AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Fretless Basses for Jazz 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
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
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.
- 11
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 ↗
- 26
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 ↗
- 31
Marcus Miller F10 Dc 5 Natural FLMarcus Miller52Stable$2,024€1,799$2,024€1,799Check ↗
- 32
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 ↗
- 36
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
Tonality
Jazz demands a warm, round low-end, not a scooped-out, modern sound. You're looking for a fundamental that's present without being muddy, with a focus on that creamy midrange - that fat midrange honk is key for cutting through a piano or horns. Too much brightness and you'll sound harsh, too little and you'll disappear.
String Choice & Setup
The strings you use - and how they're setup - massively impact fretless tone. Roundwounds are common, but experiment with flats for a more mellow, upright-like feel. Action is critical; too high and it's a wrestling match, too low and you'll get fret buzz - and a fretless bass is supposed to have some sympathetic vibration, so finding that sweet spot is vital.
Neck Profile & Feel
A comfortable neck is crucial for expressive playing. A slimmer profile often allows for easier access to the higher registers, but a chunkier neck can offer more sustain and a more substantial feel. This is totally personal, but for jazz, something in the medium range often works best - not too thin, not too thick.
Articulation & Dynamics
A fretless bass is all about nuance. The instrument needs to respond to your touch - subtle shifts in pressure should translate to noticeable changes in volume and tone. Cheap basses often feel 'wooden' and unresponsive, lacking that sensitivity. This is where quality wood and construction really shine.
Body Wood & Construction
While pickups play a role, the wood of the body significantly impacts the overall tone. Mahogany tends to provide warmth and sustain, while maple can offer more clarity and a more focused response. Solid body construction is generally preferred over hollow or semi-hollow bodies, which can introduce unwanted resonance and feedback.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking to bring the fretless vibe to your jazz game? It's a fantastic choice - that singing, expressive quality can really elevate your playing, but not all fretless basses are created equal. You need something that delivers a warm, woody tone, excellent note definition, and responds beautifully to your touch. Let's break down some fretless basses that'll actually work for jazz, not just look cool.
Don't chase the fancy finishes or exotic woods - those are just aesthetics. Focus on the feel and the tone. A well-setup, mid-range instrument will outperform a poorly setup high-end one.
Be prepared to spend some time and money on a proper setup - a fretless bass is only as good as its setup. Also, be realistic - a truly exceptional fretless bass can easily cost upwards of $2000, but a playable, good-sounding option can be had for less with some patient searching.
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
Are all fretless basses the same?
Absolutely not. The wood, construction, neck profile, and most importantly, the setup, all contribute to the final tone and feel. Two basses with the same wood can sound drastically different.
What's the deal with fret buzz on a fretless?
Some fret buzz is normal and even desirable on a fretless - it's part of the instrument's character. However, excessive buzz indicates a setup issue or a neck problem. Learn to distinguish between the two.
What strings are best for jazz on a fretless?
Roundwounds offer a brighter, more aggressive tone, while flats provide a warmer, more upright-like sound. It's a matter of personal preference, but flats are generally more common in jazz.
How important is a good setup?
Critically important. A poorly set up fretless bass will be unplayable. Expect to spend at least $100 on a professional setup.
Can I learn fretless bass if I only play fretted?
Yes, but it will take time and practice. You'll need to develop a new sense of intonation and finger placement. Start slow and focus on accuracy.





