String Strummers: 19 Best Acoustic Bass Guitars for Soulful Sound and Unforgettable Performance

Strumming the strings of a bass guitar creates a rich, deep sound that adds depth to any musical composition. In this article, we will be rounding up the best acoustic bassbass guitarsguitars on the market, highlighting their unique features, and helping you choose the perfect model for your musical endeavors.

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Acoustic Bass Guitar with Grand Concert Body and Mahogany Back & Sides

Play on a Washburn AB5K-A, perfect for acoustic bass lovers who want a powerful and resonant sound. With its spruce top and mahogany back and sides, it produces an amazing full and rich tone. Add the convenience of a cutaway body and a 32 short scale mahogany neck, and you have an easy-to-play and stylish bass guitar. Its Washburn QPH electronics offer a 4 band EQ, volume, and phase control for a serious amplified sound. Plus, the padded gig bag ensures protection and convenience during transport. Try Washburn AB5K-A for a serious amplified tone.

Fender Kingman Acoustic Bass: Rich Tone and Versatile Performance

Be the bass king with this Fender Kingman V2 in gloss black. Its solid spruce top and laminated mahogany body provide a rich, powerful low end tone that brings your music to life. The mahogany neck and walnut fingerboard offer smooth playability, while the open back geared machine heads and Fishman electronics offer precision and control. Whether you’re playing live or practicing, this bass delivers a royal sound that you’ll be proud of.

Fender Acoustic Bass Guitar - Black

The Fender CB-60SCE Acoustic Bass effortlessly combines classic design and cutting-edge technology to create an unparalleled playing experience. Its solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides deliver a rich, warm sound, while the flexible Fishman electronics system ensures it sounds just as impressive on stage as it does at home. With its comfortable, slim-taper neck profile, this guitar is perfect for both professional and novice players. Add to that its sleek, black finish and impressive performance, and you’ve got the ultimate unplugged companion.

Cordoba Mini II Bass MH-E Acoustic Bass Guitar - Natural Finish

The Cordoba Mini II Bass MH-E is a delightful compact companion for bass enthusiasts on the go. Its all-mahogany build ensures top-notch acoustics, while the slightly deeper body and longer scale length provide a more robust tone than your average travel bass. This miniature powerhouse boasts rich, resonant sounds and stunning visual appeal, thanks to the black ABS binding, abalone rosette, and pearloid dot inlays. The Cordoba Mini II Bass MH-E comes equipped with a piezo pickup, allowing you to plug in and produce a crystal-clear, amplified sound. So why wait? Explore new musical horizons with this portable bass that packs a punch.

Best Choice Products Natural Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar

Experience rich, resonant sound for your acoustic-electric adventures with the 22-fret Full Size Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar. Equipped with a 4-band EQ-7545R guitar preamp, this versatile gem is perfect for beginners learning their first few tunes or accomplished players in need of an on-the-go practice solution. Crafted with attractive inlay and chrome die cast tuners, this glossy beauty offers an exceptional playing experience. Plus, with a high-quality fit and finish, you’ll wonder how this guitar doesn’t break the bank. Simply plug in, strum, and enjoy the music that flows from this captivating instrument.

Tanglewood Winterleaf Acoustic/Electric Bass - Natural Gloss

Experience the rich, woody tones of the Tanglewood Winterleaf Acoustic/Electric Bass, featuring a solid spruce top and mahogany body. This 4-string beauty offers discreet electronics and a comfortable C-shape neck, perfect for both acoustic and amplified performances. Its B-Band pickup and preamp ensure impressive volume, while the Tech wood fingerboard delivers beautiful dynamics and balance.

Best Choice Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar - 22-Fret Full Size

Groove to the rhythm of this budget-friendly, full-sized acoustic electric bass guitar boasting a 4-band equalizer and adjustable truss rod. Despite its price tag, this instrument delivers a rich, vibrant sound and offers plenty of room for customization. With a solid construction, it’s perfect for rocking out in the comfort of your own home.

Ibanez Acoustic-Electric Bass - Weathered Black

Boasting a weathered black finish, the Ibanez PCBE14MH Acoustic-Electric Bass is renowned for its versatility and warm, rich tone that impresses on both the stage and during unplugged performances. With a laurel fretboard and an okoume top, this bass promises to deliver a full, resonant audio experience that is truly remarkable. Featuring a built-in tuner for convenient tuning on the go, the PCBE14MH also comes equipped with a maple neck and laurel fingerboard, ensuring a comfortable and effortless playing experience. This exceptional bass guitar, crafted from high-quality materials, is a must-have for singers, songwriters, and any bass enthusiast in search of excellent acoustic bass.

