Best 5 String Bass Guitars: 36 Top Models

A 5-string bass adds an extra low note to your guitar's spectrum, perfect for those drop-C tuned riffs. This article reviews the most powerful 5-string basses on the market today, comparing their tone, playability, and value to help you find your perfect instrument.

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Reviews

Sterling by Music Man Ray5 5-String Bass

The Sterling by Music Man Ray5 combines classic Stingray design with modern active electronics for versatile bass tones. Its Basswood body and bolt-on Maple neck deliver powerful sustain with comfortable playability. The fixed bridge and ceramic humbucker provide rock-solid intonation, while the 2-band active preamp lets you shape your sound with precision.

Ibanez SR305E 5-String Electric Bass

This five-string bass combines a slim, comfortable neck with Ibanez's renowned CAP EXF-N2 pickups that deliver balanced tone and clarity. The Active Style Sweeper EQ system allows for precise tonal shaping, while the lightweight mahogany body keeps you comfortable during long gigs. Players have praised its versatile sound, playability, and attractive design, though some note minor finish imperfections common to budget instruments.

Yamaha TRBX305 5-String Bass

From the moment you pick it up, the Yamaha TRBX305 feels anything but ordinary – that's thanks to its slim 43mm nut width and sculpted mahogany body, designed for blazing speed and buttery smooth playability. With its five preset EQ curves and active control system, this bass lets you dial in everything from deep, fat tones to razor-sharp precision – perfect for nailing everything from metal riffs to jazz lines. And when it comes to reliability, this Japanese-built instrument delivers top-notch tuning stability and durable construction that can handle heavy use on tour or in the studio.

Yamaha BB235 5-String Bass

The Yamaha BB235 combines vintage aesthetics with modern playability, featuring a lightweight body and thinner neck than previous models. The alder construction and maple neck deliver a balanced tone, while the custom V3 pickups offer exceptional versatility. Whether you're playing modern rock or traditional bass parts, this 5-string delivers authoritative low end and responsive articulation.

Fender Player Plus Jazz Bass V Maple

The Fender Player Plus Jazz Bass brings together classic Fender styling with modern active electronics and a sleek maple neck. Its Noiseless pickups deliver crisp, articulate bass tone with plenty of growl, while the 3-band active EQ gives you precise control over your sound. Whether you're playing jazz, funk, or R&B, this bass has the versatility to handle it all.

Sterling by Music Man Stingray Classic 5 Ray25CA Bass

With its classic 2-band active preamp and familiar oval pickguard design, the Sterling by Music Man StingRay Classic 5 Ray25CA delivers the authentic tones that made the original StingRay5 legendary. The ash body and sterling ceramic humbucker pickup combine for versatile warmth, while the 5-string configuration and medium-fretted neck make it incredibly playable for both practice and performance. This right-handed bass, backed by a reliable bolt-on neck joint and open-gear tuners, has proven itself as a capable companion for any bassist looking to shape their sound with vintage-inspired craftsmanship.

Kona KE5BN 5-String Electric Bass guitar

This 5-string electric bass combines a maple neck and alder body for a well-balanced tone, while the split pickup configuration and dual volume/tone controls give you plenty of sound-shaping options. The adjustable vintage bridge and slender 44" length make it comfortable to play, whether you're nailing intricate lines or laying down deep grooves. Its natural finish and chrome tuners make it look every bit as impressive as it sounds on stage.

Michael Kelly Element 5 Electric Bass Guitar

This sleek yellow burst bass combines stunning visual appeal with exceptional sound quality, thanks to its handcrafted sungkai wood body and premium Rockfield pickups. The 35-inch maple neck offers remarkable playability, while the two-band EQ and preamp system gives you endless tone-shaping options. Whether you're tracking in the studio or nailing solos live, this lightweight 5-string delivers the authority of a much more expensive instrument.

Ibanez EHB1005MS 5-String Bass

The Ibanez EHB1005MS combines lightweight comfort with innovative design elements like its headless construction and multi-scale neck for precise intonation. The roasted maple neck delivers exceptional stability while the built-in luminescent side dots ensure visibility in dark studios or clubs. Players praise its versatile tone, with the Nordstrand pickups offering both warmth and clarity that translates well into recordings and live performances.

Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray 5 Special Electric Bass

This lightweight modern classic delivers the tone and feel that made the original StingRay revolutionary. The updated arm contour and 5-bolt neck joint ensure comfortable play at any position, while the 22 stainless steel frets offer exceptional playability. The solidwood construction and classic Music Man humbucker combine for a sound that's both powerful and versatile, making this a standout choice for serious bass players.

Schecter Stiletto 5-String Bass

This versatile 5-string delivers remarkable clarity and punch through its EMG pickups and 35" scale length, while the six-bolt maple/walnut neck provides exceptional stability for intense performances. Its figured maple top and diamond fretboard inlays create a visually striking centerpiece, though some users have noted durability issues with the finish. The Schecter bass combines stylish aesthetics with practical features like onboard EQ and a comfortable thin 'C' neck shape, making it a solid choice for both new players and experienced musicians seeking great sound at an affordable price.

Ibanez BTB745 Standard 5-String Electric Bass

With its five-piece maple/walnut neck and active three-band EQ, the Ibanez BTB745 delivers premium tone and responsiveness at an unbeatable price point. The neck-through construction provides incredible sustain while the zero-fret design ensures consistent intonation across the entire neck. Players rave about the bass's exceptional build quality, comfortable playability, and versatile tone, making it a standout choice for both new and experienced bassists.

Ibanez SR5FMDX2 5-String Bass Guitar

The Ibanez SR5FMDX2 brings a fresh take to the bass world with its modern design and high-quality construction. A lightweight body made from okoume wood pairs perfectly with a jatoba/walnut neck to give you incredible playability. The rosewood fretboard and medium-fret design make it a joy to shred across all 24 frets, while the Nordstorm Big Single pickups deliver the bold, punchy tones you'd expect from a premium bass. Whether you're nailing those intricate basslines or cranking up the volume for a powerful groove, this bass is built to perform and inspire every note you play.

Classic 5 String Bass

A handcrafted five-string bass with a semi-hollow body and wood floating trapeze tail, featuring bound maple neck and rosewood fingerboard with distinctive sharks teeth inlays. This high-performance instrument combines traditional craftsmanship with modern electronics, including 2 volume and 1 tone control with black knobs and a 3-way switch. The matte black finish and 30.5" scale length make it a versatile addition to any bassist's collection, particularly suited for players who value both vintage aesthetics and contemporary functionality.

Glarry Gib 5 String Electric Bass Guitar

This lightweight 5-string bass pairs a rich rosewood fingerboard with a maple neck for smooth playability, while its metal bridge delivers impeccable intonation and tone stability. The high-tensile fretwire ensures years of comfortable play, and the humbucking pickups produce a warm, resonant sound that cuts through mixes beautifully. Built to stay in tune effortlessly, this bass is a practical choice for musicians who prioritize durability and performance.

Yamaha BB435 5-String Bass

The Yamaha BB435 blends vintage-inspired design with modern functionality, thanks to its 6-bolt miter neck joint that creates a seamless connection between the maple neck and alder body. The bass delivers robust tone through its custom-wound pickups while featuring a versatile control layout with separate volume and tone knobs for precise sound shaping. Its lightweight design and comfortable thin-C neck make it responsive and enjoyable to play, whether you're noodling through practice routines or nailing a live performance.

Ibanez GSR205 5-String Bass Guitar

The Ibanez GSR205 combines lightweight comfort with powerful tone, featuring a maple neck, rosewood fretboard, and active/passive humbucking pickups. Its modern design incorporates thoughtful details like medium-sized frets and a user-friendly BOOM controls system, while delivering the playability and durability expected from Ibanez's popular SR series. Players of all levels have praised its versatile sound and robust construction, making it a practical choice for both new 5-string players and experienced bassists seeking a reliable workhorse.

