Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses Under $800 2026
Alright, lefty 5-string players on a budget - I get it. Finding a solid instrument that doesn't drain your bank account is a mission. You want that extended range for slapping, walking basslines, or just adding some low-end rumble, but you're not dropping a grand. Here's a look at the best 5-string left-handed basses you can realistically snag for under $800, focusing on bang-for-your-buck.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best 5-string lefthanded basses in 2026 are Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black LH (top pick), Marcus Miller Z7-5 Antique White LH for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton MV-5PJ LH Black w/Case for pros — selected from 13 options across 4 brands, priced $173–$696, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
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
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
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
Advanced Techniques
Natural Playing
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This left-handed Harley Benton MV-5PJ is a seriously impressive value. The caramelized neck is a real highlight, offering a comfortable feel and a touch of sweetness to the tone. It’s perfect for players wanting a versatile 5-string with a vintage vibe and modern playability, especially those on a budget.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Caramelized sycamore neck offers a smooth, fast feel and unique character
- • Custom-wound VJB pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and punchy sound
- • Sung Il bridge with brass saddles enhances clarity and tuning stability
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction can limit high-end sustain compared to set-neck designs
- • Roseacer skunk stripe may not appeal to all players aesthetically
- • Budget-friendly components might require occasional setup adjustments
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 597069
$301
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
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Bass Players
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
This left-handed five-string fits well in a small shop or on a tour bus. The Canadian sycamore neck feels solid under your fingers while the custom pickups keep the low end tight. It suits left-handed players who need five strings but don't want to overspend.
PROS
- • Left-handed 5-string design fits smaller frames well
- • Alder body offers bright, punchy bass response
- • Canadian sycamore neck provides solid resonance
- • Custom wound AlNiCo pickups deliver tight low end
CONS
- • No weight is listed, likely heavy for lefties
- • Single volume control limits volume balancing options
- • Sung Il bridge is standard, not a premium unit
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 571188
$266
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
Natural Playing
Professional Performance
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton B-550 is a surprisingly solid package. The long scale and alder body give it a punchy, defined low end, perfect for rock, metal, or funk. It's a great entry point for 5-string bass players wanting a versatile and affordable instrument.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the sound.
- • Modern D neck profile is comfortable and fast for most players.
- • Die-cast tuners offer reliable tuning stability and easy adjustments.
- • Long scale (864mm) delivers tighter low-end response and improved clarity.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboards can show wear more easily than rosewood or ebony.
- • Humbucker pickups might be a bit too aggressive for some genres like jazz.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539266
$231
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
Natural Playing
Left-Handed Bass Players
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton B-550LH is a seriously impressive package for the price. The long scale and humbuckers give it a powerful, modern tone perfect for rock, metal, and funk. It's a great entry point for new 5-string players or a solid backup bass for more experienced musicians.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Modern D-neck profile is comfortable and fast for a wide range of playing styles.
- • Long scale (864mm) delivers tighter low-end response and improved clarity.
- • Die-cast tuners offer reliable tuning stability and precise adjustments.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboard can feel a bit harder than rosewood or ebony.
- • Humbucker pickups might lack the nuance needed for more delicate playing styles.
- • Gig bag is functional but basic; a hard case would offer better protection.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539267
$231
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
Extended Range
Advanced Techniques
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
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.
- • Die-cast tuners ensure stable tuning and reliable performance.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
- • Humbucker pickups, while powerful, limit versatility for cleaner, more nuanced tones.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while cost-effective, lacks the warmth of a set-neck.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 317318
$220
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
Extended Range
Natural Playing
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This lefty bass has a solid maple neck and a deep body cut for easy playing. The two bright single-coil pickups give a crisp, clean tone that stands out in a mix. It is a great choice for a left-handed player who wants a reliable, high-quality instrument without extra complexity.
PROS
- • Solid one-piece maple neck for stable tuning
- • Two distinct single coil pickups for bright tone
- • Deep cutaway design for easier finger access
- • High-quality bone nut for smooth fretboard feel
CONS
- • Left-handed configuration limits resale value
- • No listed weight makes total mass uncertain
- • Active/passive toggle requires battery maintenance
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 625138
$696
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
Extended Range
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This Sterling StingRay5 is a seriously good deal for a lefty. You're getting a lot of Music Man DNA – that aggressive StingRay tone and solid build – at a surprisingly affordable price. It’s a great workhorse bass for rock, funk, and heavier genres where you need that articulate, punchy low-end.
PROS
- • Jabon body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Maple neck provides excellent clarity and a comfortable, familiar feel.
- • H-1 humbuckers deliver a powerful, aggressive low-end punch.
- • Active preamp allows for significant tonal shaping and output boost.
CONS
- • Jabon can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more premium woods.
- • Open gear tuners aren't *quite* as precise as sealed gear alternatives.
