AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Fretless Basses Under $2,000 2026
The top pick is Ibanez SRAS7 Bass Workshop Hybrid Fretless Soundgear ($1,541). Ibanez SRH500F Bass Workshop Fretless Soundgear gives you the most for the money at $843. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 56 models across 8 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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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 ↗ -
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 ↗
All 56 fretless basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Ibanez SRD900F Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRD900F-BTL · Ibanez61Stable$1,282€1,139$1,282€1,139Check ↗
- 12
Gold Tone M-Bass/FL Micro 23" Scale Fretless Acoustic/Electric Bass…ME-BASS/Fretless · Gold Tone59Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
- 13
ESP LTD B-205SM FretlessLTD B205SM FL Natural Satin · ESP57Stable$753€669$753€669Check ↗
- 14
ESP LTD B-204SM FretlessLTD B204SM FL Natural Satin · ESP57Stable$753€669$753€669Check ↗
- 15
Warwick German Pro Series Streamer Stage I 5RB Streamer NT I 5 FL BLK · Warwick57Stable$1,102€979$1,102€979Check ↗
- 16
Warwick Rockbass Corvette Basic 5 Active (Long Scale)RB Corvette Basic 5 FL NBTS · Warwick57Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton B-550FL BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton B-650FL BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 19
Ibanez SDGB1 Steve Di Giorgio SignatureSDGB1-DMT · Ibanez56Stable$1,772€1,575$1,772€1,575Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton JB-75FL SB Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 2 finishes55Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton HBZ-2005FL NT Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes54Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 22
Ibanez SRF700 Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRF700-BBF · Ibanez54Stable$1,114€990$1,114€990Check ↗
- 23
Warwick German Pro Series Streamer Stage I 4RB Streamer NT I 4 NTHP FL · Warwick54Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 24
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-Fret 6 RM TSTSadowsky · 2 finishes54Stable$1,676€1,489$1,676€1,489Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton JB-40FL 3-Tone SunburstHarley Benton · 2 finishes52Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 26
Marcus Miller Z7-5 FL Antique WhiteMarcus Miller52Stable$787€699$787€699Check ↗
- 27
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vin JJ4 Mor FLwL BKSadowsky · 2 finishes52↓ 8.3%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 28
Warwick RB Streamer NT 5 FL NA HPWarwick52Stable$1,180€1,049$1,180€1,049Check ↗
- 29
Marcus Miller F10-5 NT FLMarcus Miller52Stable$1,912€1,699$1,912€1,699Check ↗
- 30
Marcus Miller Z7-4 FL Antique WhiteMarcus Miller50Stable$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 31
Marcus Miller V7-5 Sandblasted BK TE FLMarcus Miller50Stable$865€769$865€769Check ↗
- 32
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 TS FLMarcus Miller50Stable$1,068€949$1,068€949Check ↗
- 33
Warwick RB Streamer NT 4 FL SB HPWarwick50Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 34
Ibanez SR370EF Standard Soundgear BassSR370EF-BBT · Ibanez49↓ 2.1%$467€415$467€415Check ↗
- 35
Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Morado FL BKSadowsky49↓ 9.1%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 36
Ibanez SRF705 Bass Workshop Fretless SoundgearSRF705-BBF · Ibanez49Stable$1,214€1,079$1,214€1,079Check ↗
- 37
Sadowsky MetroExp21Vin JJ5Mo FLwL LH BKSadowsky49↓ 7.6%$1,237€1,099$1,237€1,099Check ↗
- 38
Marcus Miller F10-4 Natural FLMarcus Miller49↓ 2.9%$1,856€1,649$1,856€1,649Check ↗
- 39
Marcus Miller V7-4 Sandblasted BK TE FLMarcus Miller48Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 40
Warwick RB Corvette B 4 FL NBTSWarwick48Stable$1,012€899$1,012€899Check ↗
- 41
Sandberg Basic 5 Eby VB FLSandberg48Stable$1,979€1,759$1,979€1,759Check ↗
- 42
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ4 Mora FL BKSadowsky47↓ 8.0%$1,034€919$1,034€919Check ↗
- 43
Sadowsky MetroExp21 V JJ4 Mo FLwL LH BKSadowsky47↓ 8.3%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 44
Sadowsky MetroExp 21 Vint. 4 MO FL TBSadowsky47↓ 8.3%$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 45
Harley Benton B-450FL BK Progressive SeriesHarley Benton46Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 46
Harley Benton Beatbass FL VS Vintage SeriesHarley Benton46Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 47
Harley Benton Beatbass FL VS Vintage w/BagHarley Benton46Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 48
Marcus Miller V5 Alder-4 NT FLMarcus Miller · 2 finishes46Stable$562€499$562€499Check ↗
- 49
Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb PJ 4 FL BKSadowsky46↓ 7.0%$1,045€929$1,045€929Check ↗
- 50
Warwick RB StarBass5 Black HP fretlessWarwick45Stable$1,180€1,049$1,180€1,049Check ↗
Fretless Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 74 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,012 — half of all fretless basses here cost less.
