Best Multi-scale Basses 2026
So, you're looking at a multi-scale bass, huh? It's not just a gimmick - a properly executed fanned fret design can seriously elevate your playing and your tone. It's about getting better string tension across the neck, allowing for lower B strings with incredible clarity alongside a snappy high C - without the usual floppy feel or muddy low-end. Let's dive into what makes a good one and what to watch out for.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
⚡ The best multi-scale basses in 2026 are Hils HNB5 Black (top pick), Hils HNB5 Gun Metal Grey for tighter budgets, and Hils HNB5 Metallic Rose Gold for pros — selected from 15 options across 3 brands, priced $347–$4,008, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Hils HNB5 Black
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Professional Use
Progressive Music
Technical Performance
Key Feature:
The Hils HNB5 Black is a seriously cool, modern bass. The multi-scale design and active pickups offer a tight, defined sound that cuts through any mix – perfect for modern rock, funk, or electronic music. It's a fantastic option for players looking for a unique headless experience without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
- • Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
- • Active NB505 pickups provide a focused, modern sound with clarity.
- • Mono-Rail bridge minimizes string vibration for improved sustain and clarity.
CONS
- • Headless design takes some getting used to for precise intonation.
- • Active pickups require a power source, limiting passive tone options.
- • Mahogany body can make the bass feel relatively heavy for extended playing.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608821
$812
Hils HNB5 Gun Metal Grey
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Professional Use
Progressive Music
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The Hils HNB5 is a seriously cool, modern bass. The multi-scale design gives it incredible note clarity across all five strings, while the active pickups deliver a powerful, defined tone that cuts through any mix. It's perfect for players looking for a unique, high-performance instrument without the premium price tag of some bigger brands.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant low-end foundation.
- • Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • NB505 active pickups provide a clear, articulate tone with punch.
- • Mono-Rail bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Headless design requires adjustment to string spacing and ergonomics.
- • Active pickups demand reliable power and can introduce noise if improperly shielded.
- • Multi-scale length may initially feel unfamiliar to players accustomed to standard scale.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608814
$812
Hils HNB5 Metallic Rose Gold
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Professional Use
Progressive Music
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The Hils HNB5 is a serious contender in the multi-scale world, offering a modern, powerful tone with a unique aesthetic. The bolt-on construction and walnut fingerboard give it a responsive feel, and the active pickups really cut through the mix – perfect for players seeking a focused, articulate sound in genres like funk, metal, and progressive rock.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the tone.
- • Walnut neck offers excellent stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • NB505 active pickups deliver a tight, modern low-end punch.
- • Custom Mono-Rail bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Headless design takes some getting used to for precise intonation.
- • Active pickups require a power source, limiting passive tonal options.
- • Metallic Rose Gold finish may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608808
$812
Hils HNB5 Sunburst
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Technical Performance
Modern Design
Progressive Music
Key Feature:
The Hils HNB5 is a seriously cool, modern bass for players wanting a punchy, defined tone and a unique aesthetic. The multi-scale design and active pickups really shine for modern genres like funk, metal, and progressive rock – it’s a real workhorse instrument and a fantastic value for the money.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the bass's tone.
- • Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience with a unique feel.
- • NB505 active pickups deliver a tight, articulate sound with plenty of growl.
- • Multi-scale design optimizes string tension, improving intonation and feel across all strings.
CONS
- • Headless design can be intimidating for players unfamiliar with this configuration.
- • Active pickups require a power source, limiting passive tonal options without a battery.
- • Mahogany body may make the bass feel somewhat heavier than basses with lighter woods.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608818
$801
Hils HNB5 Ivory
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Technical Performance
Professional Use
Progressive Music
Key Feature:
This bass uses active electronics so you can cut bass, mids, and treble separately. The multi-scale body reaches long strings without stretching your fingers too far. It suits players who want a warm tone but need extra range.
PROS
- • Active pickups let you shape sound with dedicated controls.
- • Multi-scale length offers extended reach for long strings.
- • Mahogany body provides warm, resonant fundamental tone.
- • Headless design simplifies tuning and string changes.
CONS
- • Heavy string gauge may feel stiff for some players.
- • No weight spec means carrying burden is unknown.
- • Active electronics require fresh batteries to function.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608742
$775
Harley Benton MSB-5 ESP
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Extended Range
Modern Design
Progressive Music
Key Feature:
This bass uses roasted maple for a neck that won't warp easily. It has active pickups so you can shape the tone with the built-in EQ. It suits players who want a stable neck but don't want to pay top dollar.
PROS
- • Roasted maple necks stay stable in hot or cold rooms.
CONS
- • Okoume body may warp if you leave it in direct sun.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 593886
$348
Harley Benton MSB-5 ASP
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Professional Use
Extended Range
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
This budget-friendly five-string has a solid roasted maple neck and active humbuckers for a punchy tone. It features a long scale length for extra string tension and an active preamp for shaping your sound. Great for players who want extended range without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Five-piece roasted maple neck offers stability and durability.
