Top 5 Best 5 String Basses under $500 for All Levels of Players
Discover the best 5 string bass under $500 with our guide. Find quality options from top brands and enjoy unbeatable sound at an affordable price.
The search for the best 5-string bass under $500 can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one that fits your needs and budget. However, fear not, as we've done the research for you. In this article, we've compiled a list of the top 5-string basses that offer excellent value for money. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting, these basses are sure to impress with their exceptional sound quality, playability, and affordability.
First on our list is the Ibanez GSR105EX. This bass is perfect for those who are looking for a versatile instrument that can handle various genres. The GSR105EX features a solid mahogany body and a maple neck, which provides a warm and punchy tone that's perfect for rock, funk, and jazz music. It also comes equipped with two humbucking pickups that deliver a powerful and clear sound. Additionally, the GSR105EX has a sleek design with a comfortable playing feel, making it an excellent choice for long gigs.
If you're a fan of classic rock and blues, then the Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass V might be the one for you. This bass offers a vintage-inspired look and sound, thanks to its maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, and dual Fender-designed single-coil pickups. The Vintage Modified Jazz Bass V also has a slim and comfortable neck profile that makes it easy to play and ideal for players with smaller hands. Overall, this bass provides a unique and classic tone that will surely impress any audience.
For those who prefer a more modern and aggressive sound, the Schecter Stiletto Studio-5 is an excellent choice. This bass features a sleek and modern design with a beautiful satin finish. It also has a mahogany body and a neck-through construction that provides excellent sustain and stability. The Stiletto Studio-5 also comes equipped with EMG pickups, which deliver a high-output and clear sound that's perfect for heavy metal, hard rock, and other aggressive genres.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality, the Yamaha TRBX305 is an excellent choice. This bass features a solid mahogany body and a 5-piece maple/mahogany neck that provides a warm and punchy tone. It also has a versatile pickup configuration, with a split-coil and a humbucking pickup that offers a wide range of tonal options. Additionally, the TRBX305 has a comfortable and fast-playing neck that makes it easy to play for long hours.
Finally, we have the Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Ray5, which is an excellent choice for beginners who are just starting their bass journey. This bass features a solid hardwood body and a maple neck that provides a bright and clear tone. It also has a single high-output humbucker pickup that delivers a punchy and powerful sound that's perfect for rock and pop music. Additionally, the S.U.B. Ray5 has a lightweight and comfortable design that makes it easy to play for extended periods.
In conclusion, choosing the best 5-string bass under $500 can be a daunting task, but with our top picks, you're sure to find one that suits your playing style and budget. Whether you're into classic rock, modern metal, or anything in between, these basses offer exceptional value for money and are sure to impress with their sound quality and playability.
Introduction
The bass guitar is an essential instrument in most genres of music. It provides the foundation for the rhythm section and adds depth to the overall sound of a band. Five-string bass guitars have become increasingly popular among bass players due to their extended range and versatility. However, finding a quality five-string bass guitar under $500 can be challenging. In this article, we will discuss the best five-string bass guitars under $500.The Criteria for Selection
Before we dive into our list of the best five-string bass guitars, it's essential to understand the criteria we used to select them. We considered factors such as playability, build quality, sound quality, and value for money. We also took into account the opinions of professional musicians and user reviews to ensure that our selection is unbiased and based on actual experiences with these instruments.Ibanez GSR205B
The Ibanez GSR205B is an excellent choice for bass players who are looking for a quality five-string bass guitar without breaking the bank. This bass guitar features a mahogany body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The GSR205B has a sleek, comfortable design that makes it easy to play for extended periods. The bass guitar is equipped with two passive humbucking pickups that deliver a clear, powerful sound. The GSR205B also features active EQ controls that allow you to shape your tone to your liking.Build Quality
The Ibanez GSR205B is well-built and sturdy. The mahogany body and maple neck provide excellent sustain and stability. The hardware is also of good quality and will last for years with proper care.Sound Quality
The GSR205B delivers a full, rich sound with plenty of low-end punch. The passive humbucking pickups produce a warm, natural tone that is perfect for a wide range of genres. The active EQ controls allow you to dial in your desired tone precisely.Playability
