Best Short Scale Basses Under $1,000 2026
So, you're looking for a short scale bass without breaking the bank? Smart move. They're fantastic for smaller hands, travel, or just a different vibe-that warmer, more mellow low end is a real change of pace from a standard 34" scale. Finding a good one under $1000 takes some digging, but there are some serious contenders out there that'll gig and record just fine. Let's cut through the noise and find you a bass you'll actually love.
Last updated: August 27, 2026
⚡ The best short scale basses in 2026 are Harley Benton Beatbass VS Vintage Ser w/Case (top pick), Fender Player II Mustang Bass MN CGR for tighter budgets, and Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW RLO for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $197–$944, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Harley Benton Beatbass VS Vintage Ser w/Case
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
775 mm (30.51")
Frets
22 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Weight
4.5 kg
Pop
Studio Work
Indie
Key Feature:
This Beatbass is a fantastic entry point to vintage-inspired bass tones. The hollowbody construction and flamed maple top give it a surprisingly rich, woody character, and the short scale makes it very comfortable. It's ideal for players seeking a retro vibe, especially in genres like blues, old-school rock, or Motown, and wanting an affordable instrument.
PROS
- • Hollowbody design delivers warm, resonant vintage tones.
- • Maple top adds visual flair and subtle brightness.
- • Set-in neck construction enhances sustain and feel.
- • Diecast machine heads offer reliable tuning stability.
CONS
- • Basswood body can lack upper-midrange clarity compared to mahogany.
- • Short scale may feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- • Humbucker pickups can be muddy if EQ isn’t dialed in correctly.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 322571
$326
Fender Player II Mustang Bass MN CGR
by
Fender
Nut width
38.1 mm (1.5")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Alternative
Comfortable Playing
Pop
Key Feature:
This bass shines with its bright, cutting Alnico 5 pickups and a super-short scale that keeps strings easy to press. The maple neck feels smooth under your fingers, making it a natural choice for players who want speed and clarity. It's a solid, budget-friendly option for anyone needing a reliable short-scale instrument without the heavy price tag.
PROS
- • Alnico 5 pickups offer bright, articulate tone for cutting through the mix.
- • Modern C neck profile provides a comfortable, fast playing feel.
- • Short scale length keeps the action low for effortless fretting.
- • Alder body pairs with maple neck for a balanced, punchy sound.
CONS
- • No active electronics to boost low-end output or extend frequency.
- • Single coil pickups may need shielding in noisy venues.
- • Missing detailed weight data makes shipping and comfort uncertain.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 635678
$944
Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW RLO
by
Fender
Nut width
38.1 mm (1.5")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Comfortable Playing
Pop
Alternative
Key Feature:
This bass feels great because the short scale makes it easy to push down the strings. The Alnico 5 pickups sound warm and classic, which many players love. It suits anyone who wants a reliable, fast-playing instrument without needing extra electronics.
PROS
- • Alnico 5 pickups give a warm, vintage tone
- • Short scale length makes the bass feel light and fast
- • Modern C neck profile is comfortable for large hands
- • Alder body pairs with maple neck for a solid feel
CONS
- • No active electronics means limited volume control
- • Missing a fifth string option for extended range
- • Weight is not listed, so heft is unknown
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 635670
$944
Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW AQB
by
Fender
Nut width
38.1 mm (1.5")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Indie
Studio Work
Comfortable Playing
Key Feature:
This Player II Mustang Bass is a seriously fun instrument. The short scale makes it surprisingly nimble, and the dual pickup configuration gives you a ton of tonal options – from growly vintage tones to more modern clarity. It's a great choice for gigging musicians or anyone looking for a versatile and comfortable bass without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Modern C neck profile is comfortable and fast for a wide range of players.
- • Split Precision pickup delivers a unique, punchy, and articulate low-end.
- • 4-saddle bridge enhances tuning stability and intonation accuracy.
CONS
- • Short scale may feel cramped for players with larger hands or longer fingers.
- • Rosewood fingerboard can feel slightly sticky compared to maple alternatives.
- • Aquatone Blue finish, while attractive, might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 595193
$874
Fender Player II Mustang Bass MN PWT
by
Fender
Nut width
38.1 mm (1.5")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Indie
Alternative
Studio Work
Key Feature:
The Player II Mustang Bass is a seriously fun instrument. The short scale makes it incredibly accessible, and the pickup combination offers a surprisingly versatile range of tones, from growly vintage sounds to tighter modern ones. It's a fantastic choice for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a unique, comfortable, and expressive bass at a reasonable price.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Modern C neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • Split-coil Precision pickup provides a warm, punchy low-end response.
