Best Bass Guitar Sets Under $300 2026
Alright, so you're on a budget but still need a bass that'll hold its own in a band or even record a decent track? Finding a complete bass set under $300 that isn't total garbage is a challenge, but not impossible. We've sifted through the noise to find a few options that offer surprising value - they won't blow your mind, but they'll get you playing and gigging without breaking the bank. Let's be realistic: you're making compromises, but we'll point out which ones matter most.
Last updated: August 27, 2026
⚡ The best bass guitar sets in 2026 are Harley Benton MB-5 SB Deluxe Series Bundle (top pick), Harley Benton B-450 Black Bundle 1 for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton JB-75MN NA Vint. Series Pack for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $220–$290, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Harley Benton MB-5 SB Deluxe Series Bundle
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Complete Setup
Starter Package
Beginners
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players needing a budget-friendly 5-string bass. The included amp is surprisingly capable for practice and smaller gigs, and the coil-split pickup adds a nice touch of versatility. It’s a solid package for someone wanting a playable, decent-sounding bass without a huge investment.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides comfortable access and snappy response.
- • Coil-split humbucker adds versatility – cleans to gritty rock tones.
- • HB-20B amp delivers decent power and surprisingly warm tube emulation.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while resonant, lacks the premium sustain of mahogany or ash.
- • Bolt-on neck joint might not appeal to players preferring set-neck feel.
- • Budget-friendly components mean some hardware feels a bit plasticky.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 540387
$256
Harley Benton B-450 Black Bundle 1
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
350 mm (13.78")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Budget-Conscious
Beginners
Complete Setup
Key Feature:
The Harley Benton B-450 bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginner to intermediate bassists looking for a versatile and well-equipped setup. The long scale and active preamp give it a modern, punchy sound that works well for rock, pop, and even some funk styles. It’s a surprisingly solid package for the budget-conscious player.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Active preamp delivers a significant boost and tonal shaping flexibility.
- • Canadian maple neck offers stability and a comfortable, modern D profile.
- • Die-cast tuners ensure reliable tuning stability, crucial for longer gigs.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboard might feel slightly softer than rosewood to some players.
- • 8in speaker on the HB-20B amp limits low-end extension and headroom.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the warmth of a set-neck.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 338562
$279
Harley Benton JB-75MN NA Vint. Series Pack
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
First Bass Guitar
Beginners
Starter Package
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton JB-75MN is a seriously impressive value. It nails that classic P-bass tone, feels surprisingly well-built, and the vintage-inspired aesthetics are spot-on. It's perfect for beginners or seasoned players wanting an affordable workhorse for rock, blues, or Motown.
PROS
- • American ash body delivers resonant, balanced tone with good sustain
- • Canadian Hard Rock maple neck offers stability and comfortable, familiar profile
- • Roswell JBA pickups provide authentic P-bass growl with surprising clarity
- • Sung Il bridge with brass saddles enhances sustain and tuning stability
CONS
- • High-gloss finish may feel plasticky to some; a satin option would be preferable
- • Rosewood fretboard is a bit of a missed opportunity for a 'vintage' vibe
- • Neck profile, while comfortable, might be too thin for players with larger hands
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 544100
$291
Harley Benton JB-75FL SB Vintage Seri Set
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Gift Purchase
Beginners
Budget-Conscious
Key Feature:
This set sounds like a classic jazz bass but costs a fraction of the price. The fretless maple neck and ash body make it easy to play smooth, warm notes. It pairs with a small 20W amp that cuts well in quiet rooms but won't fill a big hall. Great for students or session players who want that vintage vibe without the luxury price tag.
