Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses for Advanced 2026
Alright, so you're a lefty 5-string player who's already wrangled a few scales and slapping patterns - you're not just messing around anymore. Finding a 5-string bass that truly works for an advanced player, especially a lefty, is tougher than it looks. It's not about just having five strings; it's about the neck profile, the pickup voicing, the overall feel - does it let you express what's in your head, or just get in the way?
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 5-string lefthanded basses in 2026 are Sandberg California VM2 5 GB LH (top pick), Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 RM LH BK for tighter budgets, and Tobias Growler V LH for pros — selected from 15 options across 4 brands, priced $1,208–$3,738, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Sandberg California VM2 5 GB LH
by
Sandberg
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
356 mm (14.02")
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
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.
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 559297
$2,386
#2
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 RM LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
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.
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597198
$1,319
#3
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Tobias Growler V LH
by
Tobias
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Paulownia body
Fingerboard
Wenge fingerboard
Professional Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
The Tobias Growler V LH is a serious contender for the left-handed bassist who wants a distinctive, powerful sound. The Bartolini pickup delivers a huge, articulate tone perfect for modern rock, funk, or metal, while the asymmetrical neck makes it a joy to play. This bass is ideal for players looking for a premium instrument with a unique voice.
PROS
- • Paulownia body offers surprisingly resonant and lightweight tonal foundation.
- • Bartolini Quad-Coil delivers massive output, clarity, and a unique growling character.
- • Asymmetrical neck profile provides exceptional comfort and fast playing feel for lefties.
- • Babicz bridge ensures excellent tuning stability and efficient string vibration transfer.
CONS
- • Wenge fingerboard can be prone to dryness; regular conditioning is essential.
- • The extensive EQ controls can be overwhelming for players seeking simpler sounds.
- • Paulownia, while lightweight, might not offer the same perceived premium feel as more exotic woods.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 549564
$1,649
#4
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Tobias Killer B V LH
by
Tobias
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Sapele body
Fingerboard
Wenge fingerboard
Advanced Techniques
Professional Performance
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This Killer B V LH is a serious contender for players seeking a refined, articulate tone with a touch of warmth. The combination of Sapele and Bartolini pickups creates a powerful and focused sound, perfect for funk, modern rock, and players who value precision. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of performance for the money.
PROS
- • Sapele body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the bass's tone.
- • Bartolini pickups deliver a focused, articulate sound with excellent note definition.
- • Asymmetrical neck profile offers a comfortable and ergonomic playing experience.
- • Babicz bridge ensures exceptional tuning stability and efficient string vibration.
CONS
- • Sapele can be susceptible to finish checking with temperature fluctuations.
- • The tonal palette, while excellent, might feel slightly limited for extreme genres.
- • The weight, typical of a Sapele body, could be a factor for some players.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 549566
$1,539
#5
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mor LH OWH
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
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.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597225
$1,352
#6
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mora LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
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.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597202
$1,352
#7
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
47.5 mm (1.87")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
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.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599736
$1,319
#8
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Tobias Classic V LH
by
Tobias
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Wenge fingerboard
Professional Performance
Extended Range
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This Classic V LH is a seriously well-built instrument. The combination of the Bartolini pickups and the neck-through design delivers a focused, powerful tone that’s ideal for players seeking a refined, modern sound. It's a great choice for professional bassists and serious hobbyists who demand quality and playability.
PROS
- • Quilted maple/walnut body delivers a resonant, articulate low-end.
- • Bartolini pickups offer a clear, defined tone with surprising sensitivity.
- • Asymmetrical neck profile provides exceptional comfort and playing speed.
- • Babicz bridge ensures precise intonation and enhanced sustain.
CONS
- • The wenge fingerboard can feel quite dry; requires diligent maintenance.
- • The blend control, while versatile, can be complex to dial in perfectly.
- • The premium-priced tag puts it out of reach for many aspiring bassists.
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 549562
$2,309
#9
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez SRMS805L-DTW
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Professional Performance
Advanced Techniques
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This Ibanez SRMS805L-DTW is a serious instrument for the left-handed bassist who wants a modern edge with a touch of class. The Bartolini pickups and versatile EQ make it incredibly adaptable, from slap bass to more traditional tones. It’s a premium-priced bass that delivers a lot of performance for the discerning player.
PROS
- • Okoume/Poplar burl top offers stunning looks and resonance
- • Bartolini pickups deliver a powerful, articulate low-end
- • Jatoba/Walnut neck provides stability and a smooth playing feel
- • Ibanez Custom Electronics EQ offers precise tonal shaping.
CONS
- • Panga Panga fingerboard can be polarizing; some find it too dense
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to neck-through designs
- • Weight can be a factor for longer playing sessions.
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 606610
$1,374
#10
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint M5 Mora LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
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.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 598291
$1,308
#11
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA LH B
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
47.5 mm (1.87")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
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.
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599447
$1,264
#12
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez EHB1005MSL-SFM
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Strings
5-string
Body
Basswood body
Proper Ergonomics
Extended Range
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
The EHB1005MSL-SFM is a serious instrument for the left-handed bassist who wants a modern edge. That multiscale design really opens up extended range playing, and the Bartolini pickups provide a focused, powerful tone perfect for modern genres and progressive styles. It’s a premium-priced bass that offers a lot of bang for your buck.
PROS
- • Bartolini pickups deliver a punchy, articulate low-end with excellent clarity.
- • Multiscale design enhances playability and intonation across all five strings.
- • Toasted birdseye maple fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Chambered basswood body provides a comfortable weight and resonant tone.
CONS
- • Plastic nut feels like a cost-saving measure compared to graphite or bone.
- • Sea Foam Green Matte finish, while striking, might not appeal to all tastes.
