AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Meister Rubner Solid Double Basses 2026
The top pick is Meister Rubner Double Bass No.67 4/4 5-Str. ($15,082). Meister Rubner Double Bass No.62 3/4 gives you the most for the money at $8,144. Meister Rubner Solo Double Bass Scroll Head leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 8 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Top 8
Full detail for the 8 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Strings5-string
- Size4/4 size
This Meister Rubner No. 67 is a beautifully crafted, resonant instrument built for the serious double bassist. The 5-string setup opens up unique harmonic possibilities, while the viola da gamba shape offers a more comfortable playing angle. It’s ideal for soloists and professionals who demand a high-quality, nuanced tone and refined craftsmanship.
Pros
- Solid German spruce top delivers exceptional projection and tonal complexity.
- Rubner engraved machine heads offer incredibly smooth, precise tuning.
- Viola da gamba shape provides a comfortable, ergonomic playing experience.
Cons
- The 5-string configuration limits versatility for some orchestral settings.
- Solid construction contributes to a heavier instrument, potentially tiring for some.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$15,082 now$15,082€13,500 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Strings5-string
- Size4/4 size
The Meister Rubner No.68S is a gorgeous, professional-grade instrument built for the serious solo double bassist. Its Stadlmann design and 5-string setup give it a distinct voice, while the German spruce top provides exceptional clarity and projection. This bass is a real statement piece, perfect for advanced players who value tradition and nuanced tone.
Pros
- Stadlmann model offers a uniquely warm, resonant, and controlled tone.
- Hand-applied dark red varnish enhances the wood's beauty and acoustic properties.
- Rubner individual machine heads provide exceptional tuning stability and precision.
Cons
- The Stadlmann design, while beautiful, can be less comfortable for some players.
- The 5-string configuration limits versatility for certain orchestral repertoire.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$17,763 now$17,763€15,900 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
- Size3/4 size
The Meister Rubner No. 62 3/4 is a beautifully crafted instrument offering a mature, resonant tone ideal for serious students and accomplished players. Its viola-style shape and meticulous construction provide excellent comfort and projection – a truly refined option for those seeking a professional-level double bass without the absolute top-tier price tag.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers exceptional projection and warmth, a hallmark of Rubner instruments.
- Arched maple back enhances tonal complexity and responsiveness, contributing to a refined sound.
- Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, consistent playing surface and excellent note definition.
Cons
- 3/4 size might be restrictive for taller players or those preferring a full-size bass.
- Antique spirit lacquer, while beautiful, requires careful maintenance to prevent cracking or clouding.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$8,144 now$8,144€7,290 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
- Size3/4 size
The No. 66 is a seriously capable instrument, especially for students and smaller-statured players. The spruce top delivers a bright, focused sound, while the Gamba body shape is comfortable and responsive. It's a great way to get a solid, traditionally-built double bass without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Solid spruce top provides excellent projection and clarity.
- Gamba shape offers a comfortable playing experience and warm tone.
- Arched poplar back contributes to a balanced and resonant sound.
Cons
- 3/4 size limits suitability for taller or advanced players.
- Antique imitation finish may not appeal to purists seeking authentic age.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$9,150 now$9,150€8,190 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size3/4 size
The No.69 is a truly exceptional instrument—a soloists’ dream. The solid wood construction and viola da gamba body shape create a rich, focused tone that’s perfect for classical, chamber, and solo performance. It’s a refined, German-made bass, ideal for the serious student or professional seeking a beautiful and responsive instrument.
Pros
- Solid, flamed maple back delivers exceptional warmth and projection.
- Rubner machine heads ensure incredibly precise and stable tuning.
- Viola da gamba shape offers a comfortable, ergonomic playing experience.
Cons
- 3/4 size may not suit larger players or those seeking a full-scale bass.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$14,970 now$14,970€13,400 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size3/4 size
This Meister Rubner Lady's Head is a seriously refined solo instrument. The viola da gamba shape and careful wood selection create a beautifully focused and warm tone, perfect for a discerning orchestral or solo double bass player seeking a premium-priced, responsive instrument with exceptional projection.
Pros
- Exceptional spruce top yields a remarkably responsive and warm tone.
- Anegre back/sides offer a refined aesthetic and balanced projection.
- Tapered sides improve resonance and overall instrument responsiveness.
Cons
- The 3/4 size may not suit all players comfortably; try before you buy.
- Anegre can be prone to cracking if not properly maintained and humidified.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$17,763 now$17,763€15,900 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size3/4 size
This Meister Rubner is a truly exceptional solo instrument—the sound is rich and resonant, perfect for advanced players and soloists seeking a refined, traditional voice. The craftsmanship is undeniable, and the viola da gamba shape adds a touch of elegance. It's an investment piece, built to last and inspire for years.
