Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses 2026
Alright, lefty 5-string players, let's talk. Finding a good 5-string bass can be tricky enough, but being left-handed often means compromises or seriously inflated prices. This isn't a list of 'best' in some abstract sense; it's about finding a 5-string that feels good, sounds decent for your needs, and won't leave you hating life after a few gigs. We're focusing on instruments that offer a balance of playability and value for the lefty bassist.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 5-string lefthanded basses in 2026 are Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Vin MN BKS LH (top pick), Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mor LH OWH for tighter budgets, and Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mora LH BK for pros — selected from 15 options across 2 brands, priced $1,098–$3,738, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Vin MN BKS LH
by
Sadowsky
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
This lefty Sadowsky MetroLine is a serious contender for players seeking a vintage-inspired 5-string tone with modern convenience. The swamp ash body and J pickups nail that classic growl, while the active electronics offer subtle boosts to tailor your sound. It's a great choice for gigging musicians and studio players wanting a reliable, versatile, and comfortable bass.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers excellent resonance and a balanced, articulate tone.
- • Sadowsky’s hum-free J pickups provide a vintage J bass vibe without unwanted noise.
- • Bolt-on neck construction offers a snappy, responsive feel favored by many players.
- • The 2-way active electronics provide subtle but useful tonal shaping capabilities.
CONS
- • The bolt-on neck, while responsive, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • The 12 in fretboard radius might feel less familiar to players accustomed to flatter boards.
- • The premium-priced tag puts it out of reach for many budget-conscious bassists.
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 506596
$3,739
#2
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mor LH OWH
by
Sadowsky
Left-Handed Bass Players
Natural Playing
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This left-handed Sadowsky is a serious contender for players wanting a versatile, modern 5-string with vintage vibes. The combination of the J pickup and Quad Coil offers a huge range of tones, from punchy slap to warm, growling lows. It's a premium-priced instrument built for the gigging musician who demands quality and flexibility.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides excellent resonance and a balanced tone.
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Sadowsky J/Quad Coil combo delivers versatility from growl to clarity.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and internal adjustments.
CONS
- • The morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be prone to occasional dryness.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • The active electronics, while powerful, might not appeal to purists seeking a purely passive sound.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597225
$1,352
#3
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mora LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Advanced Techniques
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously versatile left-handed 5-string, blending vintage vibe with modern electronics. The combination of the J-style pickup and Quad Coil humbucker provides a huge range of tones, and the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. Ideal for players wanting a premium instrument with a broad sonic palette and a comfortable feel.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a resonant, lively, and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Sadowsky J-Style pickup offers a focused, articulate vintage tone.
- • The Quick Access compartment simplifies string changes significantly.
CONS
- • Okoume can be somewhat prone to dents and scratches with regular use.
- • Active electronics introduce potential for battery replacement or failure.
- • The 12” radius might feel less familiar for players used to flatter fingerboards.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597202
$1,352
#4
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA LH B
by
Sadowsky
Professional Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This lefty MetroExpress is a serious contender for players wanting a versatile, modern 5-string. The Sadowsky pickups and active EQ deliver a focused, powerful tone that cuts through a mix – perfect for funk, modern rock, or anything needing a tight, defined low-end. It's a great value for a bass with this level of quality and playability.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a punchy, articulate low-end with defined mids.
- • Active electronics offer precise tonal shaping and a clean, powerful output.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • The bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the inherent resonance of a set-neck design.
- • The 34” scale might feel slightly long for players with shorter fingers.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599447
$1,264
#5
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 Mora LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Extended Range
Advanced Techniques
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built left-handed 5-string. The combination of the roasted maple neck, the vintage-voiced pickups, and the active/passive electronics makes it incredibly versatile – a great choice for players who want a classic feel with modern functionality and a premium build quality.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Sadowsky J-style pickups deliver a punchy, articulate vintage tone with clarity.
- • Active/passive switching provides tonal flexibility, from vintage warmth to modern clarity.
CONS
- • Okoume can be slightly more susceptible to dings than harder woods like maple.
- • The 12” radius fingerboard might feel less familiar to players used to flatter profiles.
- • The electronics, while versatile, could be limiting for players seeking extreme tonal shaping.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599147
$1,209
#6
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor FL LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Natural Playing
Advanced Techniques
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This lefty Sadowsky is a real gem for the fretless player wanting tonal flexibility. The hybrid pickup setup and active EQ let you dial in everything from smooth jazz tones to aggressive slap sounds – it's a serious instrument for gigging musicians and dedicated home recordists.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a lively, resonant tone with surprising warmth.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Hybrid PJ pickup configuration delivers versatility from growl to clarity.
