10 Best Bass Ukuleles (2024) That Makes Sense To Have

The ukulele has come a long way from its origins in Hawaii, and the bass ukulele is a testament to its versatility.

With its deep, rich sound, the bass ukulele has become a popular choice for musicians of all levels, whether they’re looking to add a new dimension to their playing or exploring the world of the ukulele for the first time.

But with so many options on the market, choosing the right bass ukulele can be daunting.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best 10 bass ukuleles available today. From budget-friendly options to high-end instruments, we’ve got you covered.

This guide is designed to be informative and helpful for ukulele players of all levels, providing valuable insights into the best bass ukuleles available on the market.

Top 10 Best Bass Ukuleles

The Hadean UKB­23 is one of the lesser-known models in the ukulele industry, but when it comes to finding a quality instrument on a budget, this is one of the hardiest options.

The body immediately stands out when you take a closer look at what this bass uke has to offer.

Unlike many other brands that opt for the more common koa build, Hadean opted for an entirely different route; they crafted their model out of walnut wood.

The design and construction look clean and polished – even binding around the edges – and there’s certainly value for money here.

Regarding hardware, the UKB­23 also packs a punch with its rosewood bridge with four independent compensated saddles and die-cast tuning machines for optimal critical retention.

The sound from this uke bass is exceptional – sharper than many others in its category – offering plenty of projection and volume without becoming too muddy or indistinct.

And don’t forget: you get a built-in preamp with three-band EQ and tuner, so you can make your unique expression come alive through tone-shaping capabilities.

Altogether, Hadean UKB­23 is an unbeatable option when looking for quality on a budget.

• Pros:
  • Walnut body.
  • Quality hardware.
  • Exceptional sound.

• Cons:
  • Lesser known.

My final verdict is that the Hadean UKB­23 is an excellent choice for a quality bass ukulele on a budget.

It features beautiful walnut wood construction with attractive binding, rosewood bridge with four independent compensated saddles and die-cast tuning machines, and a built-in preamp with three-band EQ and tuner.

The sound it produces is sharp and clear with plenty of projection and volume.

The Oscar Schmidt Comfort series ukulele bass is an impressive model currently available on the market.

Despite not being a specialized manufacturer of ukuleles, this brand has created something that looks, plays, and sounds excellent.

From the materials used to the hardware and sound production, this bass uke stands out among its peers.

The body and neck of the instrument are made of spruce at the top and koa on the back and sides – an uncommon combination in typical ukes.

Meanwhile, rosewood has been chosen for the bridge, which houses four compensated saddles to ensure playability.

A set of four robust die-cast tuning machines adorn its headstock, and the Belcat preamp package with tone controls, volume control, and a built-in tuner for further customization.

Oscar Schmidt’s Comfort series impresses from the outset when it comes to sound production.

This small body delivers punchy lows and fullness tones that standard ukes cannot match.

Playability is also quite good due to its neck profile, making it effortless to use, even with effects thrown into the mix.

Overall, Oscar Schmidt’s lack of experience making ukuleles shouldn’t stop you from considering this powerful bass instrument – it is worth your time!

• Pros:
  • Unique materials used.
  • Compensated saddles.
  • Belcat preamp package.

• Cons:
  • Not a specialized ukulele manufacturer.

My final verdict is that the Oscar Schmidt Comfort series ukulele bass is an excellent instrument with impressive sound quality and great playability, making it a great choice for those looking for a bass ukulele.

If you’ve been looking into the ukulele market, you have heard of the renowned Kala brand.

Their instruments thrive off top-of-the-line quality and superior performance, so it’s no surprise that their U-Bass is widely recognized as one of the best bass ukuleles.

From an aesthetic point of view, you can only describe this instrument as stunningly captivating – mahogany back and sides frame a carefully quilted maple finish.

At the same time, dark brown binding emphasizes the top and rear portions. It also offers a standard rosewood fretboard with 16 frets along its 21-inch scale.

Altogether, the build exudes confidence in terms of quality craftsmanship and dependability.

Regarding hardware components, Kala has outfitted this model with a rosewood bridge featuring four compensated individual saddles.

In addition, four durable die-cast tuning machines stock the headstock. Finally, an onboard electronic system comes preinstalled, .complete with an active EQ and built-in tuner.

When it comes to sound output, Kala U-Bass delivers in spades! Many first-timers may be surprised at how deep yet balanced its range is — all thanks to its mahogany body construction — making it a great representation of what a bass uke sounds like.

