Are you in search of the best acoustic bass guitar to enhance your musical performances or amp up your jamming sessions? If so, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve meticulously curated a list of the top acoustic bass guitars poised to rock the music world in 2023.
From the versatile Ibanez AEB10EH4 to the budget-friendly Fender Kingman V2 and the premium Martin BCPA4, you’ll find an instrument that suits your unique style and budget. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first instrument or a pro seeking an upgrade, this article promises to be a sweet melody to your ears.
What Are The Best Acoustic Bass Guitars?
1. Ibanez AEB10EH4
The Ibanez AEB10E is an acoustic-electric bass guitar that marries style and performance. This mid-range instrument is beautifully structured, featuring a concert body shape with a cutaway, a top made of spruce, and sapele mahogany back and sides. The fingerboard and bridge are crafted from Purpleheart, giving the bass a distinctive aesthetic. The neck is made of Okoume wood, adding to the bass’s overall durability.
Additionally, this model comes equipped with chrome die-cast tuners, a Fishman Sonicore pickup, and an Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp that includes an onboard tuner.
Key Benefits
- The Ibanez AEB10E has a well-balanced, warm, and full tone.
- It features an onboard preamp and pickup system, which offer a wide range of sounds.
- It comes with a three-band EQ that gives you control over the tone.
- Quality craftsmanship and solid construction make it a lasting option.
- It’s suitable for both beginners and professionals, offering versatility for all skill levels.
- The built-in tuner ensures quick and accurate tuning.
- Its versatile sound can be adjusted with the onboard EQ.
Pricing
Regarding pricing, the Ibanez AEB10E is a reliable and budget-friendly option for those requiring an acoustic-electric bass guitar. This model stands out as a cost-effective choice that does not compromise on quality or performance.
Pros & Cons
Speaking from personal experience, the Ibanez AEB10E is a well-rounded instrument. It offers a warm and full tone, with the onboard preamp and pickup system offering a wide range of potential sounds. It’s equipped with a three-band EQ, allowing you to shape the tone as per your preference.
This bass may not be as loud as an electric one, but it’s sufficient for intimate performances or small venues. The high-quality craftsmanship and solid construction make it a durable choice for beginners and professionals. The onboard tuner is a convenience that ensures quick and accurate tuning.
Overall, the Ibanez AEB10E is an excellent value for the money, making it a sound investment for anyone needing a reliable, versatile acoustic-electric bass guitar.
2. Fender Kingman (V2)
Overview
The Fender Kingman V2 is a fresh, acoustic-electric bass iteration from Fender, taking inspiration from their renowned California Player series. Constructed with a solid spruce top and laminated mahogany back and sides, the Kingman V2 dons a sleek gloss black finish that adds an extra layer of aesthetic appeal.
The neck, made of mahogany, is paired with a walnut fingerboard, a combination that ensures excellent playability and response. The Kingman V2 houses a Fishman pickup and preamp system, delivering outstanding tones when amplified.
Furthermore, the scalloped X-bracing, genuine walnut bridges, synthetic bone saddles, and Graph Tech NuBone nuts augment the instrument’s overall tone. The Kingman V2 is not just an attractive midrange option but also one that promises a top-tier tone and elegant construction.
Key Benefits
- Solid spruce top and laminated mahogany back and sides for a warmer, woodier tone
- Equipped with a Fishman pickup and preamp system for exceptional amplified tones
- Capable of producing a wide range of sounds with a full, resonant projection
- Excellent playability and response from the mahogany neck and walnut fingerboard
- Suitable for a variety of music genres, including pop, rock, indie, and low-volume jams
- Scalloped X-bracing, walnut bridges, synthetic bone saddles, and Graph Tech NuBone nuts enhance the overall tone
Pricing
Given its features and quality, the Fender Kingman V2 sits within the midrange price bracket.
Pros & Cons
As a proud owner and frequent user of the Fender Kingman V2, I can confidently share my personal pros and cons about this instrument. On the plus side, the Kingman’s sound is impressively rich and warm, unplugged and amplified. The solid tuners, attractive design, and adaptability to players of all levels make it a versatile and value-for-money instrument.
