AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses for Professional 2026
The top pick is Sandberg California VM2 5 GB LH ($2,418). Warwick Rockbass Corvette $$ 5 Active gives you the most for the money at $1,058. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 32 models across 8 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius356 mm (14.02")
- Strings5-string
This Sandberg VM2 is a seriously well-built lefty 5-string. The greenburst finish looks gorgeous, and the active/passive electronics give you a lot of tonal options – from aggressive rock tones to smooth, warm basslines. It’s ideal for the experienced bassist looking for German craftsmanship and a powerful, versatile voice.
Pros
- Ash body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Sandberg Power humbuckers deliver a thick, articulate low-end and clear highs.
- Maple neck and fingerboard offer a snappy feel and fast playability.
Cons
- The 14-inch radius fingerboard might feel less familiar to players accustomed to flatter boards.
- Ash body can be somewhat susceptible to finish checking with age and environmental changes.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,418 now$2,418€2,169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale889 mm (35")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
This is a solid five-string bass for left-handed players who want a stable, neck-thru design. The wide nut and maple/mahogany build feel solid in hand, while the two Revolution pickups let you switch between bridge and neck tones easily. It fits well as a reliable workhorse if you don't need extra string options or more tone controls.
Pros
- Left-handed design suits reversed players perfectly
- Five-piece maple/mahogany neck-thru body adds stability
- Two distinct Marcus Custom Revolution humbuckers
Cons
- No string gauge options listed for the set
- Only two electronic controls available for tone
52AudioFu
Index↓ 2.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,006 · Aug 17$1,950 now$1,950€1,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyMahogany body
This lefty bass has a solid mahogany body that sounds warm and deep. The titanium-reinforced neck stays straight even after long gigs. It works well for players who want a classic tone without the complexity of extra controls.
Pros
- Left-handed design fits players who read right
- Mahogany body offers warm, resonant bass tone
- Titanium reinforcement keeps the neck perfectly stable
Cons
- Only two pickups limit tone options
- No active preamp circuits for EQ shaping
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,950 now$1,950€1,749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Strings5-string
- BodyBasswood body
The EHB1005MSL-SFM is a serious instrument for the left-handed bassist who wants a modern edge. That multiscale design really opens up extended range playing, and the Bartolini pickups provide a focused, powerful tone perfect for modern genres and progressive styles. It’s a premium-priced bass that offers a lot of bang for your buck.
Pros
- Bartolini pickups deliver a punchy, articulate low-end with excellent clarity.
- Multiscale design enhances playability and intonation across all five strings.
- Toasted birdseye maple fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
Cons
- Plastic nut feels like a cost-saving measure compared to graphite or bone.
- Sea Foam Green Matte finish, while striking, might not appeal to all tastes.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,471 now$1,471€1,319 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyPaulownia body
- FingerboardWenge fingerboard
The Tobias Growler V LH is a serious contender for the left-handed bassist who wants a distinctive, powerful sound. The Bartolini pickup delivers a huge, articulate tone perfect for modern rock, funk, or metal, while the asymmetrical neck makes it a joy to play. This bass is ideal for players looking for a premium instrument with a unique voice.
Pros
- Paulownia body offers surprisingly resonant and lightweight tonal foundation.
- Bartolini Quad-Coil delivers massive output, clarity, and a unique growling character.
- Asymmetrical neck profile provides exceptional comfort and fast playing feel for lefties.
Cons
- Wenge fingerboard can be prone to dryness; regular conditioning is essential.
- The extensive EQ controls can be overwhelming for players seeking simpler sounds.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,560 now$1,560€1,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Warwick Rockbass Corvette $$ 5 Active
RB Corvette $$ LH 5 NB TS · Warwick
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale866 mm (34.09")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius660 mm (25.98")
- Strings5-string
This left-handed Warwick Corvette $$ 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
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
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,058 now$1,058€949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRMS805L-DTW SR Bass Workshop Multi-Scale Left-Handed Deep…
SRMS805L-DTW · Ibanez
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
This Ibanez SRMS805L-DTW is a serious instrument for the left-handed bassist who wants a modern edge with a touch of class. The Bartolini pickups and versatile EQ make it incredibly adaptable, from slap bass to more traditional tones. It’s a premium-priced bass that delivers a lot of performance for the discerning player.