The Ibanez GSR205B has a comfortable, fast-playing neck that makes it easy to play complex bass lines. The fretboard is smooth and allows for effortless finger movement. The bass guitar is also lightweight, making it easy to play for extended periods without fatigue.Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V
The Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V is an affordable option for bass players who want a five-string bass guitar that looks and feels like a premium instrument. This bass guitar features a sleek, classic design that is reminiscent of the iconic Fender Jazz Bass. The Affinity Series Jazz Bass V has a maple neck, a rosewood fretboard, and a poplar body. The bass guitar is equipped with two single-coil pickups that deliver a bright, articulate sound.Build Quality
The Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V is well-built and durable. The poplar body provides excellent resonance and sustain, while the maple neck and rosewood fretboard provide a smooth, comfortable playing experience.Sound Quality
The Affinity Series Jazz Bass V delivers a bright, punchy sound that is ideal for funk, rock, and jazz music. The single-coil pickups produce a clear, articulate tone that cuts through the mix.Playability
The Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V has a comfortable, fast-playing neck that makes it easy to play complex bass lines. The fretboard is smooth and allows for effortless finger movement. The bass guitar is also lightweight, making it easy to play for extended periods without fatigue.Yamaha TRBX305
The Yamaha TRBX305 is a versatile and well-designed five-string bass guitar that is suitable for a wide range of genres. This bass guitar features a mahogany body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The TRBX305 has a unique bridge design that improves sustain and tone. The bass guitar is equipped with two humbucking pickups that deliver a clear, powerful sound.Build Quality
The Yamaha TRBX305 is built to last. The mahogany body and maple neck provide excellent stability and sustain, while the hardware is of high quality and will last for years with proper care.Sound Quality
The TRBX305 delivers a full, rich sound with plenty of low-end punch. The humbucking pickups produce a clear, powerful tone that is perfect for a wide range of genres. The unique bridge design improves sustain and overall tone.Playability
The Yamaha TRBX305 has a comfortable, fast-playing neck that makes it easy to play complex bass lines. The fretboard is smooth and allows for effortless finger movement. The bass guitar is also lightweight, making it easy to play for extended periods without fatigue.Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Ray5
The Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Ray5 is an affordable five-string bass guitar that is designed to provide professional-level performance. This bass guitar features a solid hardwood body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The Ray5 has a classic design that is reminiscent of the iconic Music Man StingRay bass. The bass guitar is equipped with a humbucking pickup that delivers a clear, powerful sound.Build Quality
The Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Ray5 is well-built and sturdy. The hardwood body provides excellent resonance and sustain, while the maple neck and rosewood fretboard provide a smooth, comfortable playing experience. The hardware is also of good quality and will last for years with proper care.Sound Quality
The Ray5 delivers a clear, powerful sound that is perfect for rock and metal music. The humbucking pickup produces a full, rich tone with plenty of low-end punch.Playability
The Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Ray5 has a comfortable, fast-playing neck that makes it easy to play complex bass lines. The fretboard is smooth and allows for effortless finger movement. The bass guitar is also lightweight, making it easy to play for extended periods without fatigue.ESP LTD B-205SM
The ESP LTD B-205SM is a high-quality five-string bass guitar that is designed for professional-level performance. This bass guitar features a spalted maple top, a mahogany body, a five-piece maple and rosewood neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The B-205SM has a sleek, modern design that is sure to turn heads. The bass guitar is equipped with two humbucking pickups that deliver a clear, powerful sound.Build Quality
The ESP LTD B-205SM is built to last. The spalted maple top, mahogany body, and five-piece neck provide excellent stability and sustain, while the hardware is of high quality and will last for years with proper care.Sound Quality
The B-205SM delivers a full, rich sound with plenty of low-end punch. The humbucking pickups produce a clear, powerful tone that is perfect for a wide range of genres.Playability
The ESP LTD B-205SM has a comfortable, fast-playing neck that makes it easy to play complex bass lines. The fretboard is smooth and allows for effortless finger movement. The bass guitar is also lightweight, making it easy to play for extended periods without fatigue.Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several high-quality five-string bass guitars available for under $500. The Ibanez GSR205B, Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V, Yamaha TRBX305, Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Ray5, and ESP LTD B-205SM all provide excellent value for money and are suitable for a wide range of genres. When choosing a five-string bass guitar, consider factors such as build quality, sound quality, and playability. With the right instrument, you can take your bass playing to the next level.Introduction to 5 String Basses
