AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Multi-scale Basses for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Hils HNB5 Gun Metal Grey ($612). Harley Benton MSB-5 ESP gives you the most for the money at $333. Ibanez BTB866MS Bass Workshop leads the high end. 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 width47 mm (1.85")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius320 mm (12.6")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
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.
Cons
- Headless design requires adjustment to string spacing and ergonomics.
- Active pickups demand reliable power and can introduce noise if improperly shielded.
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- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
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.
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$333 now$333€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRC6MS Bass Workshop Multi-Scale Soundgear
SRC6MS-BLL · Ibanez
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Strings6-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The SRC6MS-BLL is a seriously capable 6-string bass, perfect for players needing extended range and a modern, active tone. The multiscale design makes those lower strings surprisingly playable, and the Bartolini pickups provide a rich, punchy sound that cuts through any mix. It’s a great option for progressive rock, metal, or anyone wanting a versatile, high-performance instrument.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- Bartolini BH2 pickups deliver a powerful, articulate, and defined low-end.
- Multiscale design enhances playability and intonation across all six strings.
Cons
- Plastic nut can be a potential upgrade point for improved tuning stability.
- Indonesia manufacture, while good quality, isn't quite the prestige of a Japanese-made instrument.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$891 now$891€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRMS625EX Iron Label Multi-Scale Soundgear
SRMS625EX-BKF · Ibanez
17 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Strings5-string
This Ibanez SRMS625EX-BKF is a serious contender for the modern bassist seeking a high-performance instrument. The multiscale design and Bartolini pickups make it incredibly versatile for funk, rock, and even heavier genres. It's a premium-priced bass that delivers a lot of bang for your buck.
Pros
- Bartolini pickups deliver a powerful, articulate, and modern low-end response.
- Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved intonation and playability across all five strings.
- Ebonol fretboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience with a unique feel.
Cons
- Plastic nut is a cost-saving measure; upgrading would enhance sustain and tuning stability.
- The SRMS5 neck profile might not suit players preferring a thicker, more traditional feel.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,147 now$1,147€1,029 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Strings5-string
- BodyBasswood body
The Ibanez EHB1005MS-SFM is a serious contender for the modern bassist. The multiscale design makes playing those lower strings a breeze, and the Bartolini pickups give you a huge palette of tones—from tight and punchy to warm and growly. This bass is perfect for players wanting a versatile, high-performance instrument without the extreme price tag of a top-tier boutique bass.
Pros
- Bartolini pickups deliver a powerful, articulate, and modern tone.
- Roasted birds-eye maple fretboard provides exceptional playability and stability.
- Multiscale design enhances intonation and string tension across all five strings.
Cons
- Plastic nut is a cost-saving measure that could be upgraded for improved sustain.
- Varimid EQ, while versatile, can be complex for beginners to master.
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,462 now$1,462€1,311 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ibanez SRMS720 Bass Workshop Multi-Scale Soundgear
SRMS720-BCM · Ibanez
27 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyOkoume body
The SRMS720-BCM is a serious contender for modern bassists seeking versatility and a refined feel. The multiscale design really shines, improving intonation and providing a comfortable playing experience. This bass is ideal for players who want a powerful, articulate sound without sacrificing playability.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- Fishman Fluence Modern pickup delivers a modern, articulate, and powerful low-end.
- Multiscale design allows for enhanced clarity and string definition across all four strings.
Cons
- Panga Panga fingerboard can feel slightly less smooth than rosewood or ebony.
- Bolt-on neck construction, while reliable, doesn't offer the same sustain as a neck-through design.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,438 now$1,438€1,290 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47 mm (1.85")
- Strings5-string
The BTB805MS-TGF is a seriously impressive bass. The multiscale design makes it incredibly versatile for different tunings and playing styles, and the T1 pickups deliver a modern, aggressive tone that cuts through any mix. It’s a premium-priced instrument that's perfect for gigging musicians and serious players seeking a high-performance, comfortable bass.
