AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Miscellaneous 4-String Basses for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H ($3,717). Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H gives you the most for the money at $3,154. Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 211 models across 36 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 5, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H
Stingray 4 Special H PBB · Music Man
118 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass has a roasted maple neck that feels great to play. The active preamp lets you shape the sound with treble, mid, and bass knobs. It is a solid choice for players who want a bright tone without extra switches.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck for smooth playability
- Rosewood fingerboard offers rich tone
- Active preamp with three-band EQ
Cons
- Limited control options on preamp
- Heavy weight for long playing sessions
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 27Aug 27$3,717 now$3,717€3,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H
Stingray 4 HH Black · Music Man
118 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius279 mm (10.98")
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This is a Made in USA four-string bass with a roasted maple neck and fingerboard. It has a humbucker with an active 18 V preamp and a three-band EQ, so you can shape your tone with simple knobs. A gig bag is included, which makes it easy to carry to rehearsals and shows.
Pros
- Made in USA, with a selected hardwood body and roasted maple neck
- Roasted maple fingerboard with dot inlays and 22 stainless steel frets
- Music Man humbucker with neodymium magnets and an active 18 V preamp
Cons
- Active 18 V preamp needs a power source, so plan for batteries or a power supply
79AudioFu
Index↓ 15.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$3,717 · Aug 17$3,154 now$3,154€2,799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H
Stingray 4 H Special BB · Music Man
118 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
If you want a bass with a simple layout, this one is worth a look. It has one humbucker, three-band electronics with an active 18 V preamp, and a roasted maple neck, all in a Butane Blue finish. It suits players who want a 34-inch scale and easy controls, and it comes with a Mono cases gig bag so you can take it along.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck and fingerboard give this bass a stable, all-maple core
- Single Music Man humbucker with neodymium magnets keeps the setup simple
- 3-band electronics with an active 18 V preamp and master volume offer solid control
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,379 now$3,379€2,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H
Stingray 4 Special HH Candyman · Music Man
118 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
You get a 4-string bass with a roasted maple neck, an ebony fingerboard and two humbucking pickups. It has an active 3-band preamp with treble, mid and bass controls, and it comes with a mono case. It suits you if you want a well-equipped bass with a long 34 inch scale, made in the USA, and you are ready for a high-end price.
Pros
- Roasted maple bolt-on neck paired with an ebony fingerboard
- Two Music Man humbuckers with neodymium magnets
- Active 3-band preamp with treble, mid and bass controls plus master volume
73AudioFu
Index↓ 6.5%since Aug 17$3,604 · Aug 17$3,369 now$3,369€2,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H
Stingray 4 Special Raspberry · Music Man
118 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyAsh body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
The Stingray 4 Special Raspberry is a powerhouse bass, built for players who demand a tight, defined low-end with a modern edge. The active preamp adds serious punch and tonal shaping capabilities, making it ideal for funk, rock, and modern genres where clarity and aggression are key. This is a top-tier instrument for the serious working bassist.
Pros
- Ebony fretboard provides exceptional clarity and sustain.
- Neodymium humbuckers deliver a powerful, articulate low-end.
- 5-bolt neck construction offers enhanced stability and a comfortable feel.
Cons
- Raspberry Burst finish might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,829 now$3,829€3,398 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H
BFR Stingray 4 H Special PBB · Music Man
118 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyAsh body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
If you want a 4-string bass with a bold look, this one is worth a close look. The ash body, spalted maple top, and flamed maple neck and fingerboard make it stand out in a crowd. It has one humbucker and an active 3-band preamp, so you get bass, mid, and treble controls, and it comes with a Mono Case gig bag.
Pros
- Ash body with a spalted maple top gives it a striking look
- Flamed maple bolt-on neck and fingerboard with dot inlays
- One Music Man humbucker with neodymium magnets for a focused pickup setup
Cons
- Its active preamp needs an 18 volt power source to run
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,182 now$5,182€4,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H
Stingray 4 Special HH Bruleé · Music Man
118 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Stingray 4 Special HH Bruleé is a serious instrument. The active electronics and humbucker pickups deliver a tight, modern low-end with plenty of growl, perfect for funk, rock, and modern pop. It’s a premium-priced bass built for players who demand performance and a striking aesthetic.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and feel.
- Bruleé finish is stunning, showcasing the selected hardwood’s grain.
- Music Man humbuckers deliver a powerful, articulate, modern tone.
Cons
- The Bruleé finish may show fingerprints easily, requiring diligent care.