Bass guitars are an essential part of any band, and they come in different shapes and sizes. One of the popular bass guitar types is the 5-string bass, which is used by many bassists in a variety of genres, including metal, funk, and jazz. The extra string on the 5-string bass provides a wider range of notes, allowing bassists to play lower notes without having to switch to a different bass guitar.When shopping for a 5-string bass, there are different factors to consider, such as the build quality, tone, playability, and price. In this article, we will discuss the best 5-string basses under 500 dollars, taking into account these factors.Factors to Consider When Choosing a 5 String Bass Under 500
1. Build Quality: The build quality of a bass guitar is crucial because it determines how durable and long-lasting the instrument will be. A good 5-string bass should have a solid construction, with a sturdy body, neck, and hardware.2. Tone: The tone of a bass guitar is another essential factor to consider. A good 5-string bass should produce a rich and balanced sound, with clear highs, mids, and lows.3. Playability: The playability of a bass guitar refers to how comfortable and easy it is to play. A good 5-string bass should have a smooth and fast neck, with well-spaced frets and a comfortable body shape.4. Price: The price of a bass guitar is also an important factor to consider, especially if you are on a budget. A good 5-string bass should offer value for money, with a reasonable price tag that reflects its features and quality.The Best 5 String Basses Under 500 in 2021
1. Ibanez GSRM25 Mikro 5-String BassThe Ibanez GSRM25 Mikro 5-String Bass is a compact and lightweight bass guitar that's perfect for beginners and intermediate players. It features a solid mahogany body, a maple neck with a rosewood fretboard, and a set of Dynamix P and J pickups that produce a bright and punchy tone.The GSRM25 also has a fast and slim neck profile, with 22 medium frets that are easy to play. The hardware includes a B15 bridge and chrome tuners, which provide stable tuning and intonation.At around 200 dollars, the Ibanez GSRM25 Mikro 5-String Bass is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable 5-string bass.2. Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass VThe Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V is a classic-style bass guitar that offers excellent value for money. It features a solid alder body, a maple neck with a rosewood fretboard, and a pair of single-coil Jazz Bass pickups that deliver a warm and versatile tone.The Affinity Series Jazz Bass V also has a comfortable C-shaped neck profile, with 20 medium jumbo frets that provide easy access to all notes. The hardware includes a standard 5-saddle bridge and open-gear tuners, which offer smooth and precise tuning.At around 300 dollars, the Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V is an affordable and well-built 5-string bass that's suitable for various playing styles.3. Sterling by Music Man Ray5 Bass GuitarThe Sterling by Music Man Ray5 Bass Guitar is a high-quality instrument that's designed for serious players. It features a solid mahogany body, a maple neck with a rosewood fretboard, and a powerful humbucking pickup that delivers a rich and full-bodied tone.The Ray5 also has a slim and fast neck profile, with 22 medium jumbo frets that provide excellent playability. The hardware includes a heavy-duty bridge and tuners, which offer reliable tuning and sustain.At around 400 dollars, the Sterling by Music Man Ray5 Bass Guitar is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a premium 5-string bass without breaking the bank.4. Yamaha TRBX305 5-String Electric Bass GuitarThe Yamaha TRBX305 5-String Electric Bass Guitar is a versatile and well-rounded instrument that's suitable for different playing styles. It features a solid mahogany body, a maple/mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard, and a pair of humbucking pickups that produce a clear and powerful tone.The TRBX305 also has a comfortable and ergonomic body shape, with a fast and slim neck profile that's easy to play. The hardware includes a high-mass bridge and die-cast tuners, which offer excellent tuning stability and sustain.At around 500 dollars, the Yamaha TRBX305 5-String Electric Bass Guitar is a bit more expensive than other options on this list, but it's worth the investment if you're looking for a high-quality 5-string bass.5. Dean Edge 5-String Bass GuitarThe Dean Edge 5-String Bass Guitar is a stylish and affordable instrument that offers excellent value for money. It features a solid basswood body, a maple neck with a rosewood fretboard, and a set of active EQ pickups that deliver a bright and punchy tone.The Edge also has a sleek and modern design, with a double-cutaway body shape and a fast and thin neck profile that's ideal for shredders. The hardware includes a high-mass bridge and die-cast tuners, which offer stable tuning and intonation.At around 300 dollars, the Dean Edge 5-String Bass Guitar is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and well-built 5-string bass.Comparison of the Best 5 String Basses Under 500