CONS
- • No weight specification listed makes the instrument feel uncertain.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 593885
$348
Harley Benton MSB-5 Flip Flop Blue
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Extended Range
Technical Performance
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
This bass gives you real five-string reach without breaking the bank. The roasted maple neck feels solid, and the active pickups let you shape your tone exactly how you want. It suits players needing that extra string for jazz or fusion but who want a budget-friendly workhorse.
PROS
- • Robust 5-piece roasted maple neck construction
- • True 5-string capability with extended scale
- • Active preamp offers precise EQ control
- • Affordable price point for 5-string bass
CONS
- • No stated weight makes balance uncertain
- • Lacks specific string gauge recommendations
- • Okoume body may lack resonance depth
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 568968
$348
#9
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Dingwall John Taylor Sign. 5 Stealth BK
by
Dingwall
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Strings
5-string
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Progressive Music
Modern Design
Professional Use
Key Feature:
The John Taylor Signature 5 Stealth is a seriously refined instrument. The multi-scale design and Rupert Neve preamp create a unique, powerful sound with incredible clarity and low-end definition. This bass is perfect for players seeking a distinctive voice and exceptional playability, especially those in a rock or pop context.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body delivers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Rupert Neve preamp provides a uniquely musical and defined EQ curve.
- • Multi-scale design allows for optimal string tension and intonation across all strings.
- • Dingwall FD3n pickups offer a versatile range from growl to articulate clarity.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while warm, can lack the sustain of more premium woods.
- • The multi-scale design may require a slightly longer adjustment period.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many bassists.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 613619
$4,008
#10
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.6 Forest Custom
by
Dingwall
Nut width
66 mm (2.6")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
254 mm (10")
Strings
6-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Ergonomic Playing
Technical Performance
Progressive Music
Key Feature:
This is Adam Getgood's six-string bass, built for heavy players who need that extra string. The 66mm nut is wide, so your fingers have room to stretch. The Darkglass controls let you tweak the sound without changing cables. It suits those who want Periphery power in one instrument.
PROS
- • Adam Getgood signature model for Periphery fans
- • 6-string capability with adjustable scale length
- • Darkglass active electronics for tone shaping
- • Carbon fiber pickguard for durability and style
CONS
- • Heavy weight due to multi-scale design
- • No string gauge options listed in specs
- • Complex electronics may require tuning
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 579559
$3,718
#11
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.6 Ferrari Green
by
Dingwall
Nut width
55 mm (2.17")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Strings
6-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Professional Use
Technical Performance
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
This Nolly Getgood signature Dingwall is a serious instrument built for modern progressive and metal bassists. The multi-scale design and Darkglass EQ make it incredibly versatile, while the alder body provides a solid foundation for that signature Dingwall growl. It's a premium-priced bass, but the quality and playability are top-notch for those seeking a high-performance 6-string.
PROS
- • Nolly's signature voicing provides a unique, modern, and articulate low-end response.
- • Alder body delivers a balanced tone with excellent sustain and resonance.
- • Multi-scale design optimizes string tension for improved intonation and feel across six strings.
- • Darkglass 3-band EQ offers substantial tonal shaping capabilities, very responsive.
CONS
- • The Ferrari Green finish, while striking, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the potential resonance of a neck-through design.
- • Active electronics require a power source, limiting passive tonal options without battery.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 609585
$3,602
#12
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.5 Ferrari Green
by
Dingwall
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Modern Design
Extended Range
Professional Use
Key Feature:
The Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.5 is a powerhouse for players wanting a modern, aggressive tone with exceptional clarity. Nolly’s signature sound combined with Dingwall’s multi-scale design makes it incredibly versatile for rock, metal, and progressive genres. This bass is perfect for the serious bassist who demands high performance and a unique aesthetic.
PROS
- • Nolly’s signature voicing delivers a uniquely articulate and aggressive low-end.
- • Multi-scale design enhances clarity and intonation across all five strings.
- • Alder body provides a balanced tonal foundation with good resonance and sustain.
- • Darkglass electronics offer incredible tonal shaping and active/passive switching.