However, it’s not without some drawbacks. I’ve noticed that the frets can be sharp, potentially causing some discomfort during extended play. Also, the bass might produce feedback at high volumes, which can be a hindrance during live performances. Lastly, the lack of a case or gig bag is a slight downside, considering the need for safe storage and transportation of the instrument.
3. Alvarez Artist AB60CE
Overview
The Alvarez Artist AB60CE is a mid-range acoustic-electric bass guitar known for its warm, punchy, and resonant tone. As a part of the Artist ’60 Series, it is designed to provide a top-notch playing experience without breaking the bank.
Key features include a solid A+ Sitka spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and scalloped bracing to enhance resonance. This guitar also boasts quality components such as a real bone nut and saddle, a rosewood fingerboard, and high-quality tuners.
Buyers can also take comfort in the nontransferable limited lifetime warranty accompanying the AB60CE.
Key Benefits
- The AB60CE’s construction maximizes the potential of the solid top, resulting in both visually appealing and sonically impressive guitar.
- It’s part of the Alvarez Artist Series, renowned for its commitment to quality and design, providing exceptional value for the price.
- The guitar has a 32″ scale length, comes with D’Addario strings, and features a dovetail neck joint for added stability and resonance.
- The premium die-cast chrome tuners ensure precise and reliable tuning.
- Equipped with the L.R. Baggs Stagepro Element pickup/EQ system, the AB60CE allows for easy adjustment and optimal sound quality in any performance setting.
Pricing
It’s worth noting that the AB60CE is part of the Artist ’60 Series from Alvarez, which is known for delivering high-quality instruments at a mid-price range. Thus, you can expect a good balance of quality and affordability.
Pros & Cons
From our perspective, there’s a lot to love about the AB60CE. It’s equipped with the L.R. Baggs Stagepro Element pickup/EQ system, which makes it easy to tweak the sound to your liking in any performance setting. The medium scale length and comfortable neck make it easy to play, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various musical styles, from country to rock to bluegrass.
The guitar also features natural materials such as mother of pearl and abalone inlays, real bone saddles and nuts, and rosewood appointments, which add to its aesthetic appeal. A side-mounted preamp/EQ with battery access and a hidden chromatic tuner contribute to its clean and classy look.
As for any downsides, the only potential issue would be if you’re looking for a very specific, niche sound that the AB60CE may not provide. But overall, if you’re after a versatile, affordable, and high-quality acoustic-electric bass guitar, this could be the one for you.
4. Guild Jumbo Junior Acoustic Bass Guitar
Overview
The Guild Jumbo Junior Acoustic Bass Guitar is a compact yet powerful instrument designed for versatility and portability. It artfully blends the sound and feel of a double bass with the convenience of an electric/acoustic bass. Built with a solid Sitka spruce top and an arched flamed maple back, this guitar delivers a clear, tight bass tone.
Its aesthetic appeal is emphasized by a satin antique blonde finish, creating a unique character and rich depth. The bass guitar features a Fishman-designed Active bass pickup system by Guild, enabling amplification or recording with built-in volume and tone controls. Its other stellar features include an ebony fingerboard and bridge, a bone nut and saddle, a mother-of-pearl rosette, and a Guild peak headstock logo. It also features a tortoiseshell pickguard and nylon-core phosphor bronze strings.
Key Benefits
- The Guild Jumbo Junior Acoustic Bass Guitar boasts a 3/4 size, making it lightweight and fast, ideal for acoustic or stage performances.
- It offers a warm and woody bass sound, playable both acoustically or amplified.
- Comfortable to play, this bass guitar is equipped with a short-scale neck and a petite size that’s easy to handle.
- This guitar has a retro look with its tortoiseshell pickguard, mother-of-pearl inlays, and headstock logo.
- When played unplugged, the bass delivers a bright, retro sound with excellent tracking and minimal fret noise.
- The ebony fretboard, bridge, and bone nut saddle contribute to a full and woody bass sound, and the phosphor bronze strings enhance each note’s clarity.
