Best Ibanez Miscellaneous 5-String Basses 2026
Premium Ibanez miscellaneous 5-string basses - legendary tone and craftsmanship
Last updated: September 17, 2026
⚡ The best miscellaneous 5-string basses in 2026 are Ibanez BTB605MLM-PWM (top pick), Ibanez GSR205-BMT for tighter budgets, and Ibanez SR1455DW-TGF for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $305–$3,344, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Ibanez BTB605MLM-PWM
by
Ibanez
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Scale
889 mm (35")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Unique Designs
Extended Range
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This bass uses a solid maple neck glued straight to the body for a rock-solid feel. The long 35-inch scale and two humbuckers give it a deep, heavy tone that cuts through the mix. It suits players who want a big, modern sound without extra knobs to mess with.
PROS
- • Solid maple neck connects directly to the body for stability.
- • Two powerful T1 humbuckers deliver thick, punchy low-end tones.
- • 35-inch scale length creates a long, stretched string feel.
- • Pearl White matte finish looks modern and clean on stage.
CONS
- • Plastic nut lacks the warmth and life of a bone nut.
- • No specified weight makes handling feel heavy without knowing.
- • Only one volume knob limits independent pickup control options.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 632241
$1,268
Ibanez GSR205-BMT
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Purpleheart fingerboard
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This bass feels solid thanks to the bolt-on maple neck and the thick sound of the humbuckers. The purpleboard is smooth to play, but the plastic nut is a bit rough on the fretboard. It works great for players who want a punchy tone without needing too many knobs.
PROS
- • Sturdy bolt-on maple neck for solid tuning stability
- • Purpleheart fingerboard offers a warm, smooth playing feel
- • Dynamix H humbuckers deliver thick, aggressive tone
- • Compact body design fits small to medium hands well
CONS
- • Plastic nut may cause fretboard wear over time
- • Only three control knobs limit sound shaping options
- • Okoume wood body lacks the resonance of maple or ash
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 648712
$403
#3
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez SR1455DW-TGF
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Experimental Music
Alternative Styles
Professional Use
Key Feature:
This five-string bass packs a warm mahogany body and two powerful Aguilar humbuckers for deep, thumping tones. The unique Panga Panga neck feels solid under your fingers, but you'll need strong hands for the extended range. It suits players who need extra low-end punch without sacrificing clarity.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body provides a warm, thick bass foundation.
- • Flamed maple and ash tops add visual flair and resonance.
- • Two Aguilar DCB humbuckers deliver powerful, tight low-end.
- • Graph Tech BLACK TUSQ XL nut ensures stable intonation.
CONS
- • No weight listed makes carrying this heavy instrument guesswork.
- • Five strings require more finger strength than standard basses.
- • Transparent Gray Flat finish may show dust easily.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 625283
$2,063
Ibanez GSR185-JB
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Purpleheart fingerboard
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Professional Use
Key Feature:
The GSR185-JB is a fantastic entry point into 5-string bass playing, offering a solid feel and powerful sound at an affordable price. Its warm, punchy tone is great for rock, funk, and even some heavier genres. It’s a solid choice for beginners or players looking for a reliable workhorse bass.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Purpleheart fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Dynamix humbuckers deliver a thick, powerful, and punchy low-end.
- • GSR5 neck profile is comfortable and familiar for many players.
CONS
- • Passive electronics limit tonal shaping compared to active basses.
- • Okoume body can be prone to finish checking with age and temperature changes.
- • String spacing might feel a bit wide for players with smaller hands.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 620893
$306
#5
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Ibanez SR4505-DST Prestige
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Custom Features
Professional Use
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
This SR4505-DST is a serious contender for players wanting a high-end 5-string with a distinct voice. The Nordstrand pickups combined with the roasted maple neck create a responsive and articulate instrument, perfect for players needing clarity and definition in modern music or wanting a touch of vintage warmth. It's a premium-priced instrument, but the quality and feel justify the investment.
PROS
- • Nordstrand pickups deliver articulate, powerful, and surprisingly warm tones.
- • Roasted maple fingerboard provides exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • The 5-piece maple/walnut neck offers excellent sustain and rigidity.