Pros
- Ash/Okoume body offers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- Multiscale design expands tuning options and enhances fret accessibility
- BTB5 neck profile is supremely comfortable, ideal for extended playing
Cons
- The weight can be a factor for players with smaller builds or long sets
- Panga Panga fretboard, while beautiful, can be less familiar to some players
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,493 now$1,493€1,339 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width63 mm (2.48")
- Fingerboard radius950 mm (37.4")
- Strings7-string
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The BTB7MS-NML is a serious instrument for the modern bassist who wants a 7-string with incredible versatility. The multiscale design makes those lower strings playable, and the active electronics offer a wide range of tonal possibilities – perfect for progressive rock, fusion, or anyone needing serious low-end authority.
Pros
- Bubinga top adds stunning aesthetics and a touch of brightness
- Multiscale design improves playability across seven strings
- Super 1 pickups deliver a powerful, modern low-end response
Cons
- The weight can be a factor for longer playing sessions
- Plastic nut is a common cost-saving measure, upgradeable later
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,393 now$1,393€1,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Strings5-string
- BodyAsh body
This A5 Beyond is a seriously impressive instrument. The multiscale design and Bartolini pickups make it versatile, from tight funk grooves to soaring, modern tones. It's perfect for the gigging bassist who demands premium quality and extended range without the high-end price tag.
Pros
- Bubinga top adds shimmering highs and complex overtones.
- Bartolini pickups deliver a powerful, articulate, and focused tone.
- Multiscale design enhances playability and intonation across the extended range.
Cons
- The panga panga fretboard might feel slightly unfamiliar to some players.
- Weight could be a factor for extended playing sessions; expect around 11-12 lbs.
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,058 now$1,058€949 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width54 mm (2.13")
- Fingerboard radius950 mm (37.4")
- Strings6-string
This bass feels light thanks to its wood body and solid neck-through build. The stainless steel frets play smoothly, but the plastic nut feels a bit cheap. It's a great choice if you need extra strings for jazz or fusion, but check the actual weight before buying.
Pros
- Lightweight Okoume and ash body design for easy playability
- Neck-through-body construction ensures stable tuning and sustain
- Stainless steel frets offer smooth action and bright response
Cons
- Plastic bone nut feels cheap compared to real bone
- No stated weight makes heavy bass possibility high
51AudioFu
Index↓ 2.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,649 · Aug 17$1,616 now$1,616€1,449 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
Warwick RB Corvette Multi 5 SBSWarwick39Stable$1,337€1,199$1,337€1,199Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez EHB1505SMS-FNLIbanez37Stable$1,609€1,443$1,609€1,443Check ↗
- 13
Ibanez EHB1506MS-BIFIbanez37Stable$1,861€1,669$1,861€1,669Check ↗
- 14
Dingwall D-Roc StandardD-Roc Standard BPC Matte · Dingwall76↓ 14.9%$2,229€1,999$2,229€1,999Check ↗
- 15
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 4Boden Bass Standard 4 Black · Strandberg · 2 finishes63Stable$3,121€2,799$3,121€2,799Check ↗
- 16
Dingwall NG3 Nolly Sig.4 Fiesta RedDingwall · 11 finishes63↓ 8.2%$3,121€2,799$3,121€2,799Check ↗
- 17
Dingwall CB3 Combustion 5 PF NaturalDingwall · 13 finishes62Stable$3,120€2,798$3,120€2,798Check ↗
- 18
Dingwall SP1 4 Bass VBDingwall · 8 finishes59↓ 10.2%$2,452€2,199$2,452€2,199Check ↗
- 19
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 4Boden Bass Standard 4 Blue Aur · Strandberg59Stable$3,121€2,799$3,121€2,799Check ↗
- 20
Dingwall John Taylor Signature 4John Taylor Signature 4 BK · Dingwall · 2 finishes49↓ 4.8%$3,343€2,998$3,343€2,998Check ↗
- 21
Dingwall D-Roc Standard Ducati WhiteDingwall48Stable$2,508€2,249$2,508€2,249Check ↗
- 22
Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 Ducati WhiteDingwall48Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 23
Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 Black MatteDingwall48Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 24
