AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Multi-scale Basses for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.6 Ferrari Green ($3,455). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 33 models across 7 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width55 mm (2.17")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- Strings6-string
- BodyAlder body
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.
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.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 3.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$3,567 · Aug 17$3,455 now$3,455€3,099 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width55 mm (2.17")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- Strings6-string
- BodyAsh body
This bass uses a swamp ash body and EMG pickups to give you a tight, punchy sound that cuts through any mix. The bolt-on neck makes it feel solid and fast to play. It is a great choice if you need a high-output bass with clear tone control.
Pros
- Swamp ash body delivers a punchy, mid-forward tone for live performance.
- EMG pickups provide aggressive output perfect for metal and high-gain settings.
- Bolt-on maple neck ensures a solid connection and fast response.
Cons
- No string gauge options listed, forcing reliance on standard sets.
- Active mode only, requiring fresh batteries for full EQ functionality.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,400 now$3,400€3,049 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- Strings5-string
- BodyNyatoh body
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.
Cons
- Nyatoh body, while warm, can lack the sustain of more premium woods.
- The multi-scale design may require a slightly longer adjustment period.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,846 now$3,846€3,449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Dingwall John Taylor Signature 4
John Taylor Signature 4 SFG · Dingwall
2 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- BodyNyatoh body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This John Taylor Signature Dingwall is a seriously cool instrument. The multiscale design and Neve preamp give it a unique voice—modern punch with a vintage warmth. It's perfect for players wanting a refined, articulate tone and a comfortable, modern playing experience, especially suited for funk, pop, and progressive styles.
Pros
- Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- Rupert Neve preamp delivers a uniquely smooth and musical EQ response.
- Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved intonation and feel.
Cons
- Nyatoh, while resonant, isn't as tonally complex as some premium hardwoods.
- The minimalist bridge, while aesthetically pleasing, might be less adjustable for some setups.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,734 now$3,734€3,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Frets24 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardWenge fingerboard
This bass uses wide string spacing and a maple neck for a comfortable feel. The Canadian humbuckers provide a solid tone, and the active EQ lets you shape your sound. It is a great choice for players who need extra reach on longer strings.
Pros
- Wide string spacing makes fretting comfortable.
- Canadian-made humbuckers deliver strong output.
- Multi-scale design eases long string stretches.
Cons
- Weight is not listed in the description.
- String gauge range is not specified.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,901 now$3,901€3,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Frets24 frets
- Strings6-string
- BodyAlder body
This bass plays like a thick wall of sound thanks to its three humbuckers and wide string spacing. The solid maple neck feels solid under your fingers while the ash top gives it a warm glow. It suits players who need extra reach and volume without sacrificing clarity. You get a premium feel but should watch your battery life with the active EQ.
Pros
- Wide 18mm string spacing makes tuning easy
- Solid maple bolt-on neck ensures stability
- Three Canadian-made humbuckers for thick tone
Cons
- Active electronics require battery power
- Heavy multi-scale design is hard to lift
41AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,013 now$4,013€3,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Dingwall John Taylor Signature 5
John Taylor Signature 5 BK · Dingwall
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- Strings5-string
- BodyNyatoh body
This John Taylor Signature Dingwall is a serious instrument, built for players who demand precision and a unique voice. The multi-scale design and Rupert Neve preamp combo really shines for modern funk, rock, and progressive styles. It's a high-end bass that'll elevate your game, especially if you're after a defined, articulate low-end.
Pros
- Rupert Neve preamp delivers exceptional clarity and warmth, a signature sound.
- Multi-scale design optimizes string tension for improved intonation and feel.
- Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
Cons
- Nyatoh body, while resonant, lacks the prestige of more exotic hardwoods.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, isn't favored by some for sustain.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,734 now$3,734€3,349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 5
Boden Bass Standard 5 Blue Aur · Strandberg
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- Strings5-string
- BodyBasswood body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This headless bass feels great with a stable roasted maple neck. The flamed maple top looks cool and the Fishman pickups sound clear. It is a solid choice for players who want a clean, modern tone without extra knobs.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck feels stable and easy to play.
