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 22, 2026 • Next update: April 29, 2026
#1
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray5 CH Blue LH
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 585171
$637
#2
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 596277
$1,209
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
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.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596075
$1,209
#4
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 599069
$1,176
#5
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Warwick RB Corvette Classic LH 5 AS TH
by
Warwick
Left-Handed Bass Players
Advanced Techniques
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This left-handed Warwick Corvette is a solid entry into the brand's lineup. The active pickups give it a modern punch while the alder body and long scale maintain a surprisingly classic feel. It’s a great choice for left-handed players looking for a versatile, well-built 5-string bass with a bit of growl – ideal for rock, funk, and even some heavier styles.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced tone with a tight low-end response.
- • MEC J/J pickups deliver a versatile, punchy sound suitable for many genres.
- • Long 34” scale enhances note definition and low-end clarity for a powerful feel.
- • Bolt-on neck construction offers a snappy, responsive feel and easy adjustability.
CONS
- • Active electronics require a power source, adding a dependency for performance.
- • Wenge fingerboard can be a bit dry; may require occasional conditioning.
- • The flamed maple veneer, while attractive, isn't as tonally significant as solid maple.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 589799
$769
#6
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Ibanez EHB1005MSL-SFM
by
Ibanez
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.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 524551
$1,451
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
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.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 597202
$1,352
#8
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
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.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 506596
$3,739
#9
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
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.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597198
$1,319
#10
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor LH WH
by
Sadowsky
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.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 596867
$1,209
#11
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 598293
$1,154
#12
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Marcus Miller V7 Swamp Ash-5 Reissue TS LH
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.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 584323
$989
#13
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Marcus Miller Z7-5 Antique White LH
Advanced Techniques
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This Z7-5 is a serious contender for the left-handed bassist seeking a versatile and well-equipped instrument. The roasted maple neck and Sire pickups offer a modern feel and a wide range of tones, making it great for funk, fusion, and beyond. It's a really solid package for the price.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, resonant feel.
- • Sire pickups deliver a balanced tone – punchy bridge, warm neck.
- • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp provides versatile EQ shaping and tonal options.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a fast, slick playing surface with excellent note definition.
CONS
- • Alder body might feel a touch lightweight for some players' preference.
- • The 'Blender' control can be tricky to dial in for subtle tone shaping.
- • Scale length might feel long for players accustomed to shorter scale basses.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 584255
$769
#14
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
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.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 599736
$1,319
#15
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Marcus Miller M5 5st TBL LH
Natural Playing
Professional Performance
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The M5 TBL LH is a serious contender for left-handed players needing a versatile 5-string. The Marcus Miller pickups and Heritage-3 electronics provide a wide range of tones, and the comfortable neck profile makes it a joy to play. It's a great choice for modern players and gigging musicians seeking a high-quality instrument without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers a resonant, punchy low-end with surprising clarity.
- • Marcus Miller Pure humbuckers offer a versatile, modern tone with excellent articulation.
- • Heritage-3 electronics provide precise tonal shaping with the frequency control.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy feel and fast action, common to Marcus Miller designs.
CONS
- • Swamp ash can be a bit on the heavier side, potentially uncomfortable for extended playing.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while fast, isn't favored by players seeking a more vintage feel.
- • While versatile, the pickup voicing leans towards modern music, less suited for very vintage tones.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 544366
$769
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.
Our Methodology
We didn't just look at spec sheets here. We spent hours playing these basses - plugged into different amps, running them through rehearsal scenarios, and even tracking a few simple parts. We A/B'd them against other basses in similar price ranges, focusing on how they felt under the fingers, how they reacted to different playing styles, and ultimately, how they sounded in a band setting. It's about real-world performance, not marketing hype.
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.
