AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Fretless Basses for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Warwick Rockbass Streamer LX 5 ($899). ESP LTD B-204SM Fretless gives you the most for the money at $753. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 72 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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 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 ↗ -
Warwick Rockbass Streamer LX 4
RB Streamer LX 4 SB HP FL · Warwick
8 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width38.5 mm (1.52")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
- Weight3.8 kg
The RB Streamer LX 4 SB HP FL is a seriously well-built fretless, offering that classic Warwick growl with a refined feel. The long scale and passive pickups give it a warm, focused tone that’s great for funk, soul, and even heavier styles – it's a solid choice for intermediate to advanced players seeking a premium fretless without the extreme high-end price tag.
Pros
- Carolina body offers a comfortable, arched profile perfect for extended playing.
- MEC P/J pickups deliver a punchy, articulate tone suitable for diverse genres.
- Tigerstripe ebony fretboard provides a smooth, responsive fretless experience.
Cons
- The weight (3.8 kg) might be fatiguing for players with smaller builds.
- Fretless basses require more practice and careful technique to master.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,012 now$1,012€899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width40 mm (1.57")
- BodyAsh body
This LTD B204SM FL is a fantastic entry point into fretless bass playing, offering a unique look and surprisingly good tone for the price. The ash body and rosewood board deliver a warm, woody character, while the ESP pickups provide a focused and punchy sound ideal for players exploring jazz, funk, or soulful grooves. It's a great choice for intermediate players wanting to expand their tonal palette.
Pros
- Spalted maple top provides unique, striking aesthetics and resonance
- Five-piece maple/rosewood neck offers stability and a smooth playing feel
- ESP SB-4 pickups deliver a warm, articulate, and punchy tone
Cons
- Spalted maple can exhibit inconsistent grain, potentially affecting resonance
- Fretless bass requires a higher skill level and more careful tuning
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$753 now$753€669 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
- BodyAsh body
This B205SM FL is a seriously cool fretless bass offering a ton of value. The roasted Jatoba board is a real treat under your fingers, and the active EQ gives you the headroom to dial in a wide range of tones—perfect for players looking to explore a more expressive, vintage-inspired sound without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Ash body provides a warm, resonant, and articulate tone.
- Roasted Jatoba fretboard offers stability and a smooth playing feel.
- Active EQ (ABQ-3) allows for substantial tonal shaping and clarity.
Cons
- Fretless basses demand precise technique and careful setup – a learning curve.
- The matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$753 now$753€669 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 German Pro Series Streamer Stage I 5RB Streamer NT I 5 FL BLK · Warwick57Stable$1,102€979$1,102€979Check ↗
- 12
Warwick Rockbass Corvette Basic 5 Active (Long Scale)RB Corvette Basic 5 FL NBTS · Warwick57Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 13
Gold Tone M-Bass/FL Micro 23" Scale Fretless Acoustic/Electric Bass…ME-BASS/Fretless · Gold Tone59Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
- 14
Ibanez SRF700 Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRF700-BBF · Ibanez54Stable$1,114€990$1,114€990Check ↗
- 15
Warwick German Pro Series Streamer Stage I 4RB Streamer NT I 4 NTHP FL · Warwick54Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 16
Marcus Miller Z7-5 FL Antique WhiteMarcus Miller52Stable$787€699$787€699Check ↗
- 17
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vin JJ4 Mor FLwL OWSadowsky · 2 finishes52↓ 8.3%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 18
Warwick RB Streamer NT 5 FL NA HPWarwick52Stable$1,180€1,049$1,180€1,049Check ↗
- 19
Marcus Miller Z7-4 FL Antique WhiteMarcus Miller50Stable$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 20
Marcus Miller V7-5 Sandblasted BK TE FLMarcus Miller50Stable$865€769$865€769Check ↗
- 21
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 TS FLMarcus Miller50Stable$1,068€949$1,068€949Check ↗
- 22
Warwick RB Streamer NT 4 FL SB HPWarwick50Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
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Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Morado FL BKSadowsky49↓ 9.1%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 24
Marcus Miller V7-4 Sandblasted BK TE FLMarcus Miller48Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 25
Warwick RB Corvette B 4 FL NBTSWarwick48Stable$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
- 26
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ4 Mora FL BKSadowsky47↓ 8.0%$1,034€919$1,034€919Check ↗
- 27
Sadowsky MetroExp 21 Vint. 4 MO FL TBSadowsky47↓ 8.3%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 28
Sadowsky MetroExp21 V JJ4 Mo FLwL LH BKSadowsky47↓ 8.3%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 29
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb PJ 4 FL BKSadowsky46↓ 7.0%$1,045€929$1,045€929Check ↗
- 30
Warwick RB StarBass5 Black HP fretlessWarwick45Stable$1,180€1,049$1,180€1,049Check ↗
