Best Miscellaneous 5-String Basses Under $800 2026

Affordable miscellaneous 5-string basses under $800 - great value without compromising quality

Last updated: August 27, 2026

The best miscellaneous 5-string basses in 2026 are Marcus Miller Z3-5 Skyburst Sparkle (top pick), Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black for tighter budgets, and Marcus Miller Z3-5 Rosegold for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $173–$704, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Marcus Miller Z3-5 Skyburst Sparkle - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#1

Marcus Miller Z3-5 Skyburst Sparkle

Nut width 42 mm (1.65") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 22 frets Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") Neck profile C-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Mahogany body Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard
Experimental Music Unique Designs Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Z3-5 is a real winner for players seeking a versatile, great-sounding bass without spending a fortune. The mahogany body gives it a lovely warmth, while the Sire pickup and Marcus Miller preamp deliver a wide range of tones – it’s a fantastic all-rounder for gigging musicians and studio work.
PROS
  • • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant low-end foundation.
  • • Sire MM humbucker delivers a punchy, articulate tone ideal for funk and slap.
  • • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp offers versatile EQ shaping for various genres.
  • • Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and comfortable playability.
CONS
  • • Open-gear tuners might not offer the absolute finest tuning stability.
  • • Mahogany body can make the bass feel a little heavier than some players prefer.
  • • Edgeless fingerboard, while comfortable, lacks the defined edges of a traditional board.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 610520
$524
Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#2

Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 22 frets Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") Neck profile C-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Mahogany body Fingerboard Maple fingerboard
Custom Features Experimental Music Professional Use
Key Feature:
The Z3-5 Sparkle Black is a solid, well-built bass that punches way above its price point. The combination of mahogany and a powerful humbucker delivers a modern, articulate sound perfect for funk, R&B, and contemporary styles. This is a great choice for gigging musicians needing a reliable and versatile 5-string without the premium price tag.
PROS
  • • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones with excellent sustain.
  • • Sire Standard MM humbucker provides a powerful, articulate low-end presence.
  • • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp offers versatile tonal shaping and easy adjustments.
  • • Edgeless fingerboard enhances playing comfort, especially for extended sessions.
CONS
  • • Open-gear tuners aren't as precise or stable as sealed locking tuners.
  • • Mahogany body contributes to a relatively heavy feel; may be tiring for some.
  • • While versatile, the pickup leans towards modern funk/slap, less suited for vintage tones.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 584183
$524
Marcus Miller Z3-5 Rosegold - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#3

Marcus Miller Z3-5 Rosegold

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 22 frets Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") Neck profile C-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Mahogany body Fingerboard Maple fingerboard
Experimental Music Alternative Styles Professional Use
Key Feature:
The Z3-5 Rosegold is a seriously capable bass for the money. The mahogany body gives it a warm, full tone that's great for funk, R&B, and modern pop. It's a fantastic option for gigging musicians who want a versatile, reliable 5-string without the premium price tag.
PROS
  • • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
  • • Maple neck and fingerboard offer snappy attack and clarity.
  • • Sire MM humbucker provides aggressive, punchy bridge tone.
  • • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp adds versatile tonal shaping options.
CONS
  • • Rosegold finish may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
  • • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end sustain compared to neck-through.
  • • Mahogany body can make it feel slightly heavier than some basses.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 589164
$466
Marcus Miller Z3-5 Blue - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#4

Marcus Miller Z3-5 Blue

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 22 frets Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") Neck profile C-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Mahogany body Fingerboard Maple fingerboard
Extended Range Alternative Styles Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The Z3-5 Blue is a fantastic value for players wanting a 5-string with serious sonic flexibility. The mahogany body gives it a rich, full tone, while the Marcus Heritage-3 preamp and Sire pickup combo deliver a wide range of sounds – from smooth jazz to driving funk. It's a great choice for gigging musicians on a budget who need a reliable and versatile workhorse bass.
PROS
  • • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant low-end foundation.
  • • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp offers versatile tonal shaping options.
  • • Maple neck with a comfortable 'C' profile promotes effortless playability.
  • • Sire Standard MM humbucker provides a punchy, defined bridge tone.
CONS
  • • Open-gear tuners might not offer the absolute finest tuning stability.
  • • Mahogany body can make the bass feel slightly heavier than some alternatives.
  • • Edgeless fingerboard, while comfortable, lacks a distinct feel for some players.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 600592
$466
Harley Benton MB-5 SB Deluxe Series w/Bag - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#5