Plugging it into a PA system or amplifier only adds more punch to what it already produces without electricity – clear and precise but still warm enough for modern music styles.

Kala truly hit another home run with their U Bass design – aesthetically beautiful but sonically brilliant!

Not only does it look incredible on stage or wherever you wish to showcase your artistry, but its top-notch materials and excellent hardware will provide reliable results time after time.

• Pros:
  • Beautiful design.
  • Superior sound.
  • Reliable performance.

• Cons:
  • No cons.

My final verdict is that the Kala U-Bass is a stunningly beautiful, high-quality instrument that produces a warm yet balanced sound, making it a great choice for modern music styles.

The Kala UBASS-WNDR-FS nicknamed the “Wanderer,” is an affordable, straightforward U-Bass model with a laminated mahogany body and minimal cosmetic options.

Despite its low cost, it is still a quality instrument, making it an ideal selection for musicians who want a dependable ukulele bass without breaking the bank.

Keeping the costs low on this model was achieved in several ways. The nut and saddle are made of plastic instead of bone or other artificial materials like TUSQ.

Also, the tuners are generic and not name-brand like Hipshot Ultralite ones on higher-end models.

Still more savings come from the UK-500B pickup, an off-the-shelf electronics system, not the proprietary Shadow NFX pickup in pricier models.

Completing this budget package is a gig bag that may be slightly less heavy-duty than those included with more expensive models.

Finally, even though laminated wood doesn’t quite have that warm and rich sound produced by solid woods found in some models, many great-sounding instruments have been made with laminate over time, so don’t let that single factor scare you away.

• Pros:
  • Affordable price.
  • Quality instrument.
  • Includes gig bag.

• Cons:
  • Plastic nut/saddle.
  • Generic tuners.
  • Laminated body.

My final verdict is that the Kala UBASS-WNDR-FS is an excellent choice for musicians who want a dependable ukulele bass without breaking the bank.

Despite its low cost, it is still a quality instrument, with a laminated mahogany body, plastic nut and saddle, generic tuners, and an off-the-shelf electronics system.

Furthermore, laminated wood can still produce great sound, so there is no need to be scared away by this factor.

The Caramel Bass Ukulele features an impressive sound and excellent playability that bass players of all skill levels can appreciate.

Constructed with a mahogany top and back, the uke has a warm and rich tone that you can customize with 3-band EQ controls.

The Aquilla strings provide an excellent low-end tone, enabling the instrument to craft tones suitable for any genre.

In addition, the acoustic-electric design offers the benefit of great portability. You can use the instrument acoustically or amplified without purchasing extra cables — it comes with one!

Additionally, this model is fitted with an LED backlight screen which adds to the fun factor of playing at night.

Weighing in at only 13 lbs., this model also includes a 30″ gig bag and strap, making it much easier to transport than its traditional counterparts.

Moreover, it has a built-in chromatic tuner with an LCD color display and other accessories such as a wall hanger, cleaning cloth, and more!

On the downside, some users feel that its tuners are cheap and take some time to get used to them.

However, these cons don’t take away from what makes this model stand out — its great low-end tones, adjustable action, and versatility.

• Pros:
  • Warm tone & rich sound.
  • 3-band EQ controls.
  • Acoustic-electric.

• Cons:
  • Cheap tuners.
  • Slow to adjust.

My final verdict is that the Caramel Bass Ukulele is an excellent choice for bass players of all skill levels, with its warm and rich mahogany tone and adjustable 3-band EQ controls.

Its acoustic-electric design also makes it very portable and easy to use, and it comes with plenty of accessories and a 30″ gig bag for easy transportation.

The only downside is that the tuners take some getting used to, but overall this is a great instrument for crafting all kinds of low-end tones.

Kala UBASS-EBY-FL Striped Ebony Fretless U-Bass Acoustic-Electric Ukulele will undoubtedly impress anyone looking to purchase an instrument that offers quality sound and design.

Crafted in 2008, this bass ukulele is constructed from mahogany back and sides and an ebony top for deep resonance and sharp clarity in the highs.

Additionally, white edging decorates the sound hole, while the neck is made from mahogany containing a walnut fretboard with inlay dots.

Equipped with custom die-cast tuners, this ukulele bass also boasts a walnut bridge with individual saddles for each string.

The electric controls are cleverly placed near where your elbow may rest; it’s equipped with an active EQ and a tuner.