- • Sadowsky's 2-way active electronics offer precise tonal shaping.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard can be a bit harder on the fingers initially than rosewood.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, limits sustain compared to neck-through designs.
- • The active electronics require a power source, adding complexity for some players.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 596277
$1,209
#7
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Proper Ergonomics
Extended Range
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp24 is a seriously well-built lefty bass. The active electronics and Sadowsky pickups deliver a modern, defined sound that cuts through a mix perfectly – ideal for players in funk, rock, or modern pop. It’s a premium-priced instrument, but the quality and playability are undeniable.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a punchy, articulate low-end with clarity.
- • Quick Access compartment simplifies string changes and internal adjustments.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard can be slightly harder than rosewood, impacting some players' feel.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the resonance of a neck-through design.
- • Active electronics require a power source, limiting passive tonal options.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599736
$1,319
#8
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint M5 Mora LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Natural Playing
Proper Ergonomics
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously versatile left-handed 5-string – the roasted maple neck and morado fingerboard feel fantastic, and that Quad Coil pickup gives you a huge range of tones, from vintage growl to modern punch. It’s a premium-priced instrument that's perfect for the gigging musician needing a reliable, high-quality workhorse bass.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising clarity.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil pickup delivers a powerful, articulate low-end response.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and electronics access.
CONS
- • Okoume can be slightly less dense than Ash, impacting sustain a touch.
- • The 12” radius fingerboard might feel less familiar to modern players.
- • Active electronics add complexity, potentially requiring more setup adjustments.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 598291
$1,308
#9
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint M5 Mora LH OWH
by
Sadowsky
Natural Playing
Advanced Techniques
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously versatile 5-string, especially appealing to left-handed players seeking a blend of vintage vibe and modern features. The roasted maple neck and Quad Coil pickup combination make it incredibly responsive, great for funk, rock, and even some more mellow styles. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers professional-level playability and tone.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil delivers a versatile range from growl to clarity.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and internal adjustments.
CONS
- • Okoume can be prone to dents and scratches with heavy use.
- • Active electronics introduce potential for battery dependency and hum.
- • Bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the complexity of a set-neck bass.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 598293
$1,154
#10
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MA BK LH
by
Sadowsky
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExpress is a fantastic entry point into the Sadowsky world, offering a lot of quality for the price. The active/passive switching gives you serious tonal flexibility, and the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. It’s a great choice for gigging musicians who want a versatile, well-built 5-string without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced tone with excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast playing feel.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil pickup delivers a thick, articulate tone with plenty of punch.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and internal adjustments significantly.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • Active electronics, while versatile, introduce a dependency on battery power.
- • String spacing at 18mm might feel narrow for players with larger hands.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 598283
$1,099
#11
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 5 SBHP LH
by
Sadowsky
Natural Playing
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This MetroExpress is a seriously well-built lefty 5-string, offering a fantastic blend of vintage and modern tones. The hybrid pickup setup and active EQ give you a ton of versatility for funk, rock, and even some mellow jazz. It's a great choice for gigging musicians looking for a premium instrument without the ultra-high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Hybrid pickup configuration delivers P-bass warmth with J-bass clarity.
- • Sadowsky’s 2-way active electronics provide tonal shaping without harshness.
CONS
- • Okoume can be somewhat plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • The bolt-on neck, while reliable, lacks the resonance of a set-neck design.
- • The 12” radius might feel less familiar to players used to flatter fingerboards.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 596075
$1,209
#12
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 RM LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Left-Handed Bass Players
Advanced Techniques
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously versatile left-handed 5-string, blending vintage aesthetics with modern electronics. The roasted maple neck feels fantastic, and that J/Quad pickup combination gives you everything from smooth vintage tones to aggressive, modern growl. It's an excellent choice for the gigging musician wanting a premium-priced, adaptable bass.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a resonant, balanced tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck & fretboard provide exceptional stability and feel.
- • Sadowsky J/Quad Coil combo offers incredible tonal flexibility and clarity.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and maintenance.
CONS
- • Okoume can be somewhat plain aesthetically compared to other woods.
- • Active electronics introduce potential for battery dependency and noise.
- • The longer scale (34") might feel less comfortable for players with smaller hands.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597198
$1,319
#13
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 5 OW LH
by
Sadowsky
Professional Performance
Natural Playing
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
This MetroExpress is a fantastic entry point into the Sadowsky world, offering a lot of pro-level features at a more accessible price. The roasted maple neck and well-balanced pickups make it incredibly versatile, handling everything from funk to rock with ease. It's perfect for the gigging bassist who wants serious tone and playability without the high-end price tag.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- • Sadowsky stacked hum-free pickups offer clarity and punch without noise.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and electronics access.
