AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Sadowsky Miscellaneous 4-String Basses 2026
The top pick is Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vintage M4 RM OWH ($1,092). Sadowsky MetroLine 21-4 Vin MM MN NT leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 16 models, 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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- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built bass offering a fantastic blend of vintage vibe and modern versatility. The roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play, and the Quad Coil pickup gives you a huge range of tones – from smooth jazz to punchy rock. It's a premium-priced instrument, ideal for gigging musicians wanting a reliable, great-sounding bass with active electronics.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with great sustain.
- Roasted maple neck and fretboard provide exceptional stability and feel.
- Sadowsky Quad Coil delivers versatile tones from growl to clarity.
Cons
- Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically for some players.
- Bolt-on neck, while stable, isn't favored by some for vintage tone.
59AudioFu
Index↓ 8.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,193 · Aug 17$1,092 now$1,092€969 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This MetroExp21 is a seriously versatile instrument. The combination of vintage aesthetics and modern electronics makes it a great choice for players wanting a wide range of tones, from classic Motown to modern funk. It's a premium-priced bass that delivers a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you appreciate a comfortable neck and flexible pickup options.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a lively resonance and surprisingly balanced tone.
- Roasted maple neck and fingerboard provide exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- Sadowsky J-style/Quad Coil combo delivers incredible tonal flexibility and punch.
Cons
- Okoume can be a bit more susceptible to finish checking than some hardwoods.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, isn’t preferred by some for vintage sustain.
57AudioFu
Index↓ 9.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,238 · Aug 17$1,126 now$1,126€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
The MetroExp24 is a seriously well-built instrument. The roasted maple neck and Sadowsky pickups give it a modern, punchy voice that cuts through a mix, while still retaining a warmth that’s surprisingly versatile. This is a great choice for players who want a high-end feel and sound without the vintage price tag.
Pros
- Okoume body delivers a balanced, articulate tone with surprising resonance.
- Roasted maple neck and fingerboard offer exceptional stability and a silky smooth feel.
- Sadowsky Soapbar pickups provide a powerful, defined sound with excellent clarity.
Cons
- Okoume can be prone to dents and scratches without careful handling.
- Active electronics require a power source, limiting passive tonal options.
55AudioFu
Index↓ 8.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,204 · Aug 17$1,103 now$1,103€979 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- BodyOkoume body
This MetroExp21 is a seriously well-built bass, blending vintage vibes with modern versatility. The Quad Coil pickup gives you a huge range of tones, and the roasted maple neck makes playing a joy. It's perfect for players wanting a premium instrument with a classic feel, without the ultra-high-end price tag.
Pros
- Okoume body delivers a resonant, balanced tone with surprising clarity.
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- Sadowsky Quad Coil humbucker offers a versatile range, from growl to clarity.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard can be a bit harder than rosewood, requiring some adjustment.
- Bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,126 now$1,126€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
This Sadowsky MetroExp21 is a serious contender for players wanting a blend of vintage vibe and modern versatility. The pickup configuration is surprisingly flexible, covering everything from Motown warmth to punchy rock tones. It's a premium-priced instrument that’s perfect for gigging musicians who demand quality and adaptability.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a lively resonance and excellent sustain.
- Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, fast feel.
- Sadowsky J/Quad Coil pickup combo delivers a remarkably versatile tonal palette.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be slightly harder than rosewood.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the inherent warmth of a set-neck.
55AudioFu
Index↓ 8.9%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,272 · Aug 17$1,159 now$1,159€1,029 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
The MetroExp24 Mod 4 is a seriously well-built bass with a modern vibe and a vintage feel. That roasted maple neck and the Sadowsky pickups deliver a fantastic blend of clarity and growl – perfect for players needing a versatile instrument for funk, rock, or even more soulful styles. It’s a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of bang for your buck.
Pros
- Okoume body provides excellent resonance and a balanced tonal foundation.
- Roasted maple neck ensures stability and a smooth, fast playing experience.
- Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a focused, punchy tone with great clarity.
Cons
- Morado fingerboard, while beautiful, can be slightly harder than rosewood.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
54AudioFu
Index↓ 9.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,238 · Aug 17$1,126 now$1,126€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets21 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This bass uses a warm swamp ash body and a sturdy maple neck. The active electronics let you shape the sound with vintage tone control. It is a solid choice for players who want a classic J-style feel without the extra cost.
Pros
- American swamp ash body for warm midrange tone
- Maple bolt-on neck ensures strong connection
- Active 2-band electronics with vintage tone control
Cons
- Weight not specified may feel heavy for some players
- Strings not included in the package description
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,886 now$3,886€3,449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
The MetroExpress is a seriously well-built bass – Sadowsky’s attention to detail shines through. It's a fantastic option for players wanting a modern feel with a vintage vibe, especially those who dig a tight, articulate low-end. A great choice for funk, Motown, or anything needing a defined, punchy sound.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck and fretboard offer exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a focused, punchy tone with excellent clarity.
- Bolt-on neck construction provides a responsive, articulate feel and quicker adjustment.
Cons
- Okoume body, while resonant, might lack the sustain of a denser wood like mahogany.
- Active electronics, while versatile, introduce potential battery dependency and complexity.
52AudioFu
Index↓ 6.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,182 · Aug 17$1,103 now$1,103€979 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
- Weight4.3 kg
This bass plays like a dream with its roasted maple neck and extra frets. The single humbucker gives a solid low-end punch perfect for tight rhythm parts. It's great for players who want a fast-playing instrument without complex tone shaping.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck offers smooth playability and stable tuning.
- 21-fret scale extends the playable range for solos.
- Alnico V humbucker delivers thick, punchy low-end tone.
Cons
- Single pickup limits stereo or split tone options.
- Okoume body may lack resonance compared to solid wood.
50AudioFu
Index↓ 7.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,193 · Aug 17$1,103 now$1,103€979 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39.2 mm (1.54")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyOkoume body
This MetroExp24 is a seriously well-built bass. The Morado fingerboard feels fantastic, and those Sadowsky pickups provide a modern, punchy tone perfect for funk, rock, and even some heavier styles. It's a premium-priced instrument, but the quality and versatility make it a great choice for gigging musicians.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a balanced, articulate tone with good resonance.
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- Sadowsky Soapbar pickups deliver a focused, modern punch with clarity.
Cons
- Okoume can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- The 34” scale might feel slightly long for players with smaller hands.
49AudioFu
Index↓ 4.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,182 · Aug 17$1,126 now$1,126€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 16 miscellaneous 4-String basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ 4 RM OWHSadowsky · 2 finishes48↓ 9.1%$1,126€999$1,126€999Check ↗
- 12
Sadowsky MetroLine Vintage M 4Str LPBSadowsky48Stable$3,492€3,099$3,492€3,099Check ↗
- 13
Sadowsky MetroLine 22 Will Lee 4 SGRSadowsky48Stable$3,604€3,199$3,604€3,199Check ↗
- 14
Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-Fret 4 RM TSTSadowsky46↓ 6.3%$1,351€1,199$1,351€1,199Check ↗
- 15
Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ 4 Morado BKSadowsky45↓ 8.9%$1,159€1,029$1,159€1,029Check ↗
- 16
Sadowsky MetroExp 21 Vintage MJ 4 RM BKSadowsky42↑ 2.0%$1,126€999$1,126€999Check ↗
Miscellaneous 4-String Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 402 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,126 — 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 57 miscellaneous 4-String basses from the Thomann catalogue (of 402 in the category). 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.
