AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Multi-scale Basses for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Dingwall D-Roc Standard ($2,229). Ibanez SRMS720 Bass Workshop Multi-Scale Soundgear gives you the most for the money at $1,438. Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 4 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 width42 mm (1.65")
- Frets20 frets
- BodyMahogany body
The D-Roc Standard is a serious contender for players seeking a versatile, high-quality bass with a modern edge. Its multiscale design and powerful pickups make it a joy to play and record, especially for those leaning towards rock, funk, and progressive styles. This bass is perfect for the gigging musician who wants premium tone and feel without the ultra-high-end price tag.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and powerful low-end foundation.
- Multiscale design significantly enhances intonation across the extended range.
- FD-3N humbuckers offer a punchy, articulate tone suitable for diverse genres.
Cons
- Passive electronics limit tonal shaping versatility compared to active systems.
- Mahogany body contributes to a potentially heavier overall instrument weight.
76AudioFu
Index↓ 14.9%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,619 · Aug 17$2,229 now$2,229€1,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 4
Boden Bass Standard 4 Black · Strandberg
20 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- BodyBasswood body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This bass uses a headless design to make tuning easy and keeps the neck stable with roasted maple. The multi-scale length helps reach the higher frets without stretching your fingers. It plays nicely with its Fishman pickups, but it lacks a truss rod and extra EQ knobs.
Pros
- Headless design simplifies string tensioning for quick setup
- Multi-scale length improves fretting on the upper frets
- Fishman Fluence Soapbars offer balanced, low-output sound
Cons
- Bolt-on joint construction lacks a truss rod
- No built-in battery charging port for external power
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 26Sep 26$3,121 now$3,121€2,799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This Nolly Signature NG3 is a serious instrument for players wanting a modern, punchy sound with incredible clarity. The multiscale design makes it incredibly playable, and the Darkglass electronics give you a huge range of tonal options. It's perfect for progressive rock, metal, or anyone needing a bass that cuts through a dense mix.
Pros
- Nolly’s signature voicing delivers a uniquely articulate and powerful low end.
- Multiscale design allows for optimal string tension across the fretboard, enhancing intonation and feel.
- Alder body provides a balanced tone with excellent sustain and resonance.
Cons
- The medium-thin C neck profile may not suit players preferring a thicker, vintage feel.
- The Fiesta Red finish, while striking, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 8.2%since Aug 17$3,400 · Aug 17$3,121 now$3,121€2,799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width46 mm (1.81")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- Strings5-string
- BodyAsh body
The Dingwall CB3 Combustion 5 PF Natural is a serious instrument for the discerning bassist. Its multiscale design and powerful pickups offer a modern, versatile tone, while the swamp ash body provides warmth and resonance. This bass excels for players needing a tight, punchy low end and a comfortable, fast neck – think modern rock, funk, and progressive styles.
Pros
- Swamp ash body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Multiscale design enhances intonation across all five strings, improving playability.
- FD-3N humbuckers provide a powerful, articulate sound suitable for various genres.
Cons
- The medium-thin C neck profile might not suit players preferring a thicker feel.
- The Pau Ferro fingerboard can feel slightly drier than rosewood to some players.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,120 now$3,120€2,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The SP1 4 Bass VB is a seriously well-built instrument, offering a unique blend of vintage vibe and modern playability. That multi-scale design really makes a difference, especially for players who struggle with intonation on longer scale basses. This is a fantastic choice for gigging musicians wanting a versatile, punchy bass with a distinctive character.
Pros
- Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- Multi-scale design enhances intonation and string tension across all four strings
- Dingwall FD3n and Dual-P pickups offer a versatile range of tones, from growl to clarity
Cons
- Rosewood fingerboard may feel a little dry to some players, requiring occasional conditioning
- Vintage Burst finish can be prone to fingerprints and smudging
59AudioFu
Index↓ 10.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,731 · Aug 17$2,452 now$2,452€2,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 4
Boden Bass Standard 4 Blue Aur · Strandberg
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius508 mm (20")
- BodyBasswood body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This bass is a great choice for players who want a fast, stable instrument without fiddly knobs. The roasted maple neck stays true to shape, and the multi-scale length makes stretching long notes feel natural. It suits anyone looking for a solid, headless design that plays well right out of the box.