- • Japanese craftsmanship ensures meticulous build quality and superb attention to detail.
CONS
- • The Desert Sunset finish, while striking, might not appeal to all players.
- • At nearly 35” scale, it might be unwieldy for smaller hands or players used to shorter scales.
- • The Sonitech preamp, while versatile, could be limiting for players seeking more complex EQ options.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 606709
$2,948
Ibanez SR305EB-WNF
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Extended Range
Custom Features
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The SR305EB-WNF is a solid 5-string option for players wanting a modern, versatile tone without a premium price tag. The neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles, and the onboard EQ provides decent tonal shaping. It's a great bass for gigging musicians or anyone needing a dependable workhorse.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Maple/Walnut neck provides excellent stability and a comfortable, fast feel.
- • PowerSpan pickups deliver a punchy, modern tone with good clarity and articulation.
- • 3-Way tap switch expands tonal versatility, covering humbucker and single-coil sounds.
CONS
- • Jatoba fingerboard can feel a bit dry; may benefit from occasional conditioning.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • Plastic nut can introduce some tuning instability compared to a graphite or bone option.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 606656
$506
Ibanez SR305EDX-WZM
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Experimental Music
Extended Range
Professional Use
Key Feature:
The SR305EDX-WZM is a solid, versatile 5-string bass offering a lot of bang for your buck. It’s got a modern feel with a surprisingly warm low end, thanks to the Nyatoh body and those PowerSpan pickups. This is a great choice for gigging musicians or anyone looking for a reliable and capable 5-string without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the overall tone.
- • Maple/Walnut neck offers excellent stability and a comfortable, fast playing experience.
- • PowerSpan humbuckers deliver a punchy, modern tone with good clarity and articulation.
- • Ibanez Custom Electronics EQ provides versatile tonal shaping options for various genres.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while warm, can lack the sustain of more premium woods.
- • Plastic nut can contribute to tuning instability compared to bone or graphite.
- • The 'Frozen Matt' finish, while visually appealing, can show fingerprints easily.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 606646
$610
Ibanez SR305EDX-BZM
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Custom Features
Experimental Music
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
The SR305EDX-BZM is a solid 5-string option for players looking for versatility and a modern feel without a premium price tag. The Power Tap feature is genuinely useful for switching between humbucker and single-coil tones, and the Jatoba fingerboard provides a snappy response. It’s a great choice for gigging musicians or those wanting a well-rounded bass for rock, funk, and beyond.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- • Maple/Walnut neck provides stability and a comfortable, fast feel.
- • PowerSpan pickups deliver a versatile range from growl to clarity.
- • 3-way Power Tap switch adds serious tonal flexibility for various genres.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while good, isn't as premium as mahogany or ash.
- • Plastic nut can contribute to tuning instability, a common budget bass trait.
- • Matt polyurethane finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 581836
$550
Ibanez GSR205B-WK
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Professional Use
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The GSR205B-WK is a solid 5-string bass for players wanting a big sound without a huge investment. It's a great entry point into 5-string territory, offering a punchy, modern tone and a comfortable neck profile - perfect for beginners and gigging musicians on a budget.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body delivers a surprisingly resonant and warm low-end.
- • Maple neck with Jatoba fingerboard offers a comfortable, fast playing experience.
- • Dynamix humbuckers provide a thick, powerful tone suitable for rock and metal.
- • Bolt-on construction contributes to a bright, aggressive attack.
CONS
- • Plastic nut can be a limiting factor for sustain and tuning stability.
- • Nyatoh body, while decent, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or ash.
- • The Phat II EQ, while functional, is a basic system; more advanced players may want more control.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 438934
$360
Ibanez GSR205PC-TMU Gio
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Purpleheart fingerboard
Unique Designs
Professional Use
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The GSR205PC-TMU Gio is a solid entry-level 5-string that offers a lot of bang for your buck. It's a great choice for beginner to intermediate players wanting a modern, punchy sound and a comfortable neck. The unique canvas art grain top is a nice visual touch that elevates it beyond a standard Gio.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Dynamix humbuckers deliver a thick, modern low-end with decent clarity.
- • Purpleheart fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and unique aesthetic.