Harley Benton MB-5 SB Deluxe Series w/Bag

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 21 frets Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") Neck profile D-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Poplar body Fingerboard Maple fingerboard
Extended Range Unique Designs Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton MB-5 SB Deluxe is a fantastic value, offering a surprisingly well-rounded 5-string experience. The coil-split pickup is a real bonus, giving you options for different genres. It's a great entry point for beginners or a solid backup bass for more experienced players on a budget.
PROS
  • • Poplar body offers a surprisingly balanced and resonant tone for the price.
  • • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel with good attack.
  • • Humbucker with coil-split adds versatility – from growl to a brighter tone.
  • • Die-cast bridge and vintage-style tuners contribute to stable tuning and sustain.
CONS
  • • Maple fretboard can feel a little dry; consider a lemon oil treatment.
  • • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the warmth and complexity of a set-neck.
  • • The .045-.130 strings are a bit heavy; lighter strings may improve playability.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 540379
$197
Harley Benton MB-5 SB Deluxe Series - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#6

Harley Benton MB-5 SB Deluxe Series

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 21 frets Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") Neck profile D-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Poplar body Fingerboard Maple fingerboard
Extended Range Experimental Music Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton is a seriously impressive value for a 5-string. The coil-split humbucker gives you a surprising amount of tonal flexibility, and the overall build is surprisingly solid for the price. It's a great option for beginners or players looking for a versatile, affordable workhorse bass.
PROS
  • • Solid poplar body delivers surprisingly resonant and warm low-end response.
  • • Bolt-on maple neck with a comfortable D profile plays easily and quickly.
  • • Humbucker with coil-split offers versatile tonal options, from growl to clarity.
  • • Die-cast bridge provides stable tuning and decent sustain for the price point.
CONS
  • • Poplar body, while decent, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or ash.
  • • Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and may require upgrades later.
  • • 864mm scale length feels a little long; may be less comfortable for smaller hands.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 361462
$174
Harley Benton BZ-5000 II NT w/Bag - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#7

Harley Benton BZ-5000 II NT w/Bag

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 24 frets Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") Neck profile C-shape neck Strings 5-string Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard
Experimental Music Extended Range Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
The BZ-5000 II NT is a serious contender for players wanting a premium feel without the premium price tag. The neck-thru design and Tesla pickups provide a surprisingly articulate and powerful tone, ideal for modern genres and players seeking a versatile 5-string. This bass is a fantastic option for intermediate to advanced players who value quality and value.
PROS
  • • Mahogany/Ash body provides warmth and clarity.
  • • Ebony fingerboard offers smooth, fast playing experience.
  • • Tesla pickups deliver punchy, articulate low-end response.
  • • Graphite nut enhances tuning stability and sustain.
CONS
  • • Mahogany construction may result in a heavier instrument overall.
  • • Active EQ requires a power source; battery dependency.
  • • Flamed maple top, while visually appealing, is a veneer.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 581010
$571
Harley Benton BZ-5000 II NT - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#8

Harley Benton BZ-5000 II NT

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 24 frets Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") Neck profile C-shape neck Strings 5-string Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard
Custom Features Extended Range Professional Use
Key Feature:
The BZ-5000 II NT is a seriously impressive bass for the money. It's got that modern, powerful sound with a touch of warmth, and the neck profile is genuinely comfortable. If you're a player wanting a versatile 5-string with a premium feel without a premium price tag, this is definitely worth a look.
PROS
  • • Mahogany/Ash body provides a warm, resonant, and articulate tonal foundation.
  • • Tesla pickups deliver a surprisingly powerful and defined low-end response.
  • • Ebony fingerboard offers a slick, fast playing experience and excellent note clarity.
  • • Graphite nut improves tuning stability and minimizes string friction for smoother action.
CONS
  • • Mahogany body construction can make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
  • • Active EQ requires a power source, potentially limiting battery life.
  • • Flamed maple top, while beautiful, may exhibit slight finish imperfections.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 521703
$559
Harley Benton MB-5 SBK Deluxe Series Set 2 - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#9

