Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses for Professional 2026
Alright, lefty 5-string players, let's be honest - finding a bass that feels right, sounds right, and holds up to the demands of a pro gig isn't a casual search. It's a hunt. You're not just looking for another instrument; you're looking for a tool that can handle complex arrangements, cut through a dense mix, and inspire some serious pocket grooves. This list isn't about beginner-friendly options; it's about the basses that'll elevate your game.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best 5-string lefthanded basses in 2026 are Sandberg California VM2 5 GB LH (top pick), Marcus Miller F10 Dc 5 Natural LH for tighter budgets, and Ibanez SR2605L-CBB Premium for pros — selected from 15 options across 6 brands, priced $870–$2,520, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
5/10
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.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 559297
$2,521
#2
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Marcus Miller F10 Dc 5 Natural LH
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
889 mm (35")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Professional Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
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
- • Wide 45mm nut offers comfortable fret access
CONS
- • No string gauge options listed for the set
- • Only two electronic controls available for tone
- • Weight not specified in the product details
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 635162
$2,091
#3
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez SR2605L-CBB Premium
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Advanced Techniques
Proper Ergonomics
Extended Range
Key Feature:
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
- • Nordstrand Big Single pickups deliver rich sound
CONS
- • Only two pickups limit tone options
- • No active preamp circuits for EQ shaping
- • Weight not listed in the product description
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 524523
$2,033
#4
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
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.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 549564
$1,626
Warwick RB Corvette $$ LH 5 NB TS
by
Warwick
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
866 mm (34.09")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
660 mm (25.98")
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Wenge fingerboard
Weight
4.4 kg
Natural Playing
Extended Range
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This left-handed Warwick Corvette $$ is a solid choice for players wanting a punchy, aggressive 5-string tone without the premium price tag. The bolt-on neck gives it a lively feel, and the MEC pickups provide plenty of growl for rock, metal, and heavier genres. It's a great all-rounder for gigging musicians.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the tone
- • Bolt-on neck offers a snappy, responsive feel and bright attack
- • MEC humbuckers deliver a powerful, aggressive tone with excellent clarity
- • Wenge fretboard adds a touch of exotic warmth and sustain
CONS
- • The bolt-on neck, while responsive, lacks the seamless integration of a neck-through design
- • Transparent Matt finish can be a fingerprint magnet and require careful cleaning
- • The 2-band EQ is relatively basic, limiting tonal sculpting options
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 442666
$1,103
Warwick RB Star Bass 5 SBHP LH
by
Warwick
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Fingerboard radius
660 mm (25.98")
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Wenge fingerboard
Weight
3.9 kg
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
This lefty RB Star 5 delivers a seriously solid foundation for a wide range of styles. The long scale and vintage pickups give it a punchy, classic tone that’s surprisingly versatile, while the maple construction ensures it cuts through a mix. It's a great choice for players seeking a well-built, dependable bass with vintage vibes.
PROS
- • Maple construction delivers a tight, focused low-end with excellent clarity.
- • MEC Vintage pickups provide a surprisingly articulate and warm vintage tone.
- • Long scale (864 mm) enhances string tension for precise intonation and a defined feel.
- • Wenge fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and a unique tonal character.
CONS
- • The weight (3.9 kg) might be fatiguing for some players during extended gigs.
- • The passive electronics limit tonal shaping compared to active basses.
- • Maple top can be prone to scratches and requires careful handling.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 450749
$1,161
#7
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
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.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 597198
$1,277
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MA BK LH
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
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This Sadowsky MetroExpress is a fantastic entry point into the Sadowsky world, offering a lot of quality for the price. The active/passive switching gives you serious tonal flexibility, and the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. It’s a great choice for gigging musicians who want a versatile, well-built 5-string without the 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.
- • Sadowsky Quad Coil pickup delivers a thick, articulate tone with plenty of punch.
- • Quick Access Compartment simplifies string changes and internal adjustments significantly.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • Active electronics, while versatile, introduce a dependency on battery power.
