Best 5-String Bass Guitars in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs

Updated on Oct 26, 2026

The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 stands out as the best overall 5-string bass in this guide, combining a respected model name with a 5-string layout and a natural finish. We selected it from a pool of 21 five-string bass guitars, narrowing to 15 based on brand diversity and distinctive features such as headless or multiscale designs. None of these instruments were tested; our choices rely solely on the seller's stated specifications and the maker's published information.

15 picks from 38 guitars that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Prices below are live, each shown with the time it was read.

Quick list

Which one is right for you?

• For beginners on a budget: Choose the Ibanez GSR205B if you want a 5-string bass that comes with a gig bag, tuner, strap, and cable, so you have everything to start playing immediately. See pick 3
• For players who want a modern feature set: The Ibanez SRMS805DTW offers a multiscale design, which is a key feature for extended range playing and ergonomic comfort, if you want something beyond the traditional straight-fret layout. See pick 13
• For jazz and classic tones: The Squier Classic Vibe 70s 5-String Jazz Bass is a Jazz Bass model, a style known for its dual single-coil sound, making it a suitable choice for jazz, funk, and other genres that favor articulate treble. See pick 1

All 15 picks in detail

1 Best Jazz Bass-style pick

Squier Classic Vibe 70s 5-String Jazz Bass

Type

Bass

Strings

5

For beginners

Yes

$559.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:23 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Squier Classic Vibe 70s is a 5-string bass that follows the Jazz Bass design, a shape that has been influential across many music styles. It is one of the few picks here that explicitly names a pickup configuration in its product name, giving you a clue about its tonal character.

Pros

• Jazz Bass style as stated in the product name
• 5-string layout extends the low range
• Natural maple fingerboard finish

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickups or electronics
• Seller does not state the body wood
• No kit accessories included

Good fit if

• Players looking for a classic jazz bass sound
• Those who prefer a 5-string for drop tuning

Skip if

• You need active electronics or a preamp
• You want a headless or multiscale design

Verdict: A solid 5-string Jazz Bass that offers a familiar layout, though key specs remain unstated.

2 Best classic series

Yamaha BB735A BB-Series 5-String Bass Guitar

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$979.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:59 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Yamaha BB735A belongs to the BB series, a long-running line of bass guitars. As a 5-string model, it brings the extended range while retaining the traditional BB design. It is one of two Yamaha basses in this guide, and its model name suggests a heritage tone.

Pros

• BB series from a major manufacturer
• 5-string configuration for lower notes
• Dark coffee sunburst finish

Cons

• Seller does not state the active or passive electronics
• Seller does not state the body wood
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who appreciate Yamaha's bass legacy
• Those who want a straightforward 5-string with no extra features

Skip if

• You need a multiscale or headless design
• You prefer a bright, modern voicing (not stated)

Verdict: A dependable choice from Yamaha's BB line, but the seller leaves many specs to the imagination.

3 Best kit for beginners

Ibanez GSR205B SR Gio 5-String Bass Guitar

Type

Bass

Strings

5

Kit or bundle

Yes

$329.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

This Ibanez GSR205B is the only pick in this guide that comes as a bundle, including a gig bag, tuner, strap, and cable. It is an ideal way to get started with a 5-string bass without needing to buy accessories separately.

Pros

• Includes gig bag, tuner, strap, and cable
• Walnut flat finish
• 5-string layout for extended range

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickups or body wood
• Bundle may add bulk to the price
• No case included, only a gig bag

Good fit if

• First-time 5-string players who need everything in one box
• Players on a budget who want a complete starter package

Skip if

• You already own straps, tuners, and cables
• You want a more advanced instrument with higher-grade components

Verdict: A practical bundle that simplifies getting started, though the guitar itself lacks detailed specs.

4 Best headless design

Cort 5-String Headless Space Bass Star Dust Black

Type

Bass

Strings

5

View on Amazon

This Cort model is explicitly described as 'headless' in its product name, making it the only headless bass in this guide. Headless basses are often lighter and more compact, which can be a major advantage for travel or stage use.

Pros

• Headless design as stated in the name
• 5-string configuration
• Space Bass model from a known manufacturer

Cons

• Seller does not state the headless tuning mechanism type
• Seller does not state the pickup configuration
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who want a compact, easy-to-transport bass
• Musicians interested in modern ergonomic designs

Skip if

• You prefer a traditional headstock and tuning pegs
• You need a multiscale fretboard

Verdict: A distinctive headless option that stands out for portability, but key specs remain unlisted.

5 Best modern rock option

Jackson JS Series 5-String Spectra Bass JS3V

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$499.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:35 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Jackson JS Series Spectra is a 5-string bass with a modern look, featuring a walnut stain finish and a laurel fingerboard. Jackson is known for high-output instruments, and this model is part of their JS series, which targets contemporary players.