PROS
- • American ash body offers a classic vintage tone foundation
- • Fretless neck provides a smooth, jazz-friendly playing surface
- • Alnico 5 pickups deliver warm, articulate single-coil clarity
- • Affordable price point delivers premium build quality
CONS
- • 20W power limit restricts live gig volume capabilities
- • Single 8-inch speaker lacks low-end punch for rock
- • No bass-specific controls or EQ adjustments available
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 557938
$291
Harley Benton JB-62CC LPB Set
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Beginners
Complete Setup
Budget-Conscious
Key Feature:
This JB-62CC LPB set is a fantastic entry point for players wanting a classic P-bass vibe. The Roswell pickups are a real highlight, delivering a surprisingly articulate and punchy tone. It's ideal for beginners, gigging musicians on a budget, or anyone seeking a reliable and fun short-scale bass.
PROS
- • Roswell pickups deliver surprisingly punchy, vintage-voiced tones.
- • Comfort body and D-profile neck offer a very playable experience.
- • Laurel fingerboard provides a smooth, familiar feel under the fingers.
- • Bolt-on neck construction ensures a bright, responsive attack.
CONS
- • Basswood body, while comfortable, lacks the sustain of mahogany or ash.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and may benefit from upgrades.
- • Short scale (34.02 in) limits low-end extension and versatility.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 557097
$267
Harley Benton JB-62 SB Set
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Beginners
First Bass Guitar
Complete Setup
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton JB-62 SB set is a fantastic entry point for players chasing a classic P-Bass vibe. The combination of the bolt-on neck, Roswell pickups, and included amp makes it a surprisingly capable and affordable package, ideal for beginners or those wanting a reliable gigging bass without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Roswell pickups deliver surprisingly articulate and punchy vintage tones.
- • Caramelized maple neck offers a comfortable, fast feel with decent playability.
- • Basswood body provides a lightweight and resonant platform for the pickups.
- • HB-20B combo amp is a useful starter amp with a decent TEC circuit.
CONS
- • Basswood body, while lightweight, lacks the tonal complexity of mahogany or ash.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to neck-through designs.
- • Laurel fretboard can be prone to slight dryness and may require occasional oiling.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 557106
$267
Harley Benton JB-62CC SFG Set
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Beginners
Gift Purchase
First Bass Guitar
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton JB-62CC SFG set is a fantastic value for players chasing a classic P-Bass vibe. The short scale makes it super comfortable, especially for smaller hands or those preferring a quicker feel, and the Roswell pickups provide a surprisingly authentic vintage tone. It’s perfect for beginners or budget-conscious players wanting a quality instrument and amp combo.
PROS
- • Roswell pickups deliver surprisingly articulate and warm vintage tones.
- • Caramelized maple neck offers a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
- • Poplar body provides a balanced resonance, surprisingly well-built for the price.
- • The included HB-20B amp is a decent starter, offering usable bass tones.
CONS
- • Hardware (tuners, bridge) feels a bit basic and might be upgrade candidates later.
- • Seafoam Green finish, while cool, can be a fingerprint magnet and show wear easily.
- • Short scale (34") limits low-end extension compared to a standard 35” bass.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 557109
$267
Harley Benton PB-50 SB Vintage Series Set
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
12 kg
First Bass Guitar
Starter Package
Complete Setup
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton set is a seriously impressive package for the price. The PB-50 bass nails that classic P-Bass vibe, and the HB-40B amp is a surprisingly capable practice amp. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a vintage-inspired bass setup without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, punchy low-end response.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickup provides authentic vintage Precision Bass tone.
- • HB-40B amp offers surprisingly good clean and driven tones.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a comfortable, familiar feel for many players.
CONS
- • Basswood can be a bit 'woody' – lacks the sustain of mahogany.
- • The TEC circuit is a novelty; don’t expect true tube amp magic.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain and complexity.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 560983
$267
Harley Benton PB-50 LH FR Vintage Ser Set
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
12 kg
First Bass Guitar
Gift Purchase
Budget-Conscious
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PB-50 LH FR is a surprisingly capable left-hand bass and amp combo. It nails the classic P-bass vibe with a solid low-end and a decent, if not spectacular, practice amp. This is a fantastic entry point for beginners or a budget-friendly option for players wanting a vintage-inspired tone.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, resonant low-end foundation.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickups capture a classic Precision Bass tone.