CONS
- • The Ferrari Green finish, while striking, might not appeal to all players.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the inherent warmth of a set-neck.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many bassists.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 609584
$3,602
#13
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.5 Black Forrest
by
Dingwall
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Extended Range
Professional Use
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
Nolly’s signature is a real beast – the multi-scale really does give you incredible clarity and a smooth, even feel across all five strings. The Darkglass electronics give it a modern, aggressive edge, perfect for players in progressive rock, metal, or anyone needing serious low-end authority. It's a premium-priced instrument aimed at serious players.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- • Multi-scale design optimizes string tension for incredible intonation and feel
- • Darkglass Tone Capsule provides a uniquely powerful and versatile EQ
- • Hipshot hardware ensures rock-solid tuning stability and precise action
CONS
- • The Black Forest Green finish might be polarizing for some players
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design
- • The active electronics require a power source, limiting passive tonal options
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 545606
$3,602
#14
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.5 Duc Pearl WH
by
Dingwall
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Technical Performance
Professional Use
Modern Design
Key Feature:
This Nolly Signature Dingwall is a serious weapon for modern bassists. The multi-scale design and Darkglass electronics really deliver a focused, powerful tone perfect for progressive metal and djent. It’s a high-end instrument built for players who demand precision and aggressive articulation.
PROS
- • Adam Nollyin’s signature voice: aggressive, articulate, and modern low-end.
- • Darkglass electronics deliver incredible tonal shaping and clarity.
- • Multi-scale design optimizes string tension for improved intonation and feel.
- • Alder body provides a balanced tonal foundation with good sustain.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many players.
- • Bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the resonance of a set-neck design.
- • Carbon fiber pickguard can feel a little brittle and prone to scratching.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 485218
$3,602
#15
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Dingwall CB3 Combustion 5 Indigo Burst
by
Dingwall
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Professional Use
Technical Performance
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
This bass feels great because the maple neck is easy to grip and the swamp ash body sounds full. The three EMG humbuckers give you a strong low end that cuts through any mix. It is a high-end choice for players who want extended range and a tight, aggressive tone.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body with quilted maple top for solid resonance
- • Medium thin C neck profile for comfortable playability
- • Three EMG humbuckers for powerful low-end response
- • Multi-scale design for faster string tension and range
CONS
- • No string gauge options listed in the description
- • Missing a standard scale length specification
- • Lack of passive mode switch details in text
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 640728
$3,427
Every multi-scale basses that matches
65 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Dingwall CB3 Combustion 5 Whalepool Bst | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $3,427 |
| 17 | Dingwall CB3 Combustion 5 BK Burst PF | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $3,253 |
| 18 | Dingwall CB3 Combustion 5 PF Natural | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $3,252 |
| 19 | Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 Ducati White | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $2,730 |
| 20 | Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 Black Matte | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $2,730 |
| 21 | Dingwall D-Roc Standard Ducati White | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $2,614 |
| 22 | Warwick RB Corvette Multi 5 SBS | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard · Weight 4.1 kg | $1,393 |
| 23 | Harley Benton MSB-5 Black Flame Burl | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $371 |
| 24 | Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.4 Black Forrest | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $3,544 |
| 25 | Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.4 Fiesta Red | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $3,544 |
| 26 | Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.4 Ferrari Yellow | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $3,485 |
| 27 | Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.4 Ferrari Green | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $3,485 |
| 28 | Dingwall CB3 Combustion 4 PF BB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $3,484 |
| 29 | Strandberg Boden Bass Standard 5 NA | Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 508 mm (20") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $3,137 |
| 30 | Dingwall D-Roc Std 5 Blue to Purple | Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $2,846 |
| 31 | Dingwall D-Roc Std 4 Matte Gold LTD | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Pau ferro fingerboard | $2,614 |
| 32 | Ibanez EHB1505SMS-FNL | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Fingerboard radius 508 mm (20") · Strings 5-string | $1,677 |
| 33 | Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.6 Metallic Black | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 6-string · Body Alder body | $3,718 |
| 34 | Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.5 Metallic Black | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body | $3,602 |
| 35 | Dingwall CB3 Combustion 5 BK Burst MN | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body | $3,369 |
| 36 | Dingwall CB3 Combustion 5 Ultra Violet | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body | $3,369 |
| 37 | Dingwall CB3 Combustion 5 Natural | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body | $3,137 |
| 38 | Dingwall D-Roc Std 5 Vintage Burst | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $2,730 |
| 39 | Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 Aquamarine | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $2,556 |
