Note: Here you will find 11 of the best short scale bass guitars that I have personally tried and tested, containing detailed information along with relevant cons that will help you conveniently compare and select the most suitable model based on your needs.
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A short scale bass guitar is a bit smaller than your normal bass guitar and is a great choice if you’re looking for a guitar for young players or persons of lower statures, especially if you have small arms or hands. What I like most about these guitars is that they have a compact spacing on bass guitars which makes the musical instrument far more pleasant to play for many bass guitar players.
I tested 11 guitars and decided that this Fender Player Mustang Bass PJ MN is the best short scale bass guitar for most uses.
Getting back to the topic – short scale bass guitars are becoming quite popular these days because of their tiny size and ease of playability. Because of the shorter bass guitar strings set on the guitar, small scale basses are also easier to tune, as shorter strings don’t require as much tension to maintain perfect tuning and the tune knob is easy to handle.
Here’s a list of my favourite short scale bass guitars. Let’s get to know more about them in detail.
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Quick Summary
| Sr. No | Best Short Scale Bass Guitars | Scale Length | Check Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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1. |
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30" |
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2. |
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30" |
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3. |
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28.6" |
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4. |
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30.3" |
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5. |
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30" |
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6. |
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30" |
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7. |
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30" |
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8. |
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28.6" |
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9. |
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30.5" |
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10. |
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34" |
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11. |
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30.5" |
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11 Best Short Scale Bass Guitars of all time
Premium Choice
The Fender Player Mustang Bass PJ uses classic tonewoods in the form of an alder body and a bolt-on maple neck. This bass guitar’s short-scale scale and classic tonewoods contribute to buttery-soft playability and characterful sound development; the PJ pickup configuration ensures a wide spectrum of sounds. The Player Mustang Bass from Fender is finished off with vintage-style hardware such as a 4-saddle bridge and open tuners.
Characteristics:
- Golden high gloss finish
- Bolt-On construction with 30″ scale length (762 mm)
- Bolted maple neck
- C-neck profile
- Master Volume and Tone controls
How does it sound?
Volume and tone controls are included, as well as a 3-position toggle switch for selecting the pickup configuration (bridge pickup only, neck pickup solo, or both pickups together). I think I settled on the mix of both pickups Precision Bass and Jazz Bass and everything seemed to cut through in the mix. The 4-saddle bridge flawlessly combines design and function, with innovative slotted saddles for improved tuning stability and powerful impact. Acc the Player Mustang Bass PJ has a varied tone with a classic flair, and I have to agree.
How does it feel?
Fender uses traditional tonewoods like an alder for the body and a bolt-on maple neck for the Player Mustang Bass. When I play this guitar due to the lower string tension, the short 30″ scale length (762 mm), it not only offers me a buttery smooth playing sensation, but also a surprisingly powerful tone from the four-stringer. The small C-neck design, with its narrow 38 mm nut width, fits perfectly in my hand, allowing me to glide across every groove on the 19-fret Pau Ferro fingerboard with ease.
Pros
- Precision and Jazz Bass pickups offer a wide range of tones
- Synthetic bone nut
- Great playability
- Comfortable
Cons
- Less fret count
- A bit expensive
Value for Money
The Squier Bronco Bass is an excellent choice for guitarists like me who just require a bass from time to time, or whether we talk about younger novices, smaller players, or anybody who likes the feel of a short-scale (30″) bass. It’s easy to tune and sounds deep and rich owing to its single-coil pickup, maple neck, die-cast tuners, and sturdy agathis body.
Characteristics:
- Short 30“ scale length
- Thin and lightweight body
- Slim and comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile
- Single-coil Bronco Bass pickup
- Satin neck finish
How does it sound?
I’ve tried out some of the top bass guitars in the market, but the Bronco stands out among the rest. The woods utilised or the way it sounds have a wonderful quality to it, and it’s quickly becoming a classic! The Bronco Bass’s single-coil pickup is deep and rich-sounding, owing to its custom design and the elegant gold and black two-color headstock logo lends a touch of class to it.
How does it feel?
