AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 5-String P-Basses 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton MV-5PJ Burgundy Mist ($278). Harley Benton PJ-5 HTR Deluxe Series gives you the most for the money at $166. Sandberg California II VM 5 PF MR HG leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 29 models across 7 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
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All 5-String P-BassesTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- Strings5-string
This bass fits well in a budget-friendly shop if you need a five-string without breaking the bank. The solid alder body and maple neck feel sturdy under your hands. Two Alnico 5 pickups give a punchy sound that cuts through the mix. It suits players who want more than four strings but still need a reliable workhorse. Just keep in mind the weight isn't listed, so you might want to check that before buying.
Pros
- Affordable price point for a 5-string bass
- Solid alder body with bolt-on maple neck
- Dual Alnico 5 pickups for distinct tone
Cons
- No weight listed in the product description
- Single tone control limits EQ flexibility
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$278 now$278€249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyAlder body
The BB435 TBS is a seriously well-built 5-string P-Bass with a modern edge. The neck profile is fantastic for comfortable playing, and the pickup combination gives you a surprisingly wide palette of tones – from growly vintage to tighter, modern sounds. This is an excellent choice for players wanting a versatile, professional-feeling bass without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- Maple/Mahogany neck offers a warm, comfortable feel and stability
- Split single coil/bar single coil combo delivers a versatile range of tones
Cons
- Tobacco brown sunburst finish might not appeal to all players
- Long scale (864mm) can be a stretch for smaller hands
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$880 now$880€789 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
This Sadowsky MetroExp 21 Hyb PJ 5 is a seriously well-built instrument. The hybrid pickup setup gives you a huge tonal palette, and the roasted maple neck feels fantastic. It’s a great choice for gigging musicians needing versatility and a premium feel without the ultra-high-end price tag.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Roasted maple neck and fingerboard provide exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- Hybrid PJ pickup configuration delivers a wide range of tones, from growl to clarity.
Cons
- Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- Bolt-on neck, while stable, isn't preferred by players seeking maximum sustain.
62AudioFu
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
This Sadowsky MetroExp 21 HybPJ 5 is a serious contender for players wanting a versatile, well-built 5-string. The hybrid pickup setup provides a surprising amount of tonal range, and the roasted maple neck is a joy to play. It's perfect for session players or anyone needing a bass that can cover a lot of ground, from funk to rock.
Pros
- Okoume body offers excellent resonance and a balanced tone.
- Roasted maple neck provides stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- HybPJ pickup configuration delivers versatility – P-bass thump meets J-bass clarity.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be slightly harder than rosewood.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, isn't favored by some for sustain.
59AudioFu
Index↓ 9.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,225 · Aug 17$1,114 now$1,114€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius356 mm (14.02")
- Strings5-string
This Sandberg California II is a seriously well-built 5-string that nails that P-bass vibe with a modern twist. The split-coil pickup adds a unique edge, and the active/passive electronics give you a lot of tonal flexibility. It's a premium-priced option ideal for gigging musicians needing a reliable, versatile workhorse bass with a touch of German engineering.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a warm, resonant foundation for the tone.
- Sandberg’s split-coil/humbucker combo offers versatility and growl.
- Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and easy playability.
Cons
- Metallic Red finish might not appeal to all tastes – a bit flashy.
- Bolt-on construction, while responsive, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,285 now$2,285€2,049 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyPoplar body
This Harley Benton PJ-5 HTR Deluxe is a seriously impressive value. It's a fantastic option for gigging musicians or beginners wanting a versatile 5-string with a modern feel and a classic P/J tone. The build quality is surprisingly solid for the price point, making it a great all-around workhorse bass.
Pros
- Poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- Modern C neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of hand sizes.
- PJ pickup configuration delivers both punchy P-bass lows and bright J-bass highs.
Cons
- Bolt-on neck construction can limit sustain compared to neck-through designs.
- Roseacer fretboard might require a bit of initial fretwork for optimal playability.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
This PJ-75 is a serious contender for bassists on a budget. The Roswell pickups give it a surprisingly warm and growly tone, perfect for Motown, funk, and classic rock. It’s a great platform to build on and a fantastic value for the money.