Despite its small body size, it produces a robust bottom end that sounds balanced and evenly spread across all strings – however, it’s particularly impressive when playing low notes.

Furthermore, tuning stability shouldn’t be much of an issue thanks to its reliable tuners.

On the downside, though, players may feel reluctant to invest due to its price tag – but overall, this acoustic-electric ukulele bass is suitable for those who appreciate quality instruments and are okay with paying a little extra!

• Pros:
  • Deep resonance.
  • Sharp clarity.
  • Robust bottom end.

• Cons:
  • Pricey.
  • Small body.
  • High-end model.

My final verdict is that Kala UBASS-EBY-FL Striped Ebony Fretless U-Bass Acoustic-Electric Ukulele is an excellent choice for those who appreciate quality instruments and are willing to pay a bit extra for an instrument that offers quality sound and design.

This bass ukulele is constructed with industry standards in mind, creating a robust and reliable model.

The back, top, and sides are made from koa, the neck from mahogany, and the fingerboard from walnut – all materials chosen to ensure durability. With an appealing black finish, it looks great, too.

The instrument also features four sizeable die-cast tuning machines for precise playing and Aquila Thundergut strings for a beautiful sound.

However, please note that this model does not have a built-in tuner.

At 13 lbs, this is one of the lightest models on our list, making it highly portable if you need to take it to gigs or take it on the move.

You can enjoy its amplified sound when plugged in, thanks to its Fishman Clasica II active preamp system.

Plus, you can easily shape your tone with the preamp too! Our favorite features include its lightweight yet solid construction, making enjoyable sound production easier than ever!

However, we must also mention that this bass ukulele is slightly pricier than other models in its class, even though it has all these excellent features.

Finally, remember that it comes complete with a gigbag so you can safely store your instrument away when not playing.

• Pros:
  • Robust & reliable.
  • Koa, mahogany, walnut.
  • Lightweight & portable.

• Cons:
  • No tuner.
  • Slightly pricey.
  • No gigbag.

My final verdict is that this bass ukulele is a great choice for experienced and beginner players alike, as it is constructed to industry standards and features materials chosen for durability.

It is lightweight, comes with Aquila Thundergut strings, and has a Fishman Clasica II active preamp system for amplified sound.

Although it is slightly pricier than other models in its class, it is well worth the investment.

The Rumbler U-Bass is a specially designed instrument with Kala electronics, piezo pickup, active EQ, an integrated tuner, and a deluxe gig bag.

Each bass is strung with Kala’s Silver Rumbler Strings, developed in collaboration with Italy’s Aquila Strings.

It features a laminated mahogany body and a TUSQ nut and composite saddle.

Its onboard NFX electronic system provides ample versatility for live performances, allowing bassists to plug in and play anytime!

As the upgraded model of the Wanderer, the Rumbler comes packed with lots of extra features- perfect for bringing your music on the go.

• Pros:
  • Kala electronics.
  • Integrated tuner.
  • Deluxe gig bag.

• Cons:
  • No cons.

My final verdict is that the Rumbler U-Bass is an ideal instrument for bassists looking for a reliable, versatile instrument that is perfect for live performances and easy to transport.

This one is worth considering if you’re looking for a great electric bass ukulele that offers excellent performance and quality.

Sporting a light natural color, it’s beautiful and stands out from the crowd.

The top and back of the instrument feature nut & swamp ash and the fingerboard is made with rosewood, giving it unbeatable durability. Weighing in at just over 5 lbs, it’s lightweight and easy to take anywhere you need it.

The strings are imported from Italy by Thunder Strings & made from nylon which helps to produce a robust sound.

It also has adjustable truss rods to customize the action according to your needs.

This model is also relatively compact compared to other brands but still delivers an impressive sound despite its size.

Plus, many musicians prefer traveling with such an instrument as it saves them space when packing their equipment.

However, this guitar doesn’t come with a gig bag, so you’ll need to purchase one on your own if necessary.

Additionally, many users report that there seems to be too much reverb from this ukulele, but that’s really based on individual preference!

When it comes down to cost, you won’t have any trouble paying for this instrument since it’s very reasonably priced, given how exceptional its features are.

To sum up – its best features include being lightweight, compactly designed, and easily playable, plus having great strings and adjustable truss rods; while it’s few major downsides are its tendency towards producing too much reverb and not including the gig bag in the purchase!