Cons
- No built-in battery for battery-powered pickups.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 26Sep 26$3,232 now$3,232€2,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 5
Boden Bass Standard 5 Black · Strandberg
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- Strings5-string
- BodyBasswood body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This bass uses roasted maple for a stable neck and warm tone from the Fishman pickups. The multi-scale length helps your fingers reach notes faster without stretching too much. It is perfect for players who want a simple, solid instrument without extra electronics.
Pros
- Fishman Fluence Soapbars offer a warm, modern tone with coil split capability.
- Multi-scale design reduces finger stretch for faster playing.
- Roasted maple neck provides stable playability and smooth action.
Cons
- Lacks built-in active electronics for complex signal shaping.
- No onboard effects or Bluetooth connectivity.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 26Sep 26$3,232 now$3,232€2,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- BodyNyatoh body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This bass uses a special Nyatoh body that sounds different from wood you see often. The multi-scale neck helps you play high notes easier than standard strings. A professional sound engineer helped set up the electronics, so the controls feel very precise. It fits players who want a unique voice without sacrificing playability.
Pros
- Nyatoh body offers unique tonal character
- Multi-scale design improves string tension
- Rupert Neve EQ adds professional control
Cons
- High price point for many players
- Heavy machine heads may be cumbersome
48AudioFu
Index↓ 9.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$3,567 · Aug 17$3,232 now$3,232€2,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 33 multi-scale basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Dingwall D-Roc StandardD-Roc Standard BPC Matte · Dingwall76↓ 14.9%$2,229€1,999$2,229€1,999Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez EHB1005MS Bass WorkshopEHB1005MS-SFM · Ibanez63Stable$1,462€1,311$1,462€1,311Check ↗
- 13
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 4Boden Bass Standard 4 Black · Strandberg · 2 finishes63Stable$3,121€2,799$3,121€2,799Check ↗
- 14
Ibanez SRMS720 Bass Workshop Multi-Scale SoundgearSRMS720-BCM · Ibanez62Stable$1,438€1,290$1,438€1,290Check ↗
- 15
Hils HNB5 Gun Metal GreyHils · 5 finishes60↓ 21.5%$612€549$612€549Check ↗
- 16
Dingwall SP1 4 Bass VBDingwall · 8 finishes59↓ 10.2%$2,452€2,199$2,452€2,199Check ↗
- 17
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 4Boden Bass Standard 4 Blue Aur · Strandberg59Stable$3,121€2,799$3,121€2,799Check ↗
- 18
Ibanez SRC6MS Bass Workshop Multi-Scale SoundgearSRC6MS-BLL · Ibanez57Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 19
Ibanez SRMS625EX Iron Label Multi-Scale SoundgearSRMS625EX-BKF · Ibanez55Stable$1,147€1,029$1,147€1,029Check ↗
- 20
Ibanez BTB805MS Bass WorkshopBTB805MS-TGF · Ibanez53Stable$1,493€1,339$1,493€1,339Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton MSB-5 ESPHarley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
- 22
Ibanez BTB866MS Bass WorkshopBTB866MS-BRF · Ibanez51↓ 2.0%$1,616€1,449$1,616€1,449Check ↗
- 23
Ibanez BTB7MS Bass WorkshopBTB7MS-NML · Ibanez50Stable$1,393€1,249$1,393€1,249Check ↗
- 24
Dingwall D-Roc Standard Ducati WhiteDingwall48Stable$2,508€2,249$2,508€2,249Check ↗
- 25
Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 Ducati WhiteDingwall48Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 26
Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 Black MatteDingwall48Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 27
Dingwall D-Roc Std 5 Blue to PurpleDingwall45Stable$2,731€2,449$2,731€2,449Check ↗
- 28
Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 AquamarineDingwall43Stable$2,452€2,199$2,452€2,199Check ↗
- 29
Dingwall D-Roc Std 5 Vintage BurstDingwall43Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 30
Warwick RB Corvette Multi 5 SBSWarwick39Stable$1,337€1,199$1,337€1,199Check ↗
- 31
Cort A5 Beyond, Open PoreCort37Stable$1,058€949$1,058€949Check ↗
- 32
Ibanez EHB1505SMS-FNLIbanez37Stable$1,609€1,443$1,609€1,443Check ↗
- 33
Ibanez EHB1506MS-BIFIbanez37Stable$1,861€1,669$1,861€1,669Check ↗
Multi-scale Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 71 models we track, not a sample.