Pros
- Roswell pickups deliver surprisingly punchy, vintage-voiced tones.
- Canadian maple neck provides a comfortable, stable playing experience.
- Amaranth fingerboard offers a smooth, durable playing surface.
Cons
- Poplar body, while resonant, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or alder.
- Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain compared to set-neck designs.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$222 now$222€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
The Marcus Miller P7 Alder 5 is a seriously well-equipped bass. It’s got that classic P-Bass vibe, but with modern upgrades like the fantastic preamp and versatile pickup combination. This is a great choice for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a premium-feeling 5-string without the high-end price tag.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a warm, punchy low-end response.
- Super-J/Super-P combo provides versatile tonal options, from clean to growly.
- Marcus Heritage-3 preamp offers exceptional EQ shaping and clarity.
Cons
- Alder body can make it feel a bit weighty for some players.
- The Dark Navy finish, while striking, might not appeal to all tastes.
55AudioFu
Index↓ 1.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$768 · Aug 17$757 now$757€679 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
- BodyAlder body
This Marcus Miller P5R is a seriously impressive instrument for the money. It nails that vintage P-Bass vibe with a modern twist thanks to the roasted maple neck and powerful pickups. It's perfect for players who want a workhorse 5-string for funk, blues, and classic rock without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- Vintage-Fat Precision pickups deliver a warm, punchy, and articulate tone.
- Alder body provides a balanced resonance with a pleasing mid-range presence.
Cons
- Rosewood fingerboard might feel a bit dry to some players; consider oiling.
- Alder body can be slightly susceptible to dents and scratches without protection.
53AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$556 · Aug 17$534 now$534€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
- Weight4.3 kg
This bass feels fast thanks to its roasted maple neck and extra frets. The single coil pickups give a bright, classic 60s tone but can be noisy. It suits players who want a simple, high-end feel without extra complexity.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck ensures stable intonation and fast string action.
Cons
- Single coil pickups can sound thin and noisy without shielding.
53AudioFu
Index↓ 8.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,192 · Aug 17$1,092 now$1,092€979 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 29 5-String P-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 OWHSadowsky · 2 finishes53↓ 8.4%$1,092€979$1,092€979Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton Enhanced MP-5MN NaturalHarley Benton · 5 finishes51Stable$389€349$389€349Check ↗
- 13
Sadowsky MetroExp 21 Hyb PJ 5 Morado OWSadowsky · 2 finishes51↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 14
Marcus Miller P7-5 Sandblasted CAR TEMarcus Miller50↓ 7.1%$724€649$724€649Check ↗
- 15
Schecter Stiletto Stealth 5 String Satin BlackStiletto Stealth-5 SBK · Schecter49Stable$886€795$886€795Check ↗
- 16
Marcus Miller P6-5 Sandblasted ButterscotchMarcus Miller48Stable$612€549$612€549Check ↗
- 17
Sadowsky MetroExpress 20-Fret RM 5 SBLSadowsky48↓ 7.2%$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 18
Fender Am Pro P-Bass V RW DKNFender · 3 finishes48Stable$2,508€2,249$2,508€2,249Check ↗
- 19
Sadowsky MetroExpress 20-Fret MO 5 CARSadowsky46↓ 7.0%$1,036€929$1,036€929Check ↗
- 20
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Morado BKSadowsky45↓ 4.8%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 21
Sandberg California II VT 5 Red BurstSandberg45Stable$2,229€1,999$2,229€1,999Check ↗
- 22
Sandberg California II VS 5 PF SA CWSandberg45Stable$2,508€2,249$2,508€2,249Check ↗
- 23
Sadowsky MetroLine 21 5 Vintage PJ BKSadowsky45Stable$4,682€4,199$4,682€4,199Check ↗
- 24
Marcus Miller P8-5 TSMarcus Miller43Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 25
Sandberg California II VT 5 Black MattSandberg43Stable$2,396€2,149$2,396€2,149Check ↗
- 26
Sandberg California VM5 OM HR-AgedSandberg43Stable$3,009€2,699$3,009€2,699Check ↗
- 27
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Hyb Solid BlackSadowsky43Stable$3,677€3,298$3,677€3,298Check ↗
- 28
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-5 Hyb SGMSadowsky43Stable$4,459€3,999$4,459€3,999Check ↗
- 29
Sandberg California II VM5 NighthawkSandberg37Stable$2,229€1,999$2,229€1,999Check ↗
5-String P-Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 72 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,092 — half of all 5-String P-Basses here cost less.
