Best Meister Rubner Solid Double Basses 2026
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.
Last updated: April 22, 2026 • Next update: April 29, 2026
#1
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.67 4/4 5-Str.
Classical
Orchestra
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
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.
- • Hand-applied spirit varnish enhances the wood's resonance and appearance.
CONS
- • The 5-string configuration limits versatility for some orchestral settings.
- • Solid construction contributes to a heavier instrument, potentially tiring for some.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 549155
$14,850
#2
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Meister Rubner Solo Double Bass Lion`s Head
Solo Performance
Chamber Music
Professional Concert
Key Feature:
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.
- • Maggini inlay and double purfling showcase incredible craftsmanship and detail.
CONS
- • The 3/4 size may not suit all players, particularly taller individuals.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most musicians.
- • The spirit varnish, while beautiful, requires careful maintenance to prevent cracking.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 583892
$20,790
#3
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.62 4/4
Orchestra
Classical
Professional Concert
Key Feature:
The Meister Rubner No. 62 is a beautifully crafted instrument, leaning towards a warmer, more expressive tone profile thanks to the spruce top and viola da gamba shape. It’s an excellent choice for serious students and professional double bassists seeking a refined instrument with superb build quality and a comfortable feel—perfect for classical, orchestral, and even some jazz applications.
PROS
- • Solid German spruce top delivers exceptional projection and warmth.
- • Rubner tuners offer incredibly precise and stable tuning, a significant upgrade.
- • Hand-applied spirit varnish enhances tonal complexity and aesthetic appeal.
- • Viola da gamba shape provides a comfortable, ergonomic playing experience.
CONS
- • The scale length may feel slightly shorter for players accustomed to longer basses.
- • Spirit varnish, while beautiful, requires careful maintenance to prevent cracking.
- • Being a premium-priced instrument, it represents a significant investment.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 452160
$8,019
#4
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.69 4/4
Classical
Solo Performance
Chamber Music
Key Feature:
The No. 69 is a truly special instrument—a soloist’s double bass built with meticulous attention to detail. The solid wood construction and viola da gamba shape contribute to a warm, resonant tone perfect for orchestral work and solo performance. This is a high-end instrument ideal for experienced players seeking a refined and expressive voice.
PROS
- • Solid, flamed maple back delivers exceptional warmth and projection.
- • Rubner machine heads offer precise tuning stability and a premium feel.
- • Hand-applied spirit varnish enhances beauty and protects the instrument’s tone.
- • Viola da gamba shape provides a unique aesthetic and potentially improved ergonomics.
CONS
- • The spirit varnish, while beautiful, can be more delicate than modern finishes.
- • Solid wood construction makes it potentially more susceptible to humidity changes.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 480126
$15,290
#5
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.67 3/4
Chamber Music
Orchestra
Professional Concert
Key Feature:
The Meister Rubner No. 67 3/4 is a truly refined instrument, offering the warmth and complexity of a traditional German-made bass in a slightly smaller package. It's an excellent choice for serious students, chamber musicians, or players who prefer a more intimate and responsive bass—especially those who appreciate the viola da gamba aesthetic. The build quality and materials shine, making it a joy to play.
PROS
- • German spruce top delivers a warm, resonant, and complex tonal palette.
- • Solid maple back provides excellent projection and sustain with a focused character.
- • Rubner machine heads ensure precise and smooth tuning stability, crucial for performance.
- • Viola da gamba shape offers a comfortable playing experience and unique aesthetic appeal.
CONS
- • The 3/4 size may not suit taller players or those seeking a full-sized bass feel.
- • Gold-brown spirit varnish, while beautiful, can be more delicate than modern finishes.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most double bass players.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 549149
$13,750
#6
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.66 4/4
Orchestra
Professional Concert
Classical
Key Feature:
The Meister Rubner No. 66 is a beautifully crafted, fully solid double bass – a real step up for serious students and professionals. The spruce top and poplar back offer a balanced, warm tone ideal for classical performance, and the Rubner hardware is a testament to quality. It’s a refined instrument built to last.
PROS
- • Solid German spruce top delivers exceptional projection and warmth
- • Rubner engraved machine heads offer smooth, precise tuning
- • Solid poplar back/sides contribute to a focused, resonant tone
- • Hand-applied spirit varnish enhances beauty and matures with age
CONS
- • The solid construction makes it heavier than basses with laminate backs
- • The gold-brown spirit varnish may require careful maintenance to prevent cracking
- • Limited versatility; best suited for classical and orchestral settings
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 549103
$9,119
#7
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.67 4/4
Classical
Professional Concert
Chamber Music
Key Feature:
The Meister Rubner No. 67 is a beautifully crafted instrument, ideal for serious students and professionals seeking a refined, traditional sound. The viola da gamba body shape and quality materials contribute to a rich, resonant tone, making it a standout choice for orchestral and solo performance. It's a true work of art, built to last and inspire for years.