- • Canadian maple neck offers a comfortable, stable playing experience.
- • 40W amp provides ample volume and surprisingly good clean tones.
CONS
- • Basswood can lack upper-midrange definition for some players.
- • The TEC circuit is a gimmick; don't expect true tube warmth.
- • Finish quality is adequate but not premium; expect minor blemishes.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 560986
$267
Harley Benton PB-50 FR Vintage Series Set
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
12 kg
Gift Purchase
Complete Setup
Starter Package
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton set is a fantastic entry point for players chasing that classic Precision Bass vibe. The combo amp is a bonus, offering a decent starting point for amplification, though it's not a high-end studio solution. It's perfect for beginners, gigging musicians on a tight budget, or anyone wanting a reliable, vintage-voiced bass without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, resonant tone ideal for vintage-inspired sounds.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickups provide a surprisingly authentic, punchy Precision Bass character.
- • The 40W combo amp offers a decent range of tones and a useful integrated compressor.
- • Bolt-on maple neck ensures comfortable playability and consistent action across the fretboard.
CONS
- • Basswood can lack the sustain of more premium tonewoods like Ash or Mahogany.
- • The amp's TEC circuit is a gimmick; don't expect true tube amp warmth.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while playable, lacks the premium feel of a set neck.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 561001
$267
Harley Benton PB-50 SB Vintage Series Set
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Gift Purchase
Complete Setup
Beginners
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PB-50 set is a fantastic entry point for players chasing that classic Precision Bass vibe. The combination of a comfortable neck, decent pickups, and a serviceable amp makes it ideal for beginners or anyone on a budget wanting a vintage-inspired tone. It’s a solid package that punches way above its price point.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, round tone suitable for vintage styles.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickup provides a surprisingly articulate and punchy single-coil sound.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers comfortable playability and snappy response.
- • HB-20B combo amp provides a decent starting point for practice and small gigs.
CONS
- • Basswood can lack the sustain and complexity of more premium tonewoods.
- • The HB-20B amp’s TEC circuit can sound a little artificial and compressed.
- • Bolt-on necks, while comfortable, don't offer the same resonance as set-neck construction.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 560982
$221
Harley Benton PB-50 LH FR Vintage Ser Set
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Budget-Conscious
Starter Package
First Bass Guitar
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PB-50 LH is a surprisingly solid package for left-handed players looking for a vintage P-bass vibe. The amp is a bonus for getting started, though it's best considered a practice tool. It's a great entry point to the genre at a budget-friendly price.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, resonant low-end characteristic of vintage P-basses.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickups offer a surprisingly authentic vintage Precision Bass tone.
- • The HB-20B amp provides a decent starting point for practice and small gigs.
- • Left-hand specific design ensures comfortable playability for southpaw players.
CONS
- • Basswood body, while warm, lacks the sustain and clarity of more premium woods.
- • The HB-20B amp’s TEC circuit is a novelty; don’t expect high-end tube tone.
- • Hardware, while functional, might feel a bit 'budget' compared to higher-end basses.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 560985
$221
Harley Benton PB-50 FR Vintage Series Set
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Complete Setup
Gift Purchase
Beginners
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton set is a fantastic entry point for players chasing that vintage Precision Bass vibe. The PB-50 bass delivers a solid, punchy tone, and the included amp is surprisingly capable for practice and smaller gigs. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a budget-friendly, classic bass setup.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickups nail that classic Precision Bass growl.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers comfortable playability and snappy response.
- • HB-20B amp provides surprisingly decent clean and driven tones.
CONS
- • Basswood can be a bit lifeless compared to more premium tonewoods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain and complexity.
