Best Multi-scale Basses Under $2,000 2026
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.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best multi-scale basses in 2026 are Hils HNB5 Metallic Rose Gold (top pick), Hils HNB5 Gun Metal Grey for tighter budgets, and Hils HNB5 Black for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $347–$1,677, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Hils HNB5 Metallic Rose Gold
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Professional Use
Progressive Music
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The Hils HNB5 is a serious contender in the multi-scale world, offering a modern, powerful tone with a unique aesthetic. The bolt-on construction and walnut fingerboard give it a responsive feel, and the active pickups really cut through the mix – perfect for players seeking a focused, articulate sound in genres like funk, metal, and progressive rock.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the tone.
- • Walnut neck offers excellent stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • NB505 active pickups deliver a tight, modern low-end punch.
- • Custom Mono-Rail bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Headless design takes some getting used to for precise intonation.
- • Active pickups require a power source, limiting passive tonal options.
- • Metallic Rose Gold finish may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608808
$812
Hils HNB5 Gun Metal Grey
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Professional Use
Progressive Music
Extended Range
Key Feature:
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.
- • Mono-Rail bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Headless design requires adjustment to string spacing and ergonomics.
- • Active pickups demand reliable power and can introduce noise if improperly shielded.
- • Multi-scale length may initially feel unfamiliar to players accustomed to standard scale.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608814
$812
Hils HNB5 Black
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Professional Use
Progressive Music
Technical Performance
Key Feature:
The Hils HNB5 Black is a seriously cool, modern bass. The multi-scale design and active pickups offer a tight, defined sound that cuts through any mix – perfect for modern rock, funk, or electronic music. It's a fantastic option for players looking for a unique headless experience without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
- • Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
- • Active NB505 pickups provide a focused, modern sound with clarity.
- • Mono-Rail bridge minimizes string vibration for improved sustain and clarity.
CONS
- • Headless design takes some getting used to for precise intonation.
- • Active pickups require a power source, limiting passive tone options.
- • Mahogany body can make the bass feel relatively heavy for extended playing.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608821
$812
Hils HNB5 Sunburst
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Technical Performance
Modern Design
Progressive Music
Key Feature:
The Hils HNB5 is a seriously cool, modern bass for players wanting a punchy, defined tone and a unique aesthetic. The multi-scale design and active pickups really shine for modern genres like funk, metal, and progressive rock – it’s a real workhorse instrument and a fantastic value for the money.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the bass's tone.
- • Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing experience with a unique feel.
- • NB505 active pickups deliver a tight, articulate sound with plenty of growl.
- • Multi-scale design optimizes string tension, improving intonation and feel across all strings.
CONS
- • Headless design can be intimidating for players unfamiliar with this configuration.
- • Active pickups require a power source, limiting passive tonal options without a battery.
- • Mahogany body may make the bass feel somewhat heavier than basses with lighter woods.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608818
$801
Hils HNB5 Ivory
by
Hils
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
320 mm (12.6")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Technical Performance
Professional Use
Progressive Music
Key Feature:
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.
- • Headless design simplifies tuning and string changes.
CONS
- • Heavy string gauge may feel stiff for some players.
- • No weight spec means carrying burden is unknown.
- • Active electronics require fresh batteries to function.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608742
$775
Harley Benton MSB-5 Flip Flop Blue
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Extended Range
Technical Performance
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
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
- • Affordable price point for 5-string bass
CONS
- • No stated weight makes balance uncertain
- • Lacks specific string gauge recommendations
- • Okoume body may lack resonance depth
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 568968
$348
Harley Benton MSB-5 ASP
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Professional Use
Extended Range
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
This budget-friendly five-string has a solid roasted maple neck and active humbuckers for a punchy tone. It features a long scale length for extra string tension and an active preamp for shaping your sound. Great for players who want extended range without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Five-piece roasted maple neck offers stability and durability.
CONS
- • No weight specification listed makes the instrument feel uncertain.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 593885
$348
Harley Benton MSB-5 ESP
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Extended Range
Modern Design
Progressive Music
Key Feature:
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.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 593886
$348
#9
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Warwick RB Corvette Multi 5 SBS
by
Warwick
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Wenge fingerboard
Weight
4.1 kg
Ergonomic Playing
Progressive Music
Extended Range
Key Feature:
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.
- • Graphite nut minimizes friction and improves tuning stability, a real quality touch.
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.
- • The wenge fretboard, while fantastic sounding, can be prone to dryness and requires occasional maintenance.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 482743
$1,393
Harley Benton MSB-5 Black Flame Burl
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Modern Design
Technical Performance
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This bass has a cool flame wood top and five strings for big hands. The active preamp lets you control bass, mid, and treble easily. It feels solid with a roasted maple neck, but you won't know how heavy it is until you hold it. Great for players who need extra string room and clear tone control.