Yamaha TRBX605FM 5-String Bass Guitar

This Yamaha bass combines remarkable playability with versatile tone options, featuring a lightweight design that prevents back pain during long gigs. With both active and passive tone controls, players can dial in their perfect sound while the extended 5th string delivers powerful low-end. The carefully balanced neck and comfortable string spacing allow for precise playing, whether you're slapping or tapping.

Ibanez SR500E 5-String Electric Bass Guitar

This Ibanez bass packs pro-level features like Bartolini pickups and a 3-band EQ into a surprisingly playable package - the thin jatoba/walnut neck makes those upper frets feel like they're right where they should be. The dual-coil pickups give you plenty of tone shaping options, while the adjustable B500 bridge lets you fine-tune your string spacing down to 1.5mm increments. At just 8 pounds, you won't feel weighed down during long sets, though the finish can show minor wear over time.

Ibanez SR605E 5-String Bass

Every detail of this bass guitar has been thoughtfully crafted to enhance your playing experience. The rosewood fretboard and medium-sized frets ensure precise note accuracy, while the ash body combines visual appeal with exceptional tone. The Nordstrand pickups deliver powerful yet clear sound, perfectly shaped by the Ibanez Custom Electronics 3-band EQ system. Whether you're slapping, picking, or fingerstyle playing, this bass responds with remarkable clarity and sustain.

ESP B-205SM Fretless Bass Guitar

The ESP LTD B205 brings a modern twist to the fretless bass with its Ash body and Spalted Maple top, delivering exceptional low-end response. The 5-piece maple/jatoba neck and roasted Jatoba fretboard provide remarkable playability, while the active electronics deliver extraordinary tone sculpting capability. Players praise its build quality, tone versatility, and excellent value in this price range.

Glarry Gib Full Size 5-String Bass Guitar

A 5-string bass with a maple neck and laurel wood fingerboard, featuring open-coil humbucker pickups that deliver a deep and warm tone. The C-shape neck and comfortable 45mm nut width make it playable right out of the box, while the adjustable bridge ensures solid tone and intonation. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this bass provides excellent value with its quiet performance and reliable setup.

Ibanez SR305EDX 5-String Electric Bass

This Ibanez bass packs premium features like a 5-piece maple/walnut neck and Jatoba fretboard into an affordable package. The PowerSpan pickups deliver big, clear tones with that signature Ibanez punch, while the 3-band EQ and dual-coil switching give you tons of tonal flexibility. The Cosmic Blue Frozen matte finish looks sleek and modern, while the lightweight 8.2-pound body keeps you comfortable during long gigs.

Yamaha TRBX305 5-String Bass

This Yamaha bass packs impressive tone into a comfortable, well-made package that plays beautifully right out of the box. The 3D sculpted mahogany body combines great weight distribution with exceptional balance, while the 24-fret maple/mahogany neck feels amazing under your fingers. Whether you're nailing heavy metal riffs or crafting intricate fingerstyle passages, the ceramic humbuckers and 5-way tone switch give you tons of versatile tone at a surprisingly reasonable price.

Ibanez Gio 5-String Electric Bass

The Ibanez Gio delivers big-bass performance with its Phat II active boost, while the maple neck and 22 medium frets offer excellent playability. The mahogany body keeps things lightweight, and the rosewood fretboard with white dot inlays adds that classic touch. This 5-string bass combines style, tone, and comfort in a package that feels at home on any stage.

Sterling by Music Man Stingray 5 HH Ray5HH

Handcrafted with a solid jatoba or maple fretboard, the Sterling by Music Man bass combines classic style with modern versatility. Its dual humbucking pickup system delivers rich, powerful tones with exceptional clarity, while the 9V active preamp and fully adjustable bridge ensure precise tone control. The lightweight yet sturdy design pairs beautifully with its striking cobra blue finish, making it a standout choice for both new and experienced players.

Ibanez SR405EQM 5-String Bass Guitar

This Ibanez SR405EQM combines a modern 5-string design with a traditional Mahogany body and Quilted Maple top for exceptional resonance. The 5-piece Maple/Rosewood neck delivers remarkable sustain and playability, while the PowerSpan Dual Coils offer pristine tone definition through their exposed pole pieces. The included 3-band EQ system and power tap switch provide extensive tone shaping capabilities at an incredibly affordable price point.