- • TEC circuit in the amp can sound a little artificial at higher gain levels.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 561000
$221
Harley Benton PJ-5 HTR Deluxe Series Set 2
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Poplar body
Weight
12 kg
Budget-Conscious
First Bass Guitar
Starter Package
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PJ-5 HTR set is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players on a budget who want a versatile 5-string bass. The combo amp is surprisingly decent for practice and small gigs, and the PJ pickups offer a wide range of tones. It's a well-rounded package that delivers a lot of bang for your buck.
PROS
- • Poplar body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Modern C neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of players
- • PJ pickup configuration offers versatility from growl to clarity
- • HB-40B amp’s TEC circuit adds a pleasing warmth and tube-like character
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain compared to neck-through designs
- • Roseacer fretboard may require a little more upkeep to prevent dryness
- • Poplar body, while good, isn't as tonally complex as Alder or Ash
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 324264
$291
Harley Benton B-450 White Bundle 1
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Complete Setup
Gift Purchase
First Bass Guitar
Key Feature:
The Harley Benton B-450 White Bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players on a budget who want a versatile, modern bass sound. The active preamp and humbucker pickups deliver a powerful, punchy tone suitable for rock, pop, and even some heavier genres, while the long scale provides a comfortable, familiar feel. It’s a solid package that delivers a lot of value for the money.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Progressive D-profile neck is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles
- • Active preamp adds versatility and a modern, punchy low-end
- • Die-cast tuners offer reliable tuning stability and accurate intonation
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction might lack the sustain of a neck-through design
- • Black walnut fretboard can be prone to slight stickiness in humid conditions
- • The included amp's TEC circuit may introduce a subtle coloration to the sound
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 338556
$279
Every bass guitar sets that matches
49 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 PB-20 Standard SBK Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 12 kg | $267 |
| 17 | Harley Benton JB-20 BM St. Series Bundle | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 12 kg | $267 |
| 18 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty SBK Standard Bundle | Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 19 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $256 |
| 19 | Harley Benton JB22-Set 2 | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 12 kg | $244 |
| 20 | Harley Benton HBP120BK LH Bundle 2 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 12 kg | $244 |
| 21 | Harley Benton HBP120-Set 2 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 12 kg | $232 |
| 22 | Harley Benton PB-20 SBK Standard Set | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $232 |
| 23 | Harley Benton JB22-Set 1 | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $209 |
| 24 | Harley Benton HBP120-Set 1 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $209 |
| 25 | Harley Benton HBP120BK LH Bundle 1 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $209 |
| 26 | Harley Benton JB-20 SB LH Bundle | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $209 |
| 27 | Harley Benton PB-20 BK Standard Series Pack | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $209 |
| 28 | Harley Benton JB-20 CA Standard Series Set | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $209 |
| 29 | Harley Benton JB-75MN SB Vintage Seri Bundle | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile D-shape neck · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $291 |
| 30 | Harley Benton JB-62CC OW Bundle | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile D-shape neck · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $279 |
| 31 | Harley Benton JB-62 LH CC SFG Set | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile D-shape neck · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $279 |
| 32 | Harley Benton JB-62CC SP Set | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile D-shape neck · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $267 |
| 33 | Harley Benton JB-62CC BK Set | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile D-shape neck · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $267 |
| 34 | Harley Benton PJ-4 HTR Deluxe Series Set 2 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Weight 12 kg | $267 |
| 35 | Harley Benton PB-50 LH SB Vintage Ser Set | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Weight 12 kg | $267 |
| 36 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. Set 2 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 19 frets · Body Poplar body · Weight 12 kg | $244 |