PROS
- • Real flame burl wood on the top looks cool
- • Five strings fit huge hands and big songs
- • Active preamp lets you shape every tone
- • Stainless steel frets stay bright for years
CONS
- • Okoume body can warp if humidity changes
- • No weight listed makes lifting hard to guess
- • Only two pickups limits stereo setups
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 568963
$371
#11
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez EHB1505SMS-FNL
by
Ibanez
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Fingerboard radius
508 mm (20")
Strings
5-string
Extended Range
Ergonomic Playing
Professional Use
Key Feature:
The Ibanez EHB1505SMS-FNL is a seriously impressive instrument for the modern bassist. The multi-scale design and Nordstrand pickups offer a wide range of tones, from punchy slap to warm, growling lows. This is a great choice for players who want a premium-priced, versatile 5-string bass with a unique aesthetic and feel.
PROS
- • Nordstrand Big Break pickups deliver a powerful, articulate, and modern tone.
- • Panga Panga/Walnut neck construction provides exceptional stability and a unique feel.
- • Multi-scale design expands tuning possibilities and improves string tension consistency.
- • Lightweight African mahogany body enhances comfort and reduces stage fatigue.
CONS
- • The active electronics require a power source, limiting versatility in certain situations.
- • Panga Panga wood can be less familiar and potentially harder to source for repairs.
- • Matt polyurethane finish, while stylish, can show fingerprints more easily.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 582071
$1,677
#12
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Ibanez BTB7MS-NML
by
Ibanez
Nut width
63 mm (2.48")
Fingerboard radius
950 mm (37.4")
Strings
7-string
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Modern Design
Progressive Music
Technical Performance
Key Feature:
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
- • Neck-through construction ensures excellent sustain and a smooth feel
CONS
- • The weight can be a factor for longer playing sessions
- • Plastic nut is a common cost-saving measure, upgradeable later
- • Active EQ requires a power source, limiting passive tonal options
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 582002
$1,452
#13
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Ibanez BTB705LM-NNF
by
Ibanez
Nut width
47 mm (1.85")
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Modern Design
Professional Use
Progressive Music
Key Feature:
The BTB705LM-NNF is a seriously impressive instrument. The multi-scale design and active EQ give you a huge range of tonal possibilities, perfect for modern funk, progressive rock, or anything needing a tight, defined low-end. This is a fantastic option for players who want a high-end feel and performance without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Ash/Okume body provides excellent resonance and sustain.
- • Multi-scale length improves intonation and string tension consistency.
- • Super 1 pickups deliver a powerful, articulate, and modern tone.
- • Ibanez Custom electronics offer precise tonal shaping and active boost.
CONS
- • The neck-through design increases the bass's overall weight.
- • Rosewood fingerboard may be a preference issue for some players.
- • The active EQ requires a power source, limiting passive tonal options.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 582024
$1,338
#14
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Cort A5 Beyond, Open Pore
by
Cort
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Progressive Music
Technical Performance
Ergonomic Playing
Key Feature:
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.
- • Open pore finish allows the ash body to breathe, enhancing resonance.
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.
- • Active preamp requires a power source, limiting passive tonal options.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 513810
$1,103
Ibanez SRC6MS-BLL
by
Ibanez
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Strings
6-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Technical Performance
Progressive Music
Modern Design
Key Feature:
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.
- • Jatoba/Walnut neck provides stiffness and a comfortable, modern feel.
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.
- • Active electronics require a power source; battery replacement is a consideration.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 557380
$929
Every multi-scale basses that matches
21 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Ibanez BTB866MS-BRF | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Fingerboard radius 950 mm (37.4") · Strings 6-string | $1,719 |
| 17 | Ibanez EHB1506MS-BIF | Nut width 54 mm (2.13") · Strings 6-string · Body Mahogany body | $1,940 |
| 18 | Ibanez EHB1005MS-SFM | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body | $1,524 |
| 19 | Ibanez SRMS720-BCM | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Okoume body | $1,499 |
| 20 | Ibanez BTB805MS-TGF | Nut width 47 mm (1.85") · Strings 5-string | $1,556 |
| 21 | Ibanez SRMS625EX-BKF | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string | $1,196 |
Multi-scale Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 21 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,103
from $348 to $1,719
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 42 mm (1.65") to 54 mm (2.13") · 21 models
Frets
median 24
from 24 to 24 · 11 models
Fingerboard radius
median 400 mm (15.75")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 950 mm (37.4") · 14 models
Neck profile
C
most common · 9 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 6-string · 20 models
Body
okoume, mahogany, ash
most common · 15 models
Fingerboard
walnut, maple, rosewood
most common · 12 models
How to Choose the Best Multi-scale Basses
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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 This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 21 multi-scale basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
