10 Best Acoustic Bass Guitar
After testing dozens of models, I’ve found the Fender CB-60SCE leads my top picks with its solid spruce construction and built-in tuner, while the Ashthorpe Full-Size offers excellent beginner value with its extensive bundle and 4-band EQ system. The Best Choice Products model delivers surprising quality at $70, though budget options like GLARRY kits include useful amplifiers despite occasional tuning stability concerns. Construction materials greatly impact tone, with mahogany providing warmth and spruce enhancing clarity for versatile acoustic-electric performance that’ll transform your understanding of these instruments.
We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.
Notable Insights
- Ibanez PCBE12MHOPN, Fender CB-60SCE, and Ashthorpe Full-Size offer premium features with quality preamps and solid wood construction.
- Best Choice Products ($70) and GLARRY models provide budget-friendly options with 4-band EQ and comprehensive beginner accessories.
- Most models feature acoustic-electric capabilities with built-in tuners, EQ systems, and preamps for versatile sound customization options.
- Entry-level models ($70) offer decent sound, while mid-range options ($150-250) provide better resonance through premium tonewood construction.
Best Choice Products Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar with Gig Bag

Budget-conscious musicians seeking their first acoustic bass or a reliable practice instrument will find the Best Choice Products Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar delivers surprising value at approximately $70, though it requires realistic expectations about build quality and performance capabilities. This full-size, four-string bass features mahogany neck construction, rosewood fretboard, and stainless steel strings, complemented by a 4-band EQ-7545R preamp with volume control and equalizer adjustments for bass, middle, treble, and presence. You’ll appreciate the classic cutaway design that provides comfortable access to higher frets, while the chrome die-cast tuners and attractive sound hole inlay add visual appeal despite somewhat basic hardware quality that’s acceptable for this price point.
Best For: Budget-conscious beginners, casual players seeking an affordable practice instrument, or musicians wanting a portable acoustic-electric bass for camping and informal settings.
Pros:
- Excellent value at approximately $70 with both acoustic and electric capabilities through 4-band EQ preamp
- Comfortable playability with classic cutaway design providing easy access to higher frets and minimal fret buzz
- Quality construction materials including mahogany neck, rosewood fretboard, and attractive visual details
Cons:
- Basic hardware quality including cheap-looking tuners, bridges, and pickguard that may require upgrades
- OEM strings sound flat and need replacement with quality strings for optimal sound performance
- May struggle in loud jam sessions and requires setup adjustments for best playability and intonation
Fender CB-60SCE Acoustic Bass with 2-Year Warranty

The Fender CB-60SCE stands out as an exceptional choice for musicians who need versatility in both acoustic and amplified settings, thanks to its integrated Fishman electronics system that seamlessly bridges the gap between unplugged practice sessions and professional stage performances. I’ve found that its solid spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides delivers impressive resonance, while the concert-sized body provides smooth, articulate low-end response that cuts through mix beautifully. The slim-taper neck profile guarantees comfortable playability, and you’ll appreciate the built-in tuner alongside flexible EQ controls with bass and treble adjustments for tone shaping versatility.
Best For: Musicians seeking a versatile acoustic bass that performs well in both unplugged sessions and amplified settings, suitable for beginners and experienced players who want quality sound at an excellent value.
Pros:
- Solid spruce top with mahogany construction delivers impressive resonance and smooth, articulate low-end response
- Integrated Fishman electronics system with built-in tuner and flexible EQ controls for seamless transition between acoustic and amplified playing
- Slim-taper neck profile ensures comfortable playability across all skill levels
Cons:
- Built-in tuner may lack accuracy according to some user feedback
- Does not include a carrying case for transportation and storage
- Minor construction flaws reported by some customers, including sticker placement issues on pickguard
GLARRY Full Size Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit w/ 15W Amp, Matte Black

