AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Fretless Basses 2026
The top pick is Sandberg California VS Lionel Short Scale 4 ($2,385). Ibanez SRH500F Bass Workshop Fretless Soundgear gives you the most for the money at $843. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 72 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
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All Fretless BassesTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Sandberg California VS Lionel Short Scale 4
California V FL SA 3TSB · Sandberg
29 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width39.5 mm (1.56")
- Scale889 mm (35")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass feels like a solid choice for players who want clean, quiet fretless tones. The long scale might be tricky for smaller hands, but the German build makes it feel premium. It suits anyone needing a reliable workhorse that stays in tune on stage.
Pros
- Alder body offers solid, warm resonance for bass tones
- Fretless rosewood neck provides smooth, silent finger movement
- Split coil pickup delivers clear, focused midrange punch
Cons
- Scale length is unusually long at 35 inches
- No string gauge options are listed in the spec sheet
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,385 now$2,385€2,119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRAS7 Bass Workshop Hybrid Fretless Soundgear
SRAS7-CBS · Ibanez
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width63 mm (2.48")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyOkoume body
The SRAS7-CBS is a seriously unique instrument, offering both fretted and fretless versatility in a 7-string package. The Super J pickups provide a vintage tone, while the piezo adds a beautiful warmth, making it ideal for players wanting to explore multiple sonic textures. This is a great choice for adventurous bassists who want a high-performance instrument that stands out.
Pros
- Okoume/burl poplar body offers a balanced, resonant tone
- 7-piece maple/walnut/bubinga neck provides exceptional stability and feel
- SRAS Super J pickups deliver a clear, articulate vintage-inspired sound
Cons
- The hybrid fretless/fretted design might not appeal to purists
- 864 mm scale can feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scales
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,541 now$1,541€1,369 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Warwick Rockbass Streamer LX 5
RockBass Streamer 5 FL NBT · Warwick
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius664 mm (26.14")
- Strings5-string
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Streamer 5 FL NBT is a seriously classy instrument. The fretless feel combined with the warm, punchy MEC pickups makes it perfect for players exploring jazz, soul, or anything needing that smooth, singing tone. It’s a high-quality fretless offering a great balance of performance and value.
Pros
- Carolina arched body provides excellent resonance and a comfortable playing experience.
- MEC vintage humbuckers deliver a warm, articulate tone suitable for many genres.
- Tigerstripe ebony fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing feel and beautiful aesthetics.
Cons
- The weight (approx. 4.0 kg) might be fatiguing for some players during extended playing sessions.
- Fretless basses demand precise technique; not ideal for beginners.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$899 now$899€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38.5 mm (1.52")
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
- Weight3.8 kg
This RB Star FL is a fantastic entry point into the fretless world, offering a premium feel and tone without the extreme cost. The maple body provides clarity, while the vintage pickups deliver that warm, rounded sound ideal for Motown, blues, and classic rock. It's perfect for intermediate players looking to expand their sonic palette and develop their vibrato technique.
Pros
- Maple construction delivers focused, articulate tone with excellent sustain.
- Tigerstripe Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
- MEC Vintage pickups provide a warm, classic growl perfect for vintage tones.
Cons
- Medium scale can feel a bit cramped for players accustomed to longer scales.
- High-gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
65AudioFu
Index↓ 2.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,124 · Aug 17$1,102 now$1,102€979 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Warwick Rockbass Corvette $$ 5 Active
RB Corvette $$ 5 FL NB TS · Warwick
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale866 mm (34.09")
- Fingerboard radius660 mm (25.98")
- Strings5-string
- BodyAsh body
This Corvette 5 FL is a seriously solid fretless option. The ash body gives it a warm, woody tone that really shines, and the bolt-on neck keeps things responsive. It's a great choice for players looking for a versatile, premium-priced fretless bass with a comfortable feel and a classic vibe.
Pros
- Ash body provides a resonant, balanced tone with strong low-end presence.
- Bolt-on maple neck offers a bright, snappy feel and excellent sustain.
