Best Short Scale Basses Under $1,000 2025
Affordable short scale basses under $1,000 - great value without compromising quality
Last updated: October 22, 2025 • Next update: October 29, 2025
Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW CRR
- • Great for extended playing
- • Unique tonal character
- • Different string spacing
- • May lack power for some styles
Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW CRRElectric BassBody: AlderBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: RosewoodWhite dot...
Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short RAYSS4 FRD
- • Easier playing for smaller hands
- • Great for extended playing
- • Limited string gauge options
- • Not traditional bass sound
Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short RAYSS4 FRDElectric BassBody: NyatohBolt-on neck: roasted mapleFingerboard: roasted...
Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short RAYSS4 TLBL
- • Easier playing for smaller hands
- • Unique tonal character
- • Not traditional bass sound
- • Less low-end extension
Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short RAYSS4 TLBLElectric BassBody: NyatohBolt-on neck: roasted mapleFingerboard:...
Fender Player II Mustang Bass MN PWT
- • Lower string tension
- • Great for extended playing
- • Different string spacing
- • May lack power for some styles
Fender Player II Mustang Bass MN PWTShortscale Electric BassBody: AlderBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: MapleBlack dot...
Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW HLY
- • Comfortable neck reach
- • Great for extended playing
- • May lack power for some styles
- • Not traditional bass sound
Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW HLYElectric BassBody: AlderBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: RosewoodWhite dot...
How to Choose the Best Short Scale Basses
Budget Planning
- • Under $200: Entry-level
- • $200-$500: Intermediate
- • $500-$1000: Advanced
- • $1000+: Professional
Quality Check
- • Sound clarity & tone
- • Build materials & finish
- • Hardware durability
- • Overall craftsmanship
Key Features
- • Your musical style
- • Skill level match
- • Intended use case
- • Brand reputation