AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Lefthanded Electric Double Basses for Professional 2026
The top pick is NS Design CR4M Bass Lefthand ($4,458). NS Design NXT4A-CO-BK Active Series Electric Cello gives you the most for the money at $3,229. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 3 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Top 3
Full detail for the 3 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Strings4-string
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
The NS Design CR4M is a fantastic option for left-handed players wanting a compact, amplified double bass. Its maple build gives it a clear, punchy voice that cuts through a mix, and the EMG pickups are incredibly versatile for studio work or stage. It's ideal for players needing portability without sacrificing the double bass experience.
Pros
- Maple body delivers a focused, articulate tone with excellent projection.
- EMG magnet pickup system provides a wide range of tones, from pizzicato to arco.
- Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience and excellent note definition.
Cons
- The compact scale can feel a bit cramped for players accustomed to full-scale basses.
- Maple construction might lack the warmth and sustain of a more resonant wood like walnut.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,458 now$4,458€3,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
- BodyMaple body
This NS Design NXT5a is a fantastic option for left-handed upright bass players wanting a stage-ready electric. The maple construction gives it a solid foundation, and the Polar pickup system does a surprisingly good job of capturing that upright vibe—it's well-suited for jazz, studio work, and even some rock applications where a unique upright tone is desired.
Pros
- Maple neck & body offer excellent sustain and clarity.
- Polar pickup system delivers a surprisingly natural upright tone.
- Ebony fretboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
Cons
- The passive electronics limit tonal sculpting options.
- Being a 5-string, it's noticeably heavier than 4-string models.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,508 now$3,508€3,140 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
NS Design NXT4A-CO-BK Active Series Electric Cello
NXT4a Bass LH AB · NS Design
5 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The NXT4a is a really solid entry into the electric upright world, especially for lefties. NS Design nailed the ergonomics and build quality – the Richlite fretboard is a joy to play. It's a great choice for gigging musicians or studio players who want a versatile and reliable electric upright without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Richlite fretboard offers excellent playability and stability.
- Polar pickup system delivers surprisingly natural arco and pizzicato tones.
- Maple body provides a balanced, resonant foundation for the electronics.
Cons
- The maple body, while resonant, can be somewhat prone to feedback at high volumes.
- Passive electronics limit tonal shaping options compared to active systems.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,229 now$3,229€2,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
How to choose the best lefthanded electric double basses
Neck Profile & Setup
A comfortable, consistent neck profile is non-negotiable. We're looking for something that allows for effortless access to the higher registers and precise intonation - crucial for complex lines and rapid passages. The initial setup (action, string spacing) needs to be dialed in, or easily adjustable, for optimal playability.
Pickup Voicing & Output
The pickup is everything on an electric double bass. We're not after generic 'bass' tones; we want clarity, definition, and the ability to dial in everything from a warm, woody upright emulation to a biting, aggressive growl. High output isn't always better; it's about the character of the signal and its headroom.
Body Wood & Construction
While electronics play a huge role, the body wood significantly impacts the bass's resonance and sustain. Mahogany tends to deliver a warmer, rounder tone, while maple offers more brightness and clarity. Solid wood construction is a must for serious players, as laminates often lack the fundamental resonance needed for a professional sound.
Hardware Quality & Stability
Cheap hardware - tuners, bridge, tailpiece - will kill your intonation and frustrate you on stage. These components need to be rock-solid and hold tuning under the stress of gigging and recording. A poorly designed bridge can also negatively affect sustain and tone.
Electronics & Controls
Simple isn't always bad, but professional players often want flexibility. A blend knob to mix piezo and magnetic pickups is a huge advantage, allowing for a wider range of tonal options. Active electronics can offer more headroom and tonal shaping, but can also introduce noise if not implemented well.
Buying guide
Finding a left-handed electric double bass that actually works for professional gigs and studio sessions is a surprisingly tough hunt. Most of what's out there feels like an afterthought - a right-handed model flipped and slapped together. We're talking about instruments that need to handle complex slap routines, deliver a solid low-end thump without getting muddy, and reliably cut through a full band mix, and that's before considering the ergonomics of a comfortable neck profile for a lefty. This list isn't about beginner instruments; it's about the gear that lets you do your job at a high level.
Don't be swayed by flashy aesthetics or inflated marketing claims. Lefthanded electric double basses are a niche market, so quality control can be inconsistent. Seriously consider buying from a reputable dealer who allows returns - you need to feel the neck in your hand and hear the bass through your own amp.
Paying more often gets you better wood, more consistent electronics, and better hardware, but it doesn't guarantee a 'great' bass - it just reduces the chance of getting a dud.
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 5 lefthanded electric double 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 there many truly good left-handed options?
Honestly, the selection is limited. Many 'lefty' basses are simply right-handed models reversed, which compromises ergonomics and often the instrument's inherent design. You'll be paying a premium for the rarity.
How important is the piezo pickup?
The piezo is crucial for replicating the acoustic tone of an upright bass. A poorly implemented piezo can sound brittle and unnatural; a good one adds warmth and complexity to the overall sound. The blend control is key - learn to use it.
What's the deal with active vs. passive electronics?
Active electronics offer more headroom and tonal shaping, which can be beneficial in high-volume situations or for studio recording. However, they require a battery and can be more prone to noise. Passive electronics are simpler and often deliver a more 'organic' tone.
Can I get away with a cheaper bass for gigging?
You can, but you'll likely be fighting the instrument the whole time. Cheap basses often have poor intonation, muddy low-end, and limited dynamic range - all of which will impact your performance and sound unprofessional. It's an investment in your craft.
What string gauge should I use?
Experimentation is key, but generally, heavier gauge strings (40-50 gauge) provide more sustain and a fuller low-end thump, especially on basses with a brighter tonal profile. Lighter strings offer easier playability but can lack the necessary punch for cutting through a mix.
