For bassists seeking to delve deeper into the sonic spectrum, the Best 5 String Bass Guitars offer an extended range that unlocks a world of musical possibilities. Adding a low B string provides not just five extra notes, but a richer, fuller low-end presence that can transform your playing. From legendary figures like John Paul Jones and Jack Bruce to modern innovators such as Fieldy and Robert Trujillo, the 5-string bass has been embraced by masters across genres.
In our expert opinion, the Yamaha BB435 stands out as the top choice. Its remarkable versatility allows it to excel in both vintage and contemporary styles, all at a price point that respects your budget. Yamaha’s renowned build quality is evident throughout, and its aesthetics are undeniably impressive. It’s truly a top-tier 5-string bass guitar for the money.
For those seeking a premium experience, the Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V is an exceptional investment. This instrument delivers an incredibly adaptable and nuanced tone, packed with player-focused features that go above and beyond the expectations of a traditional bass.
Best 5-String Bass Guitars: Top Picks for Every Player
Yamaha BB435 TBS 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: Yamaha)
1. Yamaha BB435 TBS
A Versatile and Value-Packed 5-String Bass Guitar
Expert Review:
The Yamaha BB435 TBS is a standout instrument in the realm of 5-string bass guitars, offering incredible versatility for players across genres. Its P/J pickup configuration allows it to seamlessly transition between vintage warmth and modern punch, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles. Considering its accessible price, the BB435 boasts a specification sheet typically found on much more expensive instruments.
Specifications
- Body: Alder
- Neck: 3-ply Maple/mahogany/maple, bolt-on
- Scale: 34”
- Fingerboard: Rosewood or Maple
- Frets: 21, medium
- Pickups: 2x YGD V5 in P/J configuration
- Controls: 2x volume, master tone
- Hardware: Vintage Plus Light steel-saddled bridge
- Left-handed: No
- Finish: Teal Blue, Black, Tobacco Brown Sunburst
Reasons to Buy
- Versatile P/J pickups for a wide tonal range.
- Exceptional value for money, offering premium features at an affordable price.
Reasons to Avoid
- No left-handed option available.
- Passive electronics might not appeal to players seeking active sound shaping.
Independent volume controls for each pickup empower you to precisely blend their sonic characteristics, unlocking remarkable tonal flexibility. A single master tone knob provides simultaneous EQ sculpting for both pickups.
True to Yamaha’s reputation, the build quality of the BB435 is exceptional. The low B string feels solid and responsive, eliminating any unwanted floppiness and facilitating powerful low-end grooves. The innovative bridge design, with its 45-degree string break angle, ensures precise intonation and tuning stability. This bass is perfect for exploring the lower registers and expanding your bass playing vocabulary.
Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: Fender)
2. Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V
The Quintessential Professional 5-String Bass Guitar
Expert Review:
The Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V represents the pinnacle of Fender’s decades of innovation and craftsmanship. Hailing from their California headquarters, this top-tier instrument incorporates newly designed pickups and a suite of thoughtful upgrades, firmly establishing it as one of the best 5-string bass guitars available to discerning players.
Specifications
- Body: Alder or Roasted Pine
- Neck: Maple or Rosewood, bolt-on
- Scale: 34”
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 20, narrow tall
- Pickups: V-Mod II Single-Coil Jazz Bass (bridge), V-Mod Single-Coil Jazz Bass (middle)
- Controls: Volume 1 (Middle Pickup), Volume 2 (Bridge Pickup), Master Tone
- Hardware: 5-String High Mass Vintage (HMV), (Strings-Through-Body or Topload), Fender Lightweight Vintage-Style Keys with Tapered Shafts
- Left-handed: Yes
- Finish: Mystic Surf Green, Roasted Pine, Olympic White, 3-Color Sunburst
Reasons to Buy
- Powerful and articulate V-Mod II pickups for a wide sonic palette.
- Highly playable neck with enhanced comfort for extended playing sessions.
Reasons to Avoid
- Passive electronics might not suit players who prefer the aggressive tones of active basses.