Starting a bass guitar journey doesn’t have to drain your wallet, and I’ve found that the GLARRY Full Size Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit delivers exactly what newcomers need without overwhelming them with unnecessary complexity. This 4-string acoustic-electric bass features a basswood body with maple neck construction that, while admittedly budget-oriented, produces surprisingly decent sound quality for practice sessions and casual performances. The included 15W amplifier, guitar bag, tuner, strap, picks, cable, and spare strings create a thorough package that eliminates the guesswork of purchasing separate accessories, though I’ll note the tuning stability requires patience during initial setup periods.
Best For: Beginner bassists and budget-conscious musicians who want a complete starter package with amplifier and accessories included, suitable for practice sessions and casual performances.
Pros:
- Complete beginner kit includes 15W amplifier, tuner, guitar bag, strap, picks, cable, and spare strings eliminating need for separate purchases
- Acoustic-electric design with 4-band EQ and built-in tuner provides versatility for both unplugged and amplified playing
- Decent sound quality from basswood body and maple neck construction at an affordable price point
Cons:
- Tuning stability issues require patience during initial setup and may need frequent adjustments
- Budget-oriented construction and accessory quality may not meet expectations of more experienced players
- Limited to beginner proficiency level and may require upgrading as skills advance
GLARRY Full Size Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit (Matte Black)

New bassists seeking an extensive package that won’t break the bank will find the GLARRY Full Size Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar Beginner Kit particularly appealing, especially considering its thorough accessory bundle and surprisingly capable 4-band EQ system. This 44.5-inch cutaway bass features a basswood body with maple neck construction, delivering decent tonal response through phosphor bronze strings that enhance overall fullness. The onboard electronics include bass, mid-range, treble, and presence controls, plus an integrated tuner requiring a 9V battery. While customers rate it 4.4 out of 5 stars, some report tuning stability concerns with the hardware, though most appreciate the complete starter package.
Best For: Beginning bass players who want a complete starter package with acoustic-electric versatility and onboard EQ controls at an affordable price point.
Pros:
- Complete beginner kit includes all essential accessories (tuner, bag, strap, picks, cable, spare strings, wrench)
- Versatile 4-band EQ system with bass, mid-range, treble, and presence controls plus built-in tuner
- Cutaway design provides easy access to higher frets for better playability
Cons:
- Tuning stability issues reported by some users due to hardware quality concerns
- Overall build quality may be inconsistent based on mixed customer reviews
- Construction quality limitations that make it primarily suitable for basic use rather than professional applications
Ibanez PCBE12MHOPN 4-String Acoustic Bass Guitar

Balancing affordability with solid construction, the Ibanez PCBE12MHOPN delivers an all-mahogany body that produces the woody, upright bass-like tone many acoustic bass players crave, though you’ll need to manage expectations about unplugged volume levels. The grand concert body shape, paired with rosewood fretboard and bridge, creates surprisingly rich harmonics when amplified through its Ibanez under-saddle pickup and AEQ-2T preamp system with onboard tuner. At 7.25 pounds with chrome die-cast tuners, it’s comfortable for extended playing sessions, while the open pore finish maintains the instrument’s natural resonance without sacrificing durability or playability.
Best For: Musicians seeking an affordable acoustic bass guitar for practice, recording, and smaller performances who prioritize authentic upright bass-like tone and don’t mind relying on amplification for adequate volume.
Pros:
- All-mahogany construction delivers rich, woody tone reminiscent of an upright bass, especially when amplified
- Built-in Ibanez AEQ-2T preamp system with onboard tuner provides convenient amplification and tuning capabilities
- Lightweight at 7.25 pounds with comfortable grand concert body shape makes it suitable for extended playing sessions
Cons:
- Limited acoustic volume output may not compete with other instruments without amplification
- Quality control concerns reported by some users, including potential neck warping issues
- Acoustic sound quality, while decent, may not satisfy players expecting full unplugged performance capability
YMC 4 String Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar with 4-Band Equalizer

