AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Multi-scale Basses Under $2,000 2026
The top pick is Ibanez EHB1005MS Bass Workshop ($1,462). Harley Benton MSB-5 Flip Flop Blue gives you the most for the money at $333. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 13 models across 5 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 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")
- 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 ↗ -
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 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 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 ↗ -
- 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 ↗ -
- 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
- Strings5-string
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardWenge fingerboard
The RB Corvette Multi 5 SBS is a serious instrument for the gigging bassist. The multiscale design really shines, making complex passages much easier, and the MEC pickups deliver a modern, articulate tone with plenty of growl. This is a great option for players wanting a high-quality, versatile bass without the absolute top-end price tag.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- Multiscale design optimizes string tension for improved intonation and feel across all strings.
- MEC pickups deliver a powerful, punchy sound suitable for a wide range of genres.
Cons
- The weight (4.1 kg) might be a bit much for some players during long gigs.
- While versatile, the passive/active electronics can be slightly complex to dial in perfectly.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,337 now$1,337€1,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 13 multi-scale basses
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
Multi-scale Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 20 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,058 — half of all multi-scale basses here cost less.
median of 20 models · 38 mm (1.5")–54 mm (2.13")
median of 19 models · 5-string–6-string
most common · 15 models
median of 11 models · 24–24
How to choose the best multi-scale basses
Intonation Accuracy
This is the point of a multi-scale. Check it carefully - even minor deviations can be frustrating. We're looking for consistent tuning from the E to the high C, especially in the upper registers.
Neck Profile & Feel
Fanned fret basses can feel a little awkward at first. A comfortable neck profile is crucial for playability, especially if you're transitioning from a traditional bass. Pay attention to the hand-feel - it's subjective but vital.
Pickup Voicing & Articulation
Many budget multi-scales suffer from muddy low-mids or a lack of clarity. We're prioritizing pickups that offer good articulation and a balanced frequency response - something that cuts through the mix without getting lost in the rumble.
Hardware Quality
Tuners, bridge, and nut all contribute to stability and tuning accuracy. Cheap hardware means headaches - constant retuning, buzzing, and a general lack of refinement. Upgrading these later can be a hassle.
Overall Build Quality
Let's be real, at this price point, compromises are made. We're looking for solid construction, minimal fret buzz, and a finish that can withstand the rigors of gigging. A few minor cosmetic flaws are okay, but structural issues are a no-go.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're after a multi-scale bass but don't want to drop serious coin? Smart move. That fanned fret design isn't just for show - it unlocks incredible intonation across the neck and a seriously cool tonal palette. Finding one under $2000 that doesn't feel like a compromise is tricky, but not impossible. Let's break down what's actually available and what you're getting for your money.
Don't expect boutique-level craftsmanship under $2000. You'll likely see compromises in things like finish quality or hardware. The biggest trade-off will often be pickup quality - they're the heart of the bass's tone.
Prioritize intonation accuracy above all else; a poorly intonated multi-scale is worse than a standard-scale bass. Used is your friend here - you can often snag a higher-end model for less.
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 20 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 all multi-scale basses difficult to set up?
Yes, they generally require more precise setup than standard basses. The fanned fret design means the string height and intonation will vary across the neck. Factor in a professional setup cost - it's worth it.
What's the deal with string spacing on multi-scale basses?
String spacing changes across the neck, which can be a challenge for some players. Wider spacing on the lower strings aids in muting, while the narrower spacing on the higher strings allows for easier soloing. It takes some getting used to.
Can I replace the pickups on a budget multi-scale?
Absolutely! Pickups are often the weakest link in these basses. Upgrading them is a relatively straightforward and affordable way to dramatically improve the tone. Just make sure you get the right spacing and mounting hardware.
Are multi-scale basses harder on my fingers?
The varying string tension can feel different initially, but most players adapt quickly. Proper action adjustment is key to minimizing any finger fatigue. Don't crank the strings too tight - a balanced tension is crucial.
Do I need a multi-scale bass?
No, you don't need one. But if you're looking for improved intonation, a wider tonal palette, and a unique playing experience, a multi-scale can be a game-changer, especially for genres like progressive rock, funk, or jazz.
