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This list of some of the best acoustic bass guitars will help you to select the one you need. Whether you’re performing unplugged, recording in a studio, or simply enjoying the organic sound at home, an acoustic bass guitar brings a unique flavor to your music.
Join us as we explore top acoustic bass guitar models, each with their character and reasons to buy them.
If you want to find affordable bass guitars then check this blog out.
Best Acoustic Bass Guitars To check out
1. The Guild Jumbo Junior Bass
The Guild Jumbo Junior Bass is a remarkable instrument, combining the convenience of a compact size with the full-bodied sound typically associated with larger bass guitars.
Designed to cater to guitar players who want a travel-friendly instrument without sacrificing tone, the Jumbo Junior Bass is suitable for regular shows and studio sessions. Its reduced size makes it exceptionally portable and comfortable to play, while still providing the rich, deep bass tones Guild is known for.
Check out other travel friendly guitars here!
Reasons to Buy
Compact Size for Convenience
Ideal for traveling musicians or those with limited space.
Full Sound in a Small Package
Despite its mini size, it delivers a sound comparable to full-sized bass guitars.
Versatility
Suitable for live performances, studio sessions, and casual play.
Affordability
One of the best budget bass guitars for all levels of players, whether beginner or intermediate players.
Quality Craftsmanship
Guild’s reputation for building high-quality instruments is evident in its construction.
Notable Specifications
Body Style
Mini Jumbo offers a comfortable playing experience and a surprisingly robust sound.
Wood
Features a solid Sitka spruce top and flamed maple sides.
Electronics
Equipped with a Guild/Fishman BT-1 with a Volume and Tone Controls preamp system, it is suitable for both acoustic and amplified settings.
2. The Takamine GB72CE-BSB Acoustic Bass Guitar
The Takamine GB72CE-BSB is one of the best bass guitars on the market. Acoustic Bass Guitar stands out with its distinctive Jumbo body shape, designed specifically for bassists seeking a robust, full-bodied sound. This guitar produces a deep, resonant bass tone that’s perfect for a wide array of musical styles.
Its sunburst finish not only adds to its visual appeal but also highlights the quality of craftsmanship that Takamine is known for.
Don’t forget to check out the list of best Takamine 12-string guitars here!
Reasons to Buy
Full-Bodied Sound
The Jumbo shape of the guitar ensures a rich, powerful sound that stands out in acoustic settings.
Versatile Performance
Equipped with a quality preamp system, it is suitable for both unplugged acoustic sessions and amplified performances.
Playability
Designed with the player in mind, it offers comfortable playability, making it suitable for extended playing sessions.
Aesthetic Appeal
The sunburst finish and elegant design make it a visually striking traditional acoustic looking bass guitar.
Notable Specifications
Body Style and Neck
Jumbo bass guitars enhance the volume and depth of the bass tones. Slim maple neck; 16-inch-radius rosewood fingerboard for fast fretting.
Electronics
Features Takamine’s TK-40B preamp system with a built-in tuner for clear, natural sound amplification.
Construction
Solid spruce top; maple back and sides; quartersawn-X bracing.
3. The Martin BC16E-01 Acoustic Bass Guitar
The Martin 10BC16E-01 Acoustic Bass Guitar is designed for the all-around performer seeking the best acoustic bass. Its classic aesthetics are paired with modern construction techniques to deliver a rich, resonant sound perfect for various musical settings.
Whether you’re playing unplugged in an intimate setting or amplified on a larger stage, this bass guitar delivers consistent and superior performance. You can achieve a higher volume with one of these than you would an electric bass unplugged.
Reasons to Buy
Classic Martin Design
Known for their exceptional acoustic instruments, Martin’s design and build quality are evident in this bass guitar.
Versatility
It is equipped to perform well in both acoustic and amplified settings, making it suitable for a wide range of musical genres and performances.
Superior Sound Quality
Offers a rich, deep bass tone characteristic of Martin’s high-standard acoustic sound production.
Durability and Craftsmanship
Constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and consistent playability.
Notable Specifications
Tonewood
The top material is spruce with East Indian rosewood back material
Electronics
Comes with state-of-the-art Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2 electronics for clear, natural amplification.