- • 34” scale might feel long for players with smaller hands.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 585171
$626
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
Left-Handed Bass Players
Natural Playing
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This lefty MB-5LH is a fantastic entry point to 5-string bass playing. The coil-split humbucker gives you a surprising amount of tonal range, and the gig bag is a huge bonus. It's a great option for beginners or anyone needing a reliable, budget-friendly bass for practice or gigging.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm low-end.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy, responsive feel and quick action.
- • Humbucker with coil split unlocks versatility; cleans to growl in seconds.
- • Deluxe gig bag is genuinely well-padded and robust for protection.
CONS
- • Roseacer fingerboard might feel a little rough compared to ebony or maple.
- • Bolt-on construction lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • Factory strings are basic; an immediate upgrade is highly recommended.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 540388
$196
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
Professional Performance
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
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.
- • Die-cast bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain compared to cheaper options.
CONS
- • Factory strings are basic; an immediate upgrade will significantly improve playability.
- • Roseacer fretboard might exhibit minor fret sprout – a common budget bass issue.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to a neck-through design.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 508507
$173
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
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
This left-handed bass uses a mahogany body for warmth and Marcus Blue pickups for punch. It sits on a maple neck with rosewood fingerboard and offers great EQ control. It suits lefty players who want a solid, modern sound without extra setup costs.
PROS
- • Left-handed design fits musicians who play backwards
- • Mahogany body offers warm, resonant fundamental tones
- • Marcus Blue Humbuckers deliver thick, high-output sound
- • Heritage-3 preamp provides detailed frequency control
CONS
- • Transparent Black finish may show scratches easily
- • No string gauge options listed in the specs
- • Missing bridge or string tension data entirely
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 637078
$626
Ibanez SR305EBL-WK
by
Ibanez
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Proper Ergonomics
Advanced Techniques
Extended Range
Key Feature:
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.
- • 3-Way tap switch expands tonal versatility for various genres.
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.
- • Cosmo Black hardware, while visually appealing, is prone to minor finish wear.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 509716
$480
5-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 13 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $301
from $173 to $645
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 43 mm (1.69") to 45 mm (1.77") · 12 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 864 mm (34.02") to 864 mm (34.02") · 11 models
Frets
median 22
from 21 to 24 · 6 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 6 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 5-string · 13 models
Body
alder, okoume, mahogany
most common · 9 models
Fingerboard
jatoba, laurel, maple
most common · 9 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 241 mm (9.49") to 305 mm (12.01") · 6 models
How to Choose the Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses
1
Pickups
At this price, expect compromises. We're looking for pickups that offer decent articulation and a usable frequency response, avoiding the overly muddy or brittle tones that plague cheaper instruments. A little EQ can go a long way, but starting with decent pickups helps.
2
Neck Profile & Playability
A comfortable neck is everything. A neck that's too thick will fight you, a neck that's too thin can feel unstable. We're prioritizing necks that are easy to play for a range of hand sizes and playing styles, and that stay in tune under gigging conditions.
3
Hardware Quality
Cheap hardware means tuning instability and premature wear. We're looking for solid tuners that hold pitch, and a bridge that transfers string vibrations effectively - a poorly designed bridge will kill sustain.
4
Construction & Finish
Don't expect flawless finishes or figured maple tops. But we do expect decent construction - solid wood bodies (not just cheap veneer), well-aligned frets, and a neck joint that doesn't rattle. These things impact tone and longevity.
5
Overall Tone & Versatility
A good bass shouldn't be limited to one genre. We're looking for instruments that can handle everything from Motown grooves to modern metal, even if it requires some tweaking with EQ. That 'fat midrange honk' isn't always possible, but we're chasing a usable, adaptable tone.
Buying Guide
Under $800, you're making trade-offs. Expect simpler electronics, potentially less impressive hardware, and a more basic finish. The biggest corner cut is usually in the pickups - they're often serviceable but won't blow you away. Prioritize playability and neck comfort above all else; a bass you enjoy playing feels more expensive, even if it isn't. Don't be afraid to buy used - you can often score a much better instrument for your money.
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 13 5-string lefthanded basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 13 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
Absolutely. Pickup swaps are the easiest and cheapest way to improve a bass's tone. Even a modest upgrade can make a huge difference, especially if the stock pickups are muddy or lack articulation.
Finishes on budget basses are often thinner and more susceptible to chipping. It's not a dealbreaker, but handle it with care and consider a clear vinyl wrap for extra protection if you gig a lot.
Most new basses need a quick neck adjustment. Check the relief - a slight bow is normal - and adjust the truss rod if needed. A properly adjusted neck makes a massive difference in playability.
Not exactly. You'll get a usable tone, but you'll likely need to work with EQ and effects to get that polished studio sound. The bass itself is only one piece of the puzzle.
Almost always. You can often find a bass in much better condition, or even a higher-end model, within your budget by buying used. Just be sure to inspect it thoroughly before committing.