- MEC humbucker delivers a warm, articulate voice perfect for diverse genres.
Cons
- Long scale can feel unwieldy for players with shorter arms or smaller hands.
- Passive pickups might lack the extreme output desired for modern, high-gain styles.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,068 now$1,068€949 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
This fretless bass is built for smooth, modern playing with its roasted maple neck and ebony fingerboard. The 20-position inlays help you find your notes without metal frets. It sounds great in both active and passive modes thanks to the Heritage 3 preamp. This setup suits players who want a clean, contemporary tone without relying on frets.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck offers smooth fretless playability
- 20 position inlays give clear fretless reference points
- Heritage 3 preamp handles active and passive modes
Cons
- No frets makes precise intonation difficult for beginners
- Only two pickups limit tonal variety compared to 4-coil models
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$899 now$899€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
This left-handed Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a serious instrument for the discerning fretless player. The blend of vintage tone and modern electronics makes it incredibly versatile, while the roasted maple neck ensures comfortable playability. It's a premium-priced bass ideal for players seeking a refined, expressive sound and a touch of class.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a resonant, balanced tone with excellent sustain.
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, fast playing feel.
- Morado fingerboard provides a unique feel and warm, complex overtones.
Cons
- Okoume can be prone to dents and scratches if not protected.
- Fretless basses demand a higher level of technique and careful handling.
62AudioFu
Index↓ 9.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,237 · Aug 17$1,124 now$1,124€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRD905F Bass Workshop Fretless Soundgear
SRD905F-BTL · Ibanez
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
The SRD905F-BTL is a seriously refined fretless bass, built for players who want expressive slides and a vintage-inspired tone. The Nordstrand pickups and active EQ give you a huge range of sounds, while the Panga Panga fingerboard offers a unique feel. This is ideal for session players, jazz bassists, and anyone looking to add a sophisticated voice to their arsenal.
Pros
- Nordstrand Big Break pickups deliver a warm, articulate, and powerful tone.
- Panga Panga fingerboard offers a unique feel and a slightly softer playing surface.
- Active 2-band EQ and piezo controls provide extensive tonal shaping options.
Cons
- The fretless design demands precise technique and careful intonation.
- The bolt-on neck, while stable, might not offer the same sustain as a set-neck.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,248 now$1,248€1,109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRH500F Bass Workshop Fretless Soundgear
SRH500F-NNF · Ibanez
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
The SRH500F-NNF is a beautifully crafted fretless bass that bridges the gap between acoustic and electric tones. Its semi-hollow construction and piezo pickups give it a unique, organic character, ideal for players seeking a more expressive and nuanced sound. This is a great choice for the serious bassist looking to explore fretless territory without a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a warm, articulate tone with surprising projection.
- Jatoba/Walnut neck construction provides excellent stability and a comfortable feel.
- AeroSilk piezo pickups offer a natural, acoustic-like response and clarity.
Cons
- Semi-hollow body can be prone to feedback at higher volumes.
- Okume back may resonate less than a fully solid body, impacting sustain.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$843 now$843€749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRH505F Bass Workshop Fretless Soundgear
SRH505F-NNF Bass Workshop · Ibanez
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings5-string
The SRH505F-NNF is a seriously interesting fretless offering from Ibanez. The semi-hollow construction and piezo pickups give it a unique, almost upright-bass-like quality, while the Jatoba neck keeps things comfortable. It’s perfect for players wanting to explore a more organic and expressive bass tone, especially in jazz, fusion, or singer-songwriter settings.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a surprisingly warm, articulate, and resonant tone.
- Panga Panga fingerboard offers a uniquely smooth playing experience and good sustain.
- AeroSilk piezo pickups provide a natural, acoustic-like tone with excellent clarity.
Cons
- Semi-hollow body can be prone to feedback at higher volumes, requiring careful amp EQing.