Pros
- Exceptional German spruce top yields a remarkably warm, responsive tone.
- Maggini inlay and double purfling showcase exceptional craftsmanship and aesthetics.
- Tapered sides enhance resonance and projection, improving overall sound.
Cons
- The 3/4 size might be limiting for taller or larger players.
- The spirit varnish, while beautiful, can be sensitive to humidity and care.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$21,115 now$21,115€18,900 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size3/4 size
This Meister Rubner Lion's Head is a serious solo instrument built for the discerning player. The combination of the solid German spruce, conical sides, and meticulous craftsmanship yields a remarkably responsive and richly toned bass. Ideal for professional soloists and advanced students who demand the highest level of quality and projection.
Pros
- Exceptional German spruce top delivers a focused, resonant tone.
- Hand-applied spirit varnish provides a warm, responsive feel and aesthetic.
- Conical sides enhance projection and responsiveness, a Rubner hallmark.
Cons
- The 3/4 size may not suit all players, particularly taller individuals.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most musicians.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$21,115 now$21,115€18,900 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
Solid Double Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 59 models we track, not a sample.
Median $13,965 — half of all solid double basses here cost less.
most common · 47 models
most common · 11 models
How to choose the best solid double basses
Heritage & Craftsmanship
Meister Rubner has a long history - tracing back to 1881 - and their instruments are still largely handcrafted in Germany. This isn't mass-produced; you're getting a level of detail and consistency that's hard to find, which translates to a more responsive and even-sounding instrument.
Tonal Character
Rubner solids aren't boomy. They have a really defined, focused low-end thump without sacrificing clarity in the upper registers. It's a surprisingly articulate sound - great for cutting through a rock band or providing a solid foundation for jazz without getting lost in the mix. The midrange isn't overly 'fat' like some basses - it's more controlled and balanced.
Neck Profile & Playability
The Rubner neck profile is consistently comfortable. It's not a super-thin, shredder-style neck, but it's not bulky either. It feels balanced in your hands, which is crucial for those long gigging nights or intensive recording sessions. The action tends to be a little higher out of the box compared to some Asian-made instruments, but it's easily adjusted.
Build Quality & Hardware
The fit and finish are solid-not flashy, but no obvious shortcuts. The tuners are reliable and hold their tuning well, a huge plus for live work. The endpin is decent quality, unlike some of the flimsy ones you find on cheaper instruments. The overall construction feels robust and built to last.
Pickup Voicing (if equipped)
Many Rubner solids come equipped with their own pickups, and they're surprisingly good. They don't try to mimic an acoustic sound; instead, they offer a clean, fundamental tone that's ideal for amplification. You'll still want to experiment with EQ, but they provide a great starting point - not that ice-picky harshness you sometimes get.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking at a Meister Rubner solid bass? Smart move. These aren't your typical student instruments; they're German-built workhorses with a surprisingly focused tonal character. If you're tired of basses that sound muddy in a band setting or lack sustain for serious recording, Rubner's solids deserve a serious listen-they're a sweet spot between budget and serious pro gear.
Look, you're paying a premium for that German build quality. Don't expect a super-glossy, showroom-perfect finish; Rubner's focus is on tone and playability, not aesthetics. Check the neck for straightness and the action at the 12th fret - a little tweaking is normal.
Be prepared to spend a bit on a setup after purchase to really dial it in, and consider a better bridge if you're serious about long-term sustain and resonance.
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 15 solid double basses from the Thomann catalogue (of 59 in the category). 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 Meister Rubner basses worth the price compared to Eastman or Stentor?
It's a trade-off. Eastmans and Stentors offer incredible value, but Rubner's build quality and more focused tone - that clarity - often justify the higher cost for serious players.
What's the typical neck size on a Rubner solid bass?
Generally around 43-44mm wide at the nut, which is a comfortable medium profile. It's not super thin, but it's also not bulky like some older basses.
Do I need to have a luthier set up a Rubner bass?
Almost certainly. While they're playable out of the box, a proper setup - action adjustment, intonation, nut slotting - will unlock the bass's full potential.
Can I use a standard double bass bridge on a Meister Rubner solid?
Technically, yes, but the Rubner basses often have unique body contours. You'll want to be careful about fit and potentially have a luthier adjust it. The included bridge is perfectly serviceable, though.
Are Rubner basses suitable for jazz, rock, or classical music?
Absolutely. The balanced tone and articulation make them versatile enough for any genre. The focused low-end is a real asset in a band setting, while the clarity shines in solo passages.
