AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 5-String J-Basses for Professional 2026
The top pick is Ibanez IV2RG Visions ($7,313). Sandberg California II TT 5 MN SPB gives you the most for the money at $4,275. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 51 models across 12 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyAlder body
This bass feels great under your fingers with its roasted maple neck and dark cocobolo fingerboard. The active pickups drive hard, but the 34-inch scale might stretch for shorter players. It suits anyone who wants punchy sound without the noise.
Pros
- Active Delta S5J humbuckers deliver powerful output.
- Roasted maple neck ensures smooth, fast playability.
- Cocobolo fingerboard offers rich, dark tonal color.
Cons
- 5-string scale length may feel longer for some.
- No passive pickup option mentioned in specs.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$7,313 now$7,313€6,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Strings5-string
This is a seriously well-made instrument, clearly reflecting Will Lee's signature style. The swamp ash gives it a fantastic foundation, and the custom preamp is a game-changer for dialing in your tone. It's ideal for players seeking a versatile, high-quality 5-string with a vintage vibe and modern functionality—a real workhorse for any genre.
Pros
- Swamp ash body delivers resonant, articulate low-end response.
- Will Lee’s preamp offers incredible tonal shaping flexibility.
- Bolt-on neck provides a comfortable, familiar feel and snap.
Cons
- The bolt-on neck, while comfortable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- The 5-string configuration might feel bulky for smaller players.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,006 now$5,006€4,449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
This MetroLine 21-5 is a seriously refined 5-string. The Sadowsky pickups deliver a modern, articulate tone while the VTC provides a vintage warmth. It's a fantastic choice for session players or anyone needing a versatile, high-end bass with a comfortable feel.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Sadowsky stacked pickups offer incredible clarity and hum-free operation.
- Maple neck with Morado fingerboard delivers a smooth, fast playing experience.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard can be slightly harder than rosewood, requiring some acclimation.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the theoretical resonance of a neck-through design.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,613 now$4,613€4,099 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings5-string
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This Sadowsky MetroLine is a seriously well-built instrument. The combination of swamp ash and those Sadowsky pickups delivers a fantastic vintage vibe with modern clarity and punch, while the active electronics provide a surprising amount of tonal versatility. It's perfect for players seeking a high-end 5-string with a refined, classic tone.
Pros
- Swamp ash body delivers a resonant, articulate low-end with excellent sustain.
- Sadowsky Soapbar pickups offer a vintage-inspired tone with surprising clarity and punch.
- Bolt-on maple neck provides a comfortable feel and quick response for effortless playing.
Cons
- The 864 mm scale might feel long for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- High-gloss finish, while beautiful, can be a fingerprint magnet and requires careful maintenance.
43AudioFu
Index↑ 10.3%since Aug 17$4,388 · Aug 17$4,838 now$4,838€4,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Strings5-string
- Weight4 kg
This bass sounds like a classic '59 model with modern control. The swamp ash body gives it a warm punch that cuts through a mix, while the active electronics let you dial in that vintage tone exactly how you like it. It's perfect for players who want a solid, reliable instrument without the hassle of hunting for strings thanks to the quick release bridge.
Pros
- Swamp ash body adds warm, punchy low-end response
- Active electronics offer precise vintage tone control
- Just-A-Nut III nut ensures accurate intonation
Cons
- No specific weight listed for player comfort
- Single coil pickups may hum in noisy rooms
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,725 now$4,725€4,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Strings5-string
The California II TM 5 LBY MHCA is a seriously impressive instrument. The combination of the alder body, ebony fingerboard, and Sandberg pickups creates a balanced tone with plenty of punch and clarity – it’s equally at home in funk, rock, or modern styles. This is a top-tier bass for the discerning player seeking German craftsmanship and a unique voice.
Pros
- Thermo-treated alder body delivers exceptional resonance and sustain
- Ebony fingerboard provides a slick, fast playing experience and articulate response
- Sandberg’s lightweight machine heads reduce headstock weight and improve tuning stability
Cons
- The 14in radius fingerboard may feel less familiar to players used to flatter profiles
- Letter Box Yellow finish, while striking, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,388 now$4,388€3,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
This bass sounds great and looks cool with its sparkle blue finish. The active EQ helps you get exactly the tone you want without needing extra pedals. It fits well under your hand thanks to the bolt-on neck. Perfect for players who want a solid, high-end tool for gigs.