The Jazz Bass V offers a distinct tonal character compared to its Precision Bass sibling. Many players find it more versatile and subtly nuanced, and the new V-Mod II pickups deliver ample punch and clarity, especially when exploring the low B string.
The neck is reinforced with Posiflex graphite rods, ensuring exceptional stability and resilience for touring musicians. The sculpted neck heel facilitates comfortable access to the upper registers, while a HiMass Vintage bridge enhances sustain and overall resonance. The Fender American Professional II Jazz Bass V is a workhorse instrument built for professional performance.
Sterling by Music Man StingRay5 TBS 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: Sterling by Music Man)
3. Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray 5 TBS
A Budget-Friendly 5-String Bass Guitar Punching Above Its Weight
Expert Review:
The Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray 5 TBS represents the more affordable iteration of the iconic Music Man StingRay bass, yet it delivers performance that rivals many premium 5-string bass guitars. Equally adept at handling pop sensibilities and hard rock aggression, this instrument proves that massive tone doesn’t necessitate a massive price tag.
Specifications
- Body: Basswood
- Neck: Hard Maple
- Scale: 34”
- Fingerboard: Hard Maple or Jatoba
- Frets: 22, medium
- Pickups: H – 1 Ceramic Humbucker
- Controls: 2-band Active Preamp
- Hardware: Fixed bridge, open gear tuning machines
- Left-handed: Yes
- Finish: Black, Mint Green, Walnut Satin, Trans Blue Satin, Vintage Sunburst Satin, Ruby Red Burst Satin
Reasons to Buy
- Impressive build quality for its price range, ensuring durability and reliability.
- Excellent playability, making it comfortable for various playing styles.
Reasons to Avoid
- The 2-band EQ might be limiting for players who require more extensive tonal shaping capabilities.
The sonic profile of the S.U.B. Sting Ray 5 closely mirrors its higher-priced counterpart, featuring a single humbucker pickup that offers remarkable versatility thanks to the onboard 2-band EQ. Employing a pick yields the signature punchy StingRay bass tone, while fingerstyle playing reveals a rounder, warmer character.
The string spacing at the bridge is slightly narrower than typical 5-string basses, enhancing comfort for players with smaller hands. The sleek ‘D’ profile neck facilitates rapid movement across the fretboard, despite the added width to accommodate the low B string. The Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray 5 is a testament to quality and affordability.
Schecter Stiletto Studio 5 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: Schecter)
4. Schecter Stiletto Studio 5
A Visually Stunning 5-String Bass Guitar for the Modern Bassist
Expert Review:
While perhaps better known for their guitars, Schecter has steadily solidified its reputation as a premier instrument manufacturer since 1976. The Schecter Stiletto Studio 5 is a visually captivating bass guitar with a sound that lives up to its striking appearance. This bass is designed for the modern player seeking a unique and powerful voice.
Specifications
- Body: Mahogany with Bubinga top
- Neck: Maple/Walnut Multi-ply
- Scale: 35″
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 24, X-jumbo
- Pickups: 2x EMG 40Hz
- Controls: Master Volume/Blend/3-Band EMG Active EQ
- Hardware: Diamond Custom Bass bridge, Schecter tuners
- Left-handed: Yes
- Finish: Honey Satin, See-Thru Black Satin
Reasons to Buy
- Phenomenal build quality, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship.
- Versatile active electronics, providing extensive tonal shaping capabilities.
Reasons to Avoid
- The mahogany body contributes to a heavier instrument.
- Its modern tone might not appeal to players seeking classic vintage bass sounds.
A pair of EMG 40Hz pickups, coupled with a three-band EQ, deliver a potent low-end rumble and a distinctive tonal character. Rather than replicating classic bass tones, Schecter has purposefully imbued the Stiletto 5 with its own unique sonic identity.
The mahogany body contributes to the guitar’s rich sustain, complemented by a maple and walnut neck. The thin ‘C’ neck profile is remarkably comfortable and conducive to fast playing, making it suitable for diverse playing styles. The Schecter Stiletto Studio 5 is a powerful and visually impressive instrument for the contemporary bassist.