I like how smoothly the Bronco balances, how light it is, and how comfortable the neck is. This instrument’s comfy “C”-shaped neck profile is sculpted to give it a vintage-style playing feel. The neck is so thin that it almost seems like a guitar, and it is so pleasant and lightweight. The single coil guitar pickup has a surprising amount of power and depth to it. This is an excellent choice for beginners or anybody looking for a bass. I would strongly suggest these Broncos to any level of player.
Pros
- Great design
- Affordable
- Get the Fender Goodness
- Ideal for all players
Cons
- Less fret count
- Not the best pickup
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Value for Money
Now when I talk about the Ibanez GSRM20, which has a very subtle short-scale bass guitar and a powerful low end while being thin and light. The GSRM20 has the same construction, materials, and set-up and inspection as its full-size counterparts, including a small scale SR body with full sound pickups. Its 28.6″ scale is ideal for tour buses, home studios with limited room, those with tiny hands, as well as young rockers and novices.
Characteristics:
- Bolt-On Maple Neck
- 22 Medium Frets
- Fast, slim Maple neck
- Compact, light-weight Body
- Compact Build for Smaller Players
How does it sound?
The Ibanez 4 String GSRM20BS has a rich tone with the ability to modify individual pickup levels. It’s of decent quality, as you’d expect from Ibanez. The frets are level and well-finished, the tuning pegs are smooth, and the instrument remains in tune. I went for the Sun Burst finish, which looks fantastic. The overall quality of the fit and finish is outstanding. The sound of the electronics is fantastic. While playing, it seems very natural.
How does it feel?
The small neck has a pleasant feel to it and plays swiftly. This is very useful for people who have small hands. I would personally recommend it to novices since it’s an excellent choice for them making it accommodate their shorter fingers. The Ibanez has a slim neck that makes it easy for me to use, as well as great sounding pick-ups. I was quite impressed with the value for money. It’s easier to play, making it a great choice for someone starting to play bass guitar.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Sounds full
- Can adjust every pickup volume
- Easy playability
- Smooth frets
- Decent quality you expect from Ibanez
Cons
- Bit of string buzz
- No accessories provided
- Can’t select pickup combo
Talking about this very unique short-scale G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass II, which can quickly fill up my room with quite pleasant tones. It has a 30.3″ scale length, a basswood body, a bolt-on maple neck, and a 12″-radius black walnut fingerboard with 20 medium-jumbo frets and dot inlays for comfortable playability. Gretsch’s small dual-coil bass humbucking pickups produce a thunderous tone that can be completely controlled with a 3-position pickup toggle switch, master volume, and master tone.
Characteristics:
- Basswood body
- Maple neck
- Rosewood fingerboard
- 20 medium jumbo frets
- Synthetic bone nut
- Dot Inlays
How does it sound?
I generally recommend the Gretsch G2220 to players if they want bending and a more trebly, throaty tone. The strong maple neck and toneful walnut fretboard combine to offer you an easy playing bass with warm, clear notes that will sing while you play. A shorter scale also allows you to perform things on your 34-inch bass that you can’t do on this bass, such as smooth jumps of six frets without changing position, making it ideal for quick playing. But it’s the tone that makes me fall in love more and more with this guitar.
How does it feel?
Gretsch’s distinctive headstock is instantly recognizable. The iconic Jet body design is lightweight and enjoyable to play. The Gretsch Junior Jet Bass II has a great feel and is quite comfortable. When I play this guitar, the basswood body feels light and delivers a warm, rich tone without straining my back. The combination of a strong maple neck and a toneful walnut fretboard offers an easy bass with warm, clear notes that sing as you play.
Pros
- Affordable
- Deep bass sound
- Great playability
Cons
- Minor fret buzzing
The Dean EVO XM Bass is a fantastic instrument that is light and easy on the shoulders, with a 30″ scale neck that plays quickly and is especially comfortable for switch-hitting guitarists and bassists. It has ample output owing to the two humbuckers. The guitar features a solid basswood body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard.
