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 B-550LH BK Progressive Series (top pick), Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Bundle for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive w/Bag for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $163–$3,738, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Series
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 317318
$208
#2
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Bundle
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539267
$229
#3
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive w/Bag
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539266
$229
#4
⭐
3.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton MB-5LH SBK w/Bag
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.
⭐
3.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 540388
$193
#5
⭐
3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton MB-5LH SBK
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.
⭐
3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 508507
$164
#6
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton MV-5PJ LH Black w/Case
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
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 597069
$325
#7
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Sadowsky MetroEx 21-5 Hyb Mo BK LH
by
Sadowsky
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 491607
$362
#8
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Ibanez SR305EBL-WK
by
Ibanez
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.
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 509716
$454
#9
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Marcus Miller V7 Alder-5 LH AWH 2nd Gen
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.
⭐
3.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 445987
$604
#10
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
3.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 585171
$637
#11
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black LH
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.
⭐
3.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 586977
$648
#12
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Vin MN BKS LH
by
Sadowsky
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
This lefty Sadowsky MetroLine is a serious contender for players seeking a vintage-inspired 5-string tone with modern convenience. The swamp ash body and J pickups nail that classic growl, while the active electronics offer subtle boosts to tailor your sound. It's a great choice for gigging musicians and studio players wanting a reliable, versatile, and comfortable bass.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers excellent resonance and a balanced, articulate tone.
- • Sadowsky’s hum-free J pickups provide a vintage J bass vibe without unwanted noise.
- • Bolt-on neck construction offers a snappy, responsive feel favored by many players.
- • The 2-way active electronics provide subtle but useful tonal shaping capabilities.
CONS
- • The bolt-on neck, while responsive, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • The 12 in fretboard radius might feel less familiar to players accustomed to flatter boards.
- • The premium-priced tag puts it out of reach for many budget-conscious bassists.
⭐
4.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 506596
$3,739
#13
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mor LH OWH
by
Sadowsky
Left-Handed Bass Players
Natural Playing
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This left-handed Sadowsky is a serious contender for players wanting a versatile, modern 5-string with vintage vibes. The combination of the J pickup and Quad Coil offers a huge range of tones, from punchy slap to warm, growling lows. It's a premium-priced instrument built for the gigging musician who demands quality and flexibility.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides excellent resonance and a balanced tone.
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Sadowsky J/Quad Coil combo delivers versatility from growl to clarity.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and internal adjustments.
CONS
- • The morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be prone to occasional dryness.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • The active electronics, while powerful, might not appeal to purists seeking a purely passive sound.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597225
$1,352
#14
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mora LH BK
by
Sadowsky
Advanced Techniques
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously versatile left-handed 5-string, blending vintage vibe with modern electronics. The combination of the J-style pickup and Quad Coil humbucker provides a huge range of tones, and the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. Ideal for players wanting a premium instrument with a broad sonic palette and a comfortable feel.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a resonant, lively, and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Sadowsky J-Style pickup offers a focused, articulate vintage tone.
- • The Quick Access compartment simplifies string changes significantly.
CONS
- • Okoume can be somewhat prone to dents and scratches with regular use.
- • Active electronics introduce potential for battery replacement or failure.
- • The 12” radius might feel less familiar for players used to flatter fingerboards.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 597202
$1,352
#15
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA LH B
by
Sadowsky
Professional Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This lefty MetroExpress is a serious contender for players wanting a versatile, modern 5-string. The Sadowsky pickups and active EQ deliver a focused, powerful tone that cuts through a mix – perfect for funk, modern rock, or anything needing a tight, defined low-end. It's a great value for a bass with this level of quality and playability.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a punchy, articulate low-end with defined mids.
- • Active electronics offer precise tonal shaping and a clean, powerful output.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • The bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the inherent resonance of a set-neck design.
- • The 34” scale might feel slightly long for players with shorter fingers.
⭐
4.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 599447
$1,264
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 ranks 15 5-string lefthanded basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
