AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Harley Benton 5-String Lefthanded Basses 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Series ($211). Harley Benton MB-5LH SBK gives you the most for the money at $166. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 2 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 2
Full detail for the 2 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyAlder body
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.
Cons
- Black walnut fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
- Humbucker pickups, while powerful, limit versatility for cleaner, more nuanced tones.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$211 now$211€189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- Strings5-string
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.
Cons
- Factory strings are basic; an immediate upgrade will significantly improve playability.
- Roseacer fretboard might exhibit minor fret sprout – a common budget bass issue.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
5-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 42 models we track, not a sample.
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
Value
This is the big one. You're getting a 5-string bass with decent components at a price point that's often laughably low. That alone makes them worth considering, but it also means compromises exist.
Neck Profile & Playability
Harley Benton has been improving their neck shapes a lot. The 'Thin C' profile is generally comfortable for faster playing, but individual neck finishes can vary - a little fretwork might be needed on some examples to really dial in the action.
Pickup Voicing
The pickups aren't going to blow you away with boutique clarity, but they offer a surprisingly versatile range. Expect a usable, warm low-end thump that can cut through a rock mix, but don't expect surgical precision for super clean funk tones - there's a certain 'honk' to them that's part of the character.
Hardware Quality
The hardware is functional, but this is where you see the cost savings. Tuners are adequate, but might not hold tuning as rock-solid as higher-end options, and the bridge is generally fine for standard setups, but heavy dive bombs might expose some flex.
Body Wood & Construction
Most models use basswood bodies, which are lightweight and offer a balanced tonal foundation. Construction is solid enough for the price, but don't expect flawless finish work - you might find minor cosmetic imperfections, which honestly shouldn't affect the sound.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're a lefty looking to add a 5-string to your arsenal and you're on a budget? Harley Benton's been quietly shaking things up, and their 5-string left-handed basses are seriously worth a look. They're not perfect, no gear is, but the sheer value proposition is hard to ignore - we're talking genuine playable instruments at prices that'll make you do a double-take. Let's break down what makes these basses tick, and whether they're the right fit for you.
Look, these aren't flagship instruments. You're getting a lot for the money, but you might need to spend a little on a basic setup - a level and crown of the frets, maybe a truss rod tweak. Factor that into the overall cost.
If you're a gigging pro needing absolute perfection, these probably aren't for you, but for students, hobbyists, or anyone needing a reliable 5-string on a budget, they're a serious contender.
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 5 5-String lefthanded basses from the Thomann catalogue (of 42 in the category). 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 Harley Benton basses any good?
They're surprisingly good for the price. Don't expect boutique quality, but they're playable, sound decent, and offer incredible value. Manage your expectations accordingly.
Do I need to do a setup on a Harley Benton bass?
Almost certainly. They're often shipped with a bit of a high action, and a professional setup will dramatically improve playability. It's a worthwhile investment.
What kind of music are these basses suited for?
They're versatile enough for rock, pop, blues, and even some funk. The slightly 'honky' pickup voicing lends itself well to genres where a bit of grit is welcome.
What's the deal with the finish quality?
It's variable. Some basses are flawless, others have minor blemishes. It's mostly cosmetic, but be aware it's part of the package at this price point.
Can I upgrade the pickups?
Absolutely! The bodies are routed for standard pickups, so swapping them out is a relatively straightforward upgrade if you want to change the tone.