Characteristics:
- Mahogany top & body
- Bolt-On Neck
- Rosewood Fingerboard
- Black Hardware
- Pearl Dot Inlays
- Tune-O-Matic Bridge
How does it sound?
The tone is the most important element of an instrument. The tone is absolutely what is stated, and you will get it. In addition to that, I found the guitar was pretty easy to set up. The deep, traditional black finish catches my eye, while the sound and playability tickles everyone’s interest in music. The two humbuckers perform nicely. The guitar is light, so it feels easy on my shoulders.
How does it feel?
The finish on this guitar blew me away… it’s stunning. The tone and flexibility were exceptional for a guitar in this price range. I’ve played a lot of low-end guitars, and this one doesn’t look or sound like one. The weight is well balanced. This guitar also has a comfortable cutaway that gives you easy access to the highest frets, allowing you to play every note quickly!
Pros
- Great two DMT designed humbuckers
- Excellent value
- Thick & groovy tone
- Comfortable
Cons
- Not that attractive looking
- Not made of best quality
The Sterling by Music Man short-scale StingRay bass is the newest addition to the StingRay line, and it’s the first time the classic design has been given a short-scale makeover. The new basswood body, a bolt-on maple neck, a 12″-radius black walnut fingerboard with 20 medium jumbo frets, and a 30.3″ scale length for comfortable playability. Parallel, genuine single-coil, and series pickup modes are all available.
Characteristics:
- Sterling by Music Man Designed Bridge
- Rosewood Fingerboard
- Daphne Blue finish with Mahogany body & Maple neck
- Equipped with Ernie Ball strings
- Single Action Truss Rod
How does it sound?
Our custom built 9v powered Active Preamp feeds your music through a single, noise-free Humbucker pickup. The iconic chrome control plate contains individual Volume, High, and Low Cut/Boost settings. I found one thing very distinctive about this guitar i.e the “3+1” Tuning Key arrangement is an amazing concept that makes tuning a pleasure to the ears! It also enables ‘Straight String Pull’ across the nut, allowing for the perfect playing experience.
How does it feel?
This guitar is light, and the headstock shape ensures that it is well balanced. Because the frets are closer together on the 30-inch scale, playing the instrument is more comfortable. I admire this guitar a lot and feel that it is one of the best short scale bass guitars.
Pros
- Too good for the price
- Three-way selector switch that’s always handy
- Smooth & balanced sound
Cons
- Not the best workmanship on the bass
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Hofner’s Ignition Violin Bass guitars take inspiration from their 1970s Violin Bass models, allowing you to own one of the world’s most legendary guitars. This version has a totally hollow body and famed Hofner control panel, wooden bridge, and style tailpiece. I would advise this guitar for players on a budget who want the iconic Hofner sound.
Characteristics:
- One of the World’s Iconic Guitars
- Fully Hollow Body
- Hofner Style Tailpiece
How does it sound?
It offers a nice natural stone sound, as well as an organic, woody sound that focuses on the mids. It’s an ideal choice for guitarists on a budget who want the authentic Hofner sound.
How does it feel?
The HOF-HI-BB-SB-O is a fully hollow bass guitar. This produces a unique deep and resonant tone that artists across the world adore. It’s lightweight, and you can play it for hours without breaking our back!
Pros
- Style of the guitar improves playability
- Vintage inspired design
- Great warmth and clarity
- Lightweight
Cons
- Can’t deliver versatile tones
- Design isn’t for everyone
The new JS Series Concert Bass Minion JS1X Electric Bass Guitar has a shorter 28.6 scale length, poplar body, one-piece bolt-on maple neck with graphite reinforcing rods, and a 12 radius amaranth fingerboard with 22 jumbo frets and pearloid sharkfin inlays, making it ideal for small shredders. This is also an excellent choice for guitarists who need to record a bass track in the studio or who want to motivate a young bassist to practise and work hard.
Characteristics:
- Poplar Body and 28.6″ Scale 1-Piece Maple Neck
- 12″ Radius Amaranth Fingerboard
- Jackson P Style Neck Pickup
- Hardtail Bridge with Black Base Plate
How does it sound?
