AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Thomann Child / Youth Double Basses 2026
The top pick is Thomann 33 1/2 Europe Double Bass ($1,969). Thomann 11 1/8 Europe Double Bass gives you the most for the money at $1,339. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 11 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
- Size1/2 size
This Thomann 33 1/2 Europe is a solid starter bass for younger students or smaller adults needing a manageable size. The spruce top gives it a pleasing warmth, and the German setup is a real bonus—you're getting a playable instrument right out of the box. It’s a well-made, affordable option for those beginning their double bass journey.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a warm, resonant, and projecting tone.
- European craftsmanship ensures a generally high level of build quality and attention to detail.
- Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth playing surface for comfortable technique.
Cons
- 1/2 size is strictly for younger or smaller players; may feel cramped for adults.
- Solid maple back, while common, limits tonal complexity compared to more exotic woods.
54AudioFu
Index↑ 6.1%since Aug 14$1,857 · Aug 14$1,969 now$1,969€1,750 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
- Size1/4 size
This Thomann 33 1/4 is a surprisingly capable student-level double bass. The solid top gives it a better sound than many entry-level models, and the European setup is a real plus. It's a solid choice for younger players or those just starting out and needing a smaller instrument – don’t expect professional-level performance, but it’s a great foundation.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a surprisingly resonant and mature tone for a 1/4 size.
- European craftsmanship ensures a generally solid build quality and attention to detail.
- Tyrolean machine heads offer smoother tuning than many budget basses.
Cons
- 1/4 size limits its suitability for taller or more advanced players; feels cramped.
- Solid maple back, while structurally sound, might lack the tonal complexity of a figured maple back.
54AudioFu
Index↑ 5.9%since Aug 14$1,902 · Aug 14$2,014 now$2,014€1,790 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size1/8 size
This Thomann 1/8 double bass is a solid entry point for young students or smaller players getting into the instrument. The German-made construction and spruce top give it a surprisingly good sound, and the setup process means it'll be playable right out of the box. It's a well-rounded package for a beginner, offering a good foundation for developing proper technique.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers surprisingly warm, resonant tone for its class
- German craftsmanship ensures good build quality and consistent playability
- Ebony fretboard offers a smooth playing surface, resisting wear
Cons
- Laminated back and sides limit potential for complex overtones and projection
- 1/8 size is strictly for younger or smaller players, limiting long-term use
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$1,339 now$1,339€1,190 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size1/2 size
This is a solid 1/2 size bass built for kids who need a reliable instrument. It arrives ready to play after being carefully set up in Germany for any style you prefer. The maple back is sturdy and the endpin adjusts easily for different heights. Just remember you will need to order a bow separately and wait a few days for the final tuning.
Pros
- Ready to play from the German specialist workshop
- Individual setup for jazz, classical, or rockabilly styles
- Laminated maple back provides strong structural integrity
Cons
- No bow included in the box
- Shipping requires heavy freight carrier delivery
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,789 now$1,789€1,590 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size1/4 size
This Thomann 22 1/4 Europa is a solid choice for a serious young double bass student. The solid spruce top gives it a surprising amount of depth for a smaller instrument, and the setup from Thomann’s workshop is a real bonus—it’ll be ready to play right out of the box. It's a great value, offering quality materials and construction at a reasonable price point.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a surprisingly resonant and mature tone for a student bass
- Laminated maple back provides stability and projects well, avoiding overly brittle sound
- Tyrolean machine heads offer smooth tuning and a classic aesthetic touch
Cons
- The 1/4 size is strictly for younger or smaller students; growth room is limited
- Laminated back construction, while stable, won’t match the tonal complexity of all-solid instruments
47AudioFu
Index↑ 6.3%since Aug 14$1,789 · Aug 14$1,902 now$1,902€1,690 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size1/2 size
This Thomann 22 1/2 Europe is a solid choice for younger or smaller students embarking on their double bass journey. The spruce top gives it a surprisingly good voice for an instrument in this price range, and the included setup promises a playable experience right out of the box. It's a well-built, affordable option to get started.
Pros
- Solid spruce top provides a resonant, projecting tone, ideal for student development
- Arched maple back offers structural integrity and a warm, focused sound
- Ebony fingerboard ensures smooth playing and precise intonation
Cons
- 1/2 size limits suitability for taller or more advanced players
- Laminated back, while functional, won’t match the tonal complexity of all-solid instruments
47AudioFu
Index↑ 6.1%since Aug 14$1,857 · Aug 14$1,969 now$1,969€1,750 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size1/10 size
This Thomann 1/10 Europa is a solid starter bass for younger students or those needing a smaller instrument. The European setup is a real bonus, meaning it's playable right away, and the laminated construction provides decent volume without being overly complex. It's a well-built option for those just starting their double bass journey.
Pros
- European workshop setup ensures a playable instrument out of the box
- Laminated maple back provides good projection for a student bass
- Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and durability
Cons
- Laminated construction limits tonal complexity compared to solid wood models
- 1/10 size is restrictive for taller players or those needing a full-scale feel
46AudioFu
Index↑ 8.4%since Aug 14$1,339 · Aug 14$1,452 now$1,452€1,290 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size1/8 size
This Thomann 33 1/8 is a solid entry point for young bass students. The solid spruce top provides a good starting acoustic tone, and the European setup is a nice touch. It's a well-made instrument for its category, ideal for beginners needing a smaller-sized bass.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a responsive, bright acoustic tone.
