for a rich sound. The maple neck and ebony fingerboard feel smooth under your fingers. It uses high-end single coil pickups that cut through the mix well. The push-pull switch is a great feature for changing modes on the fly. It's perfect for players who want a solid, modern tone without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body with swamp ash top for balanced tone
- Stainless steel frets ensure lasting brightness and smooth playability
- Marcus Super-J Revolution pickups deliver tight, focused low end
Cons
- No string gauge information provided in the description
- Scale length is long at 34 inches, which may be tough on smaller hands
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- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
The V8-5 TS is a seriously capable 5-string bass, offering a fantastic blend of vintage vibe and modern versatility. It's a great choice for players looking for a workhorse instrument suitable for funk, soul, and rock, with a comfortable neck and a punchy, responsive feel. This bass is ideal for gigging musicians who want a premium instrument without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Swamp ash body delivers a resonant, articulate tone with excellent sustain
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel
- Marcus Super J Revolution pickups offer a surprisingly balanced, vintage-inspired growl
Cons
- Swamp ash can make the bass feel a little weighty, especially for smaller players
- The bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the inherent warmth of a set-neck design
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$959 now$959€859 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Strings5-string
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass has a solid maple neck that feels great under your fingers. The five powerful pickups let you drive amps hard for big stage sound. It suits players who want maximum output without losing clarity.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck for smooth playability
- Alder body offers bright, punchy tone
- Five Delta S5J humbuckers for power
Cons
- Plastic nut may feel less premium
- No passive mode without bypass switch
48AudioFu
Index↓ 11.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,339 · Aug 17$1,182 now$1,182€1,059 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
- BodyAlder body
The V5 Alder-5 CGM is a seriously impressive bass for the money. It nails that classic J-Bass tone with a modern, comfortable feel thanks to the roasted maple board. This is a fantastic choice for players wanting a versatile, workhorse 5-string that won’t break the bank – perfect for funk, soul, and even heavier grooves.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a warm, balanced, and articulate low-end.
- Roasted maple fingerboard offers exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- Marcus Vintage-J Revolution pickups provide a vintage-inspired, clear tone.
Cons
- Champagne Gold Metallic finish might not appeal to all players’ aesthetic preferences.
- Longer scale length can be challenging for players with smaller hands or shorter fingers.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$586 now$586€525 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Strings5-string
- BodyMahogany body
This bass uses a mahogany body and maple neck for a solid feel. Two single-coil pickups give it a bright, direct tone that cuts through a mix. It's a straightforward setup with a C neck profile and plenty of frets for reach. Great for players who want a classic, responsive voice without complex electronics.
Pros
- Mahogany body with maple bolt-on neck for solid resonance
- Two single-coil pickups deliver bright, punchy attack
- C neck profile offers comfortable playability for hands
Cons
- Electronics lack active EQ for complex tone shaping
- Single control per pickup limits blending options
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$591 now$591€529 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 50 5-String J-Basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 5 MO OWSadowsky45↓ 9.1%$1,115€999$1,115€999Check ↗
- 12
Lakland Skyline 55-60 5-String 3TSBLakland · 2 finishes43Stable$1,115€999$1,115€999Check ↗
- 13
Sandberg Electra TM5EF MH SBSandberg43Stable$1,115€999$1,115€999Check ↗
- 14
Cort B5 Element Open Pore NaturalCort · 3 finishes49↓ 7.3%$568€509$568€509Check ↗
- 15
Jackson A Blackstone Pro Gladys BLKSNJackson40Stable$1,216€1,089$1,216€1,089Check ↗
- 16
Markbass MB GV5 Gloxy Val CreamMarkbass37Stable$836€749$836€749Check ↗
- 17
Fender American Ultra II TelecasterAm Ultra II J Bass V MN SRD · Fender · 3 finishes79Stable$2,768€2,479$2,768€2,479Check ↗
- 18
Fender American Professional II Jazz BassAM Pro Jazz Bass V MN OB · Fender · 3 finishes76Stable$2,511€2,249$2,511€2,249Check ↗
- 19
Squier CV 70s Jazz Bass V MN BLKSquier · 2 finishes40↑ 0.9%$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton Enhanced MJ-5EB Lake Bl w/BagHarley Benton · 4 finishes48↑ 1.7%$408€365$408€365Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton MV-5JB Burgundy Mist w/CaseHarley Benton · 6 finishes58↓ 5.4%$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 22
Markbass MB 5 Yellow JBMarkbass36Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 23
Harley Benton HBZ-2005 Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton47↓ 11.8%$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 24
Sandberg California II TM5 Ida NielsenSandberg · 8 finishes55Stable$3,237€2,899$3,237€2,899Check ↗
- 25
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Vin M OWSadowsky · 7 finishes55Stable$4,353€3,899$4,353€3,899Check ↗
- 26
Squier Affinity ACT Jazz Bass V BKMSquier40↑ 6.0%$354€317$354€317Check ↗
- 27
Sire Marcus Miller V10 5-StringV10-5 TGR · Marcus Miller · 2 finishes54Stable$1,339€1,199$1,339€1,199Check ↗
- 28
Ibanez MDM1605 ModeMDM1605-DTW · Ibanez · 2 finishes54↓ 5.7%$1,473€1,319$1,473€1,319Check ↗
- 29
Sandberg California II TM 5 MN RBSandberg · 5 finishes54Stable$2,176€1,949$2,176€1,949Check ↗