• Pros:
  • Lightweight & compact.
  • Great strings & truss rods.
  • Reasonably priced.

• Cons:
  • No gig bag included.
  • Produces too much reverb.

My final verdict is that this electric bass ukulele is a great option for its price, offering excellent performance, quality, and features such as adjustable truss rods and great strings.

It is lightweight and compact, so it is easy to transport.

The only downsides are its tendency toward producing too much reverb and not including a gig bag in the purchase.

With its 23.4-inch scale, the Lanikai FB-EBU Figured Bocote Bass acoustic-electric ukulele provides a rich low-end that will bring any acoustic jam session to life.

The neck and body width has been designed for an extra comfortable playing experience, and its walnut fretboard and bridge make it as beautiful as it is practical.

In addition, the Fishman Clasica II preamp with a built-in tuner ensures your sound remains excellent even when plugged in.

The Lanikai FB-EBU comes with a mahogany neck, flamed bocote body, walnut fretboard, and bridge.

It’s 38.1 mm nut width and 595mm scale length maintain the familiar ukulele playability while offering a unique sound that pairs perfectly with soprano, concert, tenor, or baritone ukuleles.

• Pros:
  • Rich low-end.
  • Extra comfortable.
  • Walnut fretboard.

• Cons:
  • None.

My final verdict is that the Lanikai FB-EBU Figured Bocote Bass acoustic-electric ukulele is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a unique and beautiful instrument that will bring a rich low-end to their acoustic jam sessions.

With its comfortable design and Fishman Clasica II preamp with built-in tuner, the Lanikai FB-EBU will ensure your sound remains excellent and provide a familiar ukulele playability.

Watch this video to see other ukulele basses as great as the ones we recommend:

Bass Ukulele : You Should Try at least Once!

What are the best brands for bass ukuleles?

Some of the most popular and well-regarded brands for bass ukuleles include Kala, Ohana, Cordoba, and Pono.

Let’s take a closer look at some of them:

– Kala Brand Music Co.

Kala is one of the most well-known and respected brands in the ukulele world, and their bass ukuleles are no exception.

I’ve personally seen that they focus on affordability but also don’t let go of quality at all.

They offer a wide range of bass ukuleles that are perfect for players of all skill levels, but also have other types of ukulele as well.

From the classic mahogany body and rosewood fingerboard of the Kala U-Bass to the unique resonant sound of the waterman series.

If you can get your hands on one of these, make sure to do so, as they have surely built good reputation over the years and will ensure a ukulele for years ahead.

– Fender

Fender is a giant in the world of musical instruments, and they haven’t of course missed out ukuleles.

Altough when it comes to bass ukuleles, you’ll have a hard time finding them online or in stores, they have other types of ukuleles that you can surely check it.

Their ukuleles are very unique, since they feature similar body shapes as their all-time classics like the Stratocaster and Telecaster electric guitars.

So if you’re looking for modern look and not really a classic ukulele look, then Fender is the way to go.

– Cordoba

Cordoba is a Spanish brand that has been making quality ukuleles for over 20 years.

Their bass ukuleles are known for their warm, rich tones and beautiful craftsmanship, and are a top choice among many ukulele players.

Said ukueleles have a more traditional look and are perfect for both classical and contemporary players.

– Ohana

Ohana is a Hawaiian-based brand that is also dedicated to creating high-quality, affordable ukuleles.

Their bass ukuleles are no exception, offering deep, resonant tones that are perfect for both solo playing and accompaniment.

You’ll notice that they have a focus on using solid wood construction and premium hardware, so these instruments are great for players who want a quality instrument without breaking the bank.

– Pono

Pono is a Hawaiian brand that is known for its attention to detail and premium materials; this brand is less known, but I feel like it’s definitely a winner.

They use a traditional fan bracing that according to them has been successful for many years.

As such, they have experimented with other bracing systems as well.

Lateral cross, X, fan with cutouts, lattice, and even some with no top bracing.

On their website, they mention that current production is still small and limited, and that they prefer to keep our guitars small scale to retain “hands on” high quality.

What should I look for when buying a bass ukulele?

When shopping for a bass ukulele, there are several key factors to consider.

Some of them include the quality, your budget, the ukulele’s sound, and its playability.

Let’s take a closer look at each one of them:

– Build quality

The first thing to look for is that the ukulele is well-made and sturdy enough.

You should definitely consider the materials used in its construction, such as solid wood for the body and neck, to ensure longevity and durability.

