Looking for the best fretless bass guitars? Explore our top picks, including the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazz Bass and the ESP LTD B-205SM FL. Unlock smooth and unique tones today!
If you’re in the market for a fretless bass and wondering which one suits your bass playing needs, you’re in the right place.
I’ve handpicked five of the best fretless bass guitars across different price ranges and styles, so you can find the one that works the best for you.
Let’s jump right into it.
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Best Fretless Bass Guitars Quick Glance
- Best fretless bass under 500: Squier Classic Vibe 60s Fretless Jazz Bass (3-Color Sunburst)
- Best acoustic-electric fretless bass: Ibanez AEGB24FE Fretless Acoustic-electric Bass (Mahogany Sunburst)
- Best budget fretless bass: Ibanez SR370EF Fretless Electric Bass (Brown Burst)
- Best fretless bass under $1000: Fender Player Fretless Jazz Bass (3-Color Sunburst)
- Best 5 string fretless bass: ESP LTD B-205SM FL Fretless Spalted Maple 5-String Bass Guitar (Natural Satin)
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Fretless Jazz Bass
First up on this list is the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Fretless Jazz Bass.
This beautiful bass boasts a 3-color sunburst finish and a fretless, laurel fingerboard.
Priced under $500, it’s a fantastic entry point for those looking to step into the world of fretless bass without breaking the bank. And the vintage, classic aesthetic adds a touch of nostalgia to your playing.
The smooth playability and warm, mellow tones make it a great option for jazz, funk, and fusion players.
Overall, the Squier Fretless Jazz Bass is a popular choice among bass players looking for a quality fretless bass at an affordable price, especially for fans of Fender products.
Ibanez AEGB24FE Fretless Acoustic-electric Bass
Now, if you’re looking for the awesome blend of acoustic and electric, you’ve got to check out the Ibanez AEGB24FE Fretless Bass in Mahogany Sunburst.
This fretless bass is the best of both worlds, offering the iconic tone of an acoustic fretless bass, while also allowing the option for amplified, electric fretless bass tones.
It’s the perfect choice for both loud jam sessions and unplugged performances, ensuring your fretless bass works for whatever scenario you may find yourself in.
Ibanez SR370EF 4-String Fretless Electric Bass
For bass players looking for a sleek and modern-looking fretless bass, the Ibanez SR370EF is worth considering. It comes in a gorgeous brown burst that adds a modern feel to the traditional fretless sound, and it’s a great modern bass alternative.
With its 4-string design, brown burst finish, and fretless fingerboard, and affordable price tag, this bass offers everything you need in an entry to mid-level fretless bass.
As for specs, Ibanez’s custom 3-band EQ and slim neck profile make it easy to dial in a wide range of tones and fly across the fretboard with ease, making it suitable for various genres.
Ibanez’s Fretless SR370EF is arguably the best 4-string fretless bass guitar for modern bassists and bassists on a budget.
Fender Player Fretless Jazz Bass
Now, for those willing to invest a bit more, you have the Fender Player Jazz Bass in 3-color sunburst with a pau ferro fingerboard.
This Fender fretless bass offers the quality and craftsmanship you’d expect from Fender, and it’s priced under $1000.
The Player Jazz Bass delivers the iconic fretless tones that we’ve all heard on countless records over the years. It’s a true player’s instrument, combining style, comfort, and that unmistakable fretless tone we all know and love as bass fanatics.
Whether you’re playing jazz, blues, or rock, the Fender Player Jazz Bass delivers excellent playability and tone.
Fender’s Player Jazz Bass is a classic and great choice for any bass player seeking a high-quality fretless instrument, and is arguably the best fretless bass for under $1000.
ESP LTD B-205SM FL Fretless 5-String Bass Guitar
Last but certainly not least, for those craving the low-end tones of a 5-string, I present the ESP LTD B-205SM FL Fretless Bass.
This bass truly offers a luxurious and professional feel that will inspire you to pick it up every day.
With a natural satin and spalted maple finish, alongside a 5-string design, this bass not only looks stunning but also delivers a dynamic and extended range of tones.
The addition of the fifth string opens up new musical and technical possibilities, making it the go-to choice for bassists expanding into deeper bass-playing territories.
If you’re a bass player looking for a high-end 5-string fretless bass that won’t break the bank, the ESP LTD B-205SM FL is a top choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best fretless bass guitar ultimately depends on your budget, playing style, and musical preferences.
Whether you’re a bass pro or a beginner looking to craft new sounds and expand your technical possibilities, there is a fretless bass out there for you.
Check out the options mentioned above and buy yourself a fretless bass that you’ll love.
