Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses Under $2,000 2026
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.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best 5-string lefthanded basses in 2026 are Warwick RB Corvette $$ LH 5 NB TS (top pick), Marcus Miller P7-5 Sandblasted CAR TE LH for tighter budgets, and Marcus Miller V7 Swamp Ash-5 Reissue TS LH for pros — selected from 15 options across 4 brands, priced $556–$1,277, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Warwick RB Corvette $$ 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
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
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
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 586977
$557
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
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
Advanced Techniques
Professional Performance
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
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
- • Marcus Heritage-3 electronics with push-pull bass switch
CONS
- • No string gauge options listed in the description
- • Single volume and tone control limits tone shaping
- • Lefthanded models often cost more than right-handed ones
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 610811
$801
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
Advanced Techniques
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This Z7-5 is a serious contender for the left-handed bassist seeking a versatile and well-equipped instrument. The roasted maple neck and Sire pickups offer a modern feel and a wide range of tones, making it great for funk, fusion, and beyond. It's a really solid package for the price.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, resonant feel.
- • Sire pickups deliver a balanced tone – punchy bridge, warm neck.
- • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp provides versatile EQ shaping and tonal options.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a fast, slick playing surface with excellent note definition.
CONS
- • Alder body might feel a touch lightweight for some players' preference.
- • The 'Blender' control can be tricky to dial in for subtle tone shaping.
- • Scale length might feel long for players accustomed to shorter scale basses.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 584255
$645
#9
⭐
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
#10
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
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
#11
⭐
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
#12
⭐
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
#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
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
Advanced Techniques
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This lefty bass feels great because the maple neck fits a natural playing hand. The active/passive switch lets you dial in either punch or clarity. It suits anyone who needs a solid instrument without the right-handed setup.
PROS
- • Left-handed specific design for comfortable playing style
- • Alder body paired with maple bolt-on neck
- • Modern-S bridge offers solid tuning stability
- • Active/passive switch changes tone options easily
CONS
- • No weight information listed in description
- • Only two single-coil pickups available
- • Missing standard bass string gauge options
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 635364
$929
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
Proper Ergonomics
Advanced Techniques
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This left-handed bass flips the standard layout for anyone who plays backwards. The roasted maple neck feels solid and stable, while the dual pickups let you toggle between active and passive modes. It suits players who want a classic, punchy tone without needing extra knobs.
PROS
- • Left-handed playability for right-handed players who need a mirror image.
- • Roasted maple neck offers a stable, resonant feel.
- • Dual active/passive pickups let you switch modes instantly.
- • Alder body provides a balanced, punchy low-end response.
CONS
- • Antique White finish may show wear more than darker colors.
- • Missing specific weight data makes carrying plans uncertain.
- • Only two controls per side limits complex tone shaping.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 635393
$929
Every 5-string lefthanded basses that matches
41 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | 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 |
| 17 | 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 |
| 18 | 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 |
| 19 | 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 |
| 20 | 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 |
| 21 | 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 |
| 22 | 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 |
| 23 | 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 |
| 24 | 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 |
| 25 | Tobias Growler V LH | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Paulownia body · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard | $1,626 |
| 26 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA LH B | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,335 |
| 27 | 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 |
| 28 | 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 |
| 29 | Ibanez SR505AL-MHL | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $870 |
| 30 | Ibanez SRMS805L-DTW | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,452 |
| 31 | 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 |
| 32 | 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 |
| 33 | 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 |
| 34 | 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 |
| 35 | 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 |
| 36 | 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 |
| 37 | 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 |
| 38 | Warwick RB Corvette Classic LH 5 AS TH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard · Weight 4 kg | $929 |
| 39 | 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 |
| 40 | Ibanez EHB1005MSL-SFM | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body | $1,533 |
| 41 | Ibanez SR305EBL-WK | Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $480 |
5-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 41 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $929
from $220 to $1,452
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 43 mm (1.69") to 47.5 mm (1.87") · 38 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 864 mm (34.02") to 866 mm (34.09") · 34 models
Frets
median 21
from 20 to 24 · 17 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 10 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 5-string · 41 models
Body
okoume, alder, mahogany
most common · 35 models
Fingerboard
maple, ebony, rosewood
most common · 27 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 241 mm (9.49") to 660 mm (25.98") · 19 models
How to Choose the Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
Low-End Response & Articulation
The low B needs to thump without completely swallowing the other frequencies. We listened for clarity and articulation, ensuring the bass can cut through the mix without getting lost in the mud.
Buying Guide
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 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 41 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