Ibanez EHB1005SMS Ergonomic Headless Bass 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: Ibanez)
5. Ibanez EHB1005SMS
A Cutting-Edge, Multi-Scale 5-String Bass Guitar
Expert Review:
The Ibanez EHB1005SMS is a futuristic and innovative 5-string bass that offers boutique-level features without the premium price tag. Ibanez’s ability to deliver a multi-scale bass guitar at this price point is a truly remarkable achievement, bringing advanced technology to a wider range of players.
Specifications
- Body: Basswood, chambered
- Neck: Toasted Maple/Walnut
- Scale: 30” – 32” (Multi-Scale)
- Fingerboard: Toasted birdseye maple
- Frets: 24, medium-jumbo
- Pickups: 2x Bartolini BH2 humbuckers
- Controls: Volume, balance, bass, mid, treble, Varimid
- Hardware: MR5HS bridge
- Left-handed: Yes
- Finish: Emerald Green Metallic Matte
Reasons to Buy
- Super playable neck, designed for ergonomic comfort and speed.
- Powerful Bartolini pickups and versatile electronics for a wide range of tones.
Reasons to Avoid
- The multi-scale design may require an adjustment period for players unfamiliar with fanned frets.
- The modern, headless aesthetic might not appeal to players with traditional tastes.
Equipped with Bartolini pickups and a Vari-mid 3-band EQ, the EHB1005SMS provides a vast spectrum of tonal possibilities. An EQ-bypass switch allows you to switch to a passive mode for even greater sonic versatility and battery conservation.
The neck profile of the Ibanez EHB1005SMS will require some acclimation if you’re new to multi-scale instruments. However, once adapted, the sonic benefits of the fanned fret design, particularly in string tension and clarity across the fretboard, become readily apparent. This bass represents a leap forward in modern bass guitar design.
Squier Classic Vibe '70s Jazz Bass V 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: Squier)
6. Squier Classic Vibe ’70s Jazz Bass V
The Best Budget-Friendly 5-String Bass Guitar for Vintage Tone
Expert Review:
Fender’s Jazz Bass is a legendary sound in the bass guitar world, and the Squier Classic Vibe ’70s Jazz Bass V offers that iconic tone to players on a budget. If you’re in pursuit of authentic vintage bass sound without breaking the bank, this instrument is an exceptional choice.
Specifications
- Body: Poplar or Soft Maple
- Neck: Maple
- Scale: 34”
- Fingerboard: Rosewood or Maple
- Frets: 20, narrow tall
- Pickups: Fender Designed Alnico Single-Coil Pickups
- Controls: 2x volume, master tone
- Hardware: Vintage Plus Light steel-saddled bridge
- Left-handed: No
- Finish: Teal Blue, Black, Tobacco Brown Sunburst
Reasons to Buy
- Outstanding value for money, delivering classic Fender tone at an accessible price.
- Authentic Fender Jazz Bass tone, capturing the essence of vintage instruments.
Reasons to Avoid
- Passive electronics might not satisfy players seeking modern, active tones.
- The body can be on the heavier side, which might be a consideration for some players.
The two single-coil pickups in the classic Jazz Bass configuration deliver that signature growl in spades, while maintaining excellent articulation even on the low B string. The control layout, featuring individual volume controls for each pickup, allows for precise blending to achieve your ideal tone.
The glossy neck, while visually appealing, avoids feeling sticky, offering surprising playability right out of the box. The overall build quality feels substantial, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of gigging, recording, and regular use. The Squier Classic Vibe ’70s Jazz Bass V is a fantastic entry point into the world of vintage-inspired 5-string bass guitars.
Warwick German Pro Series Thumb BO 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: Warwick)
7. Warwick German Pro Series Thumb BO
A Sustainably Crafted, Professional-Grade 5-String Bass Guitar
Expert Review:
The Warwick German Pro Series Thumb BO is widely regarded as a modern classic bass guitar, particularly excelling in metal and funk genres. This is a thoroughbred instrument designed for players who demand professional quality and performance in modern musical styles.