Pricing
Pros & Cons
From our perspective, the Jumbo Junior Bass has several notable pros. It’s a versatile instrument suitable for beginners and home recording enthusiasts. It’s well-built and finished, with tight joints and smooth edges. The onboard pickup system, when plugged in, delivers a clean and loud signal.
However, there are a few points to be considered. The short-scale neck and body size might not appeal to all bass players, although it’s easy to get used to, and it offers a unique playing experience. Feedback may also be an issue in loud live situations when using the onboard pickup system. As always, preferences vary from player to player, and these factors should be considered when deciding on this instrument.
5. Fender CB-60SCE Acoustic Bass Guitar
Overview
The Fender CB-60SCE, a member of the Fender’s Classic Design series, is an acoustic-electric bass guitar that comes in two elegant colors: natural and black. This instrument boasts a solid spruce top with scalloped X bracing and laminated mahogany back and sides, capped off with a glossy black finish and sophisticated multi-ply binding around the top edges.
The bridge is made of rosewood with a plastic saddle. The CB-60SCE is equipped with Fender Phosphor-Bronze Bass strings and a Dual-Action truss rod for easy adjustments. The guitar showcases a vintage-style logo on the headstock and chrome die-cast tuners. It also features a Fishman Classic Design pickup and preamp/tuner system with volume, bass, and treble controls.
Key Benefits
- Solid spruce top contributes to its excellent acoustic tone
- Comfortable C-shaped neck profile and rolled fingerboard edges for easy playing
- Equipped with Fender Phosphor-Bronze Bass strings
- Dual-Action truss rod for easy adjustments
- Comes with a Fishman Classic Design pickup and preamp/tuner system
- Built-in tuner for convenience
- Available in two classic colors: natural and black
Pricing
The Fender CB-60SCE is described as a great value for its price. Given its high-quality features and solid construction, it’s no surprise that this guitar offers excellent value to both novice and experienced players alike.
Pros & Cons
From our perspective, the Fender CB-60SCE has several advantages. Firstly, it offers a comfortable playing experience, thanks to the rolled fingerboard edges and the C-shaped neck profile. It also has an excellent acoustic tone due to its solid spruce top. The onboard electronics are versatile, and the built-in tuner is a handy addition.
However, there are a few things that need to be noted. The bass might not be the loudest when played without amplification, but it records well and can be made louder for larger settings when needed. The bass does not come with a case or gig bag, which might be a minor inconvenience for some.
Additionally, the placement of the Fishman tuner might require initial adjustments, but it is not a significant issue.
6. Taylor GS Mini-e
Overview
The Taylor GS Mini-e is a compact acoustic guitar with a reputation for its striking sound and superior build quality. While it may have initially been classified as a travel guitar, it has since risen above this label due to its exceptional features and performance.
The GS Mini-e is known for its inventive use of exotic woods and fine craftsmanship, contributing to its distinctive sound. Available in various wood options such as rosewood, mahogany, and koa, each comes with its unique sound characteristics.
Key Benefits
- The GS Mini-e is extremely comfortable to play with, thanks to its well-cut nut, sharp frets, and pleasant neck shape.
- It has a bright, articulate tone, with the GS Mini Mahogany variant providing a slightly more mellow sound compared to the spruce top version.
- The GS Mini-e excels in melodic fingerpicking styles and offers a versatile sound suitable for various playing styles and scenarios.
- Despite its size, it is surprisingly loud and boasts a wide dynamic range.
- It offers an excellent balance of high, mid, and low notes, ensuring a crystal-clear and well-rounded sound.
Pricing
The GS Mini-e offers exceptional value for its price, making it a recommended choice for guitar players across varying skill levels. It is an excellent investment for those seeking high-quality acoustic base guitars without breaking the bank. The GS Mini-e delivers tonal depth, strength, and resonance that can compete with more expensive models from Taylor, thus offering great value for money.
Pros & Cons
From our perspective, the GS Mini-e presents an enviable list of pros and a few minor cons. On the upside, this guitar is incredibly well-built and visually appealing, thanks to the deep, rich hue of the mahogany top and the ebony fingerboard. Its reduced scale length and comfortable neck design make it easy to play, even for extended periods.