- Fretless basses demand a significant investment in learning proper intonation and technique.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$917 now$917€815 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 72 fretless basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Warwick Rockbass Streamer LX 4RB Streamer LX 4 SB HP FL · Warwick61Stable$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez SRD900F Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRD900F-BTL · Ibanez61Stable$1,282€1,139$1,282€1,139Check ↗
- 13
Gold Tone M-Bass/FL Micro 23" Scale Fretless Acoustic/Electric Bass…ME-BASS/Fretless · Gold Tone59Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
- 14
ESP LTD B-204SM FretlessLTD B204SM FL Natural Satin · ESP57Stable$753€669$753€669Check ↗
- 15
ESP LTD B-205SM FretlessLTD B205SM FL Natural Satin · ESP57Stable$753€669$753€669Check ↗
- 16
Warwick German Pro Series Streamer Stage I 5RB Streamer NT I 5 FL BLK · Warwick57Stable$1,102€979$1,102€979Check ↗
- 17
Warwick Rockbass Corvette Basic 5 Active (Long Scale)RB Corvette Basic 5 FL NBTS · Warwick57Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton B-550FL BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton B-650FL BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 20
Ibanez SDGB1 Steve Di Giorgio SignatureSDGB1-DMT · Ibanez56Stable$1,772€1,575$1,772€1,575Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton JB-75FL SB Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 2 finishes55Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton HBZ-2005FL NT Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes54Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 23
Ibanez SRF700 Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRF700-BBF · Ibanez54Stable$1,114€990$1,114€990Check ↗
- 24
Warwick German Pro Series Streamer Stage I 4RB Streamer NT I 4 NTHP FL · Warwick54Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
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Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-Fret 6 RM TSTSadowsky · 2 finishes54Stable$1,676€1,489$1,676€1,489Check ↗
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Harley Benton JB-40FL 3-Tone SunburstHarley Benton · 2 finishes52Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 27
Marcus Miller Z7-5 FL Antique WhiteMarcus Miller52Stable$787€699$787€699Check ↗
- 28
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vin JJ4 Mor FLwL OWSadowsky · 2 finishes52↓ 8.3%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 29
Warwick RB Streamer NT 5 FL NA HPWarwick52Stable$1,180€1,049$1,180€1,049Check ↗
- 30
Marcus Miller F10-5 NT FLMarcus Miller52Stable$1,912€1,699$1,912€1,699Check ↗
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Marcus Miller F10 Dc 5 Natural FLMarcus Miller52Stable$2,024€1,799$2,024€1,799Check ↗
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Warwick Pro Series Corvette Bub 6 FLWarwick51↓ 3.0%$3,600€3,199$3,600€3,199Check ↗
- 33
Marcus Miller Z7-4 FL Antique WhiteMarcus Miller50Stable$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 34
Marcus Miller V7-5 Sandblasted BK TE FLMarcus Miller50Stable$865€769$865€769Check ↗
- 35
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 TS FLMarcus Miller50Stable$1,068€949$1,068€949Check ↗
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Warwick RB Streamer NT 4 FL SB HPWarwick50Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
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Marcus Miller F10-6 NT FLMarcus Miller50Stable$2,137€1,899$2,137€1,899Check ↗
- 38
Ibanez SR370EF Standard Soundgear BassSR370EF-BBT · Ibanez49↓ 2.1%$467€415$467€415Check ↗
- 39
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Morado FL BKSadowsky49↓ 9.1%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
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Ibanez SRF705 Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRF705-BBF · Ibanez49Stable$1,214€1,079$1,214€1,079Check ↗
- 41
Sadowsky MetroExp21Vin JJ5Mo FLwL LH BKSadowsky49↓ 7.6%$1,237€1,099$1,237€1,099Check ↗
- 42
Marcus Miller F10-4 Natural FLMarcus Miller49↓ 2.9%$1,856€1,649$1,856€1,649Check ↗
- 43
Marcus Miller V7-4 Sandblasted BK TE FLMarcus Miller48Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 44
Warwick RB Corvette B 4 FL NBTSWarwick48Stable$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
- 45
Sandberg Basic 5 Eby VB FLSandberg48Stable$1,979€1,759$1,979€1,759Check ↗
- 46
Sandberg California II TT4 FL G PassivSandberg48Stable$2,418€2,149$2,418€2,149Check ↗
- 47
Sandberg California II VT 5 BK Rst FLSandberg48Stable$2,542€2,259$2,542€2,259Check ↗
- 48
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ4 Mora FL BKSadowsky47↓ 8.0%$1,034€919$1,034€919Check ↗
- 49
Sadowsky MetroExp 21 Vint. 4 MO FL TBSadowsky47↓ 8.3%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 50
Sadowsky MetroExp21 V JJ4 Mo FLwL LH BKSadowsky47↓ 8.3%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
Fretless Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 90 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,124 — half of all fretless basses here cost less.
