AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Multi-scale Basses Under $1,000 2026
The top pick is Hils HNB5 Ivory ($612). Harley Benton MSB-5 Flip Flop Blue gives you the most for the money at $333. Ibanez SRC6MS Bass Workshop Multi-Scale Soundgear leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 3 models across 3 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 3
Full detail for the 3 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
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.
Cons
- Heavy string gauge may feel stiff for some players.
- No weight spec means carrying burden is unknown.
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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 ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Frets24 frets
- Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- Strings5-string
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
Cons
- No stated weight makes balance uncertain
- Lacks specific string gauge recommendations
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$333 now$333€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
Multi-scale Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 10 models we track, not a sample.
Median $612 — half of all multi-scale basses here cost less.
median of 10 models · 42 mm (1.65")–47 mm (1.85")
median of 10 models · 5-string–5-string
most common · 10 models
most common · 9 models
How to choose the best multi-scale basses
Intonation Consistency
The whole point of multi-scale is better intonation across the fretboard. Cheap models can still have issues - listen carefully and check it with a tuner.
Neck Profile & Feel
Fanned fret basses can be a bit awkward at first. A comfortable neck profile is essential for playability, especially when you're navigating those wider stretches.
Pickup Voicing
Expect compromises. Budget pickups often lack the nuance and clarity of higher-end units. Listen for muddiness in the low-end or an overly harsh top-end.
Hardware Quality
Tuners, bridge, and nut all contribute to tuning stability and overall feel. Cheaper hardware can feel sloppy and require frequent adjustments.
String Tension Balance
A good multi-scale should feel relatively even string tension across all strings. Significant differences can make playing feel unnatural and tiring.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk multi-scale bass. That fanned fret thing isn't just for show - it can seriously improve intonation and give you a wider range of tones. Finding a decent one under $1000 used to be a pipe dream, but a few brands are stepping up. We're focusing on instruments that actually play well and sound good, not just look cool on a spec sheet.
At this price point, you're likely looking at instruments with roasted maple necks (a nice touch for stability), but don't expect exotic wood bodies or boutique pickups. The biggest compromise will often be in the pickup voicing - they'll get the job done, but might not have that 'studio' sparkle. Prioritize a comfortable neck and good intonation over fancy aesthetics; those are the things that'll make you actually want to play it.
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 10 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 hard to restring?
A little trickier than a standard bass, yeah. You'll need to be careful with string spacing and potentially use different gauges for each string to dial in the tension you like.
Can I use any strings on a multi-scale?
Technically, yes. But different string gauges will affect the feel and intonation. Experimenting is key to finding what works best for you.
Will a budget multi-scale sound as good as a $3000 one?
No, obviously not. You'll miss out on things like higher-quality pickups, more precise fan angles, and better hardware. But a well-chosen budget model can still sound great for gigs and recording.
What's the deal with roasted maple necks?
Roasted maple is kiln-dried, which stabilizes it and reduces the impact of humidity changes. It's a good feature to look for in a bass, especially one that might be shipped and played in different climates.
Is it worth the upgrade from a standard scale bass?
If you're struggling with intonation on longer scale lengths, or want access to a wider tonal palette, absolutely. Just be prepared for a slight learning curve.