Median $2,786 — half of all multi-scale basses here cost less.
median of 54 models · 42 mm (1.65")–55 mm (2.17")
median of 61 models · 20–24
most common · 65 models
most common · 51 models
How to choose the best multi-scale basses
Playability & Ergonomics
The fanned fret design isn't inherently easier to play. We're looking at neck profiles (a comfortable C shape is vital), string spacing, and overall balance. A poorly designed multi-scale can feel awkward and fight your technique - especially when slapping or using two-handed techniques.
String Choice & Tension
String tension varies dramatically across the fret lengths. You'll need to experiment with string gauges and brands to find a balanced feel and avoid a floppy low end or a brittle high end. This impacts intonation and overall response; it's not a plug-and-play situation.
Intonation & Setup Complexity
Setting up a multi-scale bass is significantly more involved than a standard bass. The saddle placement is critical, and even slight adjustments can have a big impact on intonation. Be prepared to spend time (or money at a good luthier) to get it dialed in.
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
The longer scale lengths of the lower strings often benefit from pickups that retain clarity and articulation. Muddy, indistinct low-end thump is a common problem on cheaper multi-scale basses. We're listening for definition and note separation, even when playing complex lines.
Construction & Hardware Quality
Fanned frets put more stress on the neck joint and body. We're checking for solid construction, stable neck angles, and quality hardware that can withstand the increased tension and potential for warping. Cheap hardware will creak and fail quickly.
Buying guide
So, you're looking at a multi-scale bass - good choice. It's not just a gimmick; when done right, the fanned fret design unlocks a level of clarity and sustain that's tough to beat. But it's also a commitment; these basses demand a different approach to technique and setup. This isn't gear for dipping your toes in the water - it's for players who already know their way around a fretboard and want to push their sonic boundaries.
Don't be swayed by the novelty. A multi-scale bass is an investment, and the compromises on cheaper models - often flimsy hardware, poorly executed fanning, and inconsistent string spacing - will quickly become frustrating. Pay attention to the neck profile; it's even more crucial on a multi-scale.
Factor in the cost of a professional setup - it's almost mandatory.
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 71 multi-scale basses from the Thomann catalogue. 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
Are multi-scale basses harder to learn?
Not if you already play bass well. The technical challenges are in the setup and adapting your playing to the varied string tension, not in learning the instrument itself. It's a tool for an experienced player.
Can I use any strings on a multi-scale bass?
Technically, yes. Practically, no. You'll need to experiment to find a balanced feel and intonation. Lighter gauge strings on the high end and heavier on the low end are often a good starting point.
Do I need a special amp for a multi-scale bass?
Not necessarily, but a higher-quality amp with good headroom will help showcase the clarity and definition that a multi-scale bass offers. Avoid overly colored or compressed amps that will mask the nuances.
Are multi-scale basses good for slapping?
It depends. Some players find the varied string tension challenging for slapping, while others appreciate the increased clarity. It's a matter of personal preference and technique adaptation.
What's the deal with the neck joint stability?
The neck joint on a multi-scale experiences significantly more stress. Look for basses with robust heel construction and a well-fitted neck joint to prevent warping or cracking over time. Cheap construction will lead to headaches.