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 5Boden Bass Standard 5 Blue Aur · Strandberg48Stable$3,232€2,899$3,232€2,899Check ↗
- 25
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 5Boden Bass Standard 5 Black · Strandberg48Stable$3,232€2,899$3,232€2,899Check ↗
- 26
Dingwall John Taylor Sign. 4 Stealth BKDingwall48↓ 9.4%$3,232€2,899$3,232€2,899Check ↗
- 27
Dingwall John Taylor Sign. 5 Stealth BKDingwall48Stable$3,846€3,449$3,846€3,449Check ↗
- 28
Dingwall D-Roc Std 5 Blue to PurpleDingwall45Stable$2,731€2,449$2,731€2,449Check ↗
- 29
Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 AquamarineDingwall43Stable$2,452€2,199$2,452€2,199Check ↗
- 30
Dingwall D-Roc Std 5 Vintage BurstDingwall43Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 31
Dingwall Jacob Umansky Signature 5Dingwall43Stable$3,901€3,499$3,901€3,499Check ↗
- 32
Dingwall Jacob Umansky Signature 6Dingwall41Stable$4,013€3,599$4,013€3,599Check ↗
- 33
Dingwall John Taylor Signature 5John Taylor Signature 5 BK · Dingwall39Stable$3,734€3,349$3,734€3,349Check ↗
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
A comfortable neck profile is crucial. Chunky necks can be a real pain when you're building finger strength and dexterity. Look for something with a C or D profile - not too thin, not too thick - that fits your hand well.
Intonation
The whole point of multi-scale is better intonation, especially when you're playing lower tunings or complex chord voicings. A poorly set-up multi-scale can be worse than a well-set-up standard scale, so make sure it's dialed in.
Construction Quality
Beginner budgets are tight, and multi-scale construction adds complexity. Cheaper models will often cut corners - thinner fretwire, less precise fan angles. These things directly impact playability and tuning stability.
Pickup Voicing & Electronics
You don't need boutique pickups, but muddy, indistinct tones will hinder your progress. Look for something with decent articulation - you want to hear each note clearly, especially when playing busy basslines.
Weight & Ergonomics
A heavy bass is a killer on your shoulder after a long gig or even a long practice session. Consider a lighter instrument, or one with a comfortable strap setup, especially if you're new to bass playing.
Buying guide
So, you're thinking about a multi-scale bass? Awesome choice, they open up a whole new world of intonation and feel. But they can seem intimidating, especially when you're just starting out. This isn't about chasing boutique gear; it's about finding a multi-scale that won't fight you while you're building your chops and getting comfortable on the instrument.
Don't get seduced by flashy features; prioritize playability and a solid setup. A well-set-up, slightly less-flashy multi-scale will be far more rewarding than a beautiful but unplayable one. Be realistic about your budget - the added complexity of a multi-scale means you're often paying a premium, so don't overspend.
Used is your friend - you can often find great deals on lightly used models.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 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 play than standard scale basses?
They can be, mostly due to the string spacing and sometimes a steeper learning curve with hand positioning. But a well-designed, comfortable model shouldn't feel drastically different - just different. Proper setup is key.
Do I need a multi-scale bass as a beginner?
No, absolutely not. A standard scale bass is perfectly fine for learning. A multi-scale offers benefits, but they're not essential for developing your skills.
What about string spacing? Will it be a problem?
The wider string spacing can take some getting used to, especially if you're used to a standard bass. It might initially feel cramped, but it allows for more precise finger placement and cleaner articulation.
How do I care for the fan fret spacing?
Essentially the same as a standard bass, but be extra careful when changing strings - the different string tension can make it a little more finicky. A good string winder is your friend.
What's the deal with saddle height adjustments on a fan fret?
Each saddle needs to be individually adjusted for intonation. It's more work, but crucial for accurate tuning across the entire fretboard. Don't be afraid to take it to a tech if you're not comfortable doing it yourself.
