AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Fretless Basses for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Sandberg California VS Lionel Short Scale 4 ($2,366). Ibanez SRAS7 Bass Workshop Hybrid Fretless Soundgear gives you the most for the money at $1,528. Warwick Pro Series Corvette Bub 6 FL leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 72 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 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
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width39.5 mm (1.56")
- Scale889 mm (35")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This is a fretless bass with an alder body and a maple neck. It has one Sandberg split coil pickup and a 3-band EQ, so you can shape the tone to fit your playing. It suits you if you want a fretless bass with a 35 inch scale and a gig bag included.
Pros
- Alder body, a common tonewood chosen for balance and resonance
- Maple bolt-on neck paired with a rosewood fingerboard
- Sandberg split coil pickup with a 3-band EQ for shaping your tone
Cons
- Fretless design with a 35 inch scale suits players who can handle its feel
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,366 now$2,366€2,119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width52 mm (2.05")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Strings6-string
- BodyBubinga body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Corvette Bub 6 FL is a serious instrument for the experienced fretless player. The combination of Bubinga, ebony, and active electronics yields a powerful, focused tone ideal for jazz, fusion, and progressive music where nuanced articulation is paramount. It's a premium-priced bass, but delivers the goods for those seeking top-tier fretless performance.
Pros
- Bubinga body delivers rich, resonant, and articulate low-end tones.
- Tigerstripe ebony fingerboard offers exceptional smoothness and note definition.
- Active MEC pickups provide a powerful, defined sound with excellent clarity.
Cons
- Bubinga’s weight can make extended playing sessions physically demanding.
- Fretless basses require a significant investment in ear training and intonation practice.
55AudioFu
Index↓ 12.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$3,683 · Aug 17$3,227 now$3,227€2,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38.5 mm (1.52")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyBubinga body
- Weight4.3 kg
This Corvette Bub 4 FL is a serious fretless instrument built for players who demand a refined, articulate tone. The combination of Bubinga and the long scale creates a powerful, focused sound, perfect for jazz, fusion, or any genre where precision and expressive slides are key. It's a premium-priced bass, but the build quality and sonic versatility justify the investment for the dedicated bassist.
Pros
- Bubinga body delivers a rich, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Tigerstripe ebony fretboard provides a slick, responsive playing experience.
- Active MEC J/J pickups offer a defined, articulate sound with punchy lows.
Cons
- Bubinga can be dense, resulting in a heavier instrument for extended playing.
- Fretless basses require more precise technique and careful tuning.
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,348 now$3,348€2,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRAS7 Bass Workshop Hybrid Fretless Soundgear
SRAS7-CBS · Ibanez
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width63 mm (2.48")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Strings7-string
- BodyOkoume body
This is a 7-string bass with a fretted section and a fretless section on the same neck. You get two SRAS Super J single coils, an AeroSilk piezo system, and a three-way switch to choose between piezo, mix, and magnetic modes. It suits you if you want a fretless bass with extra low and high strings and the option to switch between pickup types.
Pros
- Burl poplar/ash top over an Okoume body gives a striking look
- Three-way switch selects Piezo, Mix, or Magnetic pickup modes
- Two SRAS Super J single coils plus AeroSilk piezo system
Cons
- Its 864 mm scale and 1127 mm overall length make it a large bass to carry
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,528 now$1,528€1,369 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius191 mm (7.52")
- Neck profileV-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
This is a serious instrument for the discerning fretless player. The Palladino signature brings that signature growl and feel, with a comfortable neck and those iconic StingRay pickups delivering a warm, woody tone perfect for funk, soul, and beyond. It's a premium-priced bass, but the quality and playability are undeniable if you’re after that classic, smooth fretless vibe.