- • 4-saddle bridge enhances tuning stability and intonation accuracy.
CONS
- • Maple fretboard can feel a bit snappier than rosewood for some players.
- • Short scale might feel cramped for bassists with larger hands or longer fingers.
- • Polar White finish shows fingerprints easily, requiring frequent cleaning.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 595204
$874
Fender Player II Mustang Bass MN 3TS
by
Fender
Nut width
38.1 mm (1.5")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Indie
Vintage Tones
Pop
Key Feature:
The Player II Mustang Bass is a seriously cool and surprisingly versatile instrument. Its short scale makes it incredibly comfortable, and that split P-bass pickup delivers a distinctive, modern growl. This is a fantastic option for players seeking a unique voice and easy playability, particularly those in funk, indie, or alternative bands.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Split Precision pickup delivers a unique, growly character and surprising versatility.
- • Modern C neck profile is comfortable and fast for a wide range of playing styles.
- • 4-saddle bridge enhances tuning stability and intonation accuracy.
CONS
- • Short scale might feel cramped for players with larger hands or longer fingers.
- • Maple fretboard can be a bit 'snappy' sounding compared to rosewood alternatives.
- • 3-Ply pickguard feels a little less premium than some higher-end options.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 595202
$851
Gretsch EMTC CVT BASS VWT
by
Gretsch
Nut width
39.6 mm (1.56")
Scale
813 mm (32.01")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Comfortable Playing
Vintage Tones
Pop
Key Feature:
This Gretsch CVT is a seriously cool little bass – think vintage vibe with a modern twist. The short scale makes it super easy to play, and the pickup combination gives you a surprising amount of tonal flexibility. It's perfect for players wanting a unique voice and comfortable feel without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones with a pleasing sustain.
- • Performance C neck profile offers a comfortable, modern playing feel.
- • Low Down pickups provide a surprisingly versatile range of sounds, from mellow to growly.
- • Laurel fingerboard adds a touch of character and a smooth playing surface.
CONS
- • Short scale might feel cramped for players with larger hands or longer fingers.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits potential for extended sustain compared to neck-through designs.
- • Vintage White finish, while attractive, can be prone to showing fingerprints.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 619957
$607
Cort GB Short Scale FGR
by
Cort
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Vintage Tones
Comfortable Playing
Alternative
Key Feature:
This bass feels great to play because the roasted maple neck is smooth and easy to bend. The short scale makes your fingers feel relaxed, and the poplar body adds a nice warm tone. With its active preamp, you can tweak the sound exactly how you want it. It is a solid choice for players who want a comfortable feel and a classic vintage vibe without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers smooth playability for tight bends.
- • Poplar body provides a warm, mid-focused bass tone.
- • Active electronics include three-band EQ for precise shaping.
- • Short scale length gives a relaxed, easy-to-fret feel.
CONS
- • Weight is not specified in the provided description.
- • Nickel strings may oxidize faster than coated alternatives.
- • Vintage-style bridge design lacks modern locking stability.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 649981
$466
Cort GB Short Scale YC
by
Cort
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Comfortable Playing
Pop
Vintage Tones
Key Feature:
This short scale bass plays very smoothly with its roasted maple neck and wide nut. The 30-inch scale length helps you bend notes easily without hand strain. It suits players who want a vintage feel and fast access to all frets.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stable playability
- • 30-inch scale length makes bending easy
- • Vintage-style bridge adds classic feel
- • Jumbo frets allow faster fretboard access
CONS
- • Single pickup limits tone variety
- • No passive option for analog tone
- • Weight not listed in description
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 649985
$466
Cort GB Short Scale FDP
by
Cort
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
400 mm (15.75")
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Comfortable Playing
Pop
Indie
Key Feature:
This short-scale bass feels great to play because the roasted maple neck is stiff and easy to bend. The 30-inch length makes the strings jump faster than standard basses. It sounds full and warm thanks to the vintage humbucker and active preamp controls. Great for players who want a fast, responsive instrument without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck adds stiffness and smooth playability
- • 30-inch scale length offers faster string vibration
- • Vintage humbucker provides thick, warm low-end response
- • Active electronics with three-band EQ for precise tone shaping
CONS
- • Poplar body may lack the resonance of maple
- • No weight information provided in the description
- • Open-gear heads can be harder to tune than locking systems
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 649977
$405
Squier Mini P Bass Black Bundle
by
Squier
Nut width
38.1 mm (1.5")
Scale
726 mm (28.58")
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Studio Work
Pop
Comfortable Playing
Key Feature:
This Squier Mini P Bass is a fantastic entry point for beginners or anyone needing a portable bass. The short scale makes it easy to play, and that single-coil pickup delivers a surprisingly authentic P-Bass vibe. It's a fun, budget-friendly option that's perfect for kids, travelers, or anyone wanting a unique bass feel.
