Best Short Scale Basses Under $800 2026
So, you're in the short scale bass hunt, huh? Maybe you're smaller in stature, want something a little easier on the fingers, or just dig that lower tension vibe. Finding a good one under $800 can be tricky, but it's totally doable. We've sifted through a bunch to find the ones that actually deliver on tone and playability without breaking the bank - no marketing hype, just honest bass player recommendations.
Last updated: April 29, 2026 • Next update: May 6, 2026
GENRES & STYLES:
For Pop
For Indie
For Alternative
For Studio Work
For Comfortable Playing
For Vintage Tones
#1
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Danelectro 59DC Short Scale Bass Cream
by
Danelectro
Comfortable Playing
Pop
Studio Work
Key Feature:
This Danelectro 59DC is a quirky and fun bass, perfect for players seeking a vintage vibe and comfortable short scale. The Lipstick pickups deliver a surprisingly powerful growl, making it a great choice for rock, punk, and garage music. It's an affordable way to get a truly unique instrument with a lot of character.
PROS
- • Unique 'Masonite' top delivers a distinctive, woody resonance.
- • High-output Lipstick pickups provide a surprisingly aggressive, growly tone.
- • Short scale offers exceptional comfort and ease of playing for smaller hands.
- • Bolt-on neck contributes to a snappy, articulate attack.
CONS
- • The Masonite construction can feel less robust than solid wood basses.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to basses with more pickup options.
- • Chrome hardware may show fingerprints and require frequent polishing.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 513764
$703
#2
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Danelectro 59DC Short Scale Bass BKMF
by
Danelectro
Pop
Studio Work
Alternative
Key Feature:
This Danelectro 59DC is a quirky, fun bass with a really unique voice. The short scale makes it super playable, and those Lipstick pickups give you a growly, vintage vibe. It's a great choice for players seeking a distinctive instrument with comfortable feel and a cool aesthetic – perfect for indie, garage rock, or anyone who wants something different.
PROS
- • Unique Masonite top/back creates a distinctive, resonant character.
- • High-output Lipstick pickups deliver a surprisingly aggressive tone.
- • Short scale offers exceptional comfort and ease of playing, especially for smaller hands.
- • Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, articulate response.
CONS
- • Masonite construction can feel less robust than solid wood alternatives.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to basses with more pickup options.
- • Chrome hardware may be prone to pitting with age and exposure.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 513768
$747
#3
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Marcus Miller U5 TS MN Short
Pop
Comfortable Playing
Indie
Key Feature:
The U5 TS MN Short is a fantastic entry point into Marcus Miller’s lineup. Its short scale makes it super comfortable to play, and the pickup combination gives you a wide range of classic tones—it’s great for funk, blues, and even some rock. This is a seriously solid bass for players looking for vintage vibe without premium-priced cost.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Maple neck offers snappy response and clarity, typical of Marcus Miller designs
- • Super Jazz/Super Precision pickup combo delivers versatile, punchy vintage tones
- • Short scale improves playability, especially for smaller hands or beginners
CONS
- • Passive electronics limit tonal shaping options compared to active basses
- • Flamed maple top is purely aesthetic; doesn't significantly impact sound
- • Maple fretboard can be prone to drying out; requires occasional oiling
- • Alder body, while resonant, can be slightly less punchy than mahogany
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 485157
$527
#4
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Fender Player II Mustang Bass MN 3TS
by
Fender
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 595202
$770
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Marcus Miller U5 MT MN Short 2023
Indie
Vintage Tones
Comfortable Playing
Key Feature:
This U5 Short Scale is a fantastic entry point into Marcus Miller’s signature sound. The short scale and comfortable neck profile make it a breeze to play, while the pickup combination delivers a surprisingly wide range of tones – perfect for funk, soul, and even rock. It's a budget-friendly option that punches well above its weight class.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the tone.
- • Maple neck offers snappy response and comfortable playability.
- • Marcus Super Jazz/Precision pickups deliver versatile, articulate tones.
- • Short scale makes it incredibly accessible for beginners and smaller hands.
CONS
- • Passive electronics limit tonal shaping options compared to active basses.
- • Alder body, while warm, can lack some sustain compared to mahogany.