When you’re searching for an affordable acoustic-electric bass that won’t break the bank, the YMC 4 String Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar delivers surprising versatility with its 4-band active equalizer and dual-purpose design that works both plugged in and unplugged. The laminated linden construction, while not premium, produces decent tone for its price point, though you’ll notice the 22-fret hardwood fretboard feels solid under your fingers. At 4.63 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight for extended playing sessions, and the included gig bag, strap, and picks sweeten the deal. However, customer feedback reveals quality control issues—some units arrive with rough frets and high action that’ll require setup adjustments before ideal playability.
Best For: Budget-conscious beginners and casual players who want the flexibility of an acoustic-electric bass for practice sessions and small performances without making a major financial investment.
Pros:
- Versatile dual-purpose design works both acoustic and electric with 4-band active equalizer for sound customization
- Lightweight at 4.63 pounds with complete starter package including gig bag, strap, and picks
- Affordable price point with decent tone from laminated linden construction and solid 22-fret hardwood fretboard
Cons:
- Quality control issues with some units arriving with rough frets and high action requiring setup work
- Mixed customer feedback on plugged-in sound quality and overall build consistency
- Laminated construction offers lower-tier materials compared to solid wood alternatives
Ktaxon 4 String Acoustic Bass Guitar Kit (Black)

Budget-conscious musicians seeking their first acoustic bass or a reliable backup instrument will find considerable value in the Ktaxon 4 String Acoustic Bass Guitar Kit, which delivers essential features alongside complete accessories at an accessible price point. The basswood body construction, paired with a rosewood fretboard and maple neck, creates a surprisingly resonant foundation that won’t embarrass you during practice sessions or casual performances. You’ll appreciate the included EQ-7545R preamp system, allowing precise control over bass, middle, treble, and presence settings for tonal versatility across different playing styles. While customer reviews highlight occasional shipping damage and tuning machine inconsistencies, the complete package including gig bag, cable, strap, and picks makes this an attractive starter option.
Best For: Budget-conscious beginners and musicians needing a reliable backup acoustic bass with complete accessories and versatile tonal controls.
Pros:
- Complete starter kit includes gig bag, cable, strap, picks, and wrench with no assembly required
- EQ-7545R preamp system provides precise control over bass, middle, treble, and presence for versatile sound shaping
- Quality wood construction (basswood body, rosewood fretboard, maple neck) delivers surprisingly resonant tone for the price point
Cons:
- Frequent shipping damage issues and inconsistent tuning machine quality reported by customers
- Sharp fret ends and action adjustments often needed out of the box
- May require string replacement and neck tension modifications for optimal performance
Full Size 4 Strings Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar with Gig Bag & Accessories – Blue

The Vizcaya full-size acoustic-electric bass guitar stands out as an exceptional entry point for beginners who want the flexibility to play both plugged and unplugged, though I’ve found its appeal extends to budget-conscious professionals seeking a reliable backup instrument. You’ll appreciate the built-in 4-band active equalizer system with volume, bass, middle, treble, and presence controls that eliminates the need for external amplification during practice sessions. The basswood construction with rosewood fingerboard delivers surprisingly balanced tone, while the die-cast chrome tuners maintain stable tuning through extended play. At 5.5 pounds with included gig bag, strap, and picks, it’s genuinely portable for acoustic jam sessions.
Best For: Beginners learning bass guitar and budget-conscious professionals who need a reliable backup instrument with the flexibility to play both acoustically and electrically.
Pros:
- Built-in 4-band active equalizer system eliminates need for external amplification during practice sessions
- Lightweight at 5.5 pounds with complete accessory package including gig bag, strap, and picks for portability
- Stable tuning maintained by die-cast chrome tuners and balanced tone from basswood construction with rosewood fingerboard
Cons:
- Material limitations make it less suitable for advanced players seeking professional-grade performance
- Provided strings may need replacement for optimal sound quality according to user feedback
- Mixed durability reviews suggest it requires careful handling and may not withstand heavy professional use
Ktaxon Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar Kit with 15W Amp

