Best Bass Guitar Under 500

You don’t need to break the bank to lay down solid grooves.

Bass guitars are the heartbeat of any band. They fill the space between rhythm and melody, adding punch and depth that makes songs come alive. And today, even under £500, you can find bass guitars that sound great, stay in tune, and feel solid in your hands.

With brands improving quality control and global production (source: Guitar World), it’s now common to find basses in this range made with tonewoods like alder or mahogany, and equipped with reliable pickups. For beginners, hobbyists, and even gigging musicians, these guitars offer serious value.

More importantly, you’re not paying for hype - you’re paying for playability and tone. That’s what matters.

So, if you’re just starting out or upgrading from a starter pack, don’t hesitate. A budget bass in 2025 isn’t a compromise - it’s a smart move.

What to Expect From a Bass Guitar Under £500

Spending on Bass Guitar under £500 today can still get you a reliable, gig-ready instrument, as long as you know what to expect. And with the right tone and feel, even affordable models can help you master classic bass guitar riffs that define your playing style.

Build Quality & Materials

Most bass guitars in this range use tonewoods like poplar, basswood or alder. While these aren’t top-tier woods, they still produce a decent tone and are lightweight enough for beginners or casual players. Expect bolt-on necks and decent fretwork - not premium, but solid.

Electronics & Pickups

You’ll mostly find passive pickups, which offer a warm, vintage tone ideal for rock, blues or indie styles. Output might be a touch lower than active systems, but with a decent guitar amp, you’ll get the punch you need. Don’t expect advanced EQ controls, but basic tone shaping is there.

Where You Might Compromise

At this price, you may see basic tuners, thinner finishes or lightweight bridges - but these rarely affect playability. Pair your bass guitar with proper guitar accessories like a quality strap and cables, and you’ll have a solid setup without blowing your budget.

You’re not settling - you’re being smart. At this price point, it’s all about finding a well-built, good-sounding bass that fits your style and grows with you.

You’ll get a reliable workhorse, nothing showy, but with proper setup and the right gear, you might not feel the need to upgrade anytime soon.

Best Bass Guitars Under £500 - 2025 Picks

Here are 5 standout bass guitars from Music Street that prove you don’t need to spend thousands to sound brilliant. These models strike a balance between tone, playability, and reliability and they’re all under £500. If you’re just getting started, this list also works as a solid guide to some of the Top Bass Guitars for Beginners available in the UK market right now.

1. Yamaha TRBX174 Bass - Old Violin Burst

If you're just starting out or want a backup bass that feels great, the Yamaha TRBX174 Bass in Old Violin Burst delivers. It’s lightweight, looks slick, and offers a solid PJ pickup setup for varied tones.

• Pros: Smooth neck, easy playability, versatile pickup combo
• Cons: May need a basic setup for optimal action
• Ideal for: Beginners, students, or casual gigging musicians

2. Fender Kingman™ Bass - Walnut Fingerboard, Black Pickguard, Shaded Edge Burst

The Fender Kingman™ Bass is perfect if you love that acoustic look but want modern plugged-in performance. It features a walnut fingerboard and Fishman electronics — great for both solo practice and live sets.

• Pros: Warm unplugged tone + reliable pickup system
• Cons: A Larger body may feel bulky for smaller players
• Ideal for: Acoustic performers, singer-songwriters, and Fender fans

Pro tip: Pair it with a compact guitar amp like a Fender Rumble to bring out the low-end.

3. Yamaha BB234 Bass - Vintage White

A modern classic, the Yamaha BB234 Bass in Vintage White is a clean, punchy workhorse. It blends traditional P-style looks with rock-solid reliability - great for stage, studio, or rehearsal rooms.

• Pros: Strong mids, quality hardware, minimalist design
• Cons: Lacks tonal shaping for advanced studio work
• Ideal for: Intermediate players and budget-conscious giggers

According to reviews on Andertons UK, the BB series consistently delivers beyond its price tag in tone and construction.

4. Aria FEB F2M Satin Black Medium Scale Acoustic Bass Guitar

If you're after something different, try the Aria FEB F2M Satin Black Medium Scale Acoustic Bass Guitar. It’s rare to see acoustic basses under £300 with this kind of finish and tone warmth.

• Pros: Warm unplugged sound, fretless feel for expressive playing
• Cons: Not ideal for slap bass or aggressive styles
• Ideal for: Jazz players, acoustic duos, and mellow gig set.

5. Squier Classic Vibe VI Bass Guitar - Sunburst

The Squier Classic Vibe VI Bass Guitar in Sunburst brings vintage styling and that familiar Fender tone, but at a fraction of the cost. It’s great for retro lovers or those who want something that stands out visually.

• Pros: Iconic looks, vintage vibe, comfortable feel
• Cons: Slightly heavier body compared to modern builds
• Ideal for: Players who love vintage tones and stage presence

Must-Have Accessories for Your Bass Setup

Getting a great bass guitar is just the beginning. To truly enjoy playing, whether at home, on stage, or in the studio, you’ll need the right gear to go with it. Here are the must-have bass guitar accessories that help you sound better, stay comfortable, and keep your instrument safe.

1. Guitar Amp 

A bass won’t sound its best without a proper guitar amp and yes, bass amps are different from regular guitar amps. They’re designed to handle low-end frequencies without distortion. Look for something like the Fender Rumble series or Blackstar Unity for great tone at home or small gigs.

2. Guitar Straps 

A comfortable, padded guitar strap is crucial, especially since basses tend to be heavier than regular guitars. Go for one that’s wide and adjustable, and ideally made from leather or neoprene to avoid shoulder fatigue during longer sessions.

