AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 5-String P-Basses for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Yamaha BB435-BL 5-String Black ($880). Harley Benton Enhanced MP-5MN Natural w/Bag gives you the most for the money at $407. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 29 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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- 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 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 ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built hybrid bass, offering a great blend of P-bass thump and J-bass bite. The roasted maple neck and comfortable radius make it a joy to play, and the active/passive switching gives you a ton of tonal options. It's a premium-priced instrument ideal for gigging musicians wanting a versatile and reliable 5-string.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- Hybrid PJ pickup configuration delivers versatility from growl to clarity.
- Sadowsky's 2-way electronics provide active punch with easy passive bypass.
Cons
- Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- Bolt-on neck, while stable, doesn't offer the sustain of a neck-through design.
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 ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- Strings5-string
This bass gives you a warm, thick tone thanks to the mahogany body and modern pickups. The bolt-on maple neck stays tight and true, which is great for long gigs. It suits players who want a bold, clear sound without extra electronics.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides deep, warm resonance for big sound.
- Maple bolt-on neck ensures rock-solid tuning stability.
- Super-PJ Revolution pickups deliver clear, modern tone.
Cons
- No weight information provided makes carrying unknown.
- Blender control is a passive-only feature, not active.
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- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
This Harley Benton is a seriously impressive package. The blend of Roswell pickups and active EQ gives you a wide range of tones, from punchy Motown to modern rock. It’s a fantastic option for players wanting a 5-string P-bass vibe without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Swamp ash body delivers resonant, balanced tone with excellent sustain
- Roswell pickups offer a surprisingly versatile blend of growl and clarity
- Modern 'C' neck profile is comfortable and easy to play for extended periods
Cons
- Swamp ash body can make it a bit weighty, especially for smaller players
- Active EQ adds versatility, but may introduce some noise at higher gain settings
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Schecter Stiletto Stealth 5 String Satin Black
Stiletto Stealth-5 SBK · Schecter
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale889 mm (35")
- Strings5-string
- BodyBasswood body
The Stiletto Stealth-5 is a solid, modern 5-string that punches way above its price point. The active EQ and versatile pickups make it incredibly adaptable for rock, metal, and even funk. It's an excellent choice for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a powerful, comfortable bass without the premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Basswood body delivers a warm, resonant low-end with surprising sustain.
- Thin 'C' neck profile offers excellent playability and comfort for extended sessions.
- Active EQ provides tonal shaping versatility, boosting lows or taming highs.
Cons
- Basswood can be somewhat prone to feedback at high volumes without careful EQing.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the inherent warmth of a set-neck.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$886 now$886€795 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
The Marcus Miller P6-5 Sandblasted Butterscotch is a seriously good-sounding and playing bass. Its blend of mahogany warmth, ash clarity, and Marcus Miller’s signature pickups makes it ideal for funk, soul, and modern R&B players who want a premium instrument without a premium-priced tag. The electronics offer a ton of tonal options, too.
Pros
- Mahogany/Ash body combo delivers a warm, resonant, and articulate tone.
- Marcus Super-PJ Revolution pickups provide a versatile range of sounds, from clean to growly.
- The Marcus Heritage-3 electronics offer extensive tonal shaping and passive switching.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make it slightly heavier than some basses – a strap is recommended.