This 4-string bass is powered by a Jackson P type neck pickup and a Jackson J style bridge pickup, as well as a set of volume knobs, a hardtail bridge with black base plate, and Jackson-branded locking tuners. In every other sense, it’s fantastic, especially when it comes to the cost. The tones don’t quite match those of a full-sized P-Bass, but they’re quite good.
How does it feel?
The lightweight Jackson JS1X bass guitar features a comfort-contoured wood body. If you’re one of the smaller players then I would advocate this short-scale 28.6-inch instrument as it would be an excellent fit for you.
Pros
- Stays in tune for long time
- Balanced weight
- Super playable
- Affordable
- Comfort-contoured poplar body
Cons
- Good for only certain heavy genres
When I think of an affordable and easy-to-play SG bass guitar, Epiphone EB-0 is the first guitar that comes to my mind, as it has a small scale, narrow neck, and entire fret access. It has a vintage-sounding carved SG mahogany body, a single SideWinder bass humbucker pickup, a rosewood fretboard with dot inlay, and chrome hardware, including a fully adjustable 3-point bridge.
Characteristics:
- Pickups: SideWinder Humbucker
- Mahogany body
- Rosewood fretboard
- 30.5 inches scale with 1.5 inches nut width
How does it sound?
The mahogany body of the EB-0 bass provides great sustain and a strong, bassy sound. The EB-0 bass produces a wide range of warm, mellow tones when the humbucking pickup is in the neck position. But don’t assume the EB-0 bass fades into the background; turn up the volume and tone, and the powerful sound of the short scale neck bursts forth to cut through the mix and keep the beat.
How does it feel?
The EB-0’s neck has a low scale length, making it simpler to negotiate the fretboard for beginners and players with smaller hands. The EB-0 bass has the same vintage attitude and feel as the original, but at a fraction of the price.
Pros
- Iconic shape
- Warm sound
- Affordable
- Ideal for beginners
- Great vintage look, feel and sound
Cons
- Good beginner guitar but not a professional
With the enhanced range of the Vintage Modified Jaguar Bass V Special five-string variant, Squier’s most flexible Jaguar bass model is even more versatile. With the addition of an earth-shaking low B string, it has the sharp looks, wonderful tone, and superb features of its four-string sibling.
Characteristics:
- Basswood body
- “C” shape maple neck
- Jaguar body shape
- Sonic power and tonal versatility
- Gloss neck with dot inlays
- Superior Squier performance and value
How does it sound?
This five-string is incredible! The fit and quality are on par with any Fender short scale, and the punchy, strong growly tone astounds me! It’s not necessary to “update” the pickups on this bass. They sound fantastic! Because the Jazz pickup is farther out from the bridge than on a Fender Jag or Jazz Bass, it has a lot more bottom end and is exceptionally punchy. At full volume, the passive tone control is super smooth, with no unpleasant clunking from the strings. It’ll be perfect for any post-punk or 80s rock tunes we play.
How does it feel?
The satin texture and the feel of the neck are fantastic. The pickups, active boost, and, most importantly, the bass’s weight. The build and finish are both flawless. There are no sharp fret edges or high frets on this guitar. The tuners are sturdy, and the nut is nicely shaped. The neck is fast and doesn’t seem fat. The string spacing is also quite pleasant, making it comfortable to play.
Pros
- High playability
- Not too expensive
- Rich design
- Great pickups
Cons
- No notable cons
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The Epiphone EB-0 is your ticket to a genuine SG bass that won’t break the bank. On a carved SG Mahogany body with a bolted Mahogany neck and Rosewood fretboard, you can reach all of the top frets. With the single “SideWinder” Bass Humbucker pickup at the end of the short-scale neck, you can get a great vintage bass tone.
Characteristics:
- Affordable electric bass in ebony black
- Carved mahogany body
- Rosewood fretboard
- Single SideWinder bass humbucker pickup
- Chrome hardware including a fully-adjustable 3-point bridge
How does it sound?