Build Quality
The neck is crafted from select hardwood and an ebony fingerboard, prized for its smooth feel and durability. The neck has a satin finish, providing a comfortable, smooth playing experience.
4. Fender Kingman V2 Acoustic Bass
The Fender Kingman V2 Acoustic Bass is a high-end instrument designed for professional musicians who demand quality and performance.
The bass stands out with its stylish aesthetic and robust sound. The combination of mahogany back, sides, and neck with a top crafted from walnut, mahogany, and spruce delivers a rich, resonant tone. This is one of the best acoustic bass and a testament to Fender’s commitment to quality, offering exceptional playability and a luxurious look with its sleek black finish.
Reason to buy
Rich and Resonant Tone
The combination of a mahogany body and the unique blend of walnut, mahogany, and spruce top results in a bass guitar that produces a warm, yet articulate sound. This richness in tone makes it suitable for a variety of musical genres.
Aesthetic Appeal
The sleek black finish and elegant design of the bass make it visually striking. This aesthetic appeal is a bonus for performers who value stage presence along with sound quality.
Versatile for Amplification
Equipped with a piezo pickup configuration, the Fender Kingman bass V2 is ready for amplification without losing its acoustic essence, making it a great choice for gigs and recording.
Notable Specifications
Top Material
A blend of walnut, mahogany, and spruce, offering a balanced tonal range.
Pickup Configuration
Piezo, ensuring natural acoustic sound when amplified.
Guitar Bridge System
Hard Tail, providing stability and sustain.
5. The Ibanez AEB10E Acoustic-Electric Bass
The Ibanez AEB10E Acoustic-Electric Bass, with its AEB body shape, is a compact and versatile instrument designed for professional musicians who value both portability and sound quality. I recommend this acoustic bass for those who want long sessions with their guitar.
This mini bass is ideal for professionals who need an easily transportable instrument without sacrificing acoustic richness and electric versatility. Its smaller body makes it perfect for traveling, studio work, or intimate performances. The AEB10E combines Ibanez’s renowned innovation with quality materials, offering a well-balanced sound profile suitable for a variety of musical styles.
Reasons to Buy
Acoustic and Electric Capabilities
Equipped with Fishman Sonicore pickup and Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp, it offers excellent amplified sound, making it versatile for both unplugged and plugged-in performances.
Quality Construction
The combination of a spruce top and sapele back and sides delivers a balanced sound with good projection.
Playability
With a mahogany neck and purpleheart fretboard, it offers a comfortable playing experience, suitable for long gigs or recording sessions.
Notable Specifications
Top Material
Spruce, providing brightness and clarity to the bass’s tone.
Fretboard and Bridge Material
Purpleheart is known for its durability and smooth playability.
Electronics
Fishman Electronics and Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp with onboard tuner, offering a wide range of sound adjustments and easy tuning.
Aesthetic Details
The bass features elegant aesthetic touches like an abalone multi-soundhole rosette and ivory body binding, adding to its professional appearance.
Honorable Mentions
6. Ibanez PNB14E Parlor Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar Natural
7. Mitchell EZB Super Short-Scale Acoustic-Electric Bass
8. Ibanez AEB5E Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar Black
9. Fender CB-60SCE Acoustic-Electric Bass
10. Fender FA-450CE Acoustic-Electric Bass
11. Mitchell T239B-CE-BST Terra Acoustic-Electric Bass Guitar
Have you been able to choose your bass from the best acoustic bass guitars? Now let’s look at some bass songs to learn!
The List Goes On
While we’ve highlighted some standout options, in the vast and varied guitar world of acoustic bass. offering something for every taste and playing style. Beyond the exceptional Taylor GS Mini-e koa, Fender Jazz acoustic-electric guitar, Fender Kingman bass V1, and the Martin BC-16E, several other instruments deserve recognition for their quality, playability, and tonal excellence.
What Is The Difference Between An Acoustic Bass Guitar And An Electric Bass Guitar?
The main difference between an acoustic bass and an electric bass lies in their sound production method and design. An acoustic bass produces sound acoustically through a hollow body, while an electric bass relies on an electronic amp.
