Best Lefthanded Double Basses 2026
Finding a lefty double bass can be a real pain - the market's smaller, and options often feel limited. You're not just looking for a reversed instrument; you want something that resonates with that deep, fundamental low-end and offers comfortable playability. Whether you're laying down walking basslines in a jazz quartet, anchoring a bluegrass band, or just practicing in your basement, the right bass makes all the difference.
Last updated: April 22, 2026 • Next update: April 29, 2026
Thomann 33 3/4 LH Europe Double Bass
- • Solid spruce top delivers a warm, responsive, and projecting tone.
- • European craftsmanship ensures generally good build quality and attention to detail.
- • Round ebony fingerboard provides a comfortable and fast playing experience.
- • Height-adjustable endpin offers versatility for different playing positions and acoustics.
- • The 3/4 size might feel cramped for taller or larger players.
- • While adjustable, the Thomann workshop’s setup delays shipping.
- • Solid maple back, while traditional, can limit tonal complexity compared to more exotic woods.
Thomann 11 3/4 LH Europe Double Bass
- • European craftsmanship delivers solid build quality and consistent tone.
- • Laminated construction provides surprising resonance for its price point.
- • Height-adjustable spine offers comfortable playing for a range of body types.
- • Tyrolean tuners provide reliable and precise intonation adjustments.
- • Laminated top limits the ultimate dynamic range compared to solid wood basses.
- • Scale length of ~105cm might feel short for experienced, larger-handed players.
- • Ebony fingerboard, while functional, may not be as smooth as higher-grade options.
Thomann 22 3/4 LH Europe Double Bass
- • Solid spruce top delivers a responsive, warm, and projecting tone.
- • European craftsmanship suggests a higher standard of construction and material selection.
- • Adjustable action allows for customization to suit various playing styles and string gauges.
- • Tyrolean tuners offer reliable and precise intonation adjustments.
- • Semi-solid construction may lack the complex tonal resonance of a fully solid instrument.
- • Forwarding agent delivery can lead to longer wait times and potential handling concerns.
- • Laminated maple back, while stable, can slightly dampen high-end clarity compared to solid maple.
Thomann 22AS/5str/LH 3/4 Europe Bass
- • Solid spruce top delivers a clear, resonant fundamental tone
- • 5-string configuration expands harmonic possibilities and low-end range
- • Tyrolean machine heads offer smooth, reliable tuning stability
- • 3/4 size suits younger players or those preferring a more compact instrument
- • Semi-solid construction might lack the sustain of a fully hollow body
- • Satin antiqued finish, while attractive, is susceptible to fingerprints
- • Lower B string requires more precise technique and bow control
Thomann 44AS/5str/LH 3/4 Europe Bass
- • Solid spruce top delivers a warm, resonant tone with good projection
- • 5-string configuration expands harmonic possibilities and low-end range
- • Pirastro Flexocor Deluxe strings offer a balanced, responsive playing feel
- • German workshop setup ensures intonation and playability right out of the box
- • 3/4 size may feel cramped for taller or larger players
- • Matte antiqued finish, while attractive, can be susceptible to fingerprints
- • Tyrolean tuners, while functional, aren’t the most precise for fine-tuning
Thomann 11/5str/LH 3/4 Europe Bass
- • European craftsmanship delivers solid build quality and consistent tone.
- • 3/4 size makes it ideal for smaller players or those seeking a more manageable instrument.
- • The low B string expands tonal range, suitable for orchestral and jazz playing.
- • Pirastro Flexocor Deluxe strings offer a warm, responsive, and reliable playing experience.
- • Laminated construction, while cost-effective, lacks the resonance of solid wood.
- • Satin antiqued finish might not appeal to players preferring a glossier aesthetic.
- • The 3/4 scale length can feel cramped for experienced, larger-handed bassists.
Thomann 33AS/5str/LH 3/4 Europe Bass
- • Solid spruce top delivers a warm, resonant, and responsive tone.
- • 5-string configuration expands harmonic possibilities and low-end range.
- • Pirastro Flexocor Deluxe strings offer excellent clarity and projection.
- • German workshop setup ensures reliable intonation and playability out of the box.
- • 3/4 size might be restrictive for taller players or those with longer arms.
- • Matte antiqued finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be prone to fingerprints.
- • Solid wood construction means it will require more humidity regulation than laminate models.
How to Choose the Best Lefthanded Double Basses
Size & Scale Length
A full-size (4/4) is standard, but smaller sizes (3/4, 1/2) exist for younger or smaller players. Scale length (typically 33.5" for full-size) directly impacts string tension and ease of playing; shorter scales are easier to manage but can sacrifice some low-end thump.
Wood & Construction
Spruce tops are common for brightness and projection, while maple backs and sides offer warmth and sustain. Laminated woods are cheaper, but solid wood generally offers better resonance and tonal complexity - a critical factor if you're recording.
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is paramount. Thicker 'C' shapes are common, but try before you buy. Action (string height) significantly impacts playability; too high, and it's a wrestling match; too low, and you'll get buzzing. A good setup is ESSENTIAL.
Bridge & Soundpost
The bridge transfers string vibrations to the body; a poorly fitted bridge will kill the tone. The soundpost, a small wooden dowel inside the bass, is crucial for tone and projection - a misplaced soundpost will make the bass sound thin and lifeless.
Pickup Voicing (if applicable)
If you need to amplify, the pickup's voicing is key. Cheap piezo pickups can sound brittle and lack low-end. Better pickups attempt to replicate the acoustic tone, but often introduce their own character - listen carefully and consider your gigging needs.
Buying Guide
Buying a lefty double bass is about more than just flipping an existing design. Expect to pay a premium for genuinely good instruments - corners get cut on wood quality, bracing, and setup. Don't be afraid to buy used; a well-maintained older bass can be a steal. Ultimately, the best bass is the one that feels right and inspires you to play.
Our Methodology
Here at Audiofu, we don't rely on manufacturer specs. We've spent years playing double basses on stages of all sizes, from smoky clubs to outdoor festivals, and tracking in everything from budget home studios to pro facilities. Our evaluations are based on how an instrument feels in your hands, how it sounds in a mix, and how it holds up under real-world gigging conditions - because that's what matters.