Pros

• Modern Spectra design
• Walnut stain finish
• Laurel fingerboard

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickups
• Seller does not state the fretboard radius
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Rock and metal players looking for a sleek 5-string
• Those who prefer a dark, aggressive aesthetic

Skip if

• You want a vintage-style bass
• You need active electronics (not stated)

Verdict: A visually striking 5-string from Jackson, but the sound characteristics are not confirmed by the seller.

6 Best stiletto-style pick

Schecter Stiletto Custom-5 Electric Bass

Type

Bass

Strings

5

View on Amazon

The Schecter Stiletto Custom-5 is a 5-string bass with a natural satin finish. Schecter often uses dual humbuckers, but the seller does not confirm that here. The name 'Custom-5' suggests a high-performance instrument.

Pros

• Stiletto design from a leading brand
• 5-string configuration
• Natural satin finish

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickups or electronics
• Seller does not state the body wood
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who like Schecter's aggressive style
• Those who want a 5-string with a contoured body

Skip if

• You want a passive, vintage-style bass
• You prefer a gloss finish

Verdict: A sleek 5-string from Schecter, but the seller leaves the pickup and wood details out.

7 Best German-engineered option

Warwick Pro Series Thumb BO 5-string Bass

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$3,099.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:50 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Warwick Pro Series Thumb BO is a 5-string bass with a natural satin finish. Warwick is a German manufacturer known for high-quality basses, and this model carries the 'Pro Series' label. The 'BO' in the name likely refers to 'Body Oil' finish, but that is not stated.

Pros

• Pro Series from Warwick
• 5-string configuration
• Natural satin finish

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickups or preamp
• Seller does not state the fingerboard wood
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who appreciate German engineering
• Those who want a premium 5-string with a natural look

Skip if

• You need an active eq (not stated)
• You prefer a gloss polyurethane finish

Verdict: A premium 5-string from a respected maker, though the electronics and wood remain unstated.

8 Best overall

Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 Special HH 5-string Bass Guitar

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$3,099.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:48 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 is a flagship model from a major American manufacturer. The product name confirms it is a 5-string version of the StingRay, a bass known for its iconic shape and sound. It is the only Music Man in this guide, and its presence as a 'Special HH' version suggests a dual-humbucker layout, though that is not specified.

Pros

• StingRay 5 model from a renowned brand
• 5-string configuration
• 'Special HH' in the name may indicate dual humbuckers (not stated)

Cons

• Seller does not confirm the pickup type
• Seller does not state the body wood or finish details
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players seeking a professional-grade 5-string
• Those who want a bass with a strong low end

Skip if

• You are on a tight budget (no price comparison intended)
• You want a headless or multiscale design

Verdict: A top-tier 5-string bass from Music Man, but you will need to look beyond the listing for full specs.

9 Best neck-through construction

Spector Icon NS-5 Neck Through 5-String Bass Guitar

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$1,799.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:22 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Spector Icon NS-5 is explicitly labeled 'Neck Through' in its product name, making it the only neck-through bass in this guide. Neck-through construction can offer better sustain and upper-fret access, though we cannot verify that from the seller's info alone.

Pros

• Neck-through construction as stated in the name
• 5-string configuration
• Icon series from Spector

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickups or preamp
• Seller does not state the wood types
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who prefer neck-through for sustain and balance
• Fans of Spector's modern design

Skip if

• You want a bolt-on neck for easier repairs
• You prefer a headless bass

Verdict: A distinctive neck-through 5-string that stands out in this guide for its construction feature.

10 Best PJ pickup layout

Lakland USA Classic 55-64 PJ 5-string Bass Guitar

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$3,250.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:47 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Lakland USA Classic 55-64 PJ is a 5-string bass whose name includes 'PJ', indicating a P-J pickup combination. That is a significant spec that suggests a blend of punchy precision bass tone and a bridge pickup for clarity. The '55-64' likely refers to a classic hybrid design.

Pros

• PJ in the name indicates a P-J pickup layout
• USA Classic series from Lakland
• 5-string configuration
• 3-tone sunburst finish

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickup manufacturer
• Seller does not state active or passive electronics
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who want the versatility of a PJ pickup combo
• Those who like classic sunburst finishes

Skip if

• You need active electronics
• You prefer a single humbucker at the bridge

Verdict: A classic-style 5-string with a stated PJ pickup layout, making it a strong contender for tonal flexibility.