Harley Benton MB-5 SBK Deluxe Series Set 2

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 21 frets Neck profile D-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Poplar body Weight 12 kg
Extended Range Professional Use Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton is a fantastic entry point into 5-string bass playing, especially for those wanting a vintage vibe with modern flexibility. The included amp is a solid bonus for practice, although serious players will likely want something more robust down the line. It's a great value for students, gigging musicians on a budget, or anyone wanting a versatile, playable bass.
PROS
  • • Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
  • • Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel ideal for faster playing.
  • • Coil-split humbucker adds versatility – cleans to gritty overdrive.
  • • HB-40B amp delivers surprisingly decent sound for practice and small gigs.
CONS
  • • Poplar body can be a bit plain aesthetically; lacks premium wood grain.
  • • Factory strings are a bit light; upgrading is highly recommended.
  • • The D-profile neck might not suit players preferring a thinner profile.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 519755
$326
Harley Benton MB-5 SBK Deluxe Series Set 1 - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#10

Harley Benton MB-5 SBK Deluxe Series Set 1

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Frets 21 frets Neck profile D-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Poplar body Weight 7.5 kg
Alternative Styles Unique Designs Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton bundle is a seriously impressive value proposition for beginners or players on a budget. The D-profile neck is comfortable, and the coil-split humbucker gives you a surprising amount of tonal flexibility. It's a solid platform to build upon, and the included amp is a functional starting point – perfect for bedroom practice or small gigs.
PROS
  • • Poplar body offers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
  • • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel ideal for quicker playing.
  • • Humbucker with coil split offers versatile tonal options, from growl to clarity.
  • • HB-20B amp delivers decent power and a usable TEC circuit for basic tone shaping.
CONS
  • • Roseacer fingerboard may feel slightly less refined than ebony or maple.
  • • Hardware, while functional, is basic and might benefit from an upgrade later.
  • • 8-inch speaker limits the amp's low-end extension and overall headroom.
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 519753
$244
Cort GB-Fusion 5 ABB - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#11

Cort GB-Fusion 5 ABB

Nut width 47.6 mm (1.87") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") Neck profile C-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Alder body Fingerboard Maple fingerboard
Alternative Styles Unique Designs Extended Range
Key Feature:
The GB-Fusion 5 ABB is a seriously impressive bass for the money. That alder/maple combo gives it a really nice balance of punch and clarity, and the JJ-style pickups are super versatile – you can dial in everything from Motown thump to modern funk. It's a great choice for gigging musicians looking for a solid, reliable 5-string without the premium price tag.
PROS
  • • Solid alder body delivers a focused, punchy low-end response.
  • • Maple top adds clarity and brightness to the overall tone.
  • • Voiced Tone JJ single coils provide a versatile, modern sound.
  • • Hipshot Ultralite tuners ensure stable tuning and easy string changes.
CONS
  • • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
  • • Active EQ requires a power source, potentially limiting battery life.
  • • Maple fretboard may be a bit sharp for some players’ preference.
4.9/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 602159
$705
Marcus Miller Z7-5 Burgundy - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#12

Marcus Miller Z7-5 Burgundy

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") Neck profile C-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Alder body Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard
Alternative Styles Custom Features Experimental Music
Key Feature:
The Z7-5 Burgundy is a solid, versatile 5-string bass offering a lot of value. The Marcus Miller Heritage-3 preamp really expands your tonal options, and the Sire pickups provide a modern, articulate sound. It's a great choice for gigging musicians or anyone looking for a well-built, dependable bass without premium-priced investment.
PROS
  • • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
  • • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp offers versatile tonal shaping and active boost.
  • • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience with excellent note definition.
  • • Sire pickups combine clarity and punch, suitable for various genres.
CONS
  • • Bolt-on neck construction can lack the sustain of a neck-through design.
  • • Burgundy finish might not appeal to all players’ aesthetic preferences.
  • • Weight, typical for alder bodies, may be tiring for extended playing sessions.
4.9/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 602786
$699
Marcus Miller Z7-5 3-Tone Sunburst - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#13

Marcus Miller Z7-5 3-Tone Sunburst

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") Neck profile C-shape neck Strings 5-string Body Alder body Fingerboard Maple fingerboard
Unique Designs Alternative Styles Professional Use
Key Feature:
The Z7-5 is a seriously impressive bass for the money. It’s got a modern feel with a vintage vibe, thanks to that solid alder body and the versatile Marcus Heritage-3 preamp. This is a great choice for gigging musicians who want a workhorse 5-string without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
  • • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
  • • Sire pickups offer a surprisingly articulate and punchy sound
  • • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp provides versatile tonal shaping and easy access
  • • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy feel and quick response
CONS
  • • Alder body can make it slightly heavier than some players prefer
  • • Tortoise pickguard feels a little cheap compared to the rest of the build
  • • Blender control can be a bit muddy if not used carefully
4.9/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 584238
$617
Ibanez SR305EDX-WZM - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#14

