AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Ibanez EHB1005MS Bass Workshop ($1,471). Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 Mora LH BK gives you the most for the money at $1,114. Sandberg California VM2 5 GB LH leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 32 models across 8 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Strings5-string
- BodyBasswood body
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.
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.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,471 now$1,471€1,319 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRMS805L-DTW SR Bass Workshop Multi-Scale Left-Handed Deep…
SRMS805L-DTW · Ibanez
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
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
Cons
- Panga Panga fingerboard can be polarizing; some find it too dense
- Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to neck-through designs
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,393 now$1,393€1,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyPaulownia body
- FingerboardWenge fingerboard
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.
Cons
- Wenge fingerboard can be prone to dryness; regular conditioning is essential.
- The extensive EQ controls can be overwhelming for players seeking simpler sounds.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,560 now$1,560€1,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale889 mm (35")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
This is a solid five-string bass for left-handed players who want a stable, neck-thru design. The wide nut and maple/mahogany build feel solid in hand, while the two Revolution pickups let you switch between bridge and neck tones easily. It fits well as a reliable workhorse if you don't need extra string options or more tone controls.
Pros
- Left-handed design suits reversed players perfectly
- Five-piece maple/mahogany neck-thru body adds stability
- Two distinct Marcus Custom Revolution humbuckers
Cons
- No string gauge options listed for the set
- Only two electronic controls available for tone
52AudioFu
Index↓ 2.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,006 · Aug 17$1,950 now$1,950€1,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius356 mm (14.02")
- Strings5-string
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.
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.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,418 now$2,418€2,169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
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.
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.
57AudioFu
Index↓ 8.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,370 · Aug 17$1,259 now$1,259€1,129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyMahogany body
This lefty bass has a solid mahogany body that sounds warm and deep. The titanium-reinforced neck stays straight even after long gigs. It works well for players who want a classic tone without the complexity of extra controls.
Pros
- Left-handed design fits players who read right
- Mahogany body offers warm, resonant bass tone
- Titanium reinforcement keeps the neck perfectly stable
Cons
- Only two pickups limit tone options
- No active preamp circuits for EQ shaping
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,950 now$1,950€1,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
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.
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.
49AudioFu
Index↓ 8.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,337 · Aug 17$1,225 now$1,225€1,099 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
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.
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.
50AudioFu
Index↓ 6.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,281 · Aug 17$1,203 now$1,203€1,079 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 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.
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.
54AudioFu
Index↓ 9.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,225 · Aug 17$1,114 now$1,114€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 32 5-String lefthanded basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MA BK LHSadowsky47↑ 5.0%$1,170€1,049$1,170€1,049Check ↗
- 12
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor LH WHSadowsky49↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 13
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 5 OW LHSadowsky49↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 14
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 5 SBHP LHSadowsky48↓ 7.4%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 15
Warwick RB Star Bass 5 SBHP LHWarwick46Stable$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 16
Marcus Miller V7 Swamp Ash-5 Reissue TS LHMarcus Miller · 4 finishes64Stable$846€759$846€759Check ↗
- 17
Warwick Rockbass Corvette $$ 5 ActiveRB Corvette $$ LH 5 NB TS · Warwick63Stable$1,058€949$1,058€949Check ↗
- 18
Ibanez SR505A SoundgearSR505AL-MHL · Ibanez62Stable$835€749$835€749Check ↗
- 19
Ibanez SR305EBL Standard Soundgear BassSR305EBL-WK · Ibanez58Stable$461€413$461€413Check ↗
- 20
Marcus Miller V6-5 Sandblasted BK LHMarcus Miller57↓ 13.1%$668€599$668€599Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes55Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 22
Marcus Miller P6-5 Sandblasted BK LHMarcus Miller54↓ 1.3%$824€739$824€739Check ↗
- 23
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 BK LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes54Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 24
Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black LHMarcus Miller53Stable$534€479$534€479Check ↗
- 25
Marcus Miller P7-5 Sandblasted CAR TE LHMarcus Miller53Stable$857€769$857€769Check ↗
- 26
Marcus Miller Z7-5 Antique White LHMarcus Miller51Stable$619€555$619€555Check ↗
- 27
Marcus Miller P7 5 New Gen TS LHMarcus Miller51Stable$947€849$947€849Check ↗
- 28
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 RM LH BKSadowsky51↓ 8.4%$1,092€979$1,092€979Check ↗
- 29
Harley Benton MB-5LH SBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes49Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 30
Marcus Miller M2 5 TBK 2nd Gen LHMarcus Miller46Stable$601€539$601€539Check ↗
- 31
Warwick RB Corvette Classic LH 5 AS THWarwick41Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 32
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray5 CH Blue LHSterling by Music Man40Stable$601€539$601€539Check ↗
5-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 42 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,002 — half of all 5-String lefthanded basses here cost less.
median of 42 models · 5-string–5-string
most common · 36 models
median of 39 models · 44.5 mm (1.75")–47.5 mm (1.87")
median of 35 models · 864 mm (34.02")–866 mm (34.09")
How to choose the best 5-String lefthanded basses
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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?
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 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 42 5-String lefthanded 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
Are there really any good lefty 5-string options at a lower price point?
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.
I'm struggling to get a clean low B. What can I do?
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.
What's the deal with fan fret 5-strings?
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.
I'm a fingerstyle player. Should I prioritize different features than a slapper?
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.
Is it worth getting a custom-built lefty 5-string?
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.