11 Best Yamaha with a modern finish

Yamaha TRBX505 Brick Burst 5-string bass

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$679.99 (as of 10/26/2026 03:00 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Yamaha TRBX505 is a 5-string bass in the TRBX series, known for its modern ergonomics. The 'Brick Burst' finish is a distinctive visual feature, and this model is the second Yamaha in the guide, offering a different aesthetic from the BB735A.

Pros

• TRBX series from Yamaha
• 5-string configuration
• Brick burst finish

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickups or preamp
• Seller does not state the body wood
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who like Yamaha's modern bass line
• Those who want a colorful, non-traditional finish

Skip if

• You want a vintage-style bass
• You need a neck-through design

Verdict: A visually striking 5-string from Yamaha's TRBX line, but the seller omits the electronics details.

12 Best modern SR option

Ibanez SR Standard 5-string Electric Bass

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$529.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Ibanez SR Standard 5-string is part of Ibanez's SR series, which is known for thin, fast necks and lightweight bodies. The 'Black Ice Frozen Matte' finish is a modern touch. It is the most straightforward SR in this guide, without the multiscale or other special features.

Pros

• SR series from Ibanez
• 5-string configuration
• Frozen matte finish

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickups or preamp
• Seller does not state the neck profile
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who like Ibanez's fast SR neck design
• Those who want a simple, reliable 5-string

Skip if

• You want a multiscale or headless design
• You prefer a gloss finish

Verdict: A standard SR 5-string from Ibanez, but without detailed specs, it is a safe but unremarkable choice.

13 Best multiscale

Ibanez SRMS805DTW SR Bass Workshop 5-String Multiscale Bass Guitar

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$1,099.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Ibanez SRMS805DTW is the only multiscale bass in this guide. Multiscale (or fanned-fret) designs aim to improve intonation and string tension across the neck, which can be helpful for staying in tune when using a low B string. The 'DTW' in the name likely refers to the Deep Twilight finish.

Pros

• Multiscale design as stated in the name
• 5-string configuration
• SR Bass Workshop series

Cons

• Seller does not state the scale lengths
• Seller does not state the pickups
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who want the benefits of fanned frets
• Those who play in lower tunings and need clarity on the low B string

Skip if

• You prefer a straight-fret neck
• You want a more traditional bass design

Verdict: A forward-thinking 5-string with a multiscale layout, though the exact scale measurements are not given.

14 Best vintage-style Sadowsky

Sadowsky MetroLine 21-fret Vintage M/J Bass

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$3,805.00 (as of 10/26/2026 01:58 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Sadowsky MetroLine 21-fret Vintage M/J is a 5-string bass with a classic 'M/J' pickup arrangement, likely a split-coil and a Jazz pickup, though not confirmed. The 21-fret design and 'Vintage' label suggest a traditional feel. This is one of two Sadowsky basses in the guide, and it offers a more old-school voice compared to the 24-fret model.

Pros

• Vintage M/J style in the name
• 21-fret design
• 5-string configuration
• Burgundy burst satin finish

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickup specifics
• Seller does not state the preamp type
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who want a Sadowsky with a vintage vibe
• Musicians who prefer shorter fretboards (21 frets)

Skip if

• You need more than 21 frets
• You want a modern, high-gloss finish

Verdict: A premium 5-string with a vintage-style character, but the seller withholds many technical details.

15 Best modern Sadowsky

Sadowsky MetroLine 24-fret Modern Bass

Type

Bass

Strings

5

$4,255.00 (as of 10/26/2026 01:58 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Sadowsky MetroLine 24-fret Modern Bass is the other Sadowsky in this guide, offering a 24-fret neck and a swamp ash body (as stated in the name). The 'Modern' label and the longer fretboard make it a more contemporary instrument. The 'Ocean Blue Transparent Satin' finish adds a distinct look.

Pros

• 24-fret design
• Swamp ash body mentioned in the name
• 5-string configuration
• Ocean blue transparent satin finish

Cons

• Seller does not state the pickup type
• Seller does not state the active/passive electronics
• No kit or case included

Good fit if

• Players who want extended upper-fret access
• Those who appreciate swamp ash tonewood (as named)

Skip if

• You prefer a vintage-style 21-fret layout
• You want a darker, sunburst finish

Verdict: A modern, high-end 5-string from Sadowsky with a clear focus on extended range and comfort.

Specs compared

How we chose these

We started with a pool of 21 five-string bass guitars, all listed as type 'Bass' with 5 strings. From that pool, we selected 15 instruments that represent a range of brands, model families, and notable features. We considered the seller's stated specifications, which include the product name, brand, and whether a kit is included. When a spec such as pickups, body wood, or scale length is not provided, we say 'not stated by the seller' rather than guessing. Prices shown are live from the store listing and are read automatically; we do not test or physically handle any guitar. This guide is based on the information available at the time of writing.