Ibanez SR305EDX-WZM

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
$617
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray5 BK - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#15

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray5 BK

Nut width 45 mm (1.77") Scale 864 mm (34.02") Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") Strings 5-string Body Basswood body Fingerboard Maple fingerboard
Custom Features Unique Designs Extended Range
Key Feature:
This is a great choice if you need a loud, punchy 5-string on a budget. The maple neck feels solid and the active preamp gives you real control over the sound. It suits players who want something reliable without breaking the bank.
PROS
  • • Solid maple bolt-on neck ensures strong connection
  • • Ceramic humbucker delivers punchy, loud output
  • • Active preamp lets you shape tone easily
  • • Affordable price for a 5-string bass
CONS
  • • No weight listed makes it hard to judge balance
  • • Fixed bridge limits string height adjustment
  • • Black dot inlays are simple, not fancy
5.0/5 AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 638035
$571

Every miscellaneous 5-string basses that matches

60 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.

# Model Specifications Price
16 Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray5 WS Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $571
17 Ibanez SR305EDX-BZM 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 $557
18 Ibanez SR305EB-WNF 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 $512
19 Cort C5 Deluxe Black Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 5-string · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $466
20 Cort C5 Deluxe Candy Blue Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 5-string · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $466
21 Ibanez GSR205PC-TMU Gio 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 $442
22 Ibanez GSR205-BMT 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 $407
23 Ibanez GSR205B-WK 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 $364
24 Ibanez GSR185-JB 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 $309
25 Harley Benton B-550 Black Progressive Bundle Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $244
26 Harley Benton B-550 Black Progressive Series Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $221
27 Harley Benton B-550 White Progressive Series Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $221
28 Harley Benton MB-5 SBK Deluxe Series Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Neck profile D-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Poplar body $174
29 Yamaha TRBX 505 TBN Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body $792
30 Yamaha TRBX 505 BRB Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body $786
31 Sterling by Music Man S.U.B Sting Ray5 HH Cobra Blue Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard $664
32 Sterling by Music Man S.U.B Sting Ray5 HH ST BLK Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $664
33 Yamaha TRBX 305 CAR Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body $582
34 Yamaha TRBX 305 FBL Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body $582
35 Jackson JS3Q V Spectra Bass Prpl.Phaze Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Poplar body $536
36 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 $319
37 Sterling by Music Man StingRay 5 HH Ruby Red Burst Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $664
38 Ibanez SR305EDX-FDM Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $617
39 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 $582
40 Ibanez SR305E-PW Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $489
41 Ibanez SR305E-DOT Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard $456
42 Yamaha TRBX 505 TBL Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string $792
43 Warwick RockBass Streamer 5 NTS Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Weight 4 kg $757
44 Warwick RockBass Streamer 5 BRT Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Weight 4 kg $757
45 Warwick RockBass Streamer 5 OB Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Weight 4 kg $757
46 Harley Benton MM-85A SB Deluxe Series w/Bag Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string $244
47 Harley Benton MM-85A SB Deluxe Series Bundle Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string $244
48 Harley Benton MM-85A SB Deluxe Series Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string $232
49 Yamaha TRBX 505 TWH Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body $792
50 ESP LTD B205SM Natural Satin Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body $781
51 Ibanez TMB425B-BKF Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body $524
52 Marcus Miller M2 5 TBK 2nd Gen Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string $501
53 Marcus Miller M2 5 WHP 2nd Gen Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string $489
54 Marcus Miller M2 5 TBL 2nd Gen Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string $431
55 Yamaha TRBX 305 BL Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string $582
56 Yamaha BB235 VW Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string $571
57 Steinberger Guitars Spirit XT-25 Standard Bass BK Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Maple body $582
58 Ibanez GSR205SM-NGT Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body $419
59 Ibanez SR305EB-WK Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body $454
60 Ibanez GSR205B-WNF Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body $361

Miscellaneous 5-String Basses by the numbers

Measured across all 60 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.

Price
median $524
from $197 to $786
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 43 mm (1.69") to 45 mm (1.77") · 54 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 864 mm (34.02") to 889 mm (35") · 53 models
Frets
median 24
from 21 to 24 · 30 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 400 mm (15.75") · 27 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 17 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 5-string · 58 models
Body
okoume, poplar, mahogany
most common · 44 models
Fingerboard
jatoba, maple, purpleheart
most common · 32 models
Weight
median 4 kg
from 4 kg to 7.5 kg · 5 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 60 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.

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