Pros
- Solid bolt-on maple neck for easy setup and playability
- High-gloss sparkle blue finish looks stunning under stage lights
- Active 2-band EQ lets you shape tone precisely
Cons
- Missing built-in active boost for heavy distortion needs
- No onboard effects loop for signal processing
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 18Sep 18$4,275 now$4,275€3,799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Strings5-string
This Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Vin Mo Candy is a seriously refined instrument. The combination of the alder body, bolt-on neck, and Sadowsky pickups delivers a fantastic, vintage-flavored J-bass tone with modern clarity and a comfortable feel. It’s perfect for players seeking a high-end, versatile 5-string with a touch of vintage vibe.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a resonant, balanced tone with excellent sustain
- Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, articulate feel and quick response
- Sadowsky pickups offer a focused, vintage-inspired J-bass voice
Cons
- Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many players
- Active electronics require a power source, potentially impacting battery life
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,500 now$4,500€3,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings5-string
This MetroLine 24-5 is a seriously well-built bass. The combination of the swamp ash, bolt-on neck, and Sadowsky pickups delivers a punchy, defined tone perfect for funk, Motown, and modern rock. It’s a fantastic choice for experienced players seeking a high-quality, versatile J-bass with a touch of modern convenience.
Pros
- Olympic White finish showcases incredible craftsmanship and visual appeal
- Sadowsky J-style hum-free pickups deliver a clear, articulate tone
- Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel and excellent attack
Cons
- Swamp ash body can make it a bit weighty for some players
- Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many aspiring bassists
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,500 now$4,500€3,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This honey-colored bass feels warm and looks nice with its poplar body. The German-made build and two humbuckers give a full, thick sound that works well for jazz or fusion. It suits players who want a solid mid-range tone without too much complexity.
Pros
- Honey finish gives a warm, natural look
- German-made build quality is solid
- Two Delano Votan humbuckers provide rich tone
Cons
- No string gauge options listed
- Weight is not specified for comfort
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,500 now$4,500€3,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 51 5-String J-Basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Sandberg California II TT5 CR HCAMSandberg40Stable$4,162€3,699$4,162€3,699Check ↗
- 12
Sadowsky MetroLine 22 Will Lee 5 NT MNSadowsky37Stable$4,106€3,649$4,106€3,649Check ↗
- 13
Sadowsky MetroLine 24-5 Vintage BKSadowsky41Stable$3,937€3,499$3,937€3,499Check ↗
- 14
Fender Player II Modified StratocasterPlayer II Mod J Bass V MN OLP · Fender · 4 finishes79Stable$1,302€1,157$1,302€1,157Check ↗
- 15
Fender American Professional II Jazz BassAM Pro Jazz Bass V MN OB · Fender · 3 finishes76Stable$2,531€2,249$2,531€2,249Check ↗
- 16
Fender American Ultra II TelecasterAm Ultra II J Bass V MN SRD · Fender · 2 finishes76Stable$2,790€2,479$2,790€2,479Check ↗
- 17
Sandberg California II TM5 Ida NielsenSandberg · 8 finishes55Stable$3,262€2,899$3,262€2,899Check ↗
- 18
Sire Marcus Miller V10 5-StringV10-5 TGR · Marcus Miller · 2 finishes54Stable$1,349€1,199$1,349€1,199Check ↗
- 19
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vintage JJ5 RM CHSadowsky · 8 finishes62↓ 8.4%$1,102€979$1,102€979Check ↗
- 20
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 Morado SGRSadowsky · 8 finishes58↓ 9.1%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 21
Ibanez MDM1605 ModeMDM1605-DTW · Ibanez · 2 finishes50Stable$1,574€1,399$1,574€1,399Check ↗
- 22
Fender MonoNeon Signature Jazz Bass VMonoNeon Jazz Bass V NY · Fender48Stable$1,799€1,599$1,799€1,599Check ↗
- 23
Sandberg California TM 5California TM 5 NT · Sandberg48Stable$2,239€1,990$2,239€1,990Check ↗
- 24
Marcus Miller V10DX-5 TSMarcus Miller47↓ 3.6%$1,518€1,349$1,518€1,349Check ↗
- 25
Sandberg California II SLm TM 5 MN BKSandberg45Stable$2,249€1,999$2,249€1,999Check ↗
- 26
Sandberg California II TT 5 BK 35"Sandberg45Stable$3,262€2,899$3,262€2,899Check ↗
- 27
Ibanez MDM1005-MAMIbanez · 2 finishes44↓ 2.5%$1,315€1,169$1,315€1,169Check ↗
- 28
Lakland Skyline Darryl Jones 5 NATLakland · 3 finishes44Stable$1,912€1,699$1,912€1,699Check ↗
- 29
Marcus Miller V7 Swamp Ash-5 Reissue TGRMarcus Miller · 12 finishes64Stable$854€759$854€759Check ↗
- 30
Sandberg California II SLm TT5 MN BKBSandberg43Stable$2,216€1,969$2,216€1,969Check ↗
- 31
Sandberg California II TM 5 EB NT 35"Sandberg43Stable$2,812€2,499$2,812€2,499Check ↗
- 32
Ibanez MDM1305-NABIbanez41↓ 1.5%$1,439€1,279$1,439€1,279Check ↗
- 33
Sandberg California II SLm TM5 BKBSandberg38Stable$2,643€2,349$2,643€2,349Check ↗
- 34
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 5 MO OWSadowsky45↓ 9.1%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 35
Jackson A Blackstone Pro Gladys BLKSNJackson40Stable$1,225€1,089$1,225€1,089Check ↗
- 36
Sandberg Electra TM5EF MH SBSandberg43Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 37
Marcus Miller V8-5 TSMarcus Miller48Stable$967€859$967€859Check ↗