- • Mint finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints and wear.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 572096
$505
#6
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Gretsch EMTC CVT Bass BRSTL FOG
by
Gretsch
Studio Work
Alternative
Pop
Key Feature:
This Gretsch EMTC CVT is a fantastic option for players seeking a vintage-inspired short-scale bass. The mahogany body and unique pickup combination offer a warm, punchy tone perfect for rockabilly, blues, and classic rock. It’s a seriously cool and versatile instrument at a very reasonable price point.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant low-end tones.
- • Performance C neck offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • Low Down pickups provide a unique blend of growl and clarity.
- • Laurel fingerboard provides a snappy, responsive feel under the fingers.
CONS
- • Short scale may feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- • Bristol Fog finish, while attractive, might not appeal to everyone’s taste.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to a set-neck design.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 619954
$692
#7
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW AQB
by
Fender
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
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 595193
$790
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Danelectro 59DC Short Scale Bass Copper
by
Danelectro
Comfortable Playing
Studio Work
Alternative
Key Feature:
This Danelectro 59DC is a real vibe – that Copper finish is killer, and the Lipstick pickups give you a seriously cool, vintage tone. It's a fantastic option for players seeking a unique voice and easy playability, especially those drawn to indie, garage rock, or anything with a raw, retro feel.
PROS
- • Unique Copper finish adds visual flair and character.
- • Lipstick pickups deliver a distinct, growly, and surprisingly articulate tone.
- • Short scale provides comfortable playability, especially for smaller hands or beginners.
- • Masonite construction contributes to a lightweight and resonant body.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to set-neck designs.
- • Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less adaptable.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels somewhat basic for the price point.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 513756
$714
#9
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Gretsch EMTC CVT BASS VWT
by
Gretsch
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.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 619957
$692
How to Choose the Best Short Scale Basses
1
Neck Profile
A comfortable neck is everything. Short scale often means a wider neck, so look for something that fits your hand. A thick C shape is common, but don't be afraid to try a thinner U shape if that's your preference - it can really affect your playing dynamics.
2
Pickup Voicing
This is HUGE. Many budget basses lean towards either muddy lows or brittle highs. We're hunting for pickups that offer a balanced response, a decent low-end thump without getting swampy, and some articulation to cut through a band mix. Don't expect boutique clarity, but something usable is key.
3
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners and a flimsy bridge will kill your sustain and tuning stability. While you won't get locking tuners at this price, look for something that feels solid and holds a tune reasonably well. A good bridge is vital for transferring string vibrations.
4
Body Wood & Construction
Expect mostly poplar or basswood - they're lightweight and affordable. Bolt-on necks are the norm, which isn't inherently bad, but look for a solid feel and minimal neck dive. A thicker body helps with sustain, but can be a trade-off with portability.
5
Overall Finish & Fretwork
These are detail items, but they impact the playing experience. Check for sharp fret ends, uneven frets, and a consistent finish. These things don't affect tone, but they make the bass a joy (or annoyance) to play.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Don't expect flawless fretwork or boutique-grade pickups. Focus on the neck profile and pickup voicing - those are the biggest factors in how the bass feels and sounds. Upgrading the strings is almost always a worthwhile investment, too. And be realistic - a bass under $800 will likely need a setup to play its best.
Our Methodology
We didn't just look at spec sheets here. We spent hours playing these basses through different amps - from bedroom practice stacks to club-sized rigs - and ran them against each other. We're listening for that sweet spot of tone, playability, and build quality you expect, and we're calling out any compromises along the way. It's about real-world performance, not just a list of features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. The lower tension makes them easier to play, which builds finger strength and coordination without the fatigue. Just be aware that the shorter scale length will affect the intonation - it's a different feel.
You can! But you'll need to be mindful of the pickup voicing. A little EQ can go a long way to clean up any muddiness. DI'ing them is a good starting point; don't expect a super-detailed, nuanced tone straight out of the box.
The scale length (distance from nut to bridge) is shorter on a short scale bass - typically around 30.5 inches compared to 34 inches. This results in lower string tension, easier playing, and a slightly different tone - often warmer and rounder.
Not necessarily. Bolt-on necks are common and cost-effective. The downside is they generally don't offer the same sustain and resonance as a neck-through design, but a well-built bolt-on can still be plenty solid for gigging and recording. Check for neck angle and overall stability.
Sure, it's a common upgrade. The pickup cavity size will dictate what fits, so do your research. It's a relatively straightforward project if you're comfortable with basic soldering, and can significantly improve the bass's tone.