- • Varimid EQ, while powerful, can be complex for beginners to master.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 524551
$1,451
#13
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Vin MN BKS LH
by
Sadowsky
Frets
21 frets
Strings
5-string
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.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 506596
$3,739
#14
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 Mora LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
47.5 mm (1.87")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
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.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599147
$1,209
#15
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor LH WH
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
47.5 mm (1.87")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Natural Playing
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built bass, perfect for players wanting a versatile, modern feel with a vintage vibe. The hybrid pickup setup really shines for funk, rock, and even some heavier genres – it’s a real workhorse instrument that delivers a premium experience without the ultra-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.
- • Hybrid PJ pickup configuration delivers versatility from warm P-bass tones to brighter J-bass articulation.
- • Sadowsky's 2-way active electronics add tonal shaping without excessive coloration.
CONS
- • Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be slightly harder than rosewood for some players.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, might not offer the same sustain as a neck-through design.
- • The Quick Access compartment, while convenient, adds a small amount of complexity to the design.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 596867
$1,209
Every 5-string lefthanded basses that matches
41 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor FL LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,209 |
| 17 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 5 SBHP LH | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,209 |
| 18 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 5 OW LH | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,209 |
| 19 | Marcus Miller V7 Swamp Ash-5 Reissue TS LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $989 |
| 20 | Marcus Miller P6-5 Sandblasted BK LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $846 |
| 21 | Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $648 |
| 22 | Marcus Miller Z7-5 Natural Swamp Ash LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $934 |
| 23 | Marcus Miller Z7-5 Antique White LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $769 |
| 24 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 RM LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,176 |
| 25 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 RM LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,176 |
| 26 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MA BK LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,099 |
| 27 | Harley Benton MV-5PJ LH Black w/Case | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $325 |
| 28 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint M5 Mora LH OWH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,154 |
| 29 | Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray5 CH Blue LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $637 |
| 30 | Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Bundle | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body | $229 |
| 31 | Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive w/Bag | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body | $229 |
| 32 | Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Series | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body | $208 |
| 33 | Harley Benton MB-5LH SBK w/Bag | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck · Strings 5-string | $193 |
| 34 | Harley Benton MB-5LH SBK | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck · Strings 5-string | $164 |
| 35 | Warwick RB Star Bass 5 SBHP LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Weight 3.9 kg | $1,154 |
| 36 | Warwick RB Corvette $$ LH 5 NB TS | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 866 mm (34.09") · Strings 5-string · Weight 4.4 kg | $1,044 |
| 37 | Marcus Miller M5 5st TBL LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string | $769 |
| 38 | Warwick RB Corvette Classic LH 5 AS TH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard · Weight 4 kg | $769 |
| 39 | Marcus Miller V7 Alder-5 LH AWH 2nd Gen | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body | $604 |
| 40 | Sadowsky MetroEx 21-5 Hyb Mo BK LH | Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string | $362 |
| 41 | Ibanez SR305EBL-WK | Strings 5-string · Body Nyatoh body | $454 |
5-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 41 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,154
from $208 to $2,309
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 44.5 mm (1.75") to 47.5 mm (1.87") · 35 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 864 mm (34.02") to 864 mm (34.02") · 34 models
Frets
median 21
from 20 to 24 · 29 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 5-string · 41 models
Body
okoume, alder, ash
most common · 31 models
Fingerboard
maple, wenge, ebony
most common · 17 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 241 mm (9.49") to 305 mm (12.01") · 9 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 8 models
How to Choose the Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses
1
Neck Profile & Playability
It's gotta feel right. A thick, C-shape might be comfy for some, but a modern D or even a flatter profile can make those complex lines and fast runs much more manageable. We're looking for minimal hand fatigue after a long set.
2
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
Advanced players demand clarity. Muddy pickups bury your low B; brittle pickups sound harsh. We're prioritizing basses that offer a balanced frequency response, allowing for nuanced dynamics and distinct articulation of each string.
3
Hardware Quality & Tuning Stability
Cheap hardware means constant tuning headaches, especially on a 5-string. We're scrutinizing tuners, bridges, and even the strap buttons - anything that impacts reliability and sustain.
4
Body Wood & Resonance
Different woods impart different tonal characteristics. Mahogany offers warmth and sustain, while alder delivers a more balanced, punchy tone. Advanced players can discern these nuances and use them to shape their sound.
5
String Spacing & String Height (Action)
A tighter string spacing can be a blessing for fast players, but too tight and it's a fumbling mess. We assess how the bass accommodates different playing styles and hand sizes, and how easily the action can be adjusted.
Buying Guide
Let's be real - lefty 5-strings are a niche market, and that often means compromises. Don't get swayed by flashy finishes. Pay close attention to the neck profile - it's the single biggest factor in playability. Spending a little more on a bass with quality hardware will save you a ton of frustration down the line. And remember, a bass that feels amazing in a store might feel different after a few gigs - try to play it for a while before committing.
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 covers 41 5-string lefthanded basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. 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
You'll find some, but expect compromises. The neck profile might be generic, the pickups might be a bit muddy, and the hardware will likely be basic. It's a good starting point, but you'll probably outgrow it.
It's a common issue. First, check your string gauge and make sure your amp has enough headroom. EQ is your friend - a slight mid-scoop can help it cut through. Finally, consider a pickup upgrade.
Fan frets help even out string tension across the extended range. They can feel a little strange at first, but they offer improved intonation and a more consistent feel. It's a personal preference.
Absolutely. Fingerstyle players want a responsive neck and pickups that capture the nuances of their touch. Slappers need punch and clarity. Consider a bass with a thinner neck profile and brighter pickups if you're primarily a fingerstyle player.
If you're serious about your tone and playability, yes. It's an investment, but you can dial in every aspect of the bass to your exact specifications. Just be prepared to wait.
