Best Headless Bass Guitars for Advanced 2026
Alright, so you're a serious bassist. You've mastered the fretboard, you're chasing nuanced dynamics, and you're tired of intonation headaches. Headless basses aren't just a visual statement; they're a tool for precision. This isn't a list for beginners - we're diving into what advanced players need from a headless, and which ones deliver the goods.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best headless bass guitars in 2026 are Ibanez EHB5MSBSP-MAM (top pick), Ibanez EHB1675MS-NTF for tighter budgets, and Ibanez EHB1135MS-SKL for pros — selected from 15 options across 4 brands, priced $515–$2,088, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez EHB5MSBSP-MAM
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Fingerboard radius
500 mm (19.69")
Strings
5-string
Body
Basswood body
Ergonomic Playing
Portable Performance
Travel
Key Feature:
The EHB5MSBSP-MAM is a serious contender for modern players seeking a versatile, high-performance 5-string. The multi-scale design really shines, delivering a balanced tone across the extended range, and the Fishman Fluence pickups offer incredible tonal flexibility. This is an ideal bass for progressive players, session musicians, or anyone needing a powerful and articulate low-end.
PROS
- • Panga Panga neck offers exceptional stability and a unique feel.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups deliver a remarkably versatile, modern tone.
- • Multi-scale design enhances clarity and string definition across all strings.
- • Bolt-on construction provides a responsive, punchy low-end response.
CONS
- • The matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to fingerprints.
- • Basswood body might lack the sustain of more premium woods like mahogany.
- • The extended scale length and 5-string configuration can be challenging for smaller hands.
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 606588
$2,089
#2
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez EHB1675MS-NTF
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Fingerboard radius
500 mm (19.69")
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Travel
Ergonomic Playing
Unique Style
Key Feature:
This Ibanez EHB1675MS-NTF is a serious instrument for the modern bassist. The multi-scale design and Fishman pickups really let it shine across a wide range of genres, from progressive rock to funk. It's a premium-priced bass, but the build quality and versatility make it a fantastic choice for experienced players seeking a high-performance, headless setup.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a resonant, articulate foundation.
- • Fishman Fluence pickups deliver exceptional clarity and growl.
- • Multi-scale length enhances intonation and string tension consistency.
- • Panga Panga neck offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
CONS
- • The headless design isn’t for everyone; takes getting used to.
- • Panga Panga wood can be a polarizing choice in terms of feel.
- • The weight, typical for an ash/ebony build, may be a factor for some.
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 606577
$1,979
#3
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez EHB1135MS-SKL
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Fingerboard radius
500 mm (19.69")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Travel
Ergonomic Playing
Modern Design
Key Feature:
This Ibanez EHB1135MS-SKL is a seriously impressive headless bass. The multi-scale design and Bartolini pickups give it a modern, powerful sound with incredible note definition, and the build quality is top-notch. It's perfect for players seeking a high-performance instrument for genres like progressive rock, fusion, or modern metal.
PROS
- • Okoume/Ash combo delivers a uniquely resonant, articulate tone.
- • Bartolini pickups provide a powerful, defined low-end with clarity.
- • Multi-scale length enhances intonation and string tension consistency.
- • Graphite reinforcement rods ensure exceptional neck stability and longevity.
CONS
- • The Panga Panga fingerboard can feel slightly less familiar than rosewood.
- • Its weight, typical for a 5-string, might be fatiguing for some players.
- • The Vari-mid EQ, while versatile, can be complex to master.
⭐
1.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 606590
$1,594
#4
⭐
2.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 6 MS
Nut width
55 mm (2.17")
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
6-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Portable Performance
Unique Style
Modern Design
Key Feature:
The Marcus Miller M6 Headless 6 MS is a seriously impressive instrument. That multi-scale design makes playing a 6-string surprisingly easy, and the Pure-H pickups have a modern, aggressive punch. This bass is perfect for players seeking a versatile, high-performance 6-string that can handle everything from funk to rock – a real workhorse for gigging musicians.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a resonant, articulate tone with excellent sustain.
- • Marcus Pure-H humbuckers deliver a powerful, defined low-end and clear highs.
- • Multi-scale design optimizes string tension for improved intonation and feel across 6 strings.
- • Heritage-3 electronics offer extensive tonal shaping for diverse musical styles.
CONS
- • Headless design may require some adjustment for players accustomed to traditional basses.