Specifications
- Body: Ovangkol
- Neck: Ovangkol
- Scale: 34”
- Fingerboard: Wenge
- Frets: 24, jumbo
- Pickups: 2x active MEC J / J single coils
- Controls: Volume, balance, treble/bass
- Hardware: Warwick 2-piece 3D bridge and tailpiece, Warwick machine heads
- Left-handed: No
- Finish: Natural Transparent Satin
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent active MEC electronics, delivering a powerful and articulate tone.
- Exceptional clarity in the low end, ensuring a defined and punchy low B string.
Reasons to Avoid
- Its modern tone might not be ideal for players primarily focused on vintage styles.
- Absence of fret markers on the fingerboard might be a challenge for some players.
The MEC pickups deliver an assertive and present bass tone that is both powerful and articulate, even on the low B string. A two-band EQ provides ample tonal shaping despite lacking a dedicated mid control, and a push-pull knob offers a convenient bypass for the active electronics.
The ovangkol body and neck are sustainably sourced, offering a tonal warmth reminiscent of rosewood. Combined with exceptional German build quality, the Warwick German Pro Series Thumb BO is a durable and high-performing instrument built to last a lifetime.
ESP LTD F-205 Metal Style 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: ESP)
8. ESP LTD F-205
A Metal-Inspired 5-String Bass Guitar with Surprising Versatility
Expert Review:
Despite its aggressive, metal-oriented aesthetics reminiscent of something from Stranger Things, the ESP LTD F-205 is far more versatile than its looks might suggest. While it excels in heavier genres, it is equally capable in funk and various other musical styles, offering a wider sonic palette than initially meets the eye.
Specifications
- Body: Mahogany
- Neck: 5-ply maple/jatoba
- Scale: 35”
- Fingerboard: Roasted jatoba
- Frets: 21, medium
- Pickups: 2x ESP Designed
- Controls: Volume, balance, treble, mid, bass
- Hardware: LTD BB-605 bridge, LTD machine heads
- Left-handed: Yes
- Finish: Black Satin
Reasons to Buy
- Versatile tonal palette, suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
- Great value for money, offering professional features at an accessible price point.
Reasons to Avoid
- The aggressive styling might not appeal to players with more traditional tastes.
- The battery compartment design might be slightly awkward for some users.
ESP-designed pickups, coupled with a three-band EQ, provide extensive options for tone sculpting. The pickups offer a rich and adaptable tone that can range from tight and articulate to round and powerful with EQ adjustments.
The neck profile is exceptionally comfortable for slap bass techniques, and the extended 35″ scale length contributes to a clear and defined low B string. Despite its affordable price, the ESP LTD F-205 delivers performance that far exceeds expectations, making it a compelling option for players seeking versatility and value.
Yamaha TRB1005J Professional 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: Yamaha)
9. Yamaha TRB1005J
Professional Features and Accessible Price for the Gigging Bassist
Expert Review:
The Yamaha TRB1005J occupies the sweet spot in the 5-string bass guitar market, offering professional-level features while remaining under the $1000 mark. It is versatile enough to handle both vintage and modern tones, all while boasting stunning aesthetics. This bass is designed for the serious player who demands performance and value.
Specifications
- Body: Maple, Alder with Quilted Maple top
- Neck: 5-piece Maple/Mahogany
- Scale: 35”
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 24, medium
- Pickups: 2x Hum-canceling Single Coil Alnico V
- Controls: Master Volume, Pickup Balancer, 3-Band EQ (Bass, Middle, Treble)
- Hardware: Solid Brass bridge, Die-cast tuning machines
- Left-handed: No
- Finish: Natural, Black, Caramel Brown, Translucent Black
Reasons to Buy
- Tight and responsive low B string, ideal for articulate low-end playing.
- Stunning visual appeal, with a quilted maple top and refined aesthetics.
Reasons to Avoid
- Active electronics can be power-hungry, requiring battery changes.
- Competitive market segment with numerous excellent options at this price point.
