AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Sterling Miscellaneous 4-String Basses 2026
The top pick is Sterling S.U.B. Sting Ray4 WS ($495). Sterling StingRay2 Sunrise Orange gives you the most for the money at $371. Sterling DarkRay BK leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 13 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 width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- BodyBasswood body
- FingerboardJatoba fingerboard
This bass feels solid thanks to its bolt-on maple neck and fixed bridge. The active preamp keeps the signal clean while the ceramic pickup offers punch. It suits players who want a sturdy, modern instrument without extra features.
Pros
- Bolt-on maple neck ensures stable tuning and easy setup
- Active preamp gives clear signal without high gain noise
- Walnut matte finish offers a sleek, modern look
Cons
- Missing specific weight data makes handling unknown
- Ceramic humbucker lacks the warmth of traditional magnets
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$495 now$495€439 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- BodyNyatoh body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass sounds big thanks to the Nyatoh body and Alnico pickup. The roasted maple neck keeps it in tune, while the active preamp lets you shape the tone. It fits players who want a warm, powerful sound without extra switches.
Pros
- Nyatoh body offers deep, punchy low-end response
- Roasted maple neck ensures stable tuning stability
- Alnico humbucker delivers thick, warm bass tone
Cons
- No active EQ switches listed on the preamp
- Rosewood fingerboard requires frequent oiling
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,013 now$1,013€899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width41 mm (1.61")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius300 mm (11.81")
- BodyMahogany body
This bass feels solid thanks to its mahogany body and maple neck. The active preamp gives you good control over the treble and bass, but you can't adjust the low end. It works well for players who want a warm tone without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body adds warmth to the tone.
- Maple bolt-on neck ensures rock-solid stability.
- Rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth playing surface.
Cons
- Stealth Black color may hide dirt and scratches.
- No bass control on the active preamp section.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,013 now$1,013€899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Frets21 frets
- BodyBasswood body
This bass has a big, deep sound thanks to its long scale and humbucker pickup. The maple neck feels fast and smooth under your fingers. It suits players who want a strong low end without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Long 34 scale stretches strings for a deep, solid low-end tone.
- Maple neck and fretboard offer a fast, smooth feel for players.
- Humbucker pickup delivers a strong, punchy output for live performance.
Cons
- No string gauge or brand is listed to check playing comfort.
- Weight is not stated, which is critical for long practice sessions.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$495 now$495€439 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- FingerboardJatoba fingerboard
This StingRay Plus RAY4X is a solid choice for players who want a warm, resonant voice without the complexity of active electronics. The Jatoba body and fretboard give it a rich character, while the bolt-on maple neck makes it easy to play. It suits anyone looking for a reliable, budget-friendly bass with a punchy ceramic pickup.
Pros
- Jatoba body and fretboard offer warm, resonant tones
- Maple neck provides a smooth, fast playing surface
- Ceramic bridge pickup delivers punchy, focused attack
Cons
- Lacks active electronics for on-the-fly EQ adjustments
- Fixed bridge prevents microtonal pitch bending
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- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This bass has a nice poplar body and a sturdy maple neck that locks in well. The ceramic humbucker gives it a thick sound, while the fixed bridge helps you stay in tune. It is a straightforward instrument perfect for players who want a solid, reliable workhorse without extra features.
Pros
- Solid poplar body provides good resonance
- Maple bolt-on neck ensures strong connection
- Fixed bridge keeps intonation stable
Cons
- No weight listed in description
- Single volume and tone only
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$371 now$371€329 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- BodyNyatoh body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This bass sounds thick and warm thanks to the Nyatoh wood and ceramic pickups. The maple neck plays very smoothly, making it easy for beginners and pros alike. It's a budget-friendly option with an active preamp for shaping your tone.
Pros
- Nyatoh body gives a warm, punchy low-end tone
- Maple neck offers a fast, smooth playing feel
- Two ceramic humbuckers deliver thick, powerful output
Cons
- No listed weight makes the guitar feel heavy
- Single volume knob limits basic tone control
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$765 now$765€679 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- BodyNyatoh body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This bass uses a Nyatoh body for that warm, thick low-end sound many players love. The roasted maple neck stays stable, and the active preamp gives you clean tones or heavy distortion when needed. It fits players who want a tight 34-inch feel and built-in grit without extra gear.
Pros
- Nyatoh body offers warm, resonant low-end response
- Active preamp adds distinct distortion options
- Roasted maple neck ensures stable playability
Cons
- No active electronics mentioned for basses
- Weight not listed in product description
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,802 now$1,802€1,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width40 mm (1.57")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
The Sterling StingRay2 is a fantastic entry point into the Music Man lineage. It's got that classic StingRay punch and growl, perfect for rock, funk, and heavier styles. Beginners and budget-conscious players will find a lot to love with its playability and aggressive tone.
Pros
- Solid poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- Maple neck and fingerboard offer a snappy, articulate feel.
- Ceramic humbucker delivers a focused, aggressive low-end response.
Cons
- Poplar body, while good, isn't as tonally complex as mahogany or ash.
- Fixed bridge limits string-through-body sustain and intonation options.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$371 now$371€329 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This S.U.B StingRay4 HH is a fantastic value – it nails that Music Man vibe without the premium price tag. The active electronics give it a modern edge, while the Cobra Blue finish is seriously cool. It's a great option for players wanting a punchy, versatile bass for rock, funk, or heavier genres.
Pros
- Jabon body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- H-1 humbuckers deliver a powerful, aggressive tone with plenty of low-end.
- Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel for quick playing.
Cons
- Jabon wood can be somewhat susceptible to temperature/humidity changes.
- Open gear tuners aren't as precise as locking tuners for ultimate stability.
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$607 now$607€539 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 13 miscellaneous 4-String basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
Miscellaneous 4-String Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 402 models we track, not a sample.
Median $607 — 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 24 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.