Mahogany Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar with Rosewood Fretboard

The Dean EABC 5-String Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Bass is a powerful and versatile instrument, perfect for both live performance and recording sessions. Its mahogany body and neck provide warmth and depth to its sound, while the rosewood fretboard enhances the overall playability. The cutaway design allows for easy access to the highest frets, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy playing solos. With its unique blend of acoustic and electric tones, this bass is an excellent value for its price range, making it a great investment for any bass enthusiast.

Portable Mahogany Acoustic-Electric U Bass with Onboard Tuner (Awarded ‘Best Non-Guitar Fretted Instrument of 2018’)

Meet the Kala Wanderer Acoustic-Electric U Bass - a miniature marvel designed for music lovers on the move. This portable gem is expertly crafted with an all-mahogany body, which guarantees a rich, deep sound that you would typically expect from a large, stationary upright bass. Equipped with a handy built-in piezo pickup, tuner, and custom round wound strings, this multifaceted instrument truly delivers a powerful punch, despite its compact size. The custom deluxe padded gig bag not only offers ease but also the utmost protection, making it a trustworthy choice for both novice and seasoned players alike.

Vintage-Inspired Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar with Fishman Electronics

Experience unparalleled performance with the Epiphone El Capitan J-200 Studio Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar. This extraordinary instrument boasts a captivating aged vintage sunburst finish, accompanied by a robust, dynamic sound enhancing your musical endeavors. The bass flaunts the iconic design of the legendary SJ-200, complete with eye-catching pearloid crown inlays on its 20-fret Indian laurel fretboard and an iconic Moustache bridge. Built with a durable solid Sitka spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a high-quality mahogany neck, the El Capitan J-200 Studio guarantees an unforgettable playing experience. It also comes equipped with a superior Fishman Sonitone under-saddle pickup and Sonicore preamp, making it an outstanding choice for every performance setting. Get set to create remarkable tunes with the El Capitan J-200 Studio Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar.

Ibanez PCBE12MH Acoustic-Electric Bass: Premium Tone, Versatile Performance

The Ibanez PCBE12MH, a stunning acoustic-electric bass, boasts a rich sound and beautiful finish. With its mahogany top, back, and sides, it delivers a warm and full tone, while the open pore natural finish enhances its vibration and sound quality. The Nandu wood fretboard and bridge add a touch of luxury, providing a crisp high end and a rich mid-range sound. The Ibanez AEQ-2T preamp with onboard tuner allows for precise frequency tailoring and effortless tuning, making this bass an ideal choice for guitar enthusiasts seeking a well-built and versatile instrument.

Sawtooth Rudy Sarzo Signature Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar: Unleash Your Musicality

The Sawtooth Acoustic-Electric Bass, a masterpiece crafted in collaboration with bass legend Rudy Sarzo, is a mesmerizing combination of beauty and playability. With its top-notch features, including a flame maple back, sides, and C-shaped neck, this bass delivers a rich, powerful sound that’s perfect for the stage or the studio. The Fishman Presys II electronics and hand-rubbed satin violin stain finish are just a few of its many strengths, making it a must-have for bass enthusiasts everywhere.

Organic Breedlove Solo Pro Acoustic-Electric Bass - Edgeburst

The Breedlove Organic Solo Pro CE concerto acoustic-electric bass guitar is a versatile instrument for players of all levels. Crafted from premium wood, this bass offers a rich, resonant sound perfect for live performances and practice sessions. With its side-mounted monitor soundhole and Fishman Flex Plus-T electronics, you’ll have complete control over your tone, and the included hardshell case ensures your bass is protected during transportation. Give your music the professional touch it deserves with this Organic Breedlove Solo Pro CE concerto acoustic-electric bass.

Vividx-B Preamped Acoustic Bass from Sire: Rich Sound for Smooth Jazz Enthusiasts

This Sire Marcus Miller 4-string acoustic bass is perfect for jazz enthusiasts seeking smooth, unplugged tones. With its natural finish and chambered body materials, it faithfully reproduces the vibrant bass sound of upright basses. The C-shape Edgeless neck, crafted from Mahogany with a Rosewood fretboard, ensures effortless playability and maximum comfort. It also features a Vividx-B preamp, including a 3-band EQ and a phase switch, allowing you to customize your sound with ease. Whether you’re strumming or soloing, this bass will perfectly accompany your jazz journey.