The pickups, while visually resembling humbuckers, are actually hum-canceling single coils, ensuring quiet operation even at high volumes. The onboard EQ provides extensive tonal shaping capabilities, ranging from tight and funky to a deep, rumbling growl.
The TRB1005J is a visually striking instrument that belies its price tag. The quilted maple top is exquisite, and the ‘D’ neck profile is comfortable for various playing styles and techniques. The fretwork is exceptionally well-executed, allowing for a low and comfortable action. The Yamaha TRB1005J is a professional-grade instrument that offers exceptional value and performance.
Dean Edge 09 Budget 5 string bass guitar
(Image credit: Future)
10. Dean Edge 09
An Excellent Entry-Level 5-String Bass Guitar for Beginners
Expert Review:
The Dean Edge 09 serves as the ideal gateway for beginner bass players venturing into the world of 5-string bass guitars. Offering a cost-effective build with a straightforward electronics layout, this instrument allows you to focus on playing without unnecessary complexity. It’s a no-nonsense instrument designed for learning and exploration.
Specifications
- Body: Basswood
- Neck: Maple
- Scale: 34”
- Fingerboard: Walnut
- Frets: 22
- Pickups: DMT Design
- Controls: Volume, tone
- Hardware: Die Cast bridge, Die-Cast sealed tuning machines
- Left-handed: No
- Finish: Classic Black, Vintage Natural
Reasons to Buy
- Incredible value for money, making 5-string basses accessible to beginners.
- A great entry point to 5-string basses, offering simplicity and affordability.
Reasons to Avoid
- The simple control layout might be too basic for experienced players.
- Lack of active electronics might limit tonal versatility for some.
The single ‘soap bar’ style pickup is an unconventional configuration, delivering a throaty and assertive tone. The sonic character of this bass is particularly well-suited to rock and blues genres, providing ample grit to cut through in live performance settings.
The vintage-style bridge is functional and understated, reflecting the overall design philosophy of the instrument. Everything about the Dean Edge 09 is designed for simplicity and reliability, ensuring excellent stability and durability for beginner players.
Best 5-String Bass Guitars: Buyer’s Guide
Bass Player Performing on a Five String Bass Guitar
(Image credit: Vikulin – Getty)
Purchasing a 5-string bass guitar can feel daunting, especially if you’re new to the extended range. From the added weight to the longer scale length, there are several factors to consider before making a decision. Fortunately, at Guitar World, we have extensive experience in all things bass, and we’re here to guide you towards an informed purchase.
Bass guitars, by their nature, are substantial instruments. The combination of dense wood and a robust neck inevitably results in a certain weight. Five-string bass guitars, however, inherently require more material due to their longer scale length, larger hardware, and additional space for electronics. If you’re venturing into the world of 5-string basses, be prepared for a slightly heavier instrument.
This increased weight is directly linked to another crucial aspect: scale length. Scale length is particularly important for 5-string basses because the added length is essential to ensure the lower B string resonates properly without unwanted buzzing or floppiness on the fretboard. The general principle is that thicker strings necessitate longer scale lengths to maintain optimal tension and playability. Consequently, 5-string bass guitars typically feature a longer scale length than their 4-string counterparts. While less common and often more expensive, multi-scale bass guitars employ angled frets to incorporate varying scale lengths within the same instrument, aiming for a more compact design.
When selecting either a 4 or 5-string bass guitar, the electronics play a vital role in shaping your tone, particularly the choice between active and passive systems. Passive basses operate without external power, relying solely on the voltage generated by the pickups themselves. Often described as having a ‘fat’, ’round’, or ‘earthy’ sound, passive basses are traditionally favored in genres like rock, blues, and jazz, where warmth and organic tones are valued.
Active basses, in contrast, incorporate a preamp, and often an onboard EQ and even a compressor, to provide enhanced control over your sound. These active circuits typically require external power, usually supplied by a 9V battery housed within the bass’s body. Active electronics generally produce a brighter, snappier tone compared to passive systems, making them popular in funk and metal genres where clarity and articulation are paramount. The preamp in active basses also delivers a stronger output signal, which can be advantageous when plugging directly into a PA system or mixing console.