| 37 | Harley Benton PJ-5 SBK Deluxe Series Bundle | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Poplar body · Weight 7.5 kg | $244 |
| 38 | Harley Benton PJ-4 HTR Deluxe Series Set 1 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Weight 7.5 kg | $232 |
| 39 | Harley Benton MB-4LH SBK Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck · Weight 7.5 kg | $232 |
| 40 | Harley Benton PB-50 LH SB Vintage Ser Set | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Weight 7.5 kg | $221 |
| 41 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. Set 1 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 19 frets · Body Poplar body · Weight 7.5 kg | $209 |
| 42 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty LH BK Std. Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 19 frets · Body Poplar body · Weight 7.5 kg | $209 |
| 43 | Hamaril Bassguitar Set 1 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 12 kg | $267 |
| 44 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Standard Set 2 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 12 kg | $232 |
| 45 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Standard Set | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $209 |
| 46 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Standard Set 1 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $197 |
| 47 | Harley Benton PB-20 BK Standard Series Set | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $186 |
| 48 | Harley Benton PJ-4 SBK Deluxe Series Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body · Weight 7.5 kg | $244 |
| 49 | Harley Benton PJ-4 SBK Deluxe Series Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body · Weight 1.3 kg | $221 |
Bass Guitar Sets by the numbers
Measured across all 49 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $244
from $209 to $291
Nut width
median 42 mm (1.65")
from 38 mm (1.5") to 42 mm (1.65") · 48 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 762 mm (30") to 864 mm (34.02") · 49 models
Frets
median 20
from 19 to 21 · 32 models
Body
poplar, basswood, ash
most common · 46 models
Fingerboard
laurel, maple, jatoba
most common · 37 models
Weight
median 7.5 kg
from 7.5 kg to 12 kg · 48 models
Neck profile
D, C
most common · 20 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 350 mm (13.78") · 8 models
How to Choose the Best Bass Guitar Sets
1
Pickups
In this price range, expect basic ceramic pickups. They'll give you a serviceable low-end thump, but don't expect nuanced vintage growl or searing high-end articulation. The voicing will likely be a bit mid-focused to try and cut through the mix.
2
Neck Profile
This is HUGE. A poorly shaped neck can make playing a misery. We're looking for something comfortable - typically a C or D profile - that allows for decent access to the higher frets. A thick, unwieldy neck will kill your speed and dexterity.
3
Hardware Quality
Tuners, bridge, and strap buttons are the first things to fail. Cheap hardware means tuning instability and a generally fragile feel. Don't expect locking tuners or a premium bridge, but anything that functions reliably is a win.
4
Body Wood & Construction
Most basses in this range will be made of basswood or nato - perfectly fine for the price, but not tonewoods known for incredible resonance. Bolt-on necks are the norm, which is a compromise compared to set-neck construction but keeps costs down.
5
Playability (Action & Setup)
The factory setup is often atrocious. High action, sharp fret edges - it's all part of the budget equation. Be prepared to adjust the action, intonation, and maybe even get a fret level if you want it truly playable.
Buying Guide
Real talk: you're trading off somewhere. Don't expect premium materials or boutique pickups. Focus on the neck profile - if it feels awful in your hands, it doesn't matter how 'loud' the pickups are. Budget for a basic setup from a local tech - it'll make a world of difference. And be honest with yourself about your skill level; a bass that's slightly harder to play will highlight any technical shortcomings.
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 49 bass guitar sets 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
They can be, but you'll need to be smart about it. DI recording is your friend - EQ and compression can work wonders to compensate for the pickups' limitations. Don't expect studio-quality tones straight from the amp.
Absolutely. Pickups are the easiest and most impactful upgrade. Aftermarket pickups, even budget ones, will offer a significant improvement in tone and articulation.
P-basses generally have a warmer, rounder tone with more low-end thump, while J-basses offer a brighter, more articulate sound with a more defined midrange. It's a matter of personal preference and the music you play.
Yes! The bass set won't produce any sound without an amplifier. A small practice amp is a great starting point, but a full-range PA system is ideal for band rehearsals or gigs.
A basic setup from a reputable tech should cost between $50 and $100. It's well worth the investment to make the bass playable and in tune.