- 38
Marcus Miller V6-5 Sandblasted OTBMarcus Miller · 3 finishes55Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 39
Marcus Miller V7-5 Sandblasted BK TEMarcus Miller50Stable$775€689$775€689Check ↗
- 40
Markbass MB GV5 Gloxy Val CreamMarkbass37Stable$843€749$843€749Check ↗
- 41
Harley Benton MV-5JB Burgundy Mist w/CaseHarley Benton · 6 finishes58↓ 5.4%$314€279$314€279Check ↗
- 42
Marcus Miller V5 Alder-5 CARMarcus Miller · 4 finishes55Stable$539€479$539€479Check ↗
- 43
Marcus Miller V3 5 New Gen Midnight BluebursMarcus Miller · 5 finishes53Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
- 44
Harley Benton Enhanced MJ-5EB Lake BlueHarley Benton · 4 finishes49Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 45
Cort B5 Element Open Pore NaturalCort · 3 finishes49↓ 7.3%$573€509$573€509Check ↗
- 46
Harley Benton JB-75-5MN NA Vintage SeriesHarley Benton46Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 47
Harley Benton HBZ-2005 Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 2 finishes45Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
- 48
Squier Aff. Jazz Bass V 3-SBSquier43Stable$325€289$325€289Check ↗
- 49
Squier Affinity ACT Jazz Bass V BKMSquier40↑ 6.0%$357€317$357€317Check ↗
- 50
Squier CV 70s Jazz Bass V MN NATSquier · 2 finishes40Stable$512€455$512€455Check ↗
5-String J-Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 128 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,124 — 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 107 models · 864 mm (34.02")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 60 models · 20–24
median of 128 models · 5-string–5-string
How to choose the best 5-String J-Basses
Neck Profile & Playability
A wider neck demands a comfortable profile. We're looking for something that allows for clean runs and accurate intonation, especially when navigating those lower registers. A chunky C profile might be great for a slapper, but a thinner, more modern 'D' shape will likely be easier for fast lines and complex chord voicings.
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
That low B needs to be tight and defined, not a muddy mess. The pickups need to articulate clearly without getting lost in the mix - a scooped midrange can sound cool, but it won't cut through a dense arrangement. We're prioritizing pickups that retain clarity and punch across the entire range.
Hardware & Tuning Stability
Let's be honest, cheap hardware will ruin even a great bass. Tuners that slip, a bridge that rattles - it's a nightmare on stage. We're prioritizing stable hardware that holds a tune under the stress of a gig and allows for quick adjustments.
Body Wood & Resonance
While electronics play a huge role, the body wood influences the overall tonal character. Alder is a classic for a reason - balanced, versatile. Ash can bring a snappier attack, while mahogany offers more warmth and sustain. It's about finding a wood that complements the pickups and your playing style.
String Spacing & String Balance
A wider string spacing can be more comfortable for fingers, but too wide and it becomes a chore. The balance between the strings - especially the B and the G - is crucial for evenness in tone and feel. Uneven string balance often points to a poorly designed bridge or nut.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're a serious player looking at a 5-string Jazz bass. It's a commitment - wider neck, more strings, and that extra low B needs to sing, not just rumble. Forget the beginner models; we're talking about instruments that hold up to the demands of studio work, brutal club gigs, and the kind of critical ears that'll pick apart anything less than stellar. Let's find you a 5-string J that'll actually earn its keep.
Don't chase specs; chase feel. A bass that looks amazing on paper but feels awkward in your hands is useless. Pay attention to the neck radius - a modern, flatter radius is generally preferred for ease of playing higher frets.
And remember, that low B is a beast - a higher quality preamp and active EQ can really help shape it, but it's another expense to factor in. Spending a bit more upfront on a solid foundation will save you headaches down the road.
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?
Absolutely. The wider neck takes some getting used to. Finger strength and coordination will be tested, especially when playing complex lines. It's not a huge leap, but be prepared to put in some practice.
Does a 5-string J bass always sound 'boomy'?
Not necessarily. It can, but a well-designed 5-string J with quality pickups and a good EQ can deliver a tight, articulate low end. It's about control, not just volume.
Are active electronics essential for a 5-string J bass?
Not essential, but highly recommended. Active electronics provide more headroom and flexibility in shaping that low B. Passive J basses can sound great, but active circuits give you more tools to tame the low end and cut through a mix.
What's the deal with string gauge on a 5-string?
You'll likely need heavier gauge strings on a 5-string, especially for the B string. This helps maintain tension and intonation. Experiment to find what feels comfortable and sounds best for your playing style.
Can I just slap any 5-string J bass into my existing setup?
Probably. But consider your amp and cab. A 5-string J needs an amp with enough headroom to handle the extra low frequencies, and a cab that can reproduce them accurately. Otherwise, you're just asking for a muddy mess.