Kala Scout U-Bass: Fretless Acoustic-Electric Bass with Aquila Thunderblack Strings

Experience the compact and powerful U-Bass by Kala, a fretless Acoustic-Electric U-Bass designed for bassists of any genre. Featuring a mahogany neck, rosewood fingerboard, and active U-BASS EQ with built-in tuner, this U-Bass boasts a rich, low-end sound that punches through any song. The satin finish and cream binding give it a sleek, modern look, while the comfortable ergonomics make any playing style feel effortless. Perfect for live performances or studio sessions, the U-Bass by Kala is a must-have for serious bass players.

Dean EABC Electric-Acoustic Bass Guitar: A Comfortable Choice for Beginners

Experience the affordability and versatility of the Dean EABC Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar, an ideal choice for novices aiming to elevate their bass playing skills to new heights. Boasting a stunning natural finish, this bass is designed with a convenient cutaway, ensuring effortless access to upper frets. Enhanced by a select spruce top, a 34” full size scale, chrome die-cast tuners, and a sturdy mahogany back, sides, and neck, this cutting-edge instrument delivers remarkable acoustic and electric performances. Perfect for jamming, recording at home, or live performances, the Dean EABC Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar proves a reliable, cost-effective option. While certain users might come across minor cosmetic imperfections or require adjustments such as adjusting the action or replacing the tuning machines, overall, this guitar offers excellent value and solid performance at an unmatched price point.

Dean EAB Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar

This affordable fretless acoustic-electric bass guitar from Dean is a perfect addition for musicians on a budget. With a deep, full unplugged tone and a preamp with EQ and built-in tuner, it’s an excellent instrument for practicing or jamming with friends. Additionally, the large body and 34”-scale neck deliver a warm, natural volume, making it great for unplugged performances. The lack of a cutaway might be a minor inconvenience, but overall, this bass packs a punch for its price, making it an incredible value for budget-conscious musicians.

Luna Tribal Tobacco Sunburst Acoustic Bass Guitar: Distinct Tribal Design & Deep Bass Tone

The Luna Tribal Tobacco Sunburst acoustic bass guitar blends sharp aesthetics with convenient playability features, standing out on and off the stage. The tribal design around the sound hole adds depth to the smooth Tobacco Sunburst satin finish. Constructed with a mahogany back, sides, neck, and spruce top, this guitar delivers a rich sound that can be easily amplified with the onboard Luna preamp system and tuner. Whether you’re adding deep bass to jazz or folk tunes or just starting out, this Tribal Tobacco Sunburst Acoustic/Electric guitar is a versatile choice.

Buyer’s Guide

Acoustic bass guitars are a versatile and essential instrument for any bassist. They offer a warm, resonant sound that can be heard both on stage and in the studio. In this buyer’s guide, we will explore some important features, considerations, and general advice for acoustic bass guitars to help you make the best choice for your needs.

Body Material

The body material of an acoustic bass guitar plays a significant role in determining its sound and performance. Some common materials include solid wood, laminate, and composite. Solid wood bodies generally produce better sound quality but can be more expensive. Laminate and composite bodies are more budget-friendly but may lack the resonance of solid wood.

Scale Length

The scale length refers to the distance between the nut and the bridge on a guitar. Acoustic bass guitars typically have a longer scale length compared to electric bass guitars, which can range from 34 to 37 inches. A longer scale length can lead to a more resonant sound and better playability for experienced players. Consider your playing experience and skill level when selecting an appropriate scale length.

Bridge Type

There are two main types of bridges on acoustic bass guitars: adjustable and fixed. Adjustable bridges allow for fine-tuning of the string action, while fixed bridges offer more stability. Fixed bridges are generally preferred for their ease of use and consistency in performance. However, some players may prefer adjustable bridges for the ability to fine-tune their bass.

Playability

An important aspect to consider when purchasing an acoustic bass guitar is its playability. A comfortable neck profile, proper string action, and easy access to the highest frets are all factors that contribute to a guitar’s playability. Consider trying out different models in a store or through a rental service to find the one that feels the most comfortable and playable for you.