- • String spacing at 18mm might feel narrow for players with larger hands.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 598283
$1,161
Marcus Miller P7-5 Sandblasted CAR TE 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
Extended Range
Professional Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This bass fits left-handed players who want a five-string without breaking the bank. The solid mahogany body feels warm, while the ash top keeps it light. You get crisp stainless steel frets and modern pickups that cut through the mix. It is a solid choice for players needing a reliable, affordable five-string.
PROS
- • Affordable left-handed option for modern five-string players.
- • Solid mahogany body paired with lightweight ash top.
- • High-quality stainless steel frets on a C profile neck.
- • Modern-S bridge with Super-PJ Revolution pickups for clear tone.
CONS
- • No weight rating provided for potential handling issues.
- • Lack of specific string gauge details in the text.
- • Blender control function not clearly explained in description.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 615138
$894
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:
8/10
Art. 584323
$882
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:
8/10
Art. 610831
$870
#12
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Ibanez BTB605L-TGF
by
Ibanez
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Scale
889 mm (35")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Natural Playing
Extended Range
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This left-handed bass uses a strong maple and jatoba neck built right through the body, keeping the action low and stable. The rosewood fretboard feels nice under your fingers, and the two humbuckers give it a thick, punchy tone. It suits lefty players who want a solid-sounding instrument without extra knobs to fiddle with.
PROS
- • Solid maple and jatoba neck-through-body construction for stability
- • Rosewood fingerboard offers smooth playability for all hand sizes
- • Dual humbucker pickups deliver thick, powerful low-end response
- • Left-handed configuration serves players who need that orientation
CONS
- • Transparent gray finish may show dust and wear easily
- • Lacks a dedicated blend control for custom tone shaping
- • Cosmo black hardware can be prone to scratches over time
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 648550
$1,045
#13
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 BK LH
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Left-Handed Bass Players
Natural Playing
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
This left-handed bass uses mahogany and maple to build a solid, warm tone. The multi-scale neck helps you play all strings cleanly. It comes with two humbuckers for a full sound. Great for players who want a simple, reliable instrument without extra knobs.
PROS
- • True headless design for instant string tension
- • Multi-scale length helps intonation across strings
- • Dual humbuckers provide thick, warm tone
- • Left-handed option fits specific players perfectly
CONS
- • No string gauge options listed in specs
- • Heavy hardware adds to total weight
- • Fewer controls than standard basses available
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 647295
$1,045
#14
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 MS LH
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Professional Performance
Left-Handed Bass Players
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This left-handed bass sounds warm thanks to the mahogany body and pure-h pickups. The multiscale scale lets you play fast notes clearly without stretching your fingers. It's great for players who want a simple, reliable tone but may lack advanced EQ options. Perfect for working musicians who need a solid instrument that fits their stage setup.