| Model | Body Material | Neck Material | Pickup Configuration | Price ||-------|--------------|---------------|----------------------|-------|| Ibanez GSRM25 Mikro 5-String Bass | Mahogany | Maple/Rosewood | P/J | Around 200 dollars || Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V | Alder | Maple/Rosewood | 2x Single Coil | Around 300 dollars || Sterling by Music Man Ray5 Bass Guitar | Mahogany | Maple/Rosewood | 1x Humbucker | Around 400 dollars || Yamaha TRBX305 5-String Electric Bass Guitar | Mahogany | Maple/Mahogany/Rosewood | 2x Humbucker | Around 500 dollars || Dean Edge 5-String Bass Guitar | Basswood | Maple/Rosewood | Active EQ | Around 300 dollars |Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best 5 String Bass Under 500
Choosing the best 5-string bass under 500 dollars can be a daunting task, but with the right information and research, you can find a high-quality instrument that meets your needs and budget. When shopping for a 5-string bass, consider factors such as build quality, tone, playability, and price, and choose a model that suits your playing style and preferences.In this article, we have discussed some of the best 5-string basses under 500 dollars, including the Ibanez GSRM25 Mikro 5-String Bass, Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V, Sterling by Music Man Ray5 Bass Guitar, Yamaha TRBX305 5-String Electric Bass Guitar, and Dean Edge 5-String Bass Guitar. Each of these models offers unique features and qualities that make them suitable for different players and genres.Ultimately, the best 5-string bass under 500 dollars is one that feels comfortable, sounds great, and inspires you to play your best. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, there's a 5-string bass out there that's perfect for you.The Best 5 String Bass Under $500: Our Top Picks
Introduction
As a bassist, finding a good quality 5 string bass that won't break the bank can be a challenge. However, with the right research and knowledge, you can find some great options that won't cost you an arm and a leg. In this article, we'll take a look at our top picks for the best 5 string bass under $500, along with their pros and cons.Our Top Picks
1. Ibanez GSR205B 5-String Bass
The Ibanez GSR205B is a popular choice for those on a budget. It has a sleek design, comfortable neck, and versatile sound. Here are some pros and cons:Pros:- Affordable price- Lightweight and easy to play- Wide range of tonesCons:- Passive pickups may not be as powerful as active ones- Some users have reported issues with the tuners2. Yamaha TRBX305 5-String Bass
The Yamaha TRBX305 is another great option for those looking for a budget-friendly 5 string bass. It has a solid construction and high-quality components. Here are some pros and cons:Pros:- Great sound quality- Comfortable to play for long periods of time- Durable buildCons:- More expensive than some other budget options- Some users have reported issues with the neck joint3. Squier by Fender Affinity Series Jazz Bass V
The Squier by Fender Affinity Series Jazz Bass V is a great option for beginners or those looking for a backup bass. It has a classic design and decent sound quality. Here are some pros and cons:Pros:- Affordable price- Classic Fender design- Good for beginnersCons:- May require some upgrades to improve sound quality- Some users have reported issues with the fretwork4. Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Ray5
The Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Ray5 is a great option for those looking for a bass with a punchy sound. It has a solid build and high-quality components. Here are some pros and cons:Pros:- Powerful sound- Comfortable neck- Good value for the priceCons:- Some users have reported issues with the finish- May require some setup adjustments out of the box5. ESP LTD B-155DX 5-String Bass
The ESP LTD B-155DX is a great option for those looking for a bass with a modern sound. It has a sleek design and high-quality components. Here are some pros and cons:Pros:- Great sound quality- Comfortable to play- Durable constructionCons:- More expensive than some other budget options- May require some tuning adjustments out of the boxComparison Table
Here's a comparison table to help you compare the different features and specs of our top picks:| Bass Model | Price | Pickup Type | Body Material | Neck Material | Scale Length | Number of Frets ||----------------------|-----------|----------------|----------------|-----------------|---------------|------------------|| Ibanez GSR205B | $299.99 | Passive | Mahogany | Maple | 34 | 22 || Yamaha TRBX305 | $399.99 | Active | Alder | Maple/Mahogany | 34 | 24 || Squier Jazz Bass V | $229.99 | Passive | Alder | Maple | 34 | 20 || Sterling Ray5 | $379.99 | Active | Basswood | Maple | 34 | 22 || ESP LTD B-155DX | $499.00 | Active | Basswood | Maple | 34 | 24 |Overall, when it comes to finding the best 5 string bass under $500, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, these basses offer excellent sound quality, comfortable playability, and durable construction without breaking the bank.The Best 5 String Bass Under $500: A Comprehensive Guide
Thank you for taking the time to read our guide on the best 5 string basses under $500. We hope that we were able to provide valuable insights and information that will help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next bass guitar. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, we believe that there is a 5 string bass on this list that will suit your needs and budget.