- • Mahogany satin finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
- • The bolt-on neck, while stable, doesn’t offer the same resonance as a neck-through design.
⭐
2.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610859
$1,099
#5
⭐
2.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 6 BK
Nut width
55 mm (2.17")
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
6-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Ergonomic Playing
Travel
Modern Design
Key Feature:
The M6 Headless 6 BK is a seriously capable bass, offering a modern edge with that Marcus Miller mojo. The multi-scale setup and powerful pickups make it shine in funk, fusion, and contemporary styles – a fantastic option for gigging musicians who want a versatile, high-performance instrument.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Marcus Pure-H humbuckers deliver a powerful, articulate sound, great for funk and beyond.
- • Multi-scale design optimizes string tension for improved intonation and feel across 6 strings.
- • Bolt-on maple/mahogany neck offers a snappy response and comfortable C profile.
CONS
- • Headless design can take some getting used to for players accustomed to traditional basses.
- • Rosewood fingerboard may feel a bit dry for some, requiring occasional conditioning.
- • While versatile, the pickup configuration leans toward a modern, defined sound – vintage tones need more tweaking.
⭐
2.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610855
$1,099
#6
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez EHB1265MS-NML
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Space-Saving
Ergonomic Playing
Travel
Key Feature:
The EHB1265MS-NML is a serious contender for the modern bassist seeking a high-performance instrument. The multiscale design and Bartolini pickups deliver a focused, powerful tone perfect for funk, fusion, and progressive genres. It's a premium-priced option, but the build quality and sonic versatility justify the investment for discerning players.
PROS
- • Panga Panga neck offers exceptional clarity and a unique feel under the fingers.
- • Bartolini BH2 pickups deliver a powerful, articulate tone with excellent note definition.
- • Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved playability and intonation across all five strings.
- • Vari-Mid EQ provides unparalleled tonal shaping and a wide range of sonic possibilities.
CONS
- • The headless design might feel awkward for players unfamiliar with this style.
- • Panga Panga wood can be less readily available for future repairs or replacements.
- • The weight, typical of ash-bodied instruments, can be a factor for extended playing sessions.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 533819
$1,416
#7
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Cort Artisan Space 5 SDG
by
Cort
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
5-string
Body
Maple body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Travel
Space-Saving
Unique Style
Key Feature:
The Cort Space 5 SDG is a seriously impressive headless bass. The Bartolini pickups offer a tight, punchy sound that’s fantastic for modern genres and funk, while the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. It’s a great choice for players wanting a unique look and professional-grade tone without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple/Poplar burl body delivers a focused, articulate low-end.
- • Bartolini MK-1 pickups provide a balanced, modern tone with clarity.
- • Roasted maple fingerboard offers exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- • 7-piece neck construction enhances sustain and minimizes unwanted string wobble.
CONS
- • The headless design requires precise setup and string alignment.
- • Star Dust Green finish, while striking, may not appeal to all tastes.
- • Active preamp demands a power source, limiting passive tonal flexibility.
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 587790
$835
#8
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Cort Space 4 Star Dust Black
by
Cort
Nut width
40 mm (1.57")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Maple body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Space-Saving
Portable Performance
Modern Design
Key Feature:
The Cort Space 4 Star Dust Black is a seriously impressive headless bass offering a lot of bang for your buck. The Bartolini pickups deliver a punchy, modern sound that cuts through any mix, and the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. This is a fantastic option for gigging musicians and studio players looking for a professional-grade instrument without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Bartolini MK-1 humbuckers deliver a powerful, articulate, and modern tone.
- • The 7-piece neck construction enhances resonance and reduces unwanted string vibration.
- • Poplar burl top adds a stunning aesthetic touch without significantly impacting the price.
CONS
- • Headless basses require precise stringing and intonation, a learning curve for some.
- • The 'C' neck profile might not suit players preferring a flatter or thicker feel.
- • Star Dust Black finish, while striking, can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 615610
$791
#9
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Hils HNB3 Black
by
Hils
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Space-Saving
Modern Design
Portable Performance
Key Feature:
The Hils HNB3 is a surprisingly solid headless bass for the money. The mahogany body gives it a focused, warm tone, and the stainless steel frets make it a joy to play. It's a great option for players looking for a modern, sleek aesthetic and dependable performance without a premium-priced tag, especially those playing genres like modern rock, funk, or metal.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant low-end foundation.
