AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Headless Bass Guitars Under $800 2026
The top pick is Cort Artisan Space 5 ($734). Hils HNB3 Ivory gives you the most for the money at $501. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 5 models across 4 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 5
Full detail for the 5 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width47 mm (1.85")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings5-string
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.
Cons
- The 34in scale might feel unwieldy for players accustomed to shorter scales.
- Limited tonal versatility compared to basses with more pickup options.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$734 now$734€658 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius500 mm (19.69")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
This headless bass feels modern and strong thanks to its 5-string setup and thick humbuckers. It suits players who want punchy lows without needing a complex electronics panel. Just be ready for a heavier feel and accept the basic controls.
Pros
- 5-string headless design offers modern playability and stability.
- Okoume body paired with maple/jatoba neck provides solid resonance.
- Dual humbuckers deliver thick, powerful low-end output.
Cons
- Heavy 5-string setup may strain smaller players.
- Only two pickup options limit tonal variety.
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 21Oct 21$746 now$746€669 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius406 mm (15.98")
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass uses a warm mahogany body and a sturdy maple neck for solid playability. The multi-scale setup keeps strings balanced, though you get just six controls instead of more options. It's a great choice for players who want simple electronics and a classic feel without extra hardware.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body adds warmth to the tone
- Maple bolt-on neck ensures strong connection
- Rosewood fingerboard offers comfortable playability
Cons
- Headless design lacks traditional tuning pegs
- Few electronic controls limit sound customization
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$779 now$779€699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale762 mm (30")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
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.
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.
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- Nut width40 mm (1.57")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius318 mm (12.52")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyMahogany body
This bass feels great because the maple neck is easy to play and the multiscale length fits longer notes well. The active EQ gives you clean highs or gritty lows, but the single pickup limits some tone options. It suits players who want a sturdy, modern instrument without needing to adjust the neck angle.
Pros
- Mahogany body paired with maple neck for solid resonance
- Multiscale design offers comfortable reach across the fretboard
- Push-pull volume switch adds active EQ control for modern tone
Cons
- Only one pickup type available despite active/passive switch claim
- No string gauge options listed for the included 24-fret set
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$668 now$668€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
Headless Bass Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 10 models we track, not a sample.
Median $734 — half of all headless bass guitars here cost less.
median of 10 models · 40 mm (1.57")–47 mm (1.85")
median of 5 models · 762 mm (30")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 9 models · 24–24
median of 10 models · 305 mm (12.01")–406 mm (15.98")
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 10 headless bass guitars 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 should I look for when buying headless bass guitars?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on headless bass guitars?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive headless bass guitars worth the investment?
Higher-priced headless bass guitars typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for headless bass guitars?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy headless bass guitars online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.