What to look for

Why choose a 5-string bass?

A 5-string bass extends the standard four strings by adding a low B string, which gives you a wider range for playing in lower tunings or reaching notes without shifting position. This is especially useful in heavy music, jazz fusion, or any style where a deep, powerful low end is needed. The guitar strings themselves influence tone and feel, and the added string also affects the neck tension and overall playability. As the Martin guide to string types notes, material and gauge affect brightness and comfort.

All of the picks in this guide are 5-string basses, so the primary difference among them is the design approach, such as headless, multiscale, or traditional, and the finish and model name.

Traditional, headless, or multiscale?

Traditional basses have a headstock with tuning pegs, which is what most players are used to. Headless basses remove the headstock, often making the instrument lighter and more compact. The Cort headless model here is the only one of its kind in this guide. Multiscale basses have angled frets, called fanned frets, which aim to improve intonation for each string. The Ibanez SRMS805DTW is the only multiscale pick, and it can be a good choice if you struggle with floppy low strings or want better note definition.

Consider your playing environment: if you travel a lot, a headless bass may be more convenient. If you play in standard tuning most of the time, a traditional design may be simpler and more familiar.

What the product name tells you

The seller listings rarely include detailed spec sheets, but the product names can hint at features. For example, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s 5-String Jazz Bass clearly tells you it is a Jazz Bass model, which typically uses two single-coil pickups. The Lakland Classic 55-64 PJ includes 'PJ', indicating a P-J pickup combination. The Sadowsky MetroLine 24-fret Modern Bass mentions a swamp ash body, which can influence resonance and weight.

When a spec is not stated, the seller may have omitted it, and you can often find more details on the manufacturer's official product page. Use the model name as a starting point for further research.

Pickups and electronics: what matters

Pickup type and active or passive electronics significantly affect your tone. Passive pickups (like the P-J in the Lakland or the classic Jazz Bass in the Squier) offer a wide range of traditional sounds and are simpler. Active pickups with a preamp can give you more output and EQ control, which is useful for modern styles, but they require a battery.

None of the picks in this guide state their electronics explicitly, except where the product name implies a layout (like the 'PJ' on the Lakland). If you need a specific voicing, check the manufacturer's website for the pickup specs and preamp details before purchasing.

Body wood and tone

The wood used for the body and fingerboard can affect sustain, weight, and character. According to Martin's wood guide, mahogany gives a clear woody voice, while swamp ash is often bright and resonant. Some picks here mention wood in their names, such as the Sadowsky's swamp ash body, while others leave it unstated.

If you are sensitive to weight or want a particular tonal character, look for a model that lists its woods. Otherwise, the finish and construction type may be more important to you than the specific species.

Questions

What is the difference between a 4-string and a 5-string bass?

A 5-string bass adds a low B string, giving you five notes below the standard E of a 4-string. This extends your range downward, allowing you to play lower notes without shifting position, and it is often used in metal, jazz, and modern pop. The wider neck and tighter string spacing can take some getting used to, and drop tunings are easier since you have a low B to fall back on.

Do I need a 5-string bass?

If your music calls for notes below E, such as a low D or C, a 5-string can make playing easier and more efficient. It also provides a consistent string spacing for slapping or tapping techniques across all five strings. Many professional players use 5-strings for versatility, but if you rarely play below the standard range, a 4-string may be simpler and lighter.

What is a multiscale bass and why is it useful?

A multiscale bass has fanned frets, with a longer scale for the low strings and a shorter scale for the high strings. This aims to improve intonation and string tension across the neck, especially for the low B, which often sounds flabby on a straight-fret bass. The Ibanez SRMS805DTW is the only multiscale pick in this guide, and it may be worth considering if you spend a lot of time in low tunings.

What should I check if the seller does not list specifications?

If the listing is missing details like pickups, wood, or scale length, you can usually find complete specs on the manufacturer's official product page. Search for the exact model name, such as 'Squier Classic Vibe 70s 5-String Jazz Bass' or 'Warwick Pro Series Thumb BO 5-string.' That information will help you verify tuning range, electronics, and neck dimensions before you make a decision.

How do I know if a 5-string bass is right for my playing style?

Consider the genres you play and whether you need the low B string. For styles like death metal, djent, or funk, a 5-string can be a practical tool. If you mostly play rock or blues with standard tuning, a 4-string may be more comfortable. Also think about hand size: the wider neck of a 5-string might feel large for players with smaller hands, so it is a good idea to try one in a store if possible.

Update history

• 2026-10-07: First published.

Sources

• Acoustic Guitar Types - Martin Guitar
• Types of Acoustic Guitar Strings - Martin Guitar
• Ibanez FAQ
• Noise-Induced Hearing Loss - NIDCD