median of 65 models · 43 mm (1.69")–47.5 mm (1.87")
median of 68 models · 864 mm (34.02")–864 mm (34.02")
most common · 16 models
median of 70 models · 5-string–5-string
How to choose the best 5-String P-Basses
Neck Profile & Width
A wider neck is standard on 5-string basses, and it's crucial. You need space for those bigger strings, otherwise, you'll be fighting intonation and getting muddy notes. Find a profile that fits your hand - a thicker C or D profile is common, but comfort is king.
String Spacing & Intonation
That extra string creates a lot of tension. Narrow string spacing can make it feel cramped, while too wide spacing is a pain to navigate. Intonation is even more critical; a poorly intonated 5-string sounds awful, especially in the lower registers. Expect to have it professionally set up.
Pickup Voicing & Balance
The classic P-Bass pickup voicing is known for that fundamental, punchy tone, but it needs to be tweaked for a 5-string. You need clarity and definition in the B range - it shouldn't just be a rumble. Balance between the strings is key; no one wants a B string that drowns everything else.
Body Wood & Construction
While tonewood is often overhyped, body wood does affect sustain and resonance. Alder is the standard, offering a balanced tone. Cheaper models might use less resonant woods, which will impact the overall feel and sustain. Bolt-on necks are common but generally offer less sustain than set-neck construction.
Hardware Quality & Tuning Stability
Cheap hardware means headaches. Look for solid tuners that hold their tune under the increased tension of the extra string. A good bridge is essential for accurate intonation and string termination. Expect to replace some hardware on budget models.
Buying guide
So, you're looking at a 5-string P-Bass. Smart move - that extra low B string opens up a whole new world of possibilities, from monstrous low-end thump to extended range riffage. But slapping a fifth string onto a Precision Bass isn't as simple as just adding a string. It changes the whole game, and finding the right one requires knowing what to listen for. Let's break down what to look for in a 5-string P that'll actually hold up to gigs and recording sessions.
Don't be fooled by flashy finishes or low prices. The fifth string is a significant engineering challenge for a P-Bass. Cheap instruments often cut corners on neck reinforcement, pickup design, and hardware, leading to intonation problems, muddy low-end, and tuning instability.
Paying a little more for a well-made instrument with a comfortable neck and properly voiced pickups is worth it - you'll be happier in the long run, especially when you're trying to cut through a live band or lay down a solid bassline in a studio.
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 72 5-String P-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 5-string P-Basses harder to play than 4-string P-Basses?
Absolutely. The wider neck and increased string tension demand more finger strength and dexterity. It takes time to adjust, but the added range is worth the effort.
Do I need a different amp for a 5-string P-Bass?
It depends on your amp, but a 5-string often requires more headroom to handle the lower frequencies cleanly. A smaller practice amp might sound muddy, while a larger amp with good low-end response will be your friend.
What about string gauge? What's best for a 5-string B?
Heavier gauge strings are generally needed for the B string to maintain proper tension and intonation. Experiment to find what feels comfortable and sounds best with your setup. Around .050-.105 is a good starting point.
Can I just put a 5-string neck on a 4-string P-Bass?
Technically possible, but it's a complex modification. You'll likely need to adjust the body pocket, bridge, and electronics. It's generally easier (and cheaper) to buy a dedicated 5-string P-Bass.
Are 5-string P-Basses suitable for all music genres?
While they excel in genres like metal, funk, and progressive rock where that low B is essential, they can be versatile in others. It's about finding the right tone and playing style to suit the music - a scooped mid-range can help it cut through a rock mix.