Ibanez SRMS805 5-String Bass

The Ibanez bass combines stunning aesthetics with exceptional playability, thanks to its fanned-fret design that allows for comfortable access to all 24 frets. Its versatile tone comes courtesy of Bartolini BH2 pickups and a three-band EQ system that lets you shape your sound with remarkable clarity. Whether you're nailing complex technical passages or laying down deep grooves, this bass delivers the precision and volume you need for any music setting.

Ibanez GSR105EX 5-String Electric Bass

The Ibanez GSR105EX brings pro-level features like a maple neck and jatoba fretboard to five-string bass duty at an unbelievably reasonable price. With its comfortable medium-fret design and high-output PPD5 pickup, it delivers big tone and fantastic sustain. Built to Ibanez's exacting standards, this bass feels and sounds great while staying in tune perfectly between sessions.

Squier Affinity Series 5-String Jazz Bass

The Squier Affinity Series 3 Color Sunburst Jazz Bass V brings vintage style and authentic J-bass tone to players on a budget. With its slim C-shape neck and lightweight body, it handles like a dream while the dual single-coil pickups deliver that legendary Fender punch. While it's built for affordability, its playability and build quality exceed expectations for an entry-level bass.

Ibanez SR5005 Prestige 5-String Electric Bass

The Ibanez SR5005 brings together premium woods, modern electronics, and ergonomic design for a bass that sings with clarity while feeling incredibly comfortable to play. Its Wenge/Bubinga neck delivers responsive articulation with a slim profile that lets you shred for hours without fatigue, while the custom Bartolini pickups give you remarkable versatility from rich lows to searing highs. Built to last with Japanese craftsmanship that shows in every detail, this bass transformsPractice sessions into performances and tunes stay stable through long sets.

Steinberger Spirit XT-25 5-String Bass

Combining Steinberger's signature headless design with modern comfort features like a folding leg rest and slim 1.625" neck, the Spirit XT-25 5-string bass delivers exceptional playability in a surprisingly compact 38.5" package. Its 40:1 direct-pull tuners and double-ball bridge system ensure precise intonation, while the active/passive dual HB-1 pickups deliver a rich, responsive tone that cuts through any mix. Built for both style and practicality, this lightweight bass travels easily while remaining delightfully expressive during performance.

Schecter Stiletto Stealth-5 5-String Bass Guitar

Combining a precision bass tone with active electronics, the Schecter Stiletto Stealth-5 delivers remarkable versatility through its humbucker configuration and detailed tone controls. The rosewood fingerboard and basswood construction create a responsive playing surface, while the 6-bolt neck joint ensures lasting stability. Built to perform, this Indonesian-made instrument combines cosmetic elegance with practical engineering that shines through in its consistent tuning stability and sustain.

Ibanez Talman Bass

This Ibanez Talman bass combines a roasted maple neck for enhanced stability and playability with a tamo ash top and poplar body for powerful tone. The dynamix PJ pickups deliver crisp clarity while the 2-band Ibanez EQ lets you shape your sound precisely. The rosewood fretboard provides a focused midrange tone with excellent sustain. The B15W bridge offers adjustable intonation for spot-on tuning stability. At just 9.19 lbs, the bass feels lightweight and responsive during intense playing sessions.

Squier Contemporary Active Precision Bass PH

Combining a roasted maple neck with Indian laurel fingerboard for exceptional playability, the Squier Contemporary Active Precision Bass PH V packs a powerful punch with its unique SQR ceramic split single-coil and humbucking pickup configuration. The active 9-volt preamp lets you shape your sound with precise control over volume, blend, tone, and bass/treble boost, while the lightweight 9.3-pound body keeps you comfortable during intense performances. The meticulously crafted Indonesian instrument combines premium materials with Fender's attention to detail, resulting in a stunning bass that delivers both visual appeal and remarkable versatility on stage or in the studio.