Pros
- Headless design makes tuning fast and easy for everyone
- Roasted maple neck offers a stable, comfortable playing feel
- Multi-scale length improves string tension and intonation across the range
Cons
- No built-in battery power required for active electronics
- Limited to only two-band EQ controls on the front panel
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 26Sep 26$3,121 now$3,121€2,799 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 width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- BodyMahogany body
The D-Roc Standard is a serious contender for players wanting a modern, aggressive sound with a comfortable feel. That multi-scale design really tightens up the low B, and the FD-3N pickups have a fantastic growl perfect for rock, funk, and heavier styles – a real workhorse bass for the gigging musician.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant low-end foundation.
- Multi-scale design enhances intonation and string tension consistency.
- FD-3N humbuckers provide a powerful, articulate, and aggressive tone.
Cons
- Passive electronics limit tonal sculpting flexibility compared to active basses.
- Mahogany body can contribute to a heavier overall instrument weight.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,508 now$2,508€2,249 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale864 mm (34.02")
- Frets20 frets
- Fingerboard radius240 mm (9.45")
- Strings5-string
- BodyMahogany body
The Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 is a seriously versatile instrument. The multi-scale design and FD3N pickups give it a modern edge while retaining a warm, organic feel. This bass is perfect for players seeking a powerful, articulate tone with a comfortable neck and a distinctive aesthetic.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers a warm, resonant, and punchy low-end foundation.
- Multi-scale design optimizes string tension for improved intonation and feel across all strings.
- FD3N humbuckers offer a powerful, articulate tone suitable for diverse genres.
Cons
- Passive electronics limit tonal shaping options compared to active basses.
- Mahogany body can contribute to a heavier overall weight, potentially tiring in long sessions.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,619 now$2,619€2,349 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 Standard 5 Black MatteDingwall48Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 12
Dingwall D-Roc Std 5 Blue to PurpleDingwall45Stable$2,731€2,449$2,731€2,449Check ↗
- 13
Ibanez BTB866MS Bass WorkshopBTB866MS-BRF · Ibanez51↓ 2.0%$1,616€1,449$1,616€1,449Check ↗
- 14
Dingwall D-Roc Standard 5 AquamarineDingwall43Stable$2,452€2,199$2,452€2,199Check ↗
- 15
Dingwall D-Roc Std 5 Vintage BurstDingwall43Stable$2,619€2,349$2,619€2,349Check ↗
- 16
Ibanez BTB805MS Bass WorkshopBTB805MS-TGF · Ibanez53Stable$1,493€1,339$1,493€1,339Check ↗
- 17
Ibanez EHB1506MS-BIFIbanez37Stable$1,861€1,669$1,861€1,669Check ↗
- 18
Ibanez BTB7MS Bass WorkshopBTB7MS-NML · Ibanez50Stable$1,393€1,249$1,393€1,249Check ↗
- 19
Ibanez SRMS625EX Iron Label Multi-Scale SoundgearSRMS625EX-BKF · Ibanez55Stable$1,147€1,029$1,147€1,029Check ↗
- 20
Ibanez EHB1505SMS-FNLIbanez37Stable$1,609€1,443$1,609€1,443Check ↗
- 21
Ibanez SRC6MS Bass Workshop Multi-Scale SoundgearSRC6MS-BLL · Ibanez57Stable$891€799$891€799Check ↗
- 22
Hils HNB5 Metallic Rose GoldHils · 5 finishes59↓ 14.3%$668€599$668€599Check ↗
- 23
Warwick RB Corvette Multi 5 SBSWarwick39Stable$1,337€1,199$1,337€1,199Check ↗
- 24
Cort A5 Beyond, Open PoreCort37Stable$1,058€949$1,058€949Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton MSB-5 ESPHarley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
- 26
Dingwall John Taylor Signature 4John Taylor Signature 4 BK · Dingwall · 2 finishes49↓ 4.8%$3,343€2,998$3,343€2,998Check ↗
- 27
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 5Boden Bass Standard 5 Blue Aur · Strandberg48Stable$3,232€2,899$3,232€2,899Check ↗