Sound Production
An acoustic bass has a hollow body that resonates to amplify the sound of the strings, similar to an acoustic guitar. This design allows it to be played without external amplification, producing a warm, natural tone. In contrast, an electric bass requires an amplifier and speakers to produce sound. Its solid body does not resonate the same way as an acoustic bass. Check out Charles Berthoud for amazing bass-playing skills:
Design and Body Style
Acoustic basses generally have a larger body to enhance sound resonance and volume. Electric basses, on the other hand, have a solid body design and are typically smaller and slimmer.
Tonal Characteristics
The tonal quality of an acoustic bass is more natural and woody, suitable for unplugged sessions or genres like folk and jazz. Electric basses offer a wide range of tonal possibilities, from deep, growling lows to punchy, high trebles, and are more versatile across various music genres.
Playability and Use
Acoustic basses can be bulkier and harder to play for some due to their larger body size. Electric basses are generally easier to play, especially for beginners, due to their slimmer necks and smaller bodies. Electric basses are also more commonly used in band settings due to their adaptability and volume capabilities.
Should I buy a Small-scale bass?
Yes, considering a shorter scale length acoustic bass can be beneficial, especially under certain circumstances.
However, it’s important to note that short-scale basses might not have the same low-end presence as their full-scale counterparts. Always try a few models to find the right balance of comfort, playability, and sound for your needs.
Comfort and Playability
If you have smaller hands or find reaching across a standard bass neck challenging, a shorter guitar scale bass will be more comfortable to play. The reduced string tension also makes it easier to press the strings down.
The transition from Guitar
Guitarists transitioning to bass may find a shorter scale bass more familiar and easier to adapt to, due to the similar size and feel.
Portability and Space
Shorter-scale basses are more compact, making them ideal for traveling, small living spaces, or situations where space is limited.
Tonal Quality
Shorter scale basses have a slightly different tone, often described as warmer or “thumpier.” This can be desirable for certain music styles or as a way to add variety to your sound.
Are Acoustic Bass Guitars Good For Beginners?
Acoustic bass can indeed be a good choice for beginners for several reasons. Firstly, it allows for easy practice without the need for additional equipment like an amplifier, making it more accessible and convenient. The acoustic bass also helps beginners develop their technique and ear for tone, as the nuances of acoustic sound production are more pronounced.
Additionally, its larger body and thicker strings can build finger strength and dexterity. However, the choice between an acoustic and electric bass should also consider the beginner’s musical preferences and goals, as each type offers distinct advantages.
Things To Consider Before Buying The Right Acoustic Bass Guitar
When choosing an acoustic bass guitar, several factors should be taken into account to ensure you select the right instrument for your needs:
Playability
Check the action (string height) and the neck size. Acoustic basses often have a larger body and neck, which can affect playability, especially for those with smaller hands or less experience.
Size and Scale Length
Acoustic basses come in various sizes and scale lengths. Full-size models provide a richer sound, while shorter-scale basses are more portable and easier to play.
Sound Quality
Listen to the tonal qualities of the bass. Acoustic basses vary in sound based on their construction and materials. Consider the type of music you want to play and the sound you are aiming for.
Acoustic-Electric Options
Many acoustic basses come with built-in pickups and preamps. This feature is valuable for playing in larger venues or with a band, as it allows for easy amplification.
Construction Materials
The type of wood used for the top, back, sides, and neck affects the sound and durability. Common woods include spruce, mahogany, and maple, each offering different tonal characteristics.
Budget
Determine your budget before shopping. Acoustic basses come in a wide range of price points, and higher cost doesn’t always mean better quality. Find the best balance between the cost and quality of the instrument.
Brand and Reviews
Research different brands and read reviews from other musicians. This can provide insights into the reliability and quality of your right acoustic bass guitar.
Intended Use
Consider where and how you’ll be using the bass. If you’re performing in loud environments or with other amplified instruments, you might need an acoustic-electric model.
Comfort and Aesthetics
Make sure the instrument feels comfortable to hold and play. Also, consider the aesthetic appeal, as the look of the bass can be a source of inspiration and pride.
Warranty and Services
Check the warranty and available services. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, and some retailers offer setup and maintenance services.
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