Yamaha TRBX505 5-String Electric Bass

The Yamaha TRBX505 combines powerful alnico pickups with active/passive electronics for versatile tone shaping. Its solid mahogany construction and comfortable maple/mahogany neck deliver exceptional playability, while the lightweight design makes it ideal for long gigs. The bass's versatile electronics and premium build quality shine through in every note, earning it high praise from players who consider it a great value in its class.

Buyer's Guide

The 5-string bass represents the latest evolution in bass guitar design, offering expanded range and versatile sound capabilities. Understanding key aspects will help you select the right instrument for your musical needs.

Range and Intonation

The fifth string typically extends the bass's low end to E0, providing a deeper, more powerful tone than the traditional 4-string configuration. Look for precise intonation and reliable tuning stability across all six strings to maintain optimal sound quality.

Construction and Playability

Most 5-string basses maintain the standard 34-inch scale length for comfortable playing and consistent feel. Consider a neck-through or bolt-on construction for increased sustain and reduced buzz. The fingerboard radius and string spacing will affect playability, especially for extended low notes.

Amplification and Electronics

Modern 5-string basses feature active or passive humbucking pickups with 3-5 controls for tone shaping. Consider a humbucker configuration for its warm, articulate low end and clear highs. Balanced phase switching and independent coil-tapping offer additional versatility.

Aesthetic and Customization Options

From matte finishes to artistic custom painting, the 5-string bass market offers extensive visual customization. Consider how the finish affects playability and maintenance. Some models include features like built-in capos or multiple fretboard materials for unique sound characteristics.

FAQ

What is a 5-string bass?

A 5-string bass adds an additional lower string, typically a B below the standard 4-string bass's E, expanding its range and versatility for bassists who need or prefer more low-end frequency. This extra string allows for playing notes that were previously unattainable on a 4-string bass and improves tuning flexibility for certain musical styles.

The extra string is usually positioned between the 4th and 5th strings, though some models place it at the bottom. The most common tuning is B-E-A-D-G, but alternative tunings like BEADG or BGDAD are also used in various genres.

What are the benefits of a 5-string bass?

5-string basses offer expanded lower register capabilities, making them ideal for genres where deep bass tones are crucial, such as progressive rock, metal, and certain categories of metalcore. They also provide better tuning options for artists who find the standard 4-string's highest string too high for their musical needs.

The additional string enhances harmonic possibilities and finger positioning, particularly in complex chord progressions and when playing basslines that cross octaves. This versatility makes them valuable for both live performances and studio recordings.

What are the limitations of a 5-string bass?

The extra string adds weight to the instrument and slightly increases playing complexity, especially for bassists transitioning from 4-string. Setup requirements become more specialized, and finding compatible accessories like picks or straps may be more challenging.

Some bassists find the extended range creates more tension in the neck, potentially affecting playability. Additionally, not all bassists need or prefer the extra string, making 4-string basses still the more practical choice for many players.

Which basses are commonly available in 5-string configuration?

Popular 5-string basses include models from Fender (such as the Jazz Bass 5 and Precision Bass 5), Ibanez (GSR5), Yamaha (DB5), and ESP. Many guitar manufacturers also offer 5-string versions of their bass models.

These instruments are available in both traditional fretted designs and fretless options, with body styles ranging from jazz basses to more contemporary designs. Most manufacturers offer both active and passive electronics configurations.

How do you maintain a 5-string bass?

5-string basses require regular maintenance similar to 4-string models, including string changes, neck adjustments, and cleaning. Since the extended range can affect intonation and string tension, periodic neck setup may be necessary.

Keep in mind that heavier gauge strings may need more frequent changes, and the additional string requires careful attention during setup to ensure proper action and intonation across all six strings.

Are 5-string basses suitable for beginners?

While 5-string basses offer significant musical benefits, they may be too complex for beginners who are still developing their skills and understanding of basic bass techniques. The extra string requires more advanced playing concepts to utilize effectively.

However, experienced players who are ready to explore extended range capabilities and advanced tuning options will find 5-string basses a valuable addition to their setup. Consider starting with a 4-string bass if you're new to bass playing.