AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Lakland 5-String J-Basses 2026
The top pick is Lakland Skyline Darryl Jones 5 NAT ($1,897). Lakland Skyline 55-60 5-String 3TSB gives you the most for the money at $1,115. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 2 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 2
Full detail for the 2 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Scale889 mm (35")
- Frets21 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyAsh body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This Darryl Jones Skyline is a seriously versatile instrument. The ash body and single-coil pickups give it a vintage vibe with plenty of punch, and the compound radius neck makes it a joy to play. It’s a fantastic choice for players seeking a high-quality, workhorse 5-string that's comfortable and sounds great across multiple genres.
Pros
- Ash body delivers a warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Lakland Vintage pickups provide a balanced, articulate, and surprisingly punchy sound.
- Compound radius fingerboard enhances playability for both chords and fast runs.
Cons
- Natural finish shows every fingerprint and requires diligent care to maintain its luster.
- Bolt-on neck, while reliable, lacks the potential resonance of a neck-through design.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,897 now$1,897€1,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale889 mm (35")
- Frets22 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyAsh body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This five-string bass has an ash body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fingerboard with cream dot inlays. You get two Lakland J5 single coil pickups, two volume knobs and one tone knob, plus Hipshot Ultralite tuners. It suits you if you want a five-string bass with a 35-inch scale and a neck whose frets are precisely aligned.
Pros
- Ash body paired with a bolt-on maple neck
- Two Lakland J5 single coil pickups with two volume controls and one tone control
- 22 nickel silver frets, precisely aligned through PLEK machining
Cons
- Only one tone control, so tone shaping options are limited
- No case or gig bag is included, only an Allen key for truss rod adjustment
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Nov 8Nov 8$1,115 now$1,115€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
5-String J-Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 128 models we track, not a sample.
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 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 5 5-String J-Basses from the Thomann catalogue (of 128 in the category). 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 should I look for when buying 5-string j-basses?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on 5-string j-basses?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive 5-string j-basses worth the investment?
Higher-priced 5-string j-basses typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for 5-string j-basses?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy 5-string j-basses online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.