| 40 | Ibanez BTB7MS-NML | Nut width 63 mm (2.48") · Fingerboard radius 950 mm (37.4") · Strings 7-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,452 |
| 41 | Ibanez BTB705LM-NNF | Nut width 47 mm (1.85") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,338 |
| 42 | Cort A5 Beyond, Open Pore | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body | $1,103 |
| 43 | Dingwall Jacob Umansky Signature 5 | Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard | $4,067 |
| 44 | Dingwall John Taylor Signature 4 SFG | Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $3,892 |
| 45 | Dingwall John Taylor Sign. 4 Stealth BK | Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $3,718 |
| 46 | Dingwall John Taylor Signature 4 BK | Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $3,484 |
| 47 | Dingwall SP1 5 Bass VB | Nut width 49 mm (1.93") · Frets 22 frets · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,962 |
| 48 | Dingwall SP1 5 Bass DCG | Nut width 49 mm (1.93") · Frets 22 frets · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,962 |
| 49 | Dingwall SP1 5 Bass BK | Nut width 49 mm (1.93") · Frets 22 frets · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,962 |
| 50 | Dingwall SP1 5 Bass DW | Nut width 49 mm (1.93") · Frets 22 frets · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,962 |
| 51 | Dingwall SP1 4 Bass VB | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 22 frets · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,846 |
| 52 | Dingwall SP1 4 Bass DW | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 22 frets · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,846 |
| 53 | Dingwall SP1 4 Bass BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 22 frets · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,846 |
| 54 | Dingwall SP1 4 Bass DCG | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 22 frets · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,788 |
| 55 | Ibanez SRC6MS-BLL | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Strings 6-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $929 |
| 56 | Ibanez BTB866MS-BRF | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Fingerboard radius 950 mm (37.4") · Strings 6-string | $1,719 |
| 57 | Dingwall Jacob Umansky Signature 6 | Frets 24 frets · Strings 6-string · Body Alder body | $4,183 |
| 58 | Dingwall D-Roc Standard BPC Matte | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 20 frets · Body Mahogany body | $2,323 |
| 59 | Ibanez EHB1506MS-BIF | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Strings 6-string · Body Mahogany body | $1,940 |
| 60 | Ibanez EHB1005MS-SFM | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body | $1,524 |
| 61 | Ibanez SRMS720-BCM | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Okoume body | $1,499 |
| 62 | Strandberg Boden Bass Standard 4 NA | Fingerboard radius 508 mm (20") · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $2,265 |
| 63 | Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.4 Duc Pearl WH | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Frets 24 frets | $3,369 |
| 64 | Ibanez BTB805MS-TGF | Nut width 47 mm (1.85") · Strings 5-string | $1,556 |
| 65 | Ibanez SRMS625EX-BKF | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string | $1,196 |
Multi-scale Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 65 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $2,846
from $371 to $3,718
Nut width
median 46 mm (1.81")
from 42 mm (1.65") to 54 mm (2.13") · 52 models
Frets
median 24
from 20 to 24 · 54 models
Fingerboard radius
median 240 mm (9.45")
from 240 mm (9.45") to 508 mm (20") · 39 models
Body
alder, mahogany, ash
most common · 58 models
Fingerboard
maple, rosewood, pau ferro
most common · 46 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 6-string · 43 models
Neck profile
C
most common · 9 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 762 mm (30") to 864 mm (34.02") · 7 models
How to Choose the Best Multi-scale Basses
1
Neck Profile & Feel
The fanned fret design exaggerates any issues with neck feel. A comfortable, consistent profile is critical, especially for complex lines. Avoid anything that feels like a sharp angle or a sudden change in hand position.
2
String Selection & Spacing
Multi-scale basses are picky about strings. Experiment! Wider string spacing is common to accommodate the varying scale lengths, which can take some getting used to, but also improves clarity.
3
Intonation & Setup
Intonation is absolutely vital on a multi-scale. A bad setup will make it sound and feel terrible. Factor in the cost of a professional setup, or be prepared to spend serious time tweaking it yourself.
4
Construction & Stability
Fanned fret basses put extra stress on the neck. Look for solid construction - a multi-piece neck, carbon fiber reinforcement, or a well-supported design are all good signs. Cheap ones often warp over time.
5
Pickup Voicing & Electronics
A bright, scooped pickup voicing can highlight the benefits of the multi-scale design, letting those higher notes sing. However, a darker, more vintage voicing can also work well, especially if you're after a more balanced tone that cuts through the mix.
Buying Guide
A multi-scale bass isn't a drop-in replacement for your standard scale bass. It's an investment. You'll likely need to adjust your playing technique and string choices. Don't chase the novelty - listen for how the fanned fret design genuinely improves the instrument's tone and playability. Cheaper models often have neck stability issues or compromised intonation, so be prepared to pay a bit more for a well-built instrument.
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 65 multi-scale 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be an adjustment. The wider string spacing takes some getting used to, and the varying scale lengths can feel a little different. But most players adapt quickly, and the improved tone and feel are worth it.
Not really. String spacing and tension are critical. You'll likely need to experiment to find a set that works well with your specific bass. Lighter gauges are often preferred on the lower strings.
Not necessarily, but a higher-headroom amp will let you really appreciate the dynamic range and clarity. A muddy amp will just muddy everything, regardless of the bass's capabilities.
Absolutely not. While they might require a bit more attention to detail in terms of setup and string selection, anyone can benefit from the improved tone and playability. It's a tool, not a skill requirement.
The neck joint needs to be rock solid to handle the stress of the fanned frets. Look for a well-integrated design - a heel joint or a through-neck construction are generally preferred over a bolt-on neck, especially on higher-end models.