Pros
- Asymmetrical neck profile offers exceptional playing comfort and ergonomics
- Vintage StingRay pickups deliver a warm, punchy, and articulate tone
- Rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth, familiar fretless feel
Cons
- High-end price point places it out of reach for many players
- Rosewood fingerboard may require more frequent maintenance and oiling
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,353 now$4,353€3,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius356 mm (14.02")
- Strings5-string
- BodyAsh body
This is a great choice if you love that clean, open sound of a fretless bass. The roasted maple neck keeps the neck straight and stable, while the ebony fingerboard lets you slide notes smoothly. You get strong output from the EMG pickups, but you will need to buy your own batteries for the active electronics.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck for a stable, consistent play feel
- Fretless ebony fingerboard allows for smooth, vocal-like bending
- Active EMG pickups deliver powerful, clear signal output
Cons
- Active electronics require external power source
- Fretless surface demands significant finger technique
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,522 now$2,522€2,259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.5 mm (1.56")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius356 mm (14.02")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
This German-made bass uses a solid alder body and smooth ebony fretboard for a tight long-scale feel. The single-coil pickups give a classic sound that works well in many settings. It suits players who want a reliable, well-built instrument without extra bells and whistles.
Pros
- Solid German-made quality with premium materials.
- Long scale length offers tight low-end response.
- Fretless ebony fingerboard provides smooth playability.
Cons
- No strings listed means compatibility is unknown.
- Missing weight data makes handling uncertainty.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,399 now$2,399€2,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.5 mm (1.56")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
The California II FL is a seriously classy fretless. The 3-tone sunburst finish and aged nickel hardware give it a vintage vibe, while the long scale and J-style pickups provide a unique tonal character. This is a great choice for experienced players seeking a refined fretless sound and a premium-priced instrument.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a warm, balanced tone with excellent sustain.
- Rosewood fretboard provides a smooth, comfortable playing experience ideal for fretless.
- Sandberg J-style pickups offer a vintage-inspired growl and clarity.
Cons
- Long scale (864mm) may feel unwieldy for players with shorter arms.
- Fretless design demands precision and a willingness to learn techniques.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,567 now$2,567€2,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale889 mm (35")
- Strings5-string
- BodyAsh body
This Panther 5 is a serious contender for fretless players seeking a premium German-made instrument. The long scale provides a deep, rich low end, while the Sandberg pickups offer a modern, powerful tone suitable for jazz, fusion, and even heavier styles. It's ideal for experienced bassists who appreciate nuanced feel and expressive capabilities.
Pros
- Ash body delivers a warm, resonant, and articulate tone.
- Ebony fretboard offers exceptional smoothness and note definition.
- Sandberg Trapez humbuckers provide a powerful, focused, and versatile sound.
Cons
- 35-inch scale length demands a larger hand and longer reach.
- Fretless design requires more precise technique and intonation adjustment.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,500 now$2,500€2,239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Warwick Corvette 5A Bubinga FL is a serious instrument for the committed fretless player. The Bubinga body gives it a warm, woody tone, while the active pickups provide plenty of punch and clarity – perfect for jazz, fusion, or anything needing expressive slides and a refined sound. It's a premium-priced bass built to last and inspire.
Pros
- Stunning 5A Bubinga body provides rich, complex overtones.
- Just-A-NUT III system ensures exceptional intonation and tuning stability.
- Active MEC pickups deliver a focused, articulate, and powerful tone.
Cons
- Bubinga can be dense, resulting in a relatively heavy instrument.
- Fretless learning curve requires dedicated practice and ear training.
37AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 17$3,516 · Aug 17$3,516 now$3,516€3,149 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.