PROS
- • Mahogany body gives warm, rich tone
- • Headless design makes tuning easier
- • Multiscale length plays high notes crisp
- • Pure-H pickups cut through mix well
CONS
- • Only two controls limit tone shaping
- • No string gauge options listed
- • Single frequency control may feel basic
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 614566
$1,045
#15
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA LH B
by
Sadowsky
Nut width
47.5 mm (1.87")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
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.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 599447
$1,335
Every 5-string lefthanded basses that matches
44 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 Vint JJ5 RM LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,242 |
| 17 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 RM LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,242 |
| 18 | Ibanez EHB1005MSL-SFM | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body | $1,533 |
| 19 | Marcus Miller V6-5 Sandblasted BK LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $801 |
| 20 | Marcus Miller V7 5 New Gen Antique White LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $929 |
| 21 | Marcus Miller V7 5 New Gen TS LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $929 |
| 22 | Ibanez SRMS805L-DTW | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,452 |
| 23 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mor LH OWH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,428 |
| 24 | Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,393 |
| 25 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 Mora LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,277 |
| 26 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor LH WH | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,277 |
| 27 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 5 OW LH | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,277 |
| 28 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 5 SBHP LH | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,254 |
| 29 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mora LH BK | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,161 |
| 30 | 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 | $645 |
| 31 | Ibanez SR505AL-MHL | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $870 |
| 32 | Marcus Miller V7 Alder-5 BUR 2nd Gen LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $696 |
| 33 | Warwick RB Corvette Classic LH 5 AS TH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard · Weight 4 kg | $929 |
| 34 | 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 | $557 |
| 35 | 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 | $301 |
| 36 | Harley Benton MV-5PJ LH Black | 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 | $266 |
| 37 | 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 · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $231 |
| 38 | 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 · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $231 |
| 39 | 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 · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $220 |
| 40 | 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 | $626 |
| 41 | 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 | $196 |
| 42 | 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 | $173 |
| 43 | Marcus Miller M2 5 TBK 2nd Gen LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string | $626 |
| 44 | Ibanez SR305EBL-WK | Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $480 |
5-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 44 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,045
from $220 to $1,626
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 44.5 mm (1.75") to 47.5 mm (1.87") · 41 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 864 mm (34.02") to 889 mm (35") · 37 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 241 mm (9.49") to 660 mm (25.98") · 21 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 5-string · 44 models
Body
okoume, alder, mahogany
most common · 38 models
Fingerboard
maple, rosewood, ebony
most common · 29 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 11 models
Frets
median 21
from 20 to 24 · 18 models
How to Choose the Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses
1
Neck Profile & Playability
For a pro, comfort and speed are non-negotiable. A neck that's too thick or a finish that's too sticky will kill your articulation and dynamic range. We're looking for something that feels natural in your hand, allowing for effortless legato and precise fingerstyle work.
2
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
That low B needs to have definition, not just be a blurry rumble. We're after pickups that offer clarity and a balanced frequency response, allowing for everything from a warm, round tone to a biting, aggressive edge without getting muddy. Good pickups let the wood of the bass speak.
3
Construction & Hardware Quality
Cheap hardware and a poorly constructed neck are the first things to fail under the stress of regular gigs. We're assessing build quality, hardware reliability (tuners, bridge), and the overall robustness of the instrument - because a bass needs to survive the road.
4
Sustain & Resonance
A 5-string needs to project. Sustain isn't just about how long a note rings; it's about the fullness and richness of the tone. We're looking for basses that vibrate freely and transmit those vibrations effectively, giving you that satisfying thump and allowing your notes to hang in the air.
5
Electronics & Versatility
Pro players need a bass that can adapt. Internal wiring quality, pot taper, and overall electronics design influence your tonal shaping options. We're evaluating how well the bass responds to EQ adjustments and whether it can handle a range of musical styles without sounding brittle or colored.
Buying Guide
Don't fall for the hype. A 5-string is inherently more complex than a 4-string, so expect a slightly steeper learning curve, especially if you're new to the extended range. Pay close attention to the neck profile - it's a personal thing. And yes, you get what you pay for - cheap 5-strings often compromise on hardware or neck construction, which will haunt you later. Invest in a good setup from a reputable tech before you even play a note.
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 44 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
Not at all, but it's a common issue if the pickups or electronics aren't up to snuff. A well-designed 5-string can be incredibly articulate, but you need quality components and a good setup to tame that low B.
Fan frets are designed to improve intonation on the lower strings, but they can make some techniques (like slapping) a bit trickier to master initially. It's a trade-off between intonation accuracy and playing comfort - personal preference reigns supreme.
Definitely. Lefthanded instruments are always produced in smaller numbers, which means fewer choices and potentially higher prices. Be prepared to search and potentially compromise on certain features.
Crucially important! A heavier gauge string is almost a necessity on a 5-string to maintain good tension and intonation, especially in the lower registers. Don't skimp on strings - they're a vital part of the equation.
While versatile, a 5-string isn't always the best choice. It can overpower certain styles (like vintage country) and may not be as comfortable for fast, intricate lines. Consider the musical context.