3. Guitar Cables 

Don’t cheap out on guitar cables. A good-quality, shielded cable reduces noise and ensures a clean signal to your amp or interface. Brands like Planet Waves or Ernie Ball are solid picks and last longer than budget options.

4. Guitar Stands 

Leaving your bass on the floor is a one-way ticket to scratches or worse. A guitar stand keeps your instrument safe and always within reach, especially handy during practice or between sets.

5. Pedalboard (Optional but fun) 

While not every beginner needs a pedalboard, it’s a great add-on if you want to explore effects like overdrive, compression, or chorus. Even a basic tuner or DI pedal makes a huge difference in tone control and live setup ease.

6. Microphone Accessories (For Creators & Home Studios) 

If you’re into recording or live streaming, consider microphone accessories like pop filters, boom arms, or audio interfaces. These help capture your bass sound more accurately and make your setup more professional.

Start with the essentials: amp, cable, strap, and stand. They’re not optional - they’re the difference between frustration and smooth playing. Add a pedalboard and recording gear as you grow into it. Trust me, gear that feels good and works right makes you play more and that’s what really improves your skills.

Where to Buy: Online or Local Guitar Shop?

Once you’ve picked the right bass, the next question is - where should you buy it from? Online or in a local guitar shop? Both options have pros and cons, but what matters most is the service, reliability, and after-sales support.

Buying Online

Ordering a bass guitar online is fast, convenient, and gives you access to a wider selection. You can compare models, specs, and reviews in minutes. Most online stores also offer flexible return policies if the instrument doesn’t feel right.

Cons? You can’t try before you buy. And the setup quality may vary, depending on the retailer.

Buying From a Local Guitar Shop Near You

Walking into a guitar shop near me still has unbeatable benefits. You can try different basses, feel the neck profile, test the tone, and ask expert staff for guidance. It’s ideal if you're unsure what fits you best.

Why Music Street Offers the Best of Both

At Music Street, you don’t have to choose. We offer both online shopping and in-store service, so you get flexibility and personalised support.

Visit us:

10 Chequers Ct, Huntingdon PE29 3LJ

Call Us Anytime 

Got questions or need help choosing the right gear?

Call us: (01480) 431222 (within the UK)
Or: +44 1480 431222 (from outside the UK)

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Explore bass guitars at Music Street

Whether you prefer to browse from your sofa or test in-store, our team ensures your instrument is perfectly set up and ready to play. Plus, we’re musicians ourselves - so we get it.

Tips for Choosing the Right Bass for Your Needs

Buying a bass guitar isn’t just about budget - it’s about what suits you. Whether you're starting out or upgrading, these tips will help you choose wisely without overcomplicating things.

1. Think About Body Style

Bass guitars come in various shapes, from classic Precision-style bodies to more modern, contoured designs. Heavier builds can offer sustain, but lighter ones may feel more comfortable during long sessions. Try to pick one that matches your playing posture and style.

2. Choose the Right Number of Strings

• 4-string is the standard - ideal for beginners and most genres.
• 5-string adds a low B string - useful for metal, gospel or extended range.
• 6-string gives you both low B and high C - more versatile, but harder to play for some.

Want to dive deeper into how each one works and feels? Check out our guide on the Different Types of Bass Guitars to explore which style fits your needs best.

3. Try Before You Buy (If You Can)

Whenever possible, test the bass in-store. Feel matters - the neck profile, string spacing and weight can all affect how you play. Can’t try in person? Check detailed video reviews from reliable creators like Andertons TV or BassTheWorld on YouTube.

4. New vs Second-Hand Guitars

Buying used guitars can be a smart move, especially if you're looking to save or want something discontinued. Just inspect for fret wear, electronics, and neck condition.

Conclusion

A great bass doesn’t have to cost a fortune. As you've seen, there are some fantastic options under £500 that cover everything from jazz to rock, slap to funk — and they’re available both online and in-store at Music Street. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your collection, our team is here to help you find the right sound and feel.

Looking to explore even more? Check out our extended ranges for the best bass guitars under 1000 or best bass guitar under 1500 if you're ready to upgrade.

And if you're considering switching things up or playing multiple styles, we also stock a wide range of electric guitars and acoustic guitars - all carefully curated for tone, quality, and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use guitar pedals with a bass guitar?

Yes, but not all pedals are bass-friendly. Many standard guitar pedals can work with bass, but some may cut out the low-end frequencies that define your bass tone. It's best to look for pedals specifically designed for bass, especially for effects like overdrive, compression, or chorus.

2. How important is scale length when buying a bass?

Scale length affects both playability and tone. Most basses have a standard scale of 34", which gives a balanced sound and feel. However, short-scale basses (around 30") are easier to play for younger players or those with smaller hands, while long-scale options offer tighter low-end for extended tunings.

3. Can I record bass guitar directly without an amp?

Absolutely. With an audio interface, you can plug your bass straight into your computer (DI recording). Many players also use amp sim plugins to emulate different tones. This is a popular setup for home studios or content creators who want clean, direct bass tracks.

4. How often should I change bass guitar strings?

It depends on how often you play and the tone you prefer. If you're gigging or recording frequently, consider changing them every 2–3 months. For casual practice, they can last 6+ months. Some bassists even prefer older, worn-in strings for a smoother, vintage tone.

5. Are gig bags or hard cases better for bass guitars?

A gig bag is lighter and fine for local travel, while a hard case offers better protection, ideal for gigs, public transport, or flying. If you’re investing in a quality bass or planning to take it out often, a hard case is a smart investment for keeping it safe