- • Maple/walnut neck provides excellent stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Stainless steel frets offer superior durability and intonation accuracy.
- • Titanium locking tuners ensure exceptional tuning stability, even with aggressive playing.
CONS
- • Mahogany body contributes to a potentially heavier feel, especially for smaller players.
- • Single humbucker pickup limits tonal versatility compared to basses with multiple pickups.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, may lack the sustain of a neck-through design.
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608834
$516
#10
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Hils HNB3 Ivory
by
Hils
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Unique Style
Space-Saving
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
The Hils HNB3 Ivory is a surprisingly capable and affordable headless bass. Its mahogany body gives it a warm, focused tone, perfect for rock, funk, and modern styles. It's a great entry point into the headless world, offering solid build quality and a comfortable neck for players seeking a unique look and feel.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and surprisingly punchy low-end.
- • Maple/walnut neck provides stability and a smooth, comfortable playing feel.
- • Stainless steel frets offer excellent durability and a clean feel under the fingers.
- • Alchemy Mono-Rail bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability, a welcome feature.
CONS
- • Single humbucker limits tonal versatility; more complex sounds require workarounds.
- • Mahogany body can make it a bit heavier than some basses – expect around 9-10 lbs.
- • Headless design requires initial adjustment and may not suit all playing styles.
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608822
$516
#11
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Cort Artisan Space 5 SDB
by
Cort
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Maple body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Portable Performance
Unique Style
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
The Space 5 SDB is a serious contender for players wanting a tight, modern bass tone with excellent tuning stability. The headless design and active EQ give it a professional edge, and the build quality is surprisingly high for the price point. This bass is ideal for funk, modern rock, and any genre needing a defined, articulate low-end.
PROS
- • Maple/Poplar burl body offers a resonant, articulate tonal foundation.
- • Bartolini MK-1 pickups deliver a focused, modern, and powerful low-end.
- • Roasted maple fingerboard provides exceptional stability and a smooth playing experience.
- • Headless design enhances tuning stability and offers a unique, modern aesthetic.
CONS
- • The 34in scale might feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to basses with more pickup options.
- • Headless basses demand precise string spacing and setup – potential for initial adjustment.
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 587848
$813
#12
⭐
2.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 BK
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Modern Design
Travel
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
The Marcus Miller M6 Headless is a serious contender for players wanting a modern, versatile 5-string. The multi-scale design and Pure-H pickups offer a unique blend of clarity and punch, making it ideal for funk, R&B, and modern rock players who demand a tight, defined low-end.
PROS
- • Ash body delivers a focused, articulate low-end response.
- • Marcus Pure-H humbuckers offer a powerful, defined tone with low noise.
- • Multi-scale design improves intonation and expands harmonic possibilities.
- • Bolt-on maple/mahogany neck provides a snappy, responsive feel.
CONS
- • Headless design may require adjustment to playing ergonomics.
- • Rosewood fretboard might feel less slick than alternatives for some players.
- • Limited onboard EQ compared to more premium bass offerings.
⭐
2.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610848
$1,044
#13
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 MS
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Unique Style
Space-Saving
Modern Design
Key Feature:
The M6 Headless 5 MS is a solid choice for players wanting a modern, punchy 5-string. The multiscale design makes those higher register notes sing, and the Marcus Pure-H pickups give you a versatile palette for funk, rock, and beyond. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of performance for the money.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
- • Multiscale design enhances playability across all five strings.
- • Marcus Pure-H pickups offer a clear, articulate, modern sound.
- • Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel and easy adjustability.
CONS
- • Headless design may take some getting used to for traditional players.
- • Mahogany body can make it slightly heavier than basses with other woods.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to basses with more complex electronics.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610850
$978
#14
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Cort Space 4 Star Dust Green
by
Cort
Nut width
40 mm (1.57")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Body
Maple body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Ergonomic Playing
Unique Style
Modern Design
Key Feature:
The Space 4 is a seriously impressive headless bass offering a lot of bang for your buck. The Bartolini pickups give it a modern, aggressive edge, while the multi-laminate neck keeps things stable and comfortable. This is a great choice for players wanting a modern, versatile bass without the premium-priced tag, especially those in genres like progressive rock, metal, or funk.
PROS
- • Maple/Poplar construction delivers a bright, articulate, and resonant tone.
- • Bartolini MK-1 pickups provide a powerful, focused, and modern bass sound.