PROS
- • Compact size is ideal for travel, students, or smaller players.
- • Split single-coil pickup delivers a surprisingly punchy, vintage P-Bass tone.
- • Maple neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • Included accessory pack provides essential gear to get started immediately.
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel somewhat lightweight and lacks premium resonance.
- • Narrow tall frets may not suit players accustomed to jumbo frets.
- • Short scale limits low-end extension compared to a full-size bass.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 579619
$229
Squier Mini P Bass Black
by
Squier
Nut width
38.1 mm (1.5")
Scale
726 mm (28.58")
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Studio Work
Pop
Vintage Tones
Key Feature:
This little Squier Mini P Bass is a fantastic grab-and-go instrument. It's perfect for beginners, travel, or anyone needing a comfortable, compact bass with a surprisingly authentic P-Bass vibe. Don't let the size fool you - it’s got a solid, usable tone and a really playable neck.
PROS
- • Laurel fingerboard offers a surprisingly smooth and warm playing experience.
- • Split single-coil pickup delivers a surprisingly punchy, P-Bass-like tone.
- • Compact size and short scale make it incredibly comfortable for smaller players.
- • Die-cast machine heads provide reliable tuning stability for consistent performance.
CONS
- • The poplar body, while lightweight, lacks the resonance of more premium woods.
- • Narrow tall frets may not suit players accustomed to a jumbo fret profile.
- • Single coil pickup can be prone to hum, especially in noisy environments.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 493925
$197
Gretsch Strml Jet Clb Bass WLNT STN
by
Gretsch
Nut width
39.6 mm (1.56")
Scale
760 mm (29.92")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Comfortable Playing
Pop
Alternative
Key Feature:
This little Gretsch Jet Club Bass is a surprisingly fun and versatile instrument. The short scale makes it super comfortable to play, and those single-coil pickups deliver a unique, slightly raw tone perfect for rockabilly, blues, and indie styles. It's a great entry point into the Gretsch bass family without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Walnut Stain finish offers vintage aesthetic and pleasing resonance
- • Bolt-on neck provides snappy response and easy adjustability
- • Neo-Classic thumb inlays add a touch of Gretsch flair and visual appeal
- • Short scale offers comfortable playability, especially for smaller hands
CONS
- • Nato body, while functional, lacks the tonal complexity of mahogany or ash
- • Single-coil pickups can be noisy, particularly with high gain settings
- • Hardware, while adequate, feels a little basic for the Gretsch name
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 594485
$464
Gretsch STRML JET CLB Bass SHL PNK
by
Gretsch
Nut width
39.6 mm (1.56")
Scale
762 mm (30")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Studio Work
Indie
Pop
Key Feature:
This Gretsch Jet CLB is a seriously cool little bass – the pink is a head-turner! The short scale makes it incredibly easy to play, and the vintage-style pickups give it a warm, mellow growl perfect for rockabilly, blues, or indie. It's a fantastic option for beginners or anyone looking for a fun, affordable, and unique short-scale instrument.
PROS
- • Shell pink finish offers a unique, vintage aesthetic appeal.
- • Nato body provides a surprisingly resonant and lightweight platform.
- • Slim 'inCin' neck profile promotes comfortable and fast playing.
- • Dual single-coil pickups deliver a warm, vintage-inspired tone.
CONS
- • Nato body, while lightweight, lacks the tonal complexity of mahogany.
