Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses for Beginner 2026
Alright, so you're left-handed and want to dive into the world of 5-string bass? That's awesome, but it's a bigger jump than going from a 4-string to a 5-string right-handed. The extra string adds complexity, and finding a lefty 5-string that's actually playable and sounds decent can be a real challenge. This list isn't about the flashiest basses; it's about finding something that'll actually help you learn and won't leave you frustrated before you've even learned your first scale.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 5-string lefthanded basses in 2026 are Harley Benton MB-5LH SBK (top pick), Harley Benton MB-5LH SBK w/Bag for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Series for pros — selected from 15 options across 6 brands, priced $163–$2,385, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
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
Professional Performance
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This lefty MB-5LH is a solid entry point into 5-string bass playing, especially for those on a budget. The coil-split humbucker is a clever touch, giving you more tonal options than you'd expect at this price. It's ideal for beginners or players wanting a versatile, budget-friendly bass for rock, pop, or even some funk.
PROS
- • Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and comfortable, familiar feel.
- • Humbucker with coil split offers versatility – from thick lows to brighter tones.
- • Die-cast bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain compared to cheaper options.
CONS
- • Factory strings are basic; an immediate upgrade will significantly improve playability.
- • Roseacer fretboard might exhibit minor fret sprout – a common budget bass issue.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to a neck-through design.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 508507
$164
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
Left-Handed Bass Players
Natural Playing
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This lefty MB-5LH is a fantastic entry point to 5-string bass playing. The coil-split humbucker gives you a surprising amount of tonal range, and the gig bag is a huge bonus. It's a great option for beginners or anyone needing a reliable, budget-friendly bass for practice or gigging.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm low-end.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy, responsive feel and quick action.
- • Humbucker with coil split unlocks versatility; cleans to growl in seconds.
- • Deluxe gig bag is genuinely well-padded and robust for protection.
CONS
- • Roseacer fingerboard might feel a little rough compared to ebony or maple.
- • Bolt-on construction lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • Factory strings are basic; an immediate upgrade is highly recommended.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 540388
$193
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
Extended Range
Advanced Techniques
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton B-550LH Progressive is a solid, affordable 5-string option for players wanting a punchy, modern tone. The long scale really tightens up the low B, and the alder body gives it a surprisingly full sound. It's a great choice for rock, metal, or anything needing some serious low-end grunt.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Modern D-neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • Long scale (864mm) delivers tight low-end and improved clarity.
- • Die-cast tuners ensure stable tuning and reliable performance.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
- • Humbucker pickups, while powerful, limit versatility for cleaner, more nuanced tones.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while cost-effective, lacks the warmth of a set-neck.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 317318
$208
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
Natural Playing
Left-Handed Bass Players
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton B-550LH is a seriously impressive package for the price. The long scale and humbuckers give it a powerful, modern tone perfect for rock, metal, and funk. It's a great entry point for new 5-string players or a solid backup bass for more experienced musicians.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Modern D-neck profile is comfortable and fast for a wide range of playing styles.
- • Long scale (864mm) delivers tighter low-end response and improved clarity.
- • Die-cast tuners offer reliable tuning stability and precise adjustments.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboard can feel a bit harder than rosewood or ebony.
- • Humbucker pickups might lack the nuance needed for more delicate playing styles.
- • Gig bag is functional but basic; a hard case would offer better protection.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539267
$229
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
Natural Playing
Professional Performance
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton B-550 is a surprisingly solid package. The long scale and alder body give it a punchy, defined low end, perfect for rock, metal, or funk. It's a great entry point for 5-string bass players wanting a versatile and affordable instrument.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the sound.
- • Modern D neck profile is comfortable and fast for most players.
- • Die-cast tuners offer reliable tuning stability and easy adjustments.
- • Long scale (864mm) delivers tighter low-end response and improved clarity.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboards can show wear more easily than rosewood or ebony.
- • Humbucker pickups might be a bit too aggressive for some genres like jazz.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539266
$229
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
Advanced Techniques
Natural Playing
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This left-handed Harley Benton MV-5PJ is a seriously impressive value. The caramelized neck is a real highlight, offering a comfortable feel and a touch of sweetness to the tone. It’s perfect for players wanting a versatile 5-string with a vintage vibe and modern playability, especially those on a budget.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Caramelized sycamore neck offers a smooth, fast feel and unique character
- • Custom-wound VJB pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and punchy sound
- • Sung Il bridge with brass saddles enhances clarity and tuning stability
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction can limit high-end sustain compared to set-neck designs
- • Roseacer skunk stripe may not appeal to all players aesthetically
- • Budget-friendly components might require occasional setup adjustments
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 597069
$325
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
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The Z3-5 Sparkle Black LH is a seriously fun bass for lefties looking for a versatile and affordable instrument. The Heritage-3 preamp gives you a surprising amount of tonal control, and the Sire pickup delivers a modern, punchy tone that cuts through a mix. It's a great choice for gigging musicians and students alike who want a 5-string without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for a full sound.
- • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp delivers versatile tonal shaping options.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers snappy response and comfortable playability.
- • Sire Standard MM humbucker delivers a punchy, modern low-end presence.
CONS
- • Open-gear tuners might not offer the absolute finest tuning stability.
- • Sparkle Black finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to neck-through designs.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 586977
$648
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
Extended Range
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This Sterling StingRay5 is a seriously good deal for a lefty. You're getting a lot of Music Man DNA – that aggressive StingRay tone and solid build – at a surprisingly affordable price. It’s a great workhorse bass for rock, funk, and heavier genres where you need that articulate, punchy low-end.
PROS
- • Jabon body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Maple neck provides excellent clarity and a comfortable, familiar feel.
- • H-1 humbuckers deliver a powerful, aggressive low-end punch.
- • Active preamp allows for significant tonal shaping and output boost.
CONS
- • Jabon can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more premium woods.
- • Open gear tuners aren't *quite* as precise as sealed gear alternatives.
- • 34” scale might feel long for players with smaller hands.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 585171
$637
Sadowsky MetroEx 21-5 Hyb Mo BK LH
by
Sadowsky
Frets
21 frets
Strings
5-string
Natural Playing
Extended Range
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
The MetroEx 21-5 Hyb is a fantastic option for the gigging bassist needing tonal flexibility. The hybrid pickup configuration and active EQ make it incredibly versatile, covering a wide range of genres with a modern edge. It's a well-built, comfortable bass that’s a great value for the quality and features you get.
PROS
- • Okume body offers a surprisingly resonant and lightweight feel.
- • Hybrid P/J voicing delivers versatility from warm growl to articulate snap.
- • Sadowsky 2-way active electronics provide tonal shaping without harshness.
- • Bolt-on neck offers a snappy response and easy playability.
CONS
- • Okume, while lightweight, can lack the sustain of denser woods like mahogany.
- • Active electronics require a power source; battery replacement is a consideration.
- • 12 in fretboard radius might feel less familiar to players used to flatter profiles.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 491607
$362
Ibanez SR305EBL-WK
by
Ibanez
Strings
5-string
Body
Nyatoh body
Proper Ergonomics
Advanced Techniques
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The SR305EBL-WK is a seriously capable 5-string bass, especially for the price. It’s a great entry point into the Ibanez world, offering a modern sound and comfortable feel. Perfect for gigging musicians or students looking for a versatile and affordable instrument.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body provides a balanced, warm tone with good sustain.
- • Maple/walnut SR5 neck offers excellent stability and a comfortable playing feel.
- • PowerSpan Dual Coil pickups deliver a thick, modern low-end with clarity.
- • 3-Way tap switch expands tonal versatility for various genres.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while good, isn’t as premium feeling as more expensive woods.
- • Jatoba fretboard can feel a little harder than rosewood or ebony.
- • Cosmo Black hardware, while visually appealing, is prone to minor finish wear.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 509716
$454
Marcus Miller V7 Alder-5 LH AWH 2nd Gen
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Extended Range
Natural Playing
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
This V7 is a fantastic option for the left-handed bassist wanting a versatile and well-built instrument. The Marcus Miller electronics give you a huge range of tones, from smooth jazz to more modern funk, and the alder body provides a solid foundation. It’s a really well-rounded bass for players of all levels, especially those seeking a premium feel at a more accessible price point.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, warm tone with excellent sustain.
- • inCin neck profile offers a comfortable, modern feel for fast playing.
- • Marcus Super-J Revolution pickups provide articulate jazz tones with punch.
- • Heritage-3 electronics offer extensive tonal shaping and active/passive switching.
CONS
- • Alder body can make it a bit heavier for extended playing sessions.
- • Ebony fretboard, while smooth, might be too dark for some players' preference.
- • The pickup blender can be a little finicky to dial in precisely.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 445987
$604
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
Professional Performance
Natural Playing
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This V7 is a fantastic left-handed option for players seeking a versatile, vintage-inspired 5-string. The swamp ash body gives it a warm, woody tone, while the Super J pickups deliver plenty of punch. It's a solid choice for funk, blues, and classic rock players wanting a quality instrument without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers resonant, warm, and articulate low-end response.
- • Marcus Super J Revolution pickups offer a balanced, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Heritage-3 preamp provides versatile tonal shaping with the Blender control.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel favored by many.
CONS
- • Swamp ash construction can make it slightly heavier than some alternatives.
- • Edgeless fingerboard might not appeal to players preferring sharper fret edges.