PROS
- • Exceptional German spruce top yields a warm, responsive tone.
- • Rubner machine heads provide precise, stable tuning.
- • Viola da gamba shape enhances projection and resonance.
- • Hand-applied varnish offers beauty and acoustic benefits.
CONS
- • The viola da gamba shape may feel less familiar to some players.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many.
- • D-scale length might be less versatile for certain playing styles.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 549154
$13,750
#8
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.68B 3/4
Classical
Professional Concert
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
This Meister Rubner 68B is a beautifully crafted instrument, perfect for serious students and professional double bassists seeking a refined, European sound. The solid wood construction and Rubner hardware guarantee excellent responsiveness and longevity, making it a worthy investment for those prioritizing tonal quality and German craftsmanship.
PROS
- • Exceptional German spruce top yields a warm, responsive tone.
- • Rubner machine heads ensure precise and stable tuning, crucial for intonation.
- • Solid, flamed maple back provides excellent projection and sustain.
- • Hand-applied spirit varnish enhances beauty and protects the instrument’s voice.
CONS
- • The 3/4 size may not suit taller players, limiting ergonomic comfort.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
- • D-scale tuning, while standard, offers a slightly narrower range than other scales.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 480115
$13,750
#9
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.69 3/4
Classical
Solo Performance
Orchestra
Key Feature:
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.
- • Hand-applied spirit varnish provides a beautiful aesthetic and responsive feel.
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.
- • Spirit varnish, while beautiful, requires careful maintenance to prevent damage.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 480125
$14,740
#10
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meister Rubner Solo Double Bass Scroll Head
Professional Concert
Chamber Music
Orchestra
Key Feature:
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.
- • Rubner individual machine heads offer precise, stable tuning and a premium feel.
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.
- • High-end pricing places it out of reach for many aspiring double bassists.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 583897
$20,790
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.68B 4/4
Chamber Music
Classical
Orchestra
Key Feature:
The No.68B is a seriously well-made double bass – the spruce top gives it a rich, complex voice that’s fantastic for classical and orchestral work. The Rubner hardware is a nice touch, and the overall build quality is superb. This is a great choice for serious students and professional players seeking a traditional, high-quality instrument.
PROS
- • Exceptional German spruce top yields a warm, resonant tone.
- • Hand-applied varnish provides a beautiful aesthetic and responsive feel.
- • Rubner machine heads offer smooth, precise tuning stability.
- • Solid maple back delivers excellent projection and sustain.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
- • The spirit varnish, while beautiful, can be sensitive to humidity changes.
- • Solid wood construction results in a heavier instrument, potentially tiring for smaller players.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 480117
$13,750
#12
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.62 3/4
Chamber Music
Orchestra
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
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.
- • Rubner’s individual machine heads ensure precise tuning stability and a luxurious feel.
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.
- • Premium-priced, positioning it beyond the reach of many student or casual players.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 378875
$8,019
#13
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meister Rubner Solo Double Bass Lady`s Head
Classical
Chamber Music
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
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.
- • Rubner French bass machine heads ensure precise and stable tuning.
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.
- • The spirit varnish, while beautiful, can be delicate and require careful handling.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 593980
$17,490
#14
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.68S 4/4 5-Str.
Orchestra
Solo Performance
Classical
Key Feature:
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.
- • Solid German spruce top delivers projection and responsiveness ideal for solo performance.
CONS
- • The Stadlmann design, while beautiful, can be less comfortable for some players.
- • The 5-string configuration limits versatility for certain orchestral repertoire.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for most double bass players.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 593992
$17,490
#15
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Meister Rubner Double Bass No.66 3/4
Classical
Orchestra
Professional Concert
Key Feature:
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.
- • Rubner machine heads ensure stable and precise tuning.
CONS
- • 3/4 size limits suitability for taller or advanced players.
- • Antique imitation finish may not appeal to purists seeking authentic age.
- • Poplar back, while good, isn’t as tonally complex as maple.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 328743
$9,009
How to Choose the Best Solid Double Basses
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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.
Our Methodology
We don't rely on spec sheets here at Audiofu. We put these basses through the wringer: hours in rehearsal rooms with a full band, tracking sessions with different mic setups, and plenty of late-night practice to dial in the action and intonation. We A/B'd them against other respected solid bass brands - Eastman, Stentor, even a few higher-end Larries - to see where they truly shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