- • Short scale might feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- • Pickups, while vintage-voiced, may lack the output for modern, aggressive styles.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 620044
$463
Gretsch Strml Jet Clb Bass VWT
by
Gretsch
Nut width
39.6 mm (1.56")
Scale
760 mm (29.92")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Alternative
Studio Work
Comfortable Playing
Key Feature:
The Gretsch Streamliner Jet Club Bass VWT is a seriously cool, budget-friendly option. Its short scale makes it a breeze to play, especially for smaller hands or those preferring a quicker feel. It nails that vintage Gretsch vibe, perfect for rockabilly, blues, or adding some grit to your indie sound.
PROS
- • Nato body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Slim 'C' neck profile offers excellent playability and comfortable access.
- • Bone nut improves sustain and tuning stability compared to plastic alternatives.
- • Dual single-coil pickups deliver a distinctive, vintage-inspired growl and clarity.
CONS
- • Nato body, while warm, lacks the complexity of mahogany or ash.
- • Short scale limits low-end extension; may not suit all playing styles.
- • Bolt-on neck construction can feel less integrated than a set-neck design.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 594366
$453
Every short scale basses that matches
62 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Gretsch Strml Jet Clb Bass HVNA BRST | Nut width 39.6 mm (1.56") · Scale 760 mm (29.92") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $453 |
| 17 | Jackson JS1X CB Minion AH FB SIL BRST | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Poplar body | $256 |
| 18 | Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short RAYSS4 TLBL | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $932 |
| 19 | Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short RAYSS4 FRD | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Fingerboard radius 240 mm (9.45") · Body Nyatoh body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $932 |
| 20 | Squier CV 60s Mustang Bass SG | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $489 |
| 21 | Kala U-Bass 5 Sweet Cream Fretted | Scale 597 mm (23.5") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $466 |
| 22 | Squier Sonic Bronco Tahitian C Bundle | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard · Weight 7.5 kg | $338 |
| 23 | Höfner Shorty Violin Bass BK | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 760 mm (29.92") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $256 |
| 24 | Squier Sonic Bronco Bass LRL DPB | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $232 |
| 25 | Ibanez GSRM20B-WNF | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Purpleheart fingerboard | $231 |
| 26 | Ibanez GSRM20-MPL | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $229 |
| 27 | Ibanez GSRM20-SLB | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Jatoba fingerboard | $229 |
| 28 | Squier Mini P Bass LRL 2CSB | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $209 |
| 29 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty SBK Standard Series | Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 19 frets · Fingerboard radius 350 mm (13.78") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $139 |
| 30 | Marcus Miller U5 MT MN Short 2023 | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $536 |
| 31 | Ibanez TMB30-BK Talman Short Scale | Nut width 41 mm (1.61") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body | $267 |
| 32 | Ibanez TMB30-IV | Nut width 41 mm (1.61") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body | $267 |
| 33 | Höfner Shorty Violin Bass | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 760 mm (29.92") · Frets 24 frets · Body Mahogany body | $256 |
| 34 | Ibanez TMB30-MGR Talman Short Scale | Nut width 41 mm (1.61") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body | $256 |
| 35 | Ibanez GSRM20-BS | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Poplar body | $236 |
| 36 | Marcus Miller U5 TS MN Short | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body | $559 |
| 37 | Marcus Miller U5 NT MN Short | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Alder body | $510 |
| 38 | Kala U-Bass 5 Fretless Sweet Cream | Scale 597 mm (23.5") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $466 |
| 39 | Kala U-Bass 4 Fretted Floral Black | Scale 597 mm (23.5") · Frets 22 frets · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $396 |
| 40 | Flight Mini Bass PBR | Nut width 40 mm (1.57") · Scale 582 mm (22.91") · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $372 |
| 41 | Kala U-Bass 4 Fretted Surf Blue | Scale 597 mm (23.5") · Frets 22 frets · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $349 |
| 42 | Flight Mini Bass Lite BL | Nut width 40 mm (1.57") · Scale 584 mm (22.99") · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $256 |
| 43 | Squier Sonic Bronco Arctic Whi Bundle | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $238 |
| 44 | Flight Mini Bass Lite SFG | Nut width 40 mm (1.57") · Scale 584 mm (22.99") · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $232 |
| 45 | Squier Sonic Bronco Tahitian Coral | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $216 |