- 30
Squier Aff. Jazz Bass V 3-SBSquier43Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 31
Sandberg California II TT 5 MN NT LHSandberg · 3 finishes53Stable$2,344€2,099$2,344€2,099Check ↗
- 32
Fender MonoNeon Signature Jazz Bass VMonoNeon Jazz Bass V NY · Fender49Stable$1,785€1,599$1,785€1,599Check ↗
- 33
Sandberg California TM 5California TM 5 NT · Sandberg48Stable$2,222€1,990$2,222€1,990Check ↗
- 34
Harley Benton JB-75-5MN NA Vintage SeriesHarley Benton45Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 35
Lakland Skyline Darryl Jones 5 NATLakland · 3 finishes45Stable$1,897€1,699$1,897€1,699Check ↗
- 36
Sandberg California II SLm TM 5 MN BKSandberg45Stable$2,232€1,999$2,232€1,999Check ↗
- 37
Sandberg California II TT 5 BK 35"Sandberg45Stable$3,237€2,899$3,237€2,899Check ↗
- 38
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Vin J/J ´59 BRSadowsky44Stable$4,688€4,199$4,688€4,199Check ↗
- 39
Ibanez MDM1305-NABIbanez43↓ 6.2%$1,361€1,219$1,361€1,219Check ↗
- 40
Sandberg California II SLm TT5 MN BKBSandberg43Stable$2,198€1,969$2,198€1,969Check ↗
- 41
Sadowsky MetroLine 24-5 Modern 59`BurstSadowsky · 2 finishes43↑ 10.3%$4,800€4,299$4,800€4,299Check ↗
- 42
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Vin Mo CandySadowsky42Stable$4,465€3,999$4,465€3,999Check ↗
- 43
Sadowsky MetroLine 24-5 Vin Olympic WHSadowsky42Stable$4,465€3,999$4,465€3,999Check ↗
- 44
Sadowsky MetroLine 22 Will Lee 59 BurstSadowsky42Stable$4,967€4,449$4,967€4,449Check ↗
- 45
Sadowsky MetroLine 24-5 Vintage BKSadowsky41Stable$3,907€3,499$3,907€3,499Check ↗
- 46
Sandberg California II TT5 CR HCAMSandberg40Stable$4,130€3,699$4,130€3,699Check ↗
- 47
Sandberg California II SLm TM5 BKBSandberg38Stable$2,623€2,349$2,623€2,349Check ↗
- 48
Ibanez IV2RG VisionsIV2MDM Visions Mode · Ibanez38Stable$7,256€6,499$7,256€6,499Check ↗
- 49
Sadowsky MetroLine 22 Will Lee 5 NT MNSadowsky37Stable$4,074€3,649$4,074€3,649Check ↗
- 50
Marleaux Votan 5 HoneyMarleaux36Stable$4,465€3,999$4,465€3,999Check ↗
5-String J-Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 128 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,115 — half of all 5-String J-Basses here cost less.
median of 99 models · 43 mm (1.69")–47.6 mm (1.87")
median of 106 models · 864 mm (34.02")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 61 models · 20–24
median of 128 models · 5-string–5-string
How to choose the best 5-String J-Basses
Neck Profile & Width
A wider neck is standard on 5-strings to accommodate the extra string spacing. Intermediate players need a profile that's comfortable for extended playing - not too thin to feel flimsy, but not so chunky it becomes a wrestling match. Look for something in the C or D shape range to start.
Pickup Voicing & Balance
The J-Bass pickup configuration is known for its clarity and punch, but that low B string can quickly become a boomy liability. We're looking for pickups that offer a good balance across all strings, with enough definition to avoid that dreaded 'underwater' feel.
Hardware & Tuning Stability
Cheap hardware is the first place corners get cut. Poor tuning stability will drive you nuts, especially when you're learning to manage the increased string tension. Locking tuners are a huge plus, and a solid bridge is essential for intonation and sustain.
Body Wood & Construction
While exotic woods sound great, for an intermediate player, the construction is more important. A well-built bass, even with a standard body wood like Alder or Mahogany, will feel more solid and resonant than a cheaply made bass with fancy tonewoods.
Playability & Setup
A bass that's hard to play is going to hinder your progress. Action that's too high or a neck that's bowed will kill your motivation. Ideally, the bass should be relatively easy to set up and adjust, or be prepared to take it to a tech.
Buying guide
So, you're thinking about stepping up to a 5-string J-Bass? Smart move - that extra low B string opens up a whole world of possibilities, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. It's not just about slapping on another string; it's about ergonomics, neck stability, and making sure that low end doesn't turn into a muddy mess. This list isn't about the absolute top-tier instruments; it's about finding the sweet spot for intermediate players who want a solid, reliable 5-string without breaking the bank.
Don't get seduced by flashy finishes or boutique features. Focus on the fundamentals: neck comfort, reliable hardware, and a pickup voicing that doesn't bury the B string. A bass that's easy to play and stays in tune is far more valuable than one that looks cool but fights you every step of the way.
Spending a little more upfront on a bass that's well-built and properly set up will save you headaches (and money) in the long run.
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 128 5-String J-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
Is a 5-string J-Bass harder to play than a 4-string?
Definitely. The wider neck and increased string tension take some getting used to. Finger strength and accuracy will need to improve, especially when fretting the B string.
What's the deal with string spacing on a 5-string?
String spacing is wider on 5-strings. This can make it trickier to play fast runs and chords, particularly if you're used to a narrower 4-string neck. It's something you adapt to.
Do I need a different amp for a 5-string?
Not necessarily, but a higher wattage amp with good low-end headroom will be beneficial. That B string needs some serious grunt, and a weak amp will just sound muddy.
What about active pickups? Are they better for a 5-string?
Active pickups can help with the low B string's clarity, but they're not essential. Many great 5-string J-Basses use passive pickups. It's more about the pickup voicing than whether it's active or passive.
Should I worry about intonation with a 5-string?
Absolutely. The longer scale length and extra string can make intonation more challenging. Proper setup and careful adjustment are crucial for a 5-string to play in tune.