Pros
- Okoume/Poplar burl top offers stunning looks and resonance
- Bartolini pickups deliver a powerful, articulate low-end
- Jatoba/Walnut neck provides stability and a smooth playing feel
Cons
- Panga Panga fingerboard can be polarizing; some find it too dense
- Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to neck-through designs
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,393 now$1,393€1,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
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.
Cons
- Okoume can be somewhat plain aesthetically compared to other woods.
- Active electronics introduce potential for battery dependency and noise.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,225 now$1,225€1,099 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This 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.
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.
56AudioFu
Index↓ 8.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,192 · Aug 17$1,092 now$1,092€979 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This lefty MetroExpress is a serious contender for players wanting a versatile, modern 5-string. The Sadowsky pickups and active EQ deliver a focused, powerful tone that cuts through a mix – perfect for funk, modern rock, or anything needing a tight, defined low-end. It's a great value for a bass with this level of quality and playability.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a punchy, articulate low-end with defined mids.
Cons
- Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- The bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the inherent resonance of a set-neck design.
50AudioFu
Index↓ 6.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,281 · Aug 17$1,203 now$1,203€1,079 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 32 5-String lefthanded basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 RM LH BKSadowsky51↓ 8.4%$1,092€979$1,092€979Check ↗
- 12
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor LH WHSadowsky49↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 13
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 5 OW LHSadowsky49↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 14
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado LH BKSadowsky49↓ 8.3%$1,225€1,099$1,225€1,099Check ↗
- 15
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 5 SBHP LHSadowsky48↓ 7.4%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 16
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MA BK LHSadowsky47↑ 5.0%$1,170€1,049$1,170€1,049Check ↗
- 17
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 BK LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes54Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 18
Marcus Miller V7 Swamp Ash-5 Reissue TS LHMarcus Miller · 4 finishes64Stable$846€759$846€759Check ↗
- 19
Warwick RB Star Bass 5 SBHP LHWarwick46Stable$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 20
Ibanez SR505A SoundgearSR505AL-MHL · Ibanez62Stable$835€749$835€749Check ↗
- 21
Marcus Miller P7 5 New Gen TS LHMarcus Miller51Stable$947€849$947€849Check ↗
- 22
Marcus Miller P7-5 Sandblasted CAR TE LHMarcus Miller53Stable$857€769$857€769Check ↗
- 23
Marcus Miller P6-5 Sandblasted BK LHMarcus Miller54↓ 1.3%$824€739$824€739Check ↗
- 24
Marcus Miller V6-5 Sandblasted BK LHMarcus Miller57↓ 13.1%$668€599$668€599Check ↗
- 25
Warwick RB Corvette Classic LH 5 AS THWarwick41Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 26
Ibanez SR305EBL Standard Soundgear BassSR305EBL-WK · Ibanez58Stable$461€413$461€413Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes55Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 28
Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black LHMarcus Miller53Stable$534€479$534€479Check ↗
- 29
Marcus Miller Z7-5 Antique White LHMarcus Miller51Stable$619€555$619€555Check ↗
- 30
Harley Benton MB-5LH SBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes49Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 31
Marcus Miller M2 5 TBK 2nd Gen LHMarcus Miller46Stable$601€539$601€539Check ↗
- 32
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray5 CH Blue LHSterling by Music Man40Stable$601€539$601€539Check ↗
5-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 42 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,002 — half of all 5-String lefthanded basses here cost less.
median of 42 models · 5-string–5-string
most common · 36 models
median of 39 models · 44.5 mm (1.75")–47.5 mm (1.87")
median of 35 models · 864 mm (34.02")–866 mm (34.09")
How to choose the best 5-String lefthanded basses
Neck Profile & Playability
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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 the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 42 5-String lefthanded basses from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are all 5-string basses inherently muddy?
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.
What's the deal with fan frets?
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.
I'm a lefty, does this limit my options?
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.
How important is string gauge?
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.
Can I realistically use a 5-string in all genres?
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.
