AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best NS Design Lefthanded Electric Double Basses 2026
The top pick is NS Design NXT4A-CO-BK Active Series Electric Cello ($3,117). NS Design CR4M Bass Lefthand leads the high end. 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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NS Design NXT4A-CO-BK Active Series Electric Cello
NXT4a Bass LH BK · NS Design
5 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The NXT4a is a fantastic option for left-handed players looking for a versatile electric upright. It's surprisingly portable and sounds great for both arco and pizzicato, making it ideal for studio work, small gigs, or practice – a real workhorse for a wide range of musical styles.
Pros
- Richlite fretboard offers exceptional playability and stability.
- Polar pickup system delivers a surprisingly natural acoustic tone.
- Maple body provides a balanced, resonant foundation for the sound.
Cons
- Passive electronics limit tonal shaping flexibility compared to active systems.
- Maple body can be somewhat prone to feedback at higher volumes.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,117 now$3,117€2,790 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
- BodyMaple body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
The NXT5a is a fantastic option for left-handed players wanting a truly amplified upright bass experience. It's well-built with quality materials and the Polar pickup system sounds surprisingly authentic – great for studio work or stage. This is perfect for players transitioning from electric bass or seeking a versatile acoustic upright alternative.
Pros
- Maple neck and body offer a bright, articulate tone with excellent sustain.
- Polar pickup system delivers a remarkably natural amplified acoustic sound, versatile for arco and pizzicato.
- Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience with improved note definition.
Cons
- Maple construction can be somewhat bright; may require EQ adjustments for warmer tones.
- Being a 5-string, the wider neck demands a larger hand and adjusted technique.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,396 now$3,396€3,040 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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 ↗
How to choose the best lefthanded electric double basses
Heritage & Design Philosophy
Ns Design started as a way to bring affordable, playable instruments to European markets, heavily influenced by the classic Framus designs of the 60s. They're not trying to reinvent the wheel; they're aiming for a reliable, vintage-inspired platform, and they've done a decent job.
Pickup Voicing & Tone
The standard Ns Design pickups tend to lean towards a warm, round tone-not overly bright, but with a usable low-end thump. They're not going to give you that ice-picky high-end clarity for slap, but they handle walking basslines and mellow rock tones really well. They lack headroom at higher gain, though, so be mindful of that.
Neck Profile & Playability
The neck profiles are generally comfortable, erring on the side of a medium-C shape. The action is usually manageable straight out of the box, but a quick setup will really unlock the playability. They don't always have the tightest fretwork, so expect a little buzzing and potential for minor adjustments.
Build Quality & Hardware
You're not getting boutique-level craftsmanship here, but the hardware is functional. The tuners hold pitch reasonably well, and the bridges are sturdy enough for gigging. The finish is often a bit thick and can sometimes feel a little plasticky, but it's durable and protects the wood.
Left-Handed Availability & Consistency
This is a big one. Finding quality left-handed instruments is always a challenge. Ns Design consistently offers left-handed models across their range, which is a huge win for southpaw players who aren't willing to compromise.
Buying guide
Finding a left-handed electric double bass that doesn't sound like a wet cardboard box is tough. Ns Design has quietly become a go-to for players wanting a solid, playable, and surprisingly versatile instrument without dropping a fortune. If you're left-handed and need a workhorse bass for gigging, recording, or just jamming, let's break down what makes Ns Design's offerings tick.
Ns Design basses offer a lot of value, but know what you're getting. The stock electronics are fine for basic needs, but an aftermarket pickup upgrade can really elevate the tone. Factor in the cost of a professional setup - it's almost always necessary to get the action dialed in and eliminate any fret buzz.
Don't expect a pristine, flawless instrument; these are working basses, built for playing, not display.
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 Ns Design basses good for beginners?
Absolutely. The affordability and decent playability make them a great starting point. Just be prepared for a potential setup.
Can I use these basses for slap bass?
They're not ideal. The pickups lack the high-end clarity needed for a good slap tone. You can make it work, but you'll be fighting the instrument's inherent voicing.
What's the difference between the Showmaster and Masterclass models?
The Masterclass usually has better woods (often maple back and sides) and upgraded hardware, resulting in a slightly more resonant and refined tone. The Showmaster is the more budget-friendly option.
Do I need to upgrade the pickups?
Not necessarily. The stock pickups are serviceable, but a higher-quality set can unlock a wider range of tones. It's a worthwhile upgrade if you're serious about your sound.
What kind of amp do I need to get the most out of an Ns Design bass?
Something with a warm, tube-like preamp will complement the bass's natural tone. Avoid overly bright or aggressive amps - you'll end up fighting against the instrument's character.