- The active preamp adds complexity for beginners; may need tweaking.
70AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 17$3,266 · Aug 17$3,266 now$3,266€2,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 H
Stingray 4 H Special Jackpot · Music Man
118 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width41.3 mm (1.63")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets22 frets
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This Stingray 4 H Special Jackpot is a powerhouse—the roasted maple neck feels incredible, and that single humbucker with the active preamp delivers a seriously modern, punchy tone. It's ideal for players needing a defined, articulate bass sound in rock, funk, or modern pop, and who appreciate top-tier build quality.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck and fretboard offer exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- Music Man humbucker delivers a focused, articulate tone with excellent clarity.
- Active preamp provides broad tonal shaping and a powerful, defined low-end.
Cons
- The active electronics require a power source, limiting passive tonal options.
- The 'Jackpot' finish, while striking, might not appeal to all players.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,266 now$3,266€2,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale845 mm (33.27")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyMaple body
- Weight4.1 kg
This Rickenbacker 4003 JG is a statement piece – undeniably cool and sonically distinctive. It's perfect for players craving that signature Rickenbacker growl for rock, punk, and alternative styles, where a tight, punchy low-end and iconic look are paramount. Be prepared for a hefty instrument, but the feel and tone are truly special.
Pros
- Maple body delivers a focused, articulate low-end tone.
- Neck-through construction enhances sustain and upper fret access.
- Caribbean rosewood fingerboard offers a smooth, warm playing feel.
Cons
- The substantial weight can be fatiguing during long gigs.
- The single-coil pickups can be noisy with high gain settings.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,379 now$3,379€2,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.9 mm (1.69")
- Scale845 mm (33.27")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyMaple body
- Weight4.1 kg
The 4003 FG is an icon for a reason. It’s got that unmistakable Rickenbacker growl – aggressive, articulate, and incredibly defined. This is a bass for players who want a statement instrument, perfect for rock, progressive rock, and situations where you need to cut through a dense mix.
Pros
- Neck-through construction delivers exceptional sustain and note clarity.
- Rickenbacker’s signature pickups provide a uniquely punchy and articulate tone.
- Solid mahogany body offers a warm, resonant foundation for the instrument’s sound.
Cons
- The substantial weight can be fatiguing during extended playing sessions.
- The distinctive tone isn’t universally appealing; less versatile than some basses.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,379 now$3,379€2,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 211 miscellaneous 4-String basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Rickenbacker 4003S4003S SMG · Rickenbacker · 5 finishes68Stable$3,266€2,899$3,266€2,899Check ↗
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Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special 4 HStingray 4 Special HH B.Rock · Music Man68Stable$3,266€2,899$3,266€2,899Check ↗
- 13
Rickenbacker 40034003 MG · Rickenbacker63Stable$3,379€2,999$3,379€2,999Check ↗
- 14
Ernie Ball Music Man Pino Palladino Signature StingrayPino Palladino StingRay · Music Man60↓ 4.1%$4,505€3,998$4,505€3,998Check ↗
- 15
Music Man Retro 70s StingRay Sunburst MCMusic Man · 3 finishes55↓ 3.2%$3,762€3,339$3,762€3,339Check ↗
- 16
Spector Euro4 RST Zebrawood LtdSpector · 7 finishes55Stable$3,266€2,899$3,266€2,899Check ↗
- 17
Sadowsky MetroLine 21-4 Vin MM MN NTSadowsky · 3 finishes53Stable$3,886€3,449$3,886€3,449Check ↗
- 18
Ernie Ball Music Man Tim Commerford Signature StingRay Full-Scale…Tim Commerford StingRay Active · Music Man53Stable$4,506€3,999$4,506€3,999Check ↗
- 19
Fender American Ultra II MeteoraAm Ultra II Meteora Bass TXT · Fender59Stable$2,703€2,399$2,703€2,399Check ↗
- 20