- European craftsmanship ensures generally good build quality and attention to detail.
- Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth playing surface for comfortable technique.
Cons
- 1/8 size is strictly for very young or smaller students, limiting long-term use.
- Solid maple back, while functional, can result in a slightly less complex tone.
46AudioFu
Index↑ 7.8%since Aug 14$1,452 · Aug 14$1,564 now$1,564€1,390 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size1/8 size
This Thomann 1/8 size double bass is a great entry point for younger students or those needing a smaller instrument. The spruce top delivers a decent tone, and the European setup ensures it's playable right out of the box, though the semi-solid construction limits its tonal complexity. It's a solid, affordable option for beginners.
Pros
- Solid spruce top provides a responsive, bright fundamental tone.
- European craftsmanship generally indicates good attention to detail and quality control.
- Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth playing surface and good durability.
Cons
- Semi-solid construction may lack the complex overtones of a fully hollow body.
- 1/8 size is strictly for younger or smaller players; limited growth potential.
46AudioFu
Index↑ 7.8%since Aug 14$1,452 · Aug 14$1,564 now$1,564€1,390 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size1/10 size
This Thomann 22 1/10 is a great entry point for younger students or those needing a smaller double bass. The solid spruce top gives it a surprisingly good tone for a semi-solid instrument, and the setup from Thomann’s workshop means it's playable immediately – a real boon for beginners. Just be sure to check the size carefully to ensure a comfortable playing experience.
Pros
- Solid spruce top offers a lively, resonant tone suitable for beginners
- Arched maple back provides structural stability and a warm, focused sound
- Tyrolean machine heads ensure smooth and accurate tuning, crucial for young players
Cons
- 1/10 size limits its suitability for older or taller students; feel for size is critical
- Semi-solid construction may lack the projection of a fully hollow body double bass
46AudioFu
Index↑ 7.8%since Aug 14$1,452 · Aug 14$1,564 now$1,564€1,390 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 11 child / youth double basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
Child/Youth Double Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 25 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,677 — half of all child/youth double basses here cost less.
most common · 25 models
How to choose the best child/youth double basses
Build Quality
Let's be honest, these are plywood instruments. The bracing isn't as sophisticated as you'd find on a higher-end bass, so you'll notice a slight lack of resonance and sustain compared to solid wood. However, Thomann's construction is generally clean, with decent varnish jobs - no glaring structural issues.
Tone Characteristics
Expect a fairly even tone across the strings, leaning slightly towards a warmer, rounder character. They lack that aggressive, cutting edge you'd find on a professional instrument, but that can actually be a good thing for younger players still developing their technique - less harshness to contend with. The low-end thump is present, but won't rattle a room.
Playability
Thomann consistently gets the neck profiles right on their youth basses. They're comfortable to hold and play, even for smaller hands. The action is often a little higher than ideal straight out of the box, but easily adjustable - a good opportunity to teach a young player about setup.
Setup & Intonation
Intonation is usually passable, but a professional setup is almost mandatory. The nut slots and bridge saddles often need tweaking to ensure accurate tuning up and down the neck. It's a common trade-off with instruments in this price bracket.
Value for Money
Considering the price point, Thomann offers a surprisingly good value. You're getting a full-size double bass that's playable and reasonably well-made. It's a significant step above the absolute cheapest options, and a good foundation for future upgrades.
Buying guide
So, you're looking for a double bass for a young player? That's awesome - starting early is a huge advantage. Thomann's stepped up their game in the youth bass market, offering surprisingly decent instruments at prices that won't bankrupt your family. We're not talking heirloom-quality here, but they're a solid entry point for serious students and budding bassists who need something more substantial than a toy.
Don't expect miracles. These basses are built to a price, and that means compromises. Prioritize playability - a comfortable neck is more important than a pristine varnish job.
Budget for a setup by a qualified luthier; it will dramatically improve the instrument's performance. And remember, a good student is more important than a good bass - this is a starting point, not a lifetime instrument.
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 11 child/youth double basses from the Thomann catalogue (of 25 in the category). 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 Thomann youth basses suitable for orchestral playing?
They're fine for school orchestras and beginner ensembles, but they won't have the projection and tonal complexity of a professional bass. They'll hold their own in a less demanding setting.
What's the difference between the different Thomann youth bass sizes?
They offer 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4 sizes. Measure the student's arm length to determine the correct size - a bass that's too big will be difficult and frustrating to play.
Can I upgrade the strings on a Thomann youth bass?
Absolutely! Upgrading to a better set of strings (like Pirastro Tonica or D'Addario Activa) will make a noticeable difference in tone and playability. It's one of the easiest and most cost-effective upgrades you can do.
Do I need to buy a bow and case separately?
Yes, most Thomann youth bass packages don't include a bow or case. Factor those into your budget - a decent bow is essential for producing a good sound, and a case will protect the instrument from damage.
What's the warranty like on Thomann instruments?
Thomann offers a standard warranty covering manufacturing defects. Read the fine print; it doesn't cover damage from misuse or wear and tear. A good setup from a local luthier is a better investment than relying solely on the warranty.