- 28
Strandberg Guitars Boden Bass Standard 5Boden Bass Standard 5 Black · Strandberg48Stable$3,232€2,899$3,232€2,899Check ↗
- 29
Dingwall John Taylor Sign. 4 Stealth BKDingwall48↓ 9.4%$3,232€2,899$3,232€2,899Check ↗
- 30
Dingwall John Taylor Sign. 5 Stealth BKDingwall48Stable$3,846€3,449$3,846€3,449Check ↗
- 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 (Neck Profile & String Spacing)
A multi-scale bass's real magic is in the feel. We're looking for neck profiles that aren't too thick or too thin - something comfortable for hours of practice and gigging. String spacing needs to be wide enough to avoid muting, but not so wide it feels awkward.
Fan/Heel Design & Access
Those fanned frets create a unique heel shape. We're checking for comfortable access to the higher registers - no digging your elbow into the body! A well-designed heel makes a huge difference in playing speed and comfort.
Tonal Balance & Pickup Voicing
The longer scale length on the lower strings and shorter scale on the higher strings yields a unique voice. We're listening for a balance-that low-end thump needs to be present, but the higher strings shouldn't be ice-picky. Pickup voicing is key; a muddy pickup negates the scale length benefit.
Construction & Hardware Quality
Let's be real, cheap multi-scale basses often cut corners. We're assessing the quality of the tuners, the neck joint, and the overall build. Sloppy construction will kill sustain and tuning stability, which is a non-starter for gigging.
Intonation & Setup
Multi-scale basses are notoriously tricky to set up. We're evaluating how close the bass is to playing in tune straight out of the box and considering the ease of adjustment-a bass that requires a luthier to play properly isn't ideal for an intermediate player.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're thinking about a multi-scale bass? Smart move. They're not just for virtuosos anymore; the improved ergonomics and tonal flexibility are seriously useful for players stepping up their game. But they can be a bit overwhelming. This list is for the intermediate player - someone comfortable with basic bass techniques but looking to expand their sonic palette and improve their playing comfort without getting bogged down in complexity.
Don't chase the flashiest features. Focus on a comfortable neck, reliable hardware, and a balanced tone. A well-set-up multi-scale bass is a joy to play, but a poorly set-up one is a frustration.
Be prepared to potentially spend a little more for a professional setup, it's almost guaranteed to be worth it. Steer clear of anything that feels flimsy or has obviously cheap tuners; those corners will come back to haunt you onstage.
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 inherently. The initial adjustment to the different string tension takes some getting used to, but it's more about adapting your technique than relearning the bass entirely. It's a subtle change, not a complete overhaul.
Do I need a special amp for a multi-scale bass?
Not necessarily. A good quality amp with a wide frequency response will handle it fine. However, a bass amp with a bit more headroom will let you really appreciate the extended range and clarity.
What's the deal with intonation on multi-scale basses?
It's more complex because each string has a unique scale length. Expect to spend more time tweaking the intonation, or pay a pro to do it right. Improper intonation will sound awful, especially when recording.
Are multi-scale basses good for recording?
Absolutely. The wider tonal range and improved articulation can really shine in a studio setting. You'll hear more detail and nuance in your playing.
What's the biggest downside to a multi-scale bass?
The price. They're generally more expensive than traditional basses due to the more complex construction. Also, finding a tech who's comfortable setting them up can be a challenge in some areas.