- 11
Marcus Miller F10 Dc 5 Natural FLMarcus Miller53↓ 2.8%$1,953€1,749$1,953€1,749Check ↗
- 12
Marcus Miller F10-6 NT FLMarcus Miller50Stable$2,120€1,899$2,120€1,899Check ↗
- 13
Sandberg California II SLm TM5 FL BKBSandberg42Stable$2,567€2,299$2,567€2,299Check ↗
- 14
Marcus Miller F10-5 NT FLMarcus Miller52Stable$1,897€1,699$1,897€1,699Check ↗
- 15
Ibanez SRD905F Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRD905F-BTL · Ibanez62Stable$1,238€1,109$1,238€1,109Check ↗
- 16
Höfner H500/1-62-F-0 FretlessHöfner33Stable$3,673€3,290$3,673€3,290Check ↗
- 17
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vin JJ5 Mor FLwL BKSadowsky · 5 finishes62↓ 9.3%$1,205€1,079$1,205€1,079Check ↗
- 18
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-Fret 6 RM TSTSadowsky · 2 finishes54Stable$1,662€1,489$1,662€1,489Check ↗
- 19
Sandberg Basic 5 Eby VB FLSandberg48Stable$1,964€1,759$1,964€1,759Check ↗
- 20
Ibanez SRD900F Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRD900F-BTL · Ibanez59Stable$1,272€1,139$1,272€1,139Check ↗
- 21
Marcus Miller F10-4 Natural FLMarcus Miller49↓ 2.9%$1,841€1,649$1,841€1,649Check ↗
- 22
Sandberg California II SLm TM4 FL BKBSandberg38Stable$2,455€2,199$2,455€2,199Check ↗
- 23
Sandberg California II TM 5 PF NT FLwLSandberg44Stable$2,064€1,849$2,064€1,849Check ↗
- 24
Ibanez SDGB1 Steve Di Giorgio SignatureSDGB1-DMT · Ibanez49Stable$1,758€1,575$1,758€1,575Check ↗
- 25
Godin A5 Ultra Semi-Acoustic Fretless 5-String Bass NaturalA5 Bass Ultra Fretless Natural · Godin25↑ 1.7%$2,902€2,599$2,902€2,599Check ↗
- 26
Sandberg California II TT 4 PF NT FLwLSandberg42Stable$1,796€1,609$1,796€1,609Check ↗
- 27
Warwick RB Streamer NT 5 FL NA HPWarwick52Stable$1,171€1,049$1,171€1,049Check ↗
- 28
Sadowsky MetroExp21Vin JJ5Mo FLwL LH BKSadowsky49↓ 7.6%$1,227€1,099$1,227€1,099Check ↗
- 29
Ibanez SRF705 Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRF705-BBF · Ibanez49Stable$1,205€1,079$1,205€1,079Check ↗
- 30
Ibanez SRF706-BBF PortamentoIbanez44Stable$1,339€1,199$1,339€1,199Check ↗
- 31
Warwick Rockbass Corvette Basic 6 ActiveRB Corvette Basic 6 SBHP FL · Warwick46Stable$1,171€1,049$1,171€1,049Check ↗
- 32
Warwick RB StarBass5 Black HP fretlessWarwick45Stable$1,171€1,049$1,171€1,049Check ↗
- 33
Warwick Rockbass Corvette Basic 5 Active (Long Scale)RB Corvette Basic 5 FL NBTS · Warwick72Stable$1,115€999$1,115€999Check ↗
- 34
Warwick Rockbass Corvette $$ 5 ActiveRB Corvette $$ 5 FL NB TS · Warwick67Stable$1,060€949$1,060€949Check ↗
- 35
Warwick Rockbass Streamer LX 5RockBass Streamer 5 FL NBT · Warwick65Stable$892€799$892€799Check ↗
- 36
Warwick Rockbass Star Bass 4RB Star Bass 4 FL BK · Warwick65↓ 2.0%$1,093€979$1,093€979Check ↗
- 37
Ibanez SRH500F Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRH500F-NNF · Ibanez62Stable$836€749$836€749Check ↗
- 38
Marcus Miller V7 5 New Gen Antique White FLMarcus Miller · 4 finishes62Stable$892€799$892€799Check ↗
- 39
Warwick Rockbass Streamer LX 4RB Streamer LX 4 SB HP FL · Warwick62Stable$1,004€899$1,004€899Check ↗
- 40
Ibanez SRH505F Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRH505F-NNF Bass Workshop · Ibanez60Stable$910€815$910€815Check ↗
- 41
Ibanez SRF700 Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRF700-BBF · Ibanez59Stable$1,105€990$1,105€990Check ↗
- 42
Warwick German Pro Series Streamer Stage I 4RB Streamer NT I 4 NTHP FL · Warwick59Stable$1,115€999$1,115€999Check ↗
- 43
Gold Tone M-Bass/FL Micro 23" Scale Fretless Acoustic/Electric Bass…ME-BASS/Fretless · Gold Tone58Stable$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 44
ESP LTD B-204SM FretlessLTD B204SM FL Natural Satin · ESP58↓ 3.0%$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 45
Harley Benton B-550FL BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 46
Harley Benton B-650FL BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 47
ESP LTD B-205SM FretlessLTD B205SM FL Natural Satin · ESP56Stable$747€669$747€669Check ↗
- 48
Harley Benton JB-75FL SB Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 2 finishes55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 49
Warwick German Pro Series Streamer Stage I 5RB Streamer NT I 5 FL BLK · Warwick55Stable$1,093€979$1,093€979Check ↗
- 50
Harley Benton HBZ-2005FL NT Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes54Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
Fretless Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 90 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,115 — half of all fretless basses here cost less.