Before you make your final decision, it is important to consider what type of music you will be playing, your playing style, and your personal preferences. Each bass guitar on this list has its own unique sound, features, and design, so it's important to choose one that matches your individual needs.
If you're looking for a versatile 5 string bass that can handle a wide range of musical styles, we recommend the Yamaha TRBX305. This bass guitar features a solid mahogany body, a 5-piece maple/mahogany neck, and a pair of powerful MHB3 humbucking pickups that deliver a rich and full-bodied tone. With its comfortable neck and smooth playability, the TRBX305 is a great choice for both beginners and experienced players.
For those who prefer a more traditional and classic sound, the Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass V is an excellent option. With its sleek and stylish design, alder body, and two single-coil Jazz Bass pickups, this bass guitar delivers a warm and punchy tone that is perfect for funk, jazz, and rock music. The fast and comfortable C-shaped neck makes it easy to play, even for beginners.
If you're looking for a bass guitar that can handle heavy metal and hard rock, the Ibanez GSR205B is an excellent choice. This bass guitar features a lightweight and comfortable mahogany body, a smooth and fast maple neck, and a pair of powerful Dynamix pickups that deliver a thick and aggressive tone. With its sleek and modern design, the GSR205B is a great choice for players who want to stand out on stage.
The Schecter Stiletto Studio-5 is another great option for metal and hard rock players. With its solid mahogany body, maple neck, and EMG pickups, this bass guitar delivers a powerful and punchy tone that is perfect for heavy music. The sleek and stylish design, combined with the fast and comfortable neck, makes it a great choice for players who want to look and sound their best on stage.
Finally, if you're looking for a budget-friendly 5 string bass that doesn't compromise on quality, we recommend the Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Ray5. This bass guitar features a solid basswood body, a smooth and fast maple neck, and a powerful ceramic humbucking pickup that delivers a rich and full-bodied tone. Despite its affordable price tag, the S.U.B. Ray5 is a well-built and reliable instrument that is perfect for beginners and students.
In conclusion, we believe that any of the 5 string bass guitars on this list would be a great choice for players on a budget. Each bass guitar has its own unique sound, features, and design, so it's important to choose one that matches your individual needs and preferences. We hope that our guide has provided you with the information and insights you need to make an informed decision when purchasing your next bass guitar. Thank you for visiting our blog!
People also ask about the best 5 string bass under 500
What is a 5 string bass?
A 5 string bass is a type of bass guitar that has five strings instead of the traditional four. The additional string is usually a low B string, which gives the bassist access to lower notes and a wider range of sounds.
Why should I consider buying a 5 string bass?
If you're a bassist who wants to expand your playing range and have access to lower notes, a 5 string bass is a great option. It can also be useful for playing in different genres like metal or jazz where lower notes are frequently used.
What should I look for in a 5 string bass under $500?
When looking for a 5 string bass under $500, you want to consider factors such as the build quality, tonal options, and playability. You should also look for a bass that fits your specific playing style and needs.
What are some good options for a 5 string bass under $500?
There are several great options for a 5 string bass under $500, including:1. Ibanez GSR205B2. Squier by Fender Affinity Jazz V3. Yamaha TRBX3054. Sterling by Music Man SUB Ray55. Dean Edge 5These basses offer great sound, build quality, and playability at an affordable price point.
Can I get a good quality 5 string bass for under $500?
Yes, there are many high-quality 5 string basses available for under $500. These basses may not have all the features of a more expensive bass, but they can still provide great sound and playability for the budget-conscious musician.