- • Bolt-on neck construction contributes to a bright, punchy attack and easy adjustability.
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit plain tonally; lacks the complexity of mahogany.
- • Phat II EQ is a basic circuit; lacks advanced tonal shaping capabilities.
- • Gio series hardware is functional but not high-end; may need upgrades later.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 620881
$437
Ibanez BTB605-TGF
by
Ibanez
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Scale
889 mm (35")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
The BTB605-TGF is a fantastic option for serious players wanting a 5-string with a modern feel and a wide range of tones. Its extended scale and powerful pickups make it ideal for genres like progressive rock, fusion, and heavier styles, while the electronics offer surprising versatility. It’s a well-built, premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of bang for the buck.
PROS
- • Okoume/Poplar burl body offers stunning looks and resonant tone
- • 5-piece Maple/Jatoba neck provides exceptional stability and feel
- • Ibanez Custom electronics deliver versatile tonal shaping and clarity
- • MR5 bridge ensures excellent string spacing and comfortable playing
CONS
- • The extended scale length may be a challenge for smaller hands
- • Poplar burl tops can be prone to minor cosmetic imperfections
- • The D'Addario EXL170-5SL strings are serviceable, but an upgrade is recommended
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 606736
$922
#12
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Ibanez SR3505-BK Prestige
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Alternative Styles
Professional Use
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This SR3505 is a serious instrument for the discerning bassist. The Nordstrand pickups and Japanese craftsmanship deliver a professional-grade tone and feel, making it a fantastic choice for gigging musicians and studio players seeking a versatile, high-performance 5-string.
PROS
- • Nordstrand pickups deliver exceptional clarity and articulation.
- • Maple/Walnut neck provides stability and a fast, comfortable feel.
- • Ash body contributes to a balanced, resonant tone with strong projection.
- • Japan-made construction guarantees exceptional build quality and attention to detail.
CONS
- • The high-gloss black finish can be a fingerprint magnet.
- • The longer scale might feel unwieldy for players with smaller hands.
- • The Hexa Mid system, while versatile, can be complex to dial in.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 606717
$2,595
#13
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Ibanez SR5505-MHF Prestige
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Extended Range
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
The SR5505-MHF Prestige is a seriously impressive instrument—a real step up in quality. The Nordstrand pickups give you a huge range of tones, from smooth and warm to aggressive and punchy, and that Hexa Mid system is a game changer. This is a fantastic choice for experienced players who demand a high-performance, versatile 5-string bass.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end and sustain.
- • Nordstrand Big Single pickups offer articulate, focused tone with surprising clarity.
- • Hexa Mid system provides exceptional tonal shaping flexibility for any genre.
- • Japanese craftsmanship ensures impeccable build quality and long-term reliability.
CONS
- • Mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavier overall instrument.
- • Ovangkol top, while beautiful, can be prone to minor hairline cracking over time.
- • The extensive EQ options may be overwhelming for less experienced players.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 606704
$3,114
#14
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Ibanez SR6605-GFB Prestige
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Custom Features
Unique Designs
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
This SR6605-GFB is a seriously refined instrument. The neck-thru design and premium materials combine for a luxurious feel and incredible sustain. It’s a high-end option ideal for the experienced bassist looking for articulate tone and versatile voicing—perfect for studio work or demanding stage performances.
PROS
- • Mahogany/Burled Maple body delivers a rich, warm, resonant tone.
- • Nordstrand Big Single Coils offer exceptional clarity and articulation.
- • Neck-thru construction provides effortless access across the entire fretboard.
- • Ibanez Sonitech preamp with Hexa-Mid allows for precise tonal shaping.
CONS
- • The mahogany body contributes to a noticeably heavier feel for extended playing sessions.
- • The burled maple top, while beautiful, can be prone to minor finish imperfections.
- • The Nordstrand pickups, while fantastic, might be too refined for some players seeking a more aggressive sound.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 606648
$3,345
#15
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez BTB945-COL
by
Ibanez
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Scale
889 mm (35")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Professional Use
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
The BTB945-COL is a serious contender for the discerning bassist. The extended scale and Nordstrand pickups give it a tight, defined low-end and a surprisingly articulate high-end. It's a fantastic choice for players seeking a modern, versatile instrument with a premium feel – especially those who enjoy playing in genres like progressive rock, fusion, or modern funk.