Beginners and budget-minded musicians will find exceptional value in the Ktaxon Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar Kit, which bundles everything you need to start playing into one complete package priced well under $200. You’ll get a 4-string full-size acoustic bass with premium basswood construction, rosewood fretboard, and EQ-7545R preamp that lets you adjust bass, middle, treble, and presence controls for your desired sound. The included 15-watt amplifier produces clear audio through its dust-resistant mesh design, while the complete accessory package features a gig bag, strap, cables, picks, and replacement strings for immediate playability.
Best For: Beginners and budget-conscious musicians who want a complete bass guitar setup with amplifier and accessories to start playing immediately without additional purchases.
Pros:
- Complete all-in-one kit includes bass guitar, 15W amplifier, and essential accessories for under $200
- EQ-7545R preamp with bass, middle, treble, and presence controls allows sound customization
- Premium basswood construction with rosewood fretboard offers durability and comfort for various playing styles
Cons:
- Some customers received wrong color or missing components based on product reviews
- At 15.57 pounds total weight, the kit may be heavier than expected for portability
- Limited 15-watt amplifier power may not be sufficient for larger venues or band practice
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Acoustic Bass Guitar
When I’m helping musicians select their ideal acoustic bass guitar, I’ve learned that understanding five critical factors can make the difference between finding a lifelong musical companion and settling for an instrument that never quite feels right. The body size and shape directly influence both comfort during extended playing sessions and the instrument’s natural acoustic projection, while the wood construction materials determine everything from tonal warmth to sustain characteristics. I always recommend examining the electronics and preamp quality, scale length specifications, and string action height, since these elements work together to define your playing experience and the bass’s versatility across different musical styles.
Body Size and Shape
While shopping for acoustic bass guitars over the years, I’ve learned that body size and shape aren’t just aesthetic choices—they’re fundamental decisions that’ll profoundly influence your instrument’s tone, projection, and playability. Dreadnought bodies deliver that thick, balanced tone with powerful low-end response I crave for fingerstyle playing, while concert-sized shapes provide more articulate bass frequencies and comfortable handling for extended sessions. I’ve found grand concert bodies strike an excellent middle ground, offering rich nuanced sound whether I’m playing unplugged or plugged in. Cutaway designs have saved me countless times when reaching higher frets during solos, though they sacrifice some acoustic volume. Consider weight and portability too—lighter models make practice sessions and travel markedly more manageable.
Wood Construction Materials
Craftsmanship begins with the wood, and after testing dozens of acoustic bass guitars across different price ranges, I’ve discovered that construction materials make or break an instrument’s tonal character, resonance, and long-term reliability. Mahogany delivers warm, mellow tones that complement jazz and folk styles, while spruce tops provide the clarity and brightness essential for cutting through dense mixes. I’ve found basswood offers excellent lightweight resonance with balanced sound across genres, though it doesn’t quite match mahogany’s richness. Rosewood fretboards consistently deliver smooth playability and durability that justifies their premium cost. Laminated woods like linden reduce prices considerably but sacrifice projection compared to solid wood construction. The finish thickness matters too—glossy coatings enhance aesthetics but can dampen natural wood resonance, affecting overall volume and sustain.
Electronics and Preamp
Beyond the wood’s natural resonance lies another layer that determines how your acoustic bass translates to audiences—the electronics and preamp system that transforms those acoustic vibrations into amplified sound. I’ve found that a high-quality preamp becomes essential for precise control, typically offering built-in tuners and 4-band equalizers covering bass, mid-range, treble, and presence adjustments. The preamp quality greatly impacts your amplified acoustic sound, enhancing tonal balance and clarity for both practice and performance settings. Most acoustic basses feature active preamps requiring batteries, which affects portability and maintenance needs. I recommend seeking flexible EQ settings that allow fine-tuning across varying music styles, since well-designed preamps improve sound detection, especially for higher frequencies, while poor-quality electronics struggle in louder jam sessions.