median of 79 models · 38 mm (1.5")–53 mm (2.09")
median of 72 models · 775 mm (30.51")–889 mm (35")
most common · 69 models
most common · 52 models
How to choose the best fretless basses
Neck Profile & Dimensions
Forget what you think you like - a thick, slab C isn't going to cut it. Fretless demands a neck you can really connect with, something that promotes accuracy and minimizes fatigue. We're looking for profiles that encourage precise finger placement and a comfortable reach across the wider string spacing.
Fan Fret/Multi-Scale Options
The inherent intonation challenges of fretless are exacerbated by shorter scale lengths. Multi-scale or fan fret designs offer a huge advantage in achieving consistent tension and improving playability across all strings - especially crucial for lower tunings or extended range instruments.
Wood Selection & Resonance
Fretless tone is all about the wood. A figured maple body might look pretty, but it can lack warmth. We're prioritizing basses with resonant woods like mahogany, walnut, or even ash, that provide sustain and a complex harmonic spectrum, allowing those subtle nuances in your playing to shine.
Fingerboard Radius & Material
A flatter radius (7.5" or less) will be more challenging to play accurately, but it'll give you that glassy, vocal-like tone when you nail it. Ebony is the gold standard for fingerboards, providing a smooth, consistent surface for accurate intonation, but rosewood can be surprisingly good if properly seasoned.
Pickup Voicing & Electronics
Bright, scooped pickups will highlight every intonation error. We're favoring warmer, more balanced pickup voicings that offer headroom and clarity, allowing your technique to be the focus, not harsh frequencies. Active electronics can be useful for shaping your tone, but passive circuits often offer a more natural, dynamic response.
Buying guide
So, you're ready to ditch the frets and dive into the world of fretless bass? It's a serious commitment, not a novelty. We're talking about a whole different level of articulation, intonation demands, and a learning curve that'll test your ear. This isn't a beginner's guide - we're focusing on basses that reward serious players who already have their chops down and want to unlock a new level of expression.
Don't chase the hype. A beautiful finish and exotic woods don't guarantee a playable fretless. Prioritize neck comfort and fingerboard quality above all else - those are the fundamentals.
Be prepared to invest in a good setup from a qualified tech; a fretless bass is only as good as its intonation. And seriously, consider a multi-scale or fan fret if you're tackling anything below a standard 34" scale.
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 a fretless bass harder to play than a fretted bass?
Absolutely. Intonation is your responsibility now, and even slight finger pressure changes the pitch. It's not just about 'playing the notes,' it's about finding the notes every time.
Can I use a fretless bass for all genres?
While technically yes, it's not always ideal. Fretless thrives in jazz, blues, and neo-soul where those vocal-like qualities shine. It can work in rock, but be prepared to fight for clarity in a dense mix.
What's the best way to learn fretless bass?
Start slow. Focus on intonation exercises and ear training. Record yourself and critically listen for inaccuracies. Don't try to shred right away; master the fundamentals first.
Are there any fretless basses that are 'beginner-friendly'?
Not really, but some basses with a slightly rounder fingerboard edge and a more forgiving scale length can be a bit less intimidating. Still, expect a steep learning curve.
How important is the setup on a fretless bass?
Critically important. The fingerboard needs to be perfectly level and the action dialed in precisely. A bad setup will make an already challenging instrument nearly unplayable.