CONS
- • Okoume can be prone to dents and scratches with heavy use.
- • The active preamp, while versatile, might not appeal to purists seeking a purely vintage tone.
- • String spacing at 18mm may require adjustment for players with wider fingers.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 598460
$1,209
#14
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Sandberg California VM2 5 GB LH
by
Sandberg
Natural Playing
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This Sandberg VM2 is a seriously well-built lefty 5-string. The greenburst finish looks gorgeous, and the active/passive electronics give you a lot of tonal options – from aggressive rock tones to smooth, warm basslines. It’s ideal for the experienced bassist looking for German craftsmanship and a powerful, versatile voice.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Sandberg Power humbuckers deliver a thick, articulate low-end and clear highs.
- • Maple neck and fingerboard offer a snappy feel and fast playability.
- • Active/passive electronics provide tonal flexibility for various musical styles.
CONS
- • The 14-inch radius fingerboard might feel less familiar to players accustomed to flatter boards.
- • Ash body can be somewhat susceptible to finish checking with age and environmental changes.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many bassists.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 559297
$2,386
#15
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 RM LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This left-handed Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously refined instrument. The vintage-inspired tones are beautifully versatile thanks to the active/passive switching, and the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. It's a premium-priced option perfect for the discerning bassist seeking a reliable, great-sounding workhorse.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck and fretboard offer exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Sadowsky’s stacked hum-free pickups deliver clarity and a balanced vintage tone.
- • Active/passive switching provides tonal flexibility for various musical styles.
- • The Quick Access compartment simplifies string changes, a real time-saver for gigging bassists.
CONS
- • Okoume body, while resonant, might be a bit too light for some players’ preference.
- • The 12” radius fingerboard isn’t ideal for extreme bending or complex slapping techniques.
- • Active electronics introduce a slight dependency on battery power for full functionality.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599069
$1,176
How to Choose the Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses
1
Neck Profile
A comfortable neck is critical, especially when you're reaching for those lower notes. A thick, unwieldy neck can be a pain, while a too-thin neck can feel flimsy. Consider your hand size and playing style - do you prefer a C-shape, a D-shape, or something else?
2
Pickup Voicing
5-string basses are notorious for muddy low-end if the pickups aren't voiced well. We're listening for clarity and articulation, not just 'thump'. A pickup that can deliver a tight, defined low-end without overwhelming the mids is gold.
3
String Spacing
That extra string eats up space. Wider string spacing is generally easier for fingerstyle players, while narrower spacing can be better for slapping. This is a hugely personal preference, and something you need to try in person if possible.
4
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners mean tuning instability - a massive problem on stage. A poorly designed bridge can kill sustain and make intonation a nightmare. Solid hardware isn't about flashy looks; it's about reliability and consistent performance.
5
Body Wood & Construction
Different woods impart different tonal characteristics. Mahogany tends towards warmth, alder towards a balanced sound, and ash towards a brighter, more aggressive tone. Bolt-on necks are generally brighter and snappier, while set necks often have more sustain and a smoother tone - but set-neck construction can also mean higher prices.
Buying Guide
Let's be real - finding a quality lefty 5-string isn't always easy. Expect to pay a premium, or make some compromises. Often, the biggest corner cut on cheaper instruments is in the hardware and the neck set - those are the things that will consistently frustrate you. Don't chase 'bass tone' - focus on a solid foundation of playability and reliable hardware. A great amp and effects can shape your tone more than the bass itself.
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 ranks 15 5-string lefthanded basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. 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
Generally, yes. Lower production numbers mean higher prices. You'll either pay more, or settle for a lower-quality instrument.
The B-string is the biggest intonation challenge on a 5-string. Make sure the bass is properly set up, and be prepared to tweak the saddle position. It's a common frustration, even with expensive basses.
Absolutely. Pickups are the easiest way to change a bass's character. Just make sure the new pickups are compatible with the bass's electronics and wiring.
It's doable, but a 4-string might be easier to learn on initially. The wider neck and extra string add complexity. If you're committed to the extended range, go for it, but be prepared for a steeper learning curve.
There's no 'best'. It depends on your desired tone. Alder is a safe bet for a balanced sound, while mahogany will give you a warmer, woodier tone. Ultimately, play before you buy - wood is only part of the equation.