median of 66 models · 38 mm (1.5")–53 mm (2.09")
median of 61 models · 775 mm (30.51")–864 mm (34.02")
most common · 56 models
most common · 43 models
How to choose the best fretless basses
Neck Profile
Fretless bass neck comfort is crucial. A thick, unwieldy neck will fight you on those subtle intonations. Look for something comfortable - a C or D profile is generally a safe bet, but ultimately, it's personal preference. Try before you buy if possible.
Fingerboard Wood & Finish
Rosewood is the classic, offering a warm, slightly spongy feel that many players love. Ebony is brighter and snappier, but can feel harder under the fingers. The finish matters too - a thicker finish can feel slick, a thinner one more natural.
Pickup Voicing
Fretless basses live and die by their pickup voicing. You want something that captures the nuances of your fingers without being overly aggressive or muddying the low-end thump. A little clarity is essential for cutting through a mix, but too much brightness can be harsh.
Intonation & Setup
This is HUGE. A poorly intonated fretless is unplayable. Many affordable basses will ship needing a setup - factor that into your budget. A good luthier can make a massive difference.
Body Wood & Construction
You're not going to get mahogany or figured maple for under $2000, but the body wood still contributes to the overall tone. Alder is a common choice, offering a balanced response. Bolt-on necks are more common in this price range; while perfectly fine, a set-neck generally offers a bit more sustain and resonance.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're chasing that fretless vibe - the buttery slides, the singing sustain, the almost vocal quality. But you're not made of money. Getting a truly amazing fretless bass generally costs a small fortune, but there are some solid options under $2000 that won't leave you eating ramen for a month. Let's break down what you can realistically expect and which basses deliver the most bang for your buck.
Realistically, at this price point, you're making trade-offs. Expect simpler hardware, potentially less exotic woods, and a higher likelihood of needing a professional setup. Don't chase the prettiest top - focus on the neck feel and the pickup's character.
A well-set-up, mid-range bass will always sound better than a flashy one that's unplayable.
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 74 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
What's the deal with 'radiused' fingerboards?
Radius refers to the curvature of the fingerboard. A flatter radius (like 12") makes slides easier but can be less forgiving for accuracy. A rounder radius (like 9.5") is more comfortable for some, but slides feel a bit more abrupt. It's a feel thing, experiment if you can.
Do I need a graphite nut?
Graphite nuts are more stable and resist temperature changes, which can help with intonation. It's a nice-to-have, but not a deal-breaker, especially if you're diligent about your setup.
Can I really get a good fretless bass for under $1000?
Absolutely, but manage your expectations. You'll be looking at more basic features and likely needing a setup. It's a great entry point, though.
What about active electronics?
Active electronics can offer more tonal flexibility, but they require batteries. Passive pickups are generally considered more 'organic' sounding, which often suits fretless basses. It's a matter of preference, really.
How important is the bridge?
The bridge is critical for intonation and sustain. Look for a bridge that's well-machined and adjustable. A poorly designed bridge will make intonation even more of a challenge.