This short scale bass guitar has a vintage-sounding carved SG mahogany body, a single SideWinder bass humbucker pickup, a rosewood fretboard with dot inlay, and chrome hardware, including a fully adjustable 3-point bridge. I personally like this guitar a lot and it is highly recommended.
How does it feel?
The Epiphone EB-0 is a wonderful bass guitar with excellent craftsmanship at an unbeatable price. The quality is superb, and I promise you that the feel and action are terrific!
Pros
- Iconic shape
- Get the lower quality version of Gibson SG
- Good humbucking pickups
Cons
- No versatility in sound
Why choose a Short Scale Bass Guitar?
Sometimes the question arises why to choose a short scale bass guitar when you have a plethora of other options available in the market. Here’re some reasons that I found factual and worthy for you to go through them!
The physical size of a short-scale bass is the first and most evident reason to use it. Short-scale basses are ideal for musicians with smaller hands because of their shorter necks, reduced fret spacing, and more compact overall dimensions. They’re also great for guitarists who wish to learn to play bass since they feel more like a regular electric guitar than a long-scale bass, making the transition easier.
Short-scale basses have long been a secret among professional musicians and studio pros: despite their compact size, they offer a big sound with a thick bottom end unlike large-scale basses, and they excel at filling up a mix.
A different feel is another reason to choose a short-scale bass versus a long-scale bass. Short-scale basses were traditionally strung with the same string sets as long-scale basses. The strings of a short-scale bass are less tense, giving them a looser, somewhat “floppy” feel, which affects the instrument’s attack, sustain, and dynamics.
Difference between a Short scale and Long scale bass guitar?
If you’re new to bass guitar, you might not be aware that short scale and long scale bass guitars are the two basic bass guitar genres. Although both types of bass guitars are real musical instruments, there are several distinctions that you should be aware of if you want to learn to play bass and buy a guitar, such as tone, playability, and portability.
- Scale Length – The scale length of a string is the length between the nut and the bridge. Short scale basses typically have a string length of 30″ while long scale basses have a string length of 34″.
- String Tension – String tension is affected by scale length, it plays a primary role in playability and tone. The small scale bass’s strings will be looser than those on a large scale bass.
- Tone – The tone of the longer string will be more “focused” and the high end will be more defined. The tone of the shorter string will be more defined, rounder, “heavier,” “boomier,” and so on.
There are other differences as well such as in the playability, weight, portability, string gauge etc. If you’re used to playing a long scale bass, you may need to adjust to the distinctive tone of the short scale and acquire an appreciation for its unique attributes, or you may need to work a little more to obtain the same tone you’re used to hearing from your long scale neck.
In conclusion
You can’t go wrong with either a short scale or long scale bass if you’re just starting out in terms of tone. A short scale bass is a bit easier to learn or transfer from the guitar due to its shorter neck length.
The Fender Player Mustang Bass PJ MN is the bass guitar to choose if you want a small scale bass guitar. It includes all of the tones and features you’ll need to create a distinctive look and sound.
In terms of affordability and comfort, the Squier by Fender Bronco Bass is the best pick on this list of “11 Best Short Scale Bass Guitars.” It’s both elegant and handy, making it simple to reach the lower frets and play comfortably.
The Ibanez 4 String GSRM20BS is of the high quality that you would expect from an Ibanez guitar. It features a slim neck, and the general fit and craftsmanship are quite good. This is a fantastic bass guitar for beginners, and it comes highly recommended!
The following list of the best short scale bass guitars will help you choose the right instrument for you. Since every player has different tastes & preferences, I have compiled this list by evaluating several options based on a range of features. I’ve posted this article because I want all of my readers to have the best possible experience.
Feel free to leave any queries or reviews regarding these small scale bass guitars in the comments box below. I really look forward to your feedback.
Keep strumming…
Sarah Jones
Hello! I am Sarah and I've been a bass player for as long as I remember. I picked up my first bass at age 7 and have never let go of it ever since. I've been a part of 3 bands and currently play for a band called ‘Neptune Nerds’. I love to talk about bass and share my experience with these instruments!