PROS
- • Nordstrand pickups deliver articulate, powerful tone with excellent clarity.
- • Okoume/Ash body provides a balanced, resonant foundation for the instrument.
- • Graphite rods ensure exceptional neck stability and minimize fret buzz over time.
- • 3-way mid control offers precise tonal shaping for varied musical styles.
CONS
- • The extended scale length (35”) might be challenging for players with shorter arms.
- • The burl top, while beautiful, can be susceptible to minor cosmetic imperfections.
- • The weight, typical of 5-string basses, may require a strap for extended playing.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 606697
$1,441
Every miscellaneous 5-string basses that matches
43 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Ibanez SRD905-CTL | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,383 |
| 17 | Ibanez TMB35-MGR Talman Short Scale | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 20 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Poplar body | $315 |
| 18 | Ibanez SR505N-MAM | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $806 |
| 19 | Ibanez SR505A-MHL | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $853 |
| 20 | Ibanez SR305EDX-FDM | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $610 |
| 21 | Ibanez SR305E-DOT | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $451 |
| 22 | Ibanez SR305EDX-CZM | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $570 |
| 23 | Ibanez SR305E-PW | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $483 |
| 24 | Ibanez EHB1505S-DEL | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Fingerboard radius 508 mm (20") · Strings 5-string | $1,691 |
| 25 | Ibanez SR1325SB-AVL | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $1,579 |
| 26 | Ibanez TMB425B-BKF | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $518 |
| 27 | Ibanez SR1355B-DUF | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $1,684 |
| 28 | Ibanez EHB1005F-AOM | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body | $1,320 |
| 29 | Ibanez SR605E-BKT | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body | $968 |
| 30 | Ibanez BTB1835-NDL | Nut width 47 mm (1.85") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body | $1,787 |
| 31 | Ibanez BTB605MS-MAM | Nut width 47 mm (1.85") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,441 |
| 32 | Ibanez BTB605LM-BKF | Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,303 |
| 33 | Ibanez BTB625EX-BKF | Nut width 47 mm (1.85") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Strings 5-string | $1,037 |
| 34 | Ibanez SR2605-CBB Premium | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string | $1,914 |
| 35 | Ibanez SR1325SB-IVF | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Mahogany body | $1,729 |
| 36 | Ibanez BTB605MS-SOM | Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,441 |
| 37 | Ibanez EHB1505MS-BIF | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $1,845 |
| 38 | Ibanez GSR205SM-NGT | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body | $414 |
| 39 | Ibanez SRMS805-DTW Workshop | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string | $1,303 |
| 40 | Ibanez BTB805MS-FNL | Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 5-string | $1,591 |
| 41 | Ibanez SR305EB-WK | Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $449 |
| 42 | Ibanez GSR205B-WNF | Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $356 |
| 43 | Ibanez K5-BKF | Strings 5-string | $1,270 |
Miscellaneous 5-String Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 278 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,268
from $356 to $6,460
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 43 mm (1.69") to 47.5 mm (1.87") · 214 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 864 mm (34.02") to 889 mm (35") · 242 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 5-string · 271 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 34 models
Body
okoume, ash, alder
most common · 210 models
Weight
median 4.04 kg
from 3.67 kg to 4.8 kg · 40 models
Frets
median 24
from 21 to 24 · 107 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 279 mm (10.98") to 660 mm (25.98") · 87 models
Fingerboard
maple, rosewood, ebony
most common · 152 models
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 43 of 278 miscellaneous 5-string basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
How to Choose the Best Miscellaneous 5-String Basses
Budget Planning
- • Under $200: Entry-level
- • $200-$500: Intermediate
- • $500-$1000: Advanced
- • $1000+: Professional
Quality Check
- • Sound clarity & tone
- • Build materials & finish
- • Hardware durability
- • Overall craftsmanship
Key Features
- • Your musical style
- • Skill level match
- • Intended use case
- • Brand reputation
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
Higher-priced miscellaneous 5-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.
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.
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.