However, the shorter scale length could take some getting used to, particularly for those accustomed to larger guitars. Another minor downside is the guitar’s volume. Its smaller body size might limit the volume, but it’s still more than sufficient for playing at home or in small settings.
What is an Acoustic Bass Guitar?
An acoustic bass guitar is a special type of bass guitar uniquely designed with a fully hollow body, akin to a conventional acoustic guitar. This design allows it to produce a rich, resonant sound even without being amplified. A key feature that sets it apart from other types of bass guitars is its broad range of body shapes and styles that are available, including those styled after dreadnought or classical guitars. Some models even feature a cutaway design for better access to the higher frets.
Most acoustic bass guitars are crafted with an acoustic-electric design. This means they incorporate built-in pickups and electronics that enable them to be plugged into an amplifier or PA system, providing amplified sound when needed. You can also find fretted or fretless models, with fretted ones featuring metal frets along the fingerboard for a solid feel and precise tone, and fretless models emulating the sound of a classical double bass and allowing for sliding between notes.
Acoustic bass guitars are known for their versatility, making them suitable for any bass player, whether they prefer a classic four-string or a more complex five or six-string model. They have a different tonal quality compared to electric bass guitars and can provide a unique sound for certain musical styles. These instruments are often used in various musical genres, including folk, bluegrass, rock, and country. They also come in a diverse range of finishes, allowing players to choose a look that suits their personal style.
Why Get An Acoustic Bass Guitar?
There is an inherent charm and versatility to the acoustic bass guitar that sets it apart. Its unique design makes an acoustic bass guitar a dynamic instrument that can stand on its own in various musical settings. From intimate acoustic jam sessions to full-band performances, it adds depth and rhythm in a way that no other instrument can.
Acoustic bass guitars come with various body shapes and styles, catering to a broad range of aesthetic preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the classical elegance of a dreadnought or favor a cutaway design for better access to the higher frets, there’s a model out there that will suit your personal style. Furthermore, the availability of fretted and fretless models allows for an extra layer of customization, allowing you to select an instrument that best complements your playing style.
One key advantage of acoustic bass guitars is their acoustic-electric design. With built-in pickups and electronics, these instruments can be effortlessly plugged into an amplifier or PA system, delivering amplified sound when a performance calls for it. This dual nature makes them a practical choice for musicians needing versatile and adaptable instruments.
The variety of finishes available for acoustic bass guitars allows performers to select an instrument that sounds good and looks good. The different finishes can reflect the musician’s personality, adding a touch of personal flair to performances.
In summary, an acoustic bass guitar offers a unique blend of functionality and versatility. It is a valuable addition to any musician’s collection and can significantly enhance the richness and depth of their performances. From the diverse range of models and designs to their inherent flexibility, the benefits of owning an acoustic bass guitar are plenty and certainly worth considering.
The Bottom String
Acoustic bass guitars have carved their niche in the musical world through their unique resonance and versatility. From the compact Taylor GS Mini-e to the opulent Martin BCPA4, each bass guitar has distinct features, tones, aesthetics, and pricing. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, these guitars offer a wide array of benefits that cater to different musical genres and playing styles.
Understanding each model’s key benefits, pros, and cons is crucial before making a purchase. While the Ibanez AEB10E and the Alvarez AB60CE offer great value for money, the Fender Kingman V2 and the Guild Jumbo Junior Bass stand out for their rich, warm tones. On the other hand, the Martin BCPA4 and Taylor GS Mini-e are known for their superior craftsmanship and high-quality sound.
Pricing, of course, plays a significant role in your decision. It’s comforting to know that these guitars range across different price points, thus catering to diverse budgets. From the budget-friendly Ibanez AEB10E to the premium Martin BCPA4 or the mid-range Taylor GS Mini-e and Alvarez Artist AB60CE, there’s a guitar for every pocket.
In the end, it all boils down to your personal preference. Whether it’s the richness of tone, versatility, aesthetic appeal, or even the brand, your choice would invariably reflect your unique style as a musician.
So, are you ready to add more depth to your performance with an acoustic bass guitar?