Music Man Retro 70s StingRay Heritage NMusic Man49Stable$3,886€3,449$3,886€3,449Check ↗
- 21
Sadowsky MetroLine Vintage M 4Str LPBSadowsky48Stable$3,492€3,099$3,492€3,099Check ↗
- 22
Sadowsky MetroLine 22 Will Lee 4 SGRSadowsky48Stable$3,604€3,199$3,604€3,199Check ↗
- 23
Music Man Dark Ray Plasma PurpleMusic Man48↓ 3.0%$3,716€3,298$3,716€3,298Check ↗
- 24
Gibson Non-Reverse ThunderbirdThunderbird Non-Reverse EB · Gibson · 2 finishes63Stable$2,252€1,999$2,252€1,999Check ↗
- 25
Sandberg Ken Taylor Signature Basic 4Basic 4 EB SPG · Sandberg · 2 finishes46Stable$3,942€3,499$3,942€3,499Check ↗
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Music Man 50th Anniversary Stingray 4HMusic Man46Stable$4,168€3,699$4,168€3,699Check ↗
- 27
Music Man Tim Commerford StingRay PassivMusic Man46Stable$4,506€3,999$4,506€3,999Check ↗
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Music Man Stingray 4 H Arctic Sky BurstStingray 4 H Arctic Sky Burst · Music Man44↓ 4.8%$3,379€2,999$3,379€2,999Check ↗
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Music Man Dark Ray SilverburstMusic Man44Stable$3,716€3,298$3,716€3,298Check ↗
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Music Man Stingray Short Scale GalacticMusic Man44Stable$3,830€3,399$3,830€3,399Check ↗
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Music Man Dark Ray Stealth BlackMusic Man44Stable$3,830€3,399$3,830€3,399Check ↗
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Music Man Stingray 4 Sp Frost GreenMusic Man44Stable$3,942€3,499$3,942€3,499Check ↗
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Music Man Dark Ray BFR Grapes Of WrathMusic Man44Stable$4,506€3,999$4,506€3,999Check ↗
- 34
Warwick Masterbuilt Corvette $$ NT 4Warwick44Stable$7,660€6,799$7,660€6,799Check ↗
- 35
Rickenbacker 4003SW Walnut4003 Walnut · Rickenbacker43Stable$3,435€3,049$3,435€3,049Check ↗
- 36
Warwick Pro Series Corvette $$ 4 NBTSWarwick · 2 finishes43Stable$3,492€3,099$3,492€3,099Check ↗
- 37
Music Man Dark Ray Gold BarMusic Man44↓ 3.3%$3,266€2,899$3,266€2,899Check ↗
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Music Man Stingray 4 Special Burnt EndsMusic Man42Stable$3,716€3,298$3,716€3,298Check ↗
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Music Man Stingray 4 Sp HH RaspberryMusic Man42Stable$4,055€3,599$4,055€3,599Check ↗
- 40
Höfner Club Bass Vintage Relic BlackHöfner42Stable$3,369€2,990$3,369€2,990Check ↗
- 41
Music Man Stingray 4 H Special Hot HoneyMusic Man42Stable$3,369€2,990$3,369€2,990Check ↗
- 42
Warwick Pro Series Corvette Bubinga 4Warwick40Stable$3,379€2,999$3,379€2,999Check ↗
- 43
Warwick Masterbuilt Corvette $$ NB 4Warwick40Stable$6,421€5,699$6,421€5,699Check ↗
- 44
Höfner Vintage 500/1 62 MerseyHöfner40Stable$3,369€2,990$3,369€2,990Check ↗
- 45
Warwick Pro Series Corvette Ash 4 NBTSWarwick40Stable$3,266€2,899$3,266€2,899Check ↗
- 46
Sandberg Forty Eight 4Forty Eight 4 BK · Sandberg52Stable$2,365€2,099$2,365€2,099Check ↗
- 47
Music Man Dark Ray Obsidian BlackMusic Man38Stable$3,379€2,999$3,379€2,999Check ↗
- 48
Spector Euro Rex Brown 4 Desert GoldSpector38Stable$4,055€3,599$4,055€3,599Check ↗
- 49
Duesenberg Triton Bass GoldtopDuesenberg38Stable$3,351€2,998$3,351€2,998Check ↗
- 50
Ibanez SR3500 Prestige SoundgearSR3500-BK Prestige · Ibanez49Stable$2,534€2,249$2,534€2,249Check ↗
Miscellaneous 4-String Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 402 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,103 — half of all miscellaneous 4-String basses here cost less.
median of 312 models · 38 mm (1.5")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 352 models · 762 mm (30")–864 mm (34.02")
median of 219 models · 20–24
most common · 303 models
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 402 miscellaneous 4-String 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
What should I look for when buying miscellaneous 4-string basses?
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 miscellaneous 4-string basses?
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 miscellaneous 4-string basses worth the investment?
Higher-priced miscellaneous 4-string basses 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 miscellaneous 4-string basses?
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 miscellaneous 4-string basses 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.