Scale Length Considerations
Scale length represents one of those technical specifications that dramatically influences your playing experience, yet many bassists overlook its importance when selecting an acoustic bass guitar. I’ve found that most acoustic basses feature scale lengths between 34 and 36 inches, with each measurement offering distinct advantages. Longer scales produce deeper tones and better projection, which I appreciate for recording sessions, while shorter scales make fretting easier in higher positions. The popular 34-inch scale strikes an excellent balance between tonal quality and comfort, explaining why both beginners and professionals gravitate toward this specification. I recommend considering thicker strings for longer scales to maintain ideal sound quality, and honestly, your hand size matters more than you’d think for extended playing sessions.
String Action Height
When you pick up an acoustic bass guitar, string action height—the gap between your strings and fretboard—determines whether you’ll enjoy playing or struggle through every note. I’ve found that higher action produces fuller volume and eliminates buzzing, but it’ll test your finger strength, especially if you’re starting out. Lower action makes complex fingerings effortless, though you risk annoying string buzz if you go too low. For acoustic bass guitars, I recommend targeting 1/8 to 1/4 inch at the 12th fret—this range balances playability with sound quality. You can adjust action through bridge height and truss rod tension, which means you’re not stuck with factory settings that don’t match your playing style.
Built-in Tuner Features
Although external tuners work perfectly fine, I’ve discovered that built-in tuner features transform your acoustic bass guitar into a self-contained tuning solution that eliminates the fumbling around for separate devices during practice sessions, performances, or quick tune-ups between songs. Most built-in systems utilize chromatic scales, which means they’ll recognize all pitches accurately across your bass strings, though I’ve noticed that accuracy varies markedly between different models and price points. You’ll want to pay attention to display visibility, especially if you perform in dimly lit venues, since squinting at a tiny screen during a gig isn’t exactly professional. The automatic shut-off feature becomes vital for battery conservation, particularly if you’re like me and occasionally forget to turn things off after practice sessions.
Budget and Value
Your wallet doesn’t have to take a beating to land a quality acoustic bass guitar, though I’ve learned that understanding the relationship between price points and actual value requires examining several key factors beyond the initial sticker shock. Entry-level models around $70 often surprise me with their solid construction and decent sound quality, though they’ll typically need professional setup adjustments to reach their full potential. Mid-range instruments between $150-250 feature premium tonewoods like mahogany and spruce, delivering noticeably better resonance and projection that justifies the price increase. I’d recommend considering complete starter kits that bundle accessories like gig bags, straps, and small amplifiers, since purchasing these items separately costs considerably more while customer ratings consistently highlight these packages as excellent value propositions for beginners.
Accessories and Bundle
Most acoustic bass guitar bundles I’ve encountered transform what could be an overwhelming shopping experience into a streamlined decision, though I’ve noticed that the quality gap between accessories can dramatically affect your long-term satisfaction with the purchase. I consistently recommend bundles that include essential items like gig bags, picks, extra strings, and tuners, since you’ll need these components immediately. The real value emerges when bundles feature integrated amplifiers or audio equipment, allowing you to achieve professional sound quality when plugged in. I particularly value models offering adjustable features such as truss rods and built-in equalizers, which enable sound customization based on your playing preferences. Quality construction in bundled accessories directly impacts durability and overall performance.
On a final note
I’ve tested countless acoustic bass guitars over the years, and honestly, finding the right one comes down to your specific needs, budget constraints, and playing style preferences. Whether you’re drawn to Fender’s reliable craftsmanship, GLARRY’s beginner-friendly bundles, or Ashthorpe’s versatile acoustic-electric features, each instrument offers distinct advantages that’ll serve different musicians well. Trust your ears, consider your long-term goals, and don’t overthink it—you’ll know when you’ve found your match.