- • The 7-piece neck offers exceptional stability and a comfortable, fast playing experience.
- • Custom headless bridge ensures precise intonation and a sleek, modern aesthetic.
CONS
- • The open-pore finish, while attractive, may require more care to maintain.
- • The shorter 34in scale might feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- • Active preamp needs a power source, limiting passive tonal options.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 614380
$791
#15
⭐
1.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Marcus Miller M6 Headless 4 MS
Fingerboard radius
406 mm (15.98")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Ergonomic Playing
Space-Saving
Portable Performance
Key Feature:
The M6 Headless is a serious contender for players wanting a modern, versatile bass without the premium price tag. The multiscale design and Marcus pickups give it a unique voice – powerful and articulate, with a surprisingly warm low-end. This is a fantastic choice for funk, rock, and modern R&B players who appreciate a tight, responsive feel.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the tone
- • Multiscale design enhances intonation accuracy across the extended range
- • Marcus Pure-H humbuckers deliver powerful, articulate low-end response
- • Bolt-on neck construction offers a snappy, responsive feel ideal for aggressive playing
CONS
- • Mahogany satin finish can be prone to fingerprints and smudging
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to basses with more extensive EQ options
- • Headless design may take some getting used to for players unfamiliar with the format
⭐
1.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 610841
$868
Every headless bass guitars that matches
16 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Marcus Miller M6 Headless 4 BK | Fingerboard radius 406 mm (15.98") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $934 |
Headless Bass Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 16 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $934
from $516 to $1,979
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 40 mm (1.57") to 55 mm (2.17") · 14 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 6-string · 10 models
Body
ash, maple, mahogany
most common · 15 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 762 mm (30") to 864 mm (34.02") · 6 models
Frets
median 24
from 24 to 24 · 5 models
Fingerboard radius
median 406 mm (15.98")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 500 mm (19.69") · 14 models
Neck profile
C
most common · 9 models
Fingerboard
rosewood, maple, laurel
most common · 11 models
How to Choose the Best Headless Bass Guitars
1
Intonation Stability
This is the whole point, right? Advanced players demand dead-on accuracy across the entire fretboard, especially in drop tunings or extended range setups. Any hint of wavering intonation is a dealbreaker.
2
Neck Profile & Ergonomics
Forget chunky vintage feels. We're talking about comfortable, efficient access to the upper registers. Neck profiles that promote speed and precision without sacrificing sustain are key. The weight balance also matters; a neck-heavy bass will kill your stamina after a set.
3
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
A muddy low-end or a brittle high-end won't cut it. Advanced players need pickups that articulate clearly, retain their punch in a dense mix, and respond to subtle picking dynamics without unwanted breakup. That's the difference between sounding like a machine and a musician.
4
Hardware Quality & Tuning Stability
Locking tuners are mandatory, obviously. But the quality of the nut, the string spacing, and even the bridge material all contribute to tuning stability and overall feel. Cheap hardware will fight you, especially when re-stringing or tuning mid-set.
5
Sustain & Resonance
A headless design inherently focuses the vibrations, but the wood choices and construction quality heavily influence the overall sustain and resonance. We're looking for basses that sing with a focused, powerful tone - not just a sterile thud.
Buying Guide
Don't be fooled by aesthetics. Headless basses are an investment, and corners get cut somewhere. The cheapest ones often use inferior hardware and questionable wood, resulting in tuning instability and a lifeless tone. Pay attention to the neck profile - a neck that feels awkward in your hand will slow you down. Consider your playing style and the genres you play - a bass with a warmer, rounder voicing might be better suited for jazz, while a brighter, more aggressive tone might be ideal for metal.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 16 headless bass guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The design itself makes intonation easier to adjust, but the quality of the bridge and nut are still critical. Cheap ones can still be a pain.
Not necessarily, but a good amp with plenty of headroom will let you hear the nuances these basses offer. A solid state amp or a bass-specific tube amp is a good starting point.
There's the original NS Design style, the Spear-type, and variations. It's mostly aesthetic, but some players swear by certain designs for feel or tuning stability - it's worth trying them out.
They can be, especially with multi-layer construction. Look for options with lighter woods like alder or mahogany, and consider a high-quality strap.
Not really. The string spacing is often wider, which can make it a bit easier to grip the strings. Just be mindful of the tension - they can be a little tighter than traditional basses.