- • Limited pickup options; not ideal for extreme, modern high-gain sounds.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 584323
$989
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
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
This lefty Marcus Miller P6-5 is a solid, versatile bass with a great feel and a surprisingly modern voice. The combination of mahogany and ash gives it warmth and clarity, and the Super-PJ pickups are a real workhorse for funk, rock, and practically anything else you throw at it. It's an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced players seeking a quality instrument without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Mahogany/Ash combo delivers a warm, resonant, and articulate tone.
- • Marcus Super-PJ Revolution pickups offer a versatile, modern sound.
- • Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel ideal for fast playing.
- • Heritage-3 electronics offer surprisingly deep control over the bass's voice.
CONS
- • The sandblasted finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be a fingerprint magnet.
- • Single volume/tone control limits tonal sculpting compared to more complex layouts.
- • Mahogany body might make it a bit heavier for some players.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610831
$846
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.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 559297
$2,386
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
Advanced Techniques
Proper Ergonomics
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This lefty Z7-5 is a real player's bass – the swamp ash gives it a lively, open sound, while the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. The Sire pickups and Marcus Miller preamp combo are surprisingly versatile, covering everything from funky slap to smooth, round tones. It's a fantastic choice for gigging musicians who want quality and a great feel without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers resonant, airy low-end and bright highs.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard provide exceptional stability and feel.
- • Sire pickups offer a versatile blend of growl and clarity.
- • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp adds tonal shaping and active boost.
CONS
- • Swamp ash can make the bass somewhat susceptible to feedback at higher volumes.
- • Bolt-on neck construction may not appeal to players seeking a more integrated feel.
- • The 'Blender' control can be a bit finicky to dial in perfectly.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 619456
$934
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 | 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 |
| 17 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 RM LH BK | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,319 |
| 18 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA LH B | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,264 |
| 19 | 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 |
| 20 | 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 |
| 21 | 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 |
| 22 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mor LH OWH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,352 |
| 23 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mora LH BK | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,352 |
| 24 | Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,319 |
| 25 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint M5 Mora LH BK | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,308 |
| 26 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 Mora 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 |
| 27 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor LH WH | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,209 |
| 28 | 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 |
| 29 | 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 |
| 30 | 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 |
| 31 | 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 |
| 32 | Tobias Growler V LH | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Paulownia body · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard | $1,649 |
| 33 | Tobias Killer B V LH | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Sapele body · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard | $1,539 |
| 34 | 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 |
| 35 | 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 |
| 36 | Tobias Classic V LH | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard | $2,309 |
| 37 | Ibanez SRMS805L-DTW | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,374 |
| 38 | 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 |
| 39 | Warwick RB Corvette Classic LH 5 AS TH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard · Weight 4 kg | $769 |
| 40 | Ibanez EHB1005MSL-SFM | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body | $1,451 |
| 41 | Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Vin MN BKS LH | Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string | $3,739 |
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
Playability
Neck profile, string spacing, and action are everything for a beginner. A thick, unwieldy neck or strings too close together will make learning a nightmare. We're looking for something comfortable to hold and relatively easy to fret.
2
Pickup Voicing
That extra low B string can quickly turn muddy if your pickups aren't up to the task. We're prioritizing pickups that offer clarity and definition, even when digging into the low end - you want a thump, not a swamp.
3
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners and a flimsy bridge will kill your intonation and make playing gigs a pain. You don't need boutique hardware, but it needs to hold a tune and stay in place without constant tweaking.
4
Overall Build Quality
A bass that rattles or has obvious finish flaws isn't inspiring. We're looking for something reasonably well-built that will withstand the rigors of practice and the occasional gig.
5
Value for Money
Let's be honest, 5-string basses are inherently more expensive. We're balancing features and performance against the price point, looking for the best bang for your buck without sacrificing playability.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the 'cool' factor. A 5-string is more demanding than a 4-string, so prioritize playability above all else. Cheaper basses often cut corners on the bridge and tuners - those are the first things to upgrade if you're on a tight budget. Seriously consider getting a professional setup - it'll make even a decent bass play like a dream. And remember, a good bass doesn't need a ton of knobs or fancy finishes; it needs to feel good and sound decent.
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
It's a bigger commitment. The learning curve is steeper, and you'll be reaching for notes that are further apart. If you're serious about expanding your range and exploring different genres, it can be amazing. But if you're just starting out, a 4-string is a perfectly valid choice.
For a beginner, passive is generally easier. Active pickups need a power source, and the added complexity can be distracting when you're just trying to learn the basics. Passive pickups give you a more straightforward, natural tone.
A setup is when a tech adjusts the bass's action, intonation, and other factors to optimize playability. Most new basses need a setup to play their best - it's like getting your car aligned.
Focus on the core components: neck, bridge, and pickups. You can always upgrade the hardware later. Don't be swayed by fancy finishes or extra features you won't use.
That's super personal, but generally, a C or D shape is a good starting point. It's comfortable for most players. Go to a store and feel a few different necks - what feels good in your hand is what matters.