- 31
Marcus Miller P5R Alder-4 Fretless VWHMarcus Miller44Stable$618€549$618€549Check ↗
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Marcus Miller V5 Alder-4 NT FLMarcus Miller · 2 finishes46Stable$562€499$562€499Check ↗
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Warwick Rockbass Corvette Basic 6 ActiveRB Corvette Basic 6 SBHP FL · Warwick38Stable$1,180€1,049$1,180€1,049Check ↗
- 34
Marcus Miller U5 NT MN Short FLMarcus Miller44Stable$515€458$515€458Check ↗
- 35
Ibanez SR370EF Standard Soundgear BassSR370EF-BBT · Ibanez49↓ 2.1%$467€415$467€415Check ↗
- 36
Harley Benton HBZ-2005FL NT Deluxe w/BagHarley Benton · 3 finishes53↑ 1.7%$411€365$411€365Check ↗
- 37
Sandberg California VS Lionel Short Scale 4California V FL SA 3TSB · Sandberg72Stable$2,385€2,119$2,385€2,119Check ↗
- 38
Ibanez SRAS7 Bass Workshop Hybrid Fretless SoundgearSRAS7-CBS · Ibanez68Stable$1,541€1,369$1,541€1,369Check ↗
- 39
Ibanez SRD905F Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRD905F-BTL · Ibanez62Stable$1,248€1,109$1,248€1,109Check ↗
- 40
Ibanez SRD900F Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRD900F-BTL · Ibanez61Stable$1,282€1,139$1,282€1,139Check ↗
- 41
Harley Benton B-550FL BK Progressive w/BagHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
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Harley Benton B-650FL BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 43
Ibanez SDGB1 Steve Di Giorgio SignatureSDGB1-DMT · Ibanez56Stable$1,772€1,575$1,772€1,575Check ↗
- 44
Harley Benton JB-75FL SB Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 2 finishes55Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 45
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-Fret 6 RM TSTSadowsky · 2 finishes54Stable$1,676€1,489$1,676€1,489Check ↗
- 46
Harley Benton JB-40FL 3-Tone SunburstHarley Benton · 2 finishes52Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 47
Marcus Miller F10-5 NT FLMarcus Miller52Stable$1,912€1,699$1,912€1,699Check ↗
- 48
Marcus Miller F10 Dc 5 Natural FLMarcus Miller52Stable$2,024€1,799$2,024€1,799Check ↗
- 49
Warwick Pro Series Corvette Bub 6 FLWarwick51↓ 3.0%$3,600€3,199$3,600€3,199Check ↗
- 50
Marcus Miller F10-6 NT FLMarcus Miller50Stable$2,137€1,899$2,137€1,899Check ↗
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
For an intermediate player, a comfortable, relatively slim neck profile (like a C or D shape) is crucial. A thick, vintage-style neck can be a real barrier when you're still developing your intonation and finger strength.
Scale Length
34" is standard, and generally a good starting point. Shorter scales (32" or 30") can feel easier initially, but might sacrifice some low-end thump and articulation, which you'll want as you start playing more complex lines.
String Spacing
Wider string spacing (around 19-20mm) is often more forgiving for fretless, giving you more room for error while you're dialing in your intonation. It's easier to land notes cleanly.
Wood Combination
Mahogany bodies often provide a warm, round tone that's very flattering for fretless. Maple necks contribute clarity and sustain. Avoid overly bright combinations if you're aiming for a smooth, vocal-like tone.
Action and Setup
A well-setup fretless is everything. Lower action makes it easier to play, but too low and you'll get fret buzz and intonation issues. A good setup from a reputable tech is worth the investment.
Buying guide
So, you're thinking about taking the fretless plunge? Awesome. It's a beautiful, expressive beast, but it's not just a cool look-it's a whole new skillset. This isn't a beginner's instrument; you need a solid foundation in bass technique before you'll truly appreciate the nuances of a fretless, and we're focusing on basses that'll help you build that foundation, not punish you for trying.
Don't chase the boutique dream right away. A well-made instrument in the $500-$1200 range will serve you far better than a flashy but poorly set-up expensive one. Pay attention to the neck profile - that's your primary interface with the instrument.
And seriously, get a professional setup. A bad setup can make a good fretless feel unplayable, and a good setup can breathe new life into a more affordable model. Watch out for overly thin bodies; they tend to resonate more and can make subtle intonation errors more obvious.
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
How much harder is a fretless to play than a fretted bass?
Significantly harder at first. You need to develop a much better ear and finger strength. Expect a frustrating learning curve initially, but the rewards-expressiveness and tone-are worth it.
What string gauge should I use?
Generally, medium gauge strings (around 40-45mm) work best. They offer a good balance of tension and feel. Lighter strings are easier to bend, but can feel too floppy and lack definition.
How often should I get a fretless bass setup?
At least once a year, or more often if you notice buzzing or intonation problems. Fretless basses require more frequent adjustments than fretted basses due to string wear and neck settling.
Can I use a pick on a fretless bass?
Sure, but it's not the typical approach. You'll lose a lot of the nuance and expressive capabilities. It's more suited for certain styles, like aggressive funk, but be prepared for a very different tonal character.
I'm worried about intonation. Any tips?
Practice slowly and deliberately. Use a tuner frequently to check your accuracy. Record yourself playing and listen back critically. It takes time and patience, but you'll develop a feel for where the notes should be.