FAQ

What is an acoustic bass guitar?

An acoustic bass guitar is a large-bodied instrument that belongs to the guitar family. It is played with the fingers or a pick and produces sound through its hollow body, which gives it a rich and resonant tone. Acoustic bass guitars have a longer scale length than standard electric guitars, making them more suitable for bass-like tones. They are commonly used in jazz and acoustic music genres.

The acoustic bass has four strings, tuned to E, A, D, and G, like a standard bass guitar. However, due to its larger size and different construction, the acoustic bass produces a warmer and rounder sound compared to its electric counterpart. Additionally, the sound is often amplified using a pickup or a microphone to create a fuller and more pronounced tone during performances and recordings.

What makes an acoustic bass different from an electric bass?

The primary differences between an acoustic and an electric bass lie in their construction and sound production methods. Acoustic basses have a hollow body made of wood, typically with a larger scale length and thicker strings. This gives them a warm, resonant sound that is often associated with traditional stringed instruments. Electric basses, on the other hand, have a solid body and use magnetic pickups to convert string vibrations into an electrical signal, which is then amplified by a bass amplifier or PA system.

Another key difference between the two is their versatility and usage. Acoustic bass guitars are most commonly associated with jazz and acoustic music, while electric basses have a broader application in various music genres, including rock, pop, and metal. Additionally, electric basses offer more control over sound and tone through the use of various pickups, bridge designs, and preamps, allowing players to fine-tune their sound for specific styles and genres.

What are some popular brands of acoustic bass guitars?

There are several well-known brands that manufacture acoustic bass guitars. Some of the most popular include Gibson, Fender, Yamaha, and Epiphone. These brands have been producing high-quality instruments for many years, and their acoustic bass guitars are known for their craftsmanship, sound quality, and durability.

In addition to these well-established brands, there are also several other companies that produce acoustic bass guitars, such as Warwick, Godin, and Ibanez. These brands often offer more budget-friendly options or unique designs, providing a diverse range of choices for players looking for an acoustic bass guitar that suits their preferences and playing style.

What is the best acoustic bass guitar for beginners?

The best acoustic bass guitar for beginners depends on personal preferences and budget. Generally, it is recommended to start with a more affordable option that offers good value for money, while still providing a decent sound and construction quality. Some popular choices for beginner-friendly acoustic bass guitars include the Yamaha APB1AYC, Fender Squire Vintage Classic V, and Epiphone EB-Bass.

These guitars are typically budget-friendly and designed with beginners in mind, offering easy playability and forgiving actions, which makes learning and practicing more comfortable. It is also essential to consider factors such as the guitar’s scale length, string tension, and overall build quality to ensure that it meets your needs and that it will be a reliable instrument for your journey into playing the acoustic bass guitar.

How should I maintain and care for my acoustic bass guitar?

To ensure your acoustic bass guitar stays in good condition and continues to produce high-quality sound, it is essential to properly maintain and care for it. Some essential steps include regularly cleaning the instrument, tuning it, and changing the strings when needed. Additionally, proper storage and handling are crucial to prevent damage and maintain the guitar’s tone and integrity.

To clean your acoustic bass guitar, use a soft cloth and a specialized instrument cleaning solution or mild soap and water. Be gentle when wiping down the fretboard and body, avoiding any harsh abrasives or chemicals that could damage the finish or wood. Properly tuning the instrument ensures that the strings are at the correct pitch and contribute to an accurate and pleasant tone. Changing strings regularly, ideally every 3-6 months, will help maintain the guitar’s overall playing experience and sound quality. Lastly, when storing your acoustic bass guitar, use a well-fitting, padded case or gig bag to protect it from dust, moisture, and potential damage.

How much does an acoustic bass guitar typically cost?

The cost of an acoustic bass guitar can vary significantly depending on factors such as the brand, model, construction quality, and features. Generally, budget-friendly options are available for around $200-$500, while mid-range instruments can range from $500-$1500. High-end, professional-quality acoustic bass guitars can cost anywhere from $1500-$5000 or more.

It is essential to consider your playing level, needs, and financial budget when selecting an acoustic bass guitar. Beginners may find more budget-friendly options suitable, while intermediate or advanced players may prefer investing in a higher-quality instrument that offers better sound and durability. Research and compare various brands and models to find the perfect acoustic bass guitar that fits your requirements and budget.

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