| 46 | Squier Sonic Bronco Arctic White | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $208 |
| 47 | Squier Sonic Bronco Black | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $196 |
| 48 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Standard Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $146 |
| 49 | Harley Benton PB-Shorty BK Standard Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $116 |
| 50 | Gold Tone ME-BASS | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 584 mm (22.99") · Frets 24 frets | $582 |
| 51 | Jackson JS1X Concert Minion Satin Blk | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Frets 22 frets | $256 |
| 52 | Jackson JS1X Concert Minion Pavo Purpl | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Frets 22 frets | $251 |
| 53 | Squier CV 60s Mustang Bass OW | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 762 mm (30") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $489 |
| 54 | Danelectro 59DC Short Scale Bass BKMF | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 24 frets | $792 |
| 55 | Danelectro 59DC Short Scale Bass Copper | Scale 756 mm (29.76") · Frets 21 frets | $757 |
| 56 | Ibanez GSRM25-BK | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 726 mm (28.58") | $326 |
| 57 | Epiphone EB-0 CH | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 775 mm (30.51") | $300 |
| 58 | Kala U-Bass 4 Sweet Cream Fretless | Scale 597 mm (23.5") · Body Okoume body | $349 |
| 59 | Ibanez GSRM20-BK | Frets 22 frets · Body Poplar body | $232 |
| 60 | Ibanez GSRM20B-WK | Scale 726 mm (28.58") · Body Poplar body | $218 |
| 61 | Höfner Ignition SB | Frets 22 frets | $407 |
| 62 | Höfner Club Bass Ignition BK | Frets 22 frets | $407 |
Short Scale Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 62 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $338
from $196 to $874
Nut width
median 38.1 mm (1.5")
from 38 mm (1.5") to 42 mm (1.65") · 50 models
Scale
median 762 mm (30")
from 584 mm (22.99") to 762 mm (30") · 59 models
Body
poplar, alder, okoume
most common · 47 models
Fingerboard
laurel, maple, rosewood
most common · 41 models
Frets
median 22
from 19 to 24 · 32 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 240 mm (9.45") to 400 mm (15.75") · 26 models
Neck profile
C
most common · 8 models
How to Choose the Best Short Scale Basses
1
Neck Profile
This is huge. A short scale bass with a thick, unwieldy neck is no fun. We're looking for something comfortable, ideally with a C or D profile that doesn't fight you. A chunky neck will feel even bigger on a shorter scale.
2
Pickup Voicing
Short scales often lean towards a warmer tone, but you don't want muddy. Good pickups will retain articulation and clarity, even when digging into the lower frequencies. Avoid anything that sounds overly boomy or lacks definition.
3
Hardware Quality
Don't expect boutique tuners or a flawless finish at this price point. But cheap, flimsy hardware will lead to tuning instability and frustration. Check the tuners - do they hold pitch? Is the bridge stable?
4
Body Wood & Construction
Mahogany and basswood are common in this range. While exotic woods are out of the question, a well-built bass with solid construction (not a hollow body unless that's what you're after) will resonate better and feel more substantial.
5
Action & Setup
A poorly set-up bass can make even a great instrument feel awful. Look for a bass that plays comfortably with a reasonable action - not too high, not too low - and check the intonation. A quick setup from a tech can work wonders.
Buying Guide
At this budget, you're making trade-offs. The biggest corners cut are usually in the finish and hardware. Don't expect flawless fretwork - a little fret dressing is often a worthwhile investment. Prioritize playability and tone over aesthetics; a bass that feels and sounds good is far more valuable than a pretty one that's a pain to play. Pay attention to the neck - a comfortable neck profile is essential on a short scale.
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 62 short 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
Absolutely. The shorter scale length makes them easier to reach notes and build finger strength. Just be mindful of the neck profile - a comfortable neck is key for any player, beginner or experienced.
It'll have a different character. Short scales tend to have a rounder, warmer tone with less high-end bite. They can still cut through a mix, but you might need to EQ a bit more to compensate. It's a tonal choice, not a weakness.
It's subtle, but the 32" scale will generally have a bit more clarity and sustain than a 30". The 30" scale is often found on the very compact basses geared toward younger players or those with extremely small hands. Try both if you can.
Yes, but consider using lighter gauge strings. Heavier strings can feel even stiffer on a shorter scale, making it harder to play. A lighter set will maintain good tension without feeling like you're wrestling a steel cable.
It's a mixed bag. Active electronics can offer more tonal flexibility, but the preamps in this price range aren't going to be studio-grade. Focus on the core instrument - the neck, body, and pickups - first. A solid passive bass will always outperform a poorly implemented active one.
