Short Scale Basses
74 instruments available
Shop Short Scale Basses 2026
Gretsch EMTC CVT BASS VWT
Short Scale Basses
Gretsch EMTC CVT Bass BRSTL FOG
Short Scale Basses
Reverend Lil LinhBacker Bass
Short Scale Basses
Flight Mini Bass PBR
Short Scale Basses
Fender Player II Mustang Bass MN PWT
Short Scale Basses
Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW CRR
Short Scale Basses
Fender Player II Mustang Bass RW AQB
Short Scale Basses
Gretsch Strml Jet Clb Bass HVNA BRST
Short Scale Basses
Jackson JS1X Concert Bass Minion RD
Short Scale Basses
Gretsch Strml Jet Clb Bass VWT
Short Scale Basses
Marcus Miller U5 MT MN Short 2023
Short Scale Basses
Fender Vintera II 70s Mustang Bass CB
Short Scale Basses
Squier Paranormal Rascal Bass HH MBK
Short Scale Basses
Squier Paranormal Rascal Bass HH SWG
Short Scale Basses
Sandberg Florence 4 RW RR
Short Scale Basses
Squier Sonic Bronco Arctic White
Short Scale Basses
Squier Sonic Bronco Tahitian Coral
Short Scale Basses
Squier Sonic Bronco Black
Short Scale Basses
Höfner Shorty Violin Bass CT Red
Short Scale Basses
Höfner Shorty Violin Bass BK
Short Scale Basses
Harley Benton PB-Shorty SBK Standard Series
Short Scale Basses
Ibanez GSRM20-BS
Short Scale Basses
Höfner Violin Roof Top Bass 69
Short Scale Basses
Ibanez GSRM20-SLB
Short Scale Basses
Ibanez GSRM20-MPL
Short Scale Basses
Danelectro 59DC Short Scale Bass BKMF
Short Scale Basses
Danelectro 59DC Short Scale Bass Cream
Short Scale Basses
Danelectro 59DC Short Scale Bass Copper
Short Scale Basses
Höfner Club-Bass 500/2-SB
Short Scale Basses
Squier Mini P Bass Dakota Red
Short Scale Basses
Squier Mini P Bass Black
Short Scale Basses
Höfner H500/1 Artist Violin Bass
Short Scale Basses
Marcus Miller U5 NT MN Short
Short Scale Basses
Squier CV 60s Mustang Bass SG
Short Scale Basses
Squier CV 60s Mustang Bass OW
Short Scale Basses
Ibanez TMB30-MGR Talman Short Scale
Short Scale Basses
Gibson SG Bass HC
Short Scale Basses
Gibson SG Bass Ebony
Short Scale Basses
Jackson JS1X Concert Minion Pavo Purpl
Short Scale Basses
Jackson JS1X Concert Minion Satin Blk
Short Scale Basses
Ibanez GSRM20B-WK
Short Scale Basses
Ibanez TMB30-IV
Short Scale Basses
Ibanez TMB30-BK Talman Short Scale
Short Scale Basses
Ibanez GSRM20B-WNF
Short Scale Basses
About Short Scale Basses
Short scale basses feature a shorter scale length (typically 30.5” or less) resulting in easier reach and a warmer, rounder tone. They're a popular choice for players with smaller hands, beginners, or those seeking a more comfortable playing experience. This shorter scale also affects string tension, making them feel gentler on the fingers.
Short Scale Basses — Pros & Cons
PROS
- Easier to play, especially for smaller hands or beginners
- Warmer, rounder tone compared to longer scale basses
- Lower string tension reduces finger fatigue
- More compact and often lighter, great for travel
CONS
- Can feel 'floppy' with heavier string gauges
- May lack the tight, articulate punch of longer scale basses
- Higher fret buzz potential if not properly set up
- Limited string tension can impact note definition at higher speeds
Frequently Asked Questions About Short Scale Basses
The reduced scale length alters string tension, contributing to a warmer, rounder, and often more mellow tone compared to standard scale basses.
While versatile, short scale basses often excel in genres like Motown, blues, and vintage rock where a warmer, less aggressive tone is desired.
Generally, lighter gauge strings are recommended to compensate for the reduced scale length and maintain comfortable playability; experimenting is key to finding your preference.