median of 78 models · 38 mm (1.5")–53 mm (2.09")
median of 72 models · 775 mm (30.51")–889 mm (35")
most common · 70 models
most common · 52 models
How to choose the best fretless basses
Neck Profile & Feel
This is everything. A thick, unwieldy neck will make accurate intonation impossible. You need something comfortable that allows for precise finger placement. A thin C or D profile is a good starting point, but ultimately it's about personal preference - try before you buy if you can.
Wood Choice & Body Resonance
Fretless basses live and die by their wood. Mahogany offers a warm, round tone with plenty of sustain, while maple delivers a brighter, more articulate response. The body wood contributes to the overall resonance and character - a swamp ash body will feel lighter and more responsive than a dense rosewood one.
Scale Length
34" is standard, but 35" or even 36" basses are becoming more common. Longer scale lengths offer tighter low-end and improved high-end clarity, which can be crucial for cutting through a dense mix, but they also demand more precise technique. Shorter scales are easier to play, but might lose some low-end thump.
String Spacing & Action
Wider string spacing is generally easier for fretless, giving you more room for error. Action (string height) is critical - too high, and it's a struggle; too low, and you'll get fret buzz. A good setup is absolutely essential, and be prepared to tweak it.
Pickup Voicing
Fretless basses are incredibly sensitive to pickup choice. You want something that captures the nuances of your playing without sounding harsh or brittle. P-style pickups can be punchy but sometimes lack warmth, while soapbar designs often offer a smoother, more rounded tone - ideal for that singing, Jaco-esque vibe.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're thinking about going fretless. It's a serious jump - suddenly you're responsible for intonation, vibrato, and that signature singing tone. It's not just about slapping on a fretless neck; the whole instrument needs to work together to deliver. Let's break down what makes a great fretless bass and what to look out for, so you don't end up with a beautiful-looking instrument that fights you every step of the way.
Don't be fooled by flashy finishes or exotic woods. A fretless bass is only as good as its intonation and feel. A cheap fretless will almost certainly have intonation problems, a poorly finished neck, and lackluster hardware.
Investing in a good setup from a qualified tech is non-negotiable; it's more important than the price tag. If you're new to fretless, start with a 34" scale and a comfortable neck profile - you can always experiment later.
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 90 fretless 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 it hard to learn fretless bass?
It's definitely a commitment. You need a good ear, a lot of patience, and a willingness to practice slowly and deliberately. Forget about speed; focus on accuracy and intonation first.
Can I use my existing amp with a fretless bass?
Generally, yes, but be mindful of your EQ. Fretless basses often benefit from a slightly scooped mid-range to avoid muddiness. Experiment with your amp's tone controls to find the sweet spot.
What strings are best for a fretless bass?
Roundwound strings are the most common choice for their bright, articulate tone, but flatwound strings offer a smoother, more vintage feel. String gauge is a personal preference, but most fretless players opt for a lighter gauge to ease the finger pressure.
What about intonation adjustments?
Intonation is a constant battle with fretless basses. You'll need to learn how to adjust the saddles and be prepared to do it regularly, especially after changing strings or adjusting the action.
Are there any fretless basses that are good for beginners?
The Fender Squier Fretless Jazz Bass is a solid entry point - it's relatively affordable and offers a comfortable playing experience, but be prepared to invest in a setup.
