AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses Under $2,000 2026
The top pick is Ibanez EHB1005MS Bass Workshop ($1,471). Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Series gives you the most for the money at $211. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 31 models across 7 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")
- 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 ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
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.
Cons
- Swamp ash construction can make it slightly heavier than some alternatives.
- Edgeless fingerboard might not appeal to players preferring sharper fret edges.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$846 now$846€759 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 ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This lefty bass has a solid feel thanks to the roasted maple neck and thick Bartolini humbuckers. The active electronics give you great control over the sound, though the Okoume body might feel light compared to real wood. It's a practical choice for left-handed players who want a modern, punchy tone without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Bartolini humbuckers deliver thick, powerful low-end output
- Active electronics let you shape tone precisely
- Roasted maple neck offers smooth playability
Cons
- Okoume wood is less durable than traditional tonewoods
- Plastic nut can cause fret buzz over time
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$835 now$835€749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
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.
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.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$461 now$461€413 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 width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Strings5-string
This lefty bass has a solid mahogany body and a comfortable maple neck with twenty frets. It uses two single coil pickups and Marcus electronics with a push-pull bass switch. Great for players who want a clear, punchy sound without too many knobs.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body with swamp ash top for resonance
- Comfortable maple C-neck profile with 20 frets
- Two Marcus Super-J Revolution single coil pickups
Cons
- No string gauge options listed in the description
- Single volume and tone control limits tone shaping
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- 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 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 ↗
All 31 5-String lefthanded basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Marcus Miller P6-5 Sandblasted BK LHMarcus Miller54↓ 1.3%$824€739$824€739Check ↗
- 12
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 MS LHMarcus Miller · 2 finishes54Stable$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 13
Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black LHMarcus Miller53Stable$534€479$534€479Check ↗
- 14
Marcus Miller P7-5 Sandblasted CAR TE LHMarcus Miller53Stable$857€769$857€769Check ↗
- 15
Tobias Growler IVGrowler V LH · Tobias53Stable$1,560€1,399$1,560€1,399Check ↗
- 16
Marcus Miller F10 Dc 5 Natural LHMarcus Miller52↓ 2.8%$1,950€1,749$1,950€1,749Check ↗
- 17
Marcus Miller Z7-5 Antique White LHMarcus Miller51Stable$619€555$619€555Check ↗
- 18
Marcus Miller P7 5 New Gen TS LHMarcus Miller51Stable$947€849$947€849Check ↗
- 19
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 RM LH BKSadowsky51↓ 8.4%$1,092€979$1,092€979Check ↗
- 20
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA LH BSadowsky50↓ 6.1%$1,203€1,079$1,203€1,079Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton MB-5LH SBKHarley Benton · 2 finishes49Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 22
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 5 OW LHSadowsky49↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 23
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor LH WHSadowsky49↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 24
Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado LH BKSadowsky49↓ 8.3%$1,225€1,099$1,225€1,099Check ↗
- 25
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 5 SBHP LHSadowsky48↓ 7.4%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 26
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MA BK LHSadowsky47↑ 5.0%$1,170€1,049$1,170€1,049Check ↗
- 27
Marcus Miller M2 5 TBK 2nd Gen LHMarcus Miller46Stable$601€539$601€539Check ↗
- 28
Warwick RB Star Bass 5 SBHP LHWarwick46Stable$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 29
Ibanez SR2605L-CBB PremiumIbanez42Stable$1,950€1,749$1,950€1,749Check ↗
- 30
Warwick RB Corvette Classic LH 5 AS THWarwick41Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 31
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 41 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,002 — half of all 5-String lefthanded basses here cost less.
median of 41 models · 5-string–5-string
most common · 35 models
median of 38 models · 44.5 mm (1.75")–47.5 mm (1.87")
median of 34 models · 864 mm (34.02")–866 mm (34.09")
How to choose the best 5-String lefthanded basses
Pickup Voicing
Cheap pickups often sound brittle or muddy, lacking definition. We prioritized basses with pickups that offer a usable range, even if they aren't boutique-level. A little warmth and a touch of growl is better than ice-picky harshness.
Neck Profile & Playability
A comfortable neck is everything. We looked for necks that weren't too thick or too thin - something that allows for easy access to those higher frets on a 5-string. Action and setup are key too, and these basses should be relatively easy to dial in.
Hardware Quality
Cheaper hardware often means tuning instability and a shorter lifespan. We assessed tuners and bridges for smoothness and reliability - essential for keeping that low B string in tune onstage.
Body Wood & Construction
While exotic woods are nice, they aren't essential at this price point. We looked for solid bodies (not just top woods) and decent construction - no excessive rattles or sloppy fretwork.
Low-End Response & Articulation
The low B needs to thump without completely swallowing the other frequencies.
Buying guide
Alright, lefty 5-string players, let's be real. Finding a decent 5-string that doesn't drain your bank account is a challenge. You want that extra low B to rumble with the drums, but you also want something that doesn't sound like a muddy mess or fall apart on stage. This list focuses on basses under $2000 that actually deliver playable quality and some usable tone - we're not chasing perfection here, we're chasing value.
At this price point, expect some compromises. You won't get a figured maple top or custom-wound pickups. The biggest trade-offs are usually in the pickups and hardware - they're the first places manufacturers cut costs.
Prioritize a comfortable neck and a solid foundation; pickups can always be upgraded later. Don't be afraid to check used markets; you can often snag a much higher-spec instrument for your budget.
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 41 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 the electronics easily upgraded?
Generally, yes. Most of these basses use standard pickup cavities and wiring, so swapping pickups is fairly straightforward. Hardware upgrades are a bit more involved but definitely doable.
How does the low B string perform?
It's a weak point on many budget 5-strings. Expect some string buzz and a slightly less defined tone. Proper setup and a quality set of strings (nickel or stainless steel) can help a lot.
What's the deal with the neck finish?
Budget basses often have a glossier, sometimes sticky neck finish. It's not always the most comfortable, but it's a common corner cut. A light satin finish or even a DIY satin rubdown can improve playability.
Can these basses handle gigging?
Absolutely, but be realistic. Don't expect them to withstand the abuse of a road warrior. Regular maintenance - setup checks, string changes - will extend their lifespan. A gig bag is essential for protection.
Are these basses suitable for recording?
They can be, but you'll need to be mindful of the pickup voicing. EQ and careful mic placement will be your friends. Don't expect a pristine, studio-grade tone straight out of the box.