- Rosewood fingerboard might feel a bit dry to some players, conditioning is advised.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$612 now$612€549 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 MetroExpress 20-Fret RM 5 SBLSadowsky48↓ 7.2%$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
- 12
Sadowsky MetroExpress 20-Fret MO 5 CARSadowsky46↓ 7.0%$1,036€929$1,036€929Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton MV-5PJ Daphne Blue w/CaseHarley Benton · 8 finishes62Stable$311€279$311€279Check ↗
- 14
Marcus Miller P8-5 TSMarcus Miller43Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton PJ-75 VW Vintage Series w/BagHarley Benton · 3 finishes53↑ 5.0%$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 16
Sadowsky MetroExp 21 HybPJ 5 Morado SILSadowsky · 6 finishes59↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton PJ-5 HTR Deluxe Series w/BagHarley Benton · 6 finishes55↑ 3.8%$184€165$184€165Check ↗
- 18
Sandberg California II VM 5 PF MR HGSandberg · 6 finishes58Stable$2,285€2,049$2,285€2,049Check ↗
- 19
Sadowsky MetroExp 21 Hyb PJ 5 Morado OWSadowsky · 2 finishes51↓ 9.1%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 20
Fender Am Pro P-Bass V RW DKNFender · 3 finishes48Stable$2,508€2,249$2,508€2,249Check ↗
- 21
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Morado BKSadowsky45↓ 4.8%$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 22
Sandberg California II VT 5 Red BurstSandberg45Stable$2,229€1,999$2,229€1,999Check ↗
- 23
Sandberg California II VS 5 PF SA CWSandberg45Stable$2,508€2,249$2,508€2,249Check ↗
- 24
Sadowsky MetroLine 21 5 Vintage PJ BKSadowsky45Stable$4,682€4,199$4,682€4,199Check ↗
- 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
For intermediate players, a comfortable neck is non-negotiable. Thick, D-shaped necks can feel unwieldy, while overly thin profiles can lack sustain. We're looking for something in the mid-range - a C or even a modern 'D' shape that allows for good reach without feeling like a wrestling match.
Pickup Voicing
That classic P-Bass thump is great, but a 5-string often needs a little something extra to cut through the mix. We're prioritizing pickups that retain the P-Bass character but offer a bit more clarity and a slightly broader frequency response - avoiding overly dark or muddy low-mids.
String Spacing & Width
The wider string spacing on a 5-string P-Bass can be a challenge. Too narrow, and you'll be muting strings constantly. Too wide, and it's a reach. We're favoring instruments with a comfortable balance - wide enough for clean playing, but not so wide it feels like you're playing a harp.
Hardware & Construction
Let's be realistic; budget instruments cut corners. We're assessing the quality of the tuners (do they hold tune?), the bridge (is it stable?), and the overall build quality (does it feel solid or flimsy?). Cheap hardware will haunt you on stage.
Scale Length & String Tension
A standard 34" scale is common, but the extra string adds tension. This affects playability and intonation. We're looking for instruments that compensate well, either through setup adjustments or slightly lighter gauge strings that still deliver a solid low-B.
Buying guide
So, you're leveling up from a 4-string and eyeing that extra low B? Smart move. A 5-string P-Bass opens up a whole new world of possibilities, but it's not just about slapping on an extra string. It's about finding an instrument that feels good, plays reliably, and doesn't punish you while you're learning the ropes. This list isn't about the boutique dream machines; it's about solid, dependable 5-string P-Basses that won't break the bank and will actually inspire you to practice.
Don't chase the 'vintage' vibe if playability is your priority. A modern bass with a comfortable neck and well-adjusted setup will serve you better than a relic'd instrument with a thick, unwieldy neck. Pay attention to the nut - a poorly cut nut is a common source of intonation problems and string buzz.
And seriously, get a proper setup from a qualified tech as soon as you get it; even a good bass needs to be dialed in.
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
Is a 5-string P-Bass harder to play than a 4-string?
Absolutely. The wider neck and increased string tension demand more finger strength and dexterity. It's a learning curve, but a comfortable instrument makes a huge difference.
What gauge strings should I use on a 5-string P-Bass?
Generally, a heavier gauge is needed to maintain tension and prevent a floppy low B. Start around 45-55 gauge and experiment from there. Lighter strings might feel easier, but the low B will sound weak.
Will a 5-string P-Bass sound 'better' than a 4-string?
'Better' is subjective. It offers different tonal possibilities, but it's not inherently superior. It's about finding the right tool for the job and your personal style.
My 5-string P-Bass intonation is off - what's happening?
String spacing and the extra string's tension can exacerbate intonation issues. Double-check your string gauge, saddle position, and overall setup. A professional setup is often necessary.
Can I use the same amp settings on a 5-string as I do with my 4-string?
Probably not. The extra low B will likely require EQ adjustments to avoid muddiness. You might need to cut some low-mids or boost the highs to achieve a balanced sound. Experiment with your amp's EQ and consider a graphic EQ pedal.