The quality of the fretwork is also important as it affects your playing experience a lot more.

A smooth and accurate fretwork will ensure that your fingers glide effortlessly over the frets and produce clear, crisp notes.

On the other hand, high-quality materials and construction will ensure that your ukulele will withstand the test of time.

– Sound

The sound produced by a bass ukulele is arguably the most crucial aspect to consider since this is what people will hear.

You should take the time to play a variety of instruments to get a sense of the different tonal qualities available.

Also consider the ukulele’s resonance and tone, as this will play a significant role in your overall playing experience.

Even if you prefer a deep, rich sound or a bright, cheerful tone, it’s super important to find an instrument that produces the sound you desire.

– Playability

The feel and comfort of the ukulele are also some factors to think about when buying a ukulele.

Think about the size, weight, and shape of the instrument, as well as the strings and fretboard, to ensure that it’s comfortable to play and easy to control.

A comfortable and easy-to-play ukulele will allow you to focus on your playing and improve your skills, rather than being distracted by discomfort.

On the other hand, make sure to consider the distance between the frets and the height of the strings, as these will impact the ease of playing a lot.

– Price

Yes, price is probably the most important part of the equation if you’re on a budget.

The cost of bass ukuleles can vary widely, from under $100 to several thousand dollars.

Set a budget and consider which features are most important to you to ensure that you get the best value for your money.

Remember, a higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee a better instrument so it’s good to find a balance between affordability and quality to ensure that you get the best value for your money.

Prioritize your must-have features, and don’t compromise on quality to save a few dollars, since over time, you’ll end up spending that money either way.

What are the differences between a standard ukulele and a bass ukulele?

The standard ukulele and the bass ukulele, also known as the “bass uke” or “uke-bass,” are both stringed instruments that share many similarities but also have some key differences.

First, let’s talk about size!

The standard ukulele is a small instrument that is easy to carry and play, while the bass ukulele is larger and has a relatively longer scale length.

In other words, this means that the bass uke has a deeper, more resonant sound and a wider range of notes.

Another difference is the number of strings.

The standard ukulele typically has four strings, while the bass ukulele has four or sometimes even more, depending on the model.

Said additional strings allow the bass uke to play lower notes and provide a deeper bass tone.

The tuning of the two instruments is also different.

Any standard ukulele is usually tuned to GCEA, while the bass ukulele is usually tuned to an octave lower, such as ADG or EAD.

Something else you might notice is that, the playing style is different between the two instruments.

The standard ukulele is often strummed and used for rhythm, while the bass ukulele is plucked and used to provide the bass line in a song.

While both the standard ukulele and the bass ukulele are fun instruments to play, they are designed for different purposes and offer distinct playing experiences.

Whether you’re looking for a portable and easy-to-play instrument or a deeper and more versatile instrument for your music, either of these instruments can be a great choice!

What is the best type of wood for a bass ukulele?

This is a question that produces a lot of debate online since it really depends on what you’re looking for personally.

Now… the type of wood used for a bass ukulele can have a significant impact on the instrument’s tone, weight, and overall feel.

You’ll find that some of the most popular woods used for bass ukuleles include:

– Mahogany

Mahogany is favored by many bass ukulele players due to its ability to deliver a warm and even tone while still maintaining good projection.

It is also relatively lightweight, making it a good option for players who are looking for a comfortable ukulele.

– Koa

Koa is a highly prized wood that is native to Hawaii, and it offers a bright and punchy tone with good projection and sustain.

It is a more expensive wood compared to other options, but it is also highly prized for its beauty and unique sound.

When used in the construction of bass ukuleles, it produces a bright and punchy tone that is well-projected and has a long sustain.

On the other hand, the visual appeal of Koa wood makes it a favorite among players who appreciate the aesthetics of their instrument as much as its sound.

– Maple

Maple is a dense and hard wood that has been highly regarded for its tonal qualities in the world of music.

When used in the construction of bass ukuleles, it offers a bright and articulate tone that is well-projected and has a crisp, clear quality.

This wood is known for its ability to articulate individual notes and chords with precision, making it a great choice for players who want a responsive instrument with a sharp and clear tone.

For those looking for a bright, clear, and articulate tone, maple is a great choice for a bass ukulele.

– Spruce

Spruce is a wood known for its resonant properties, making it a top choice for bass ukuleles.

It produces a bright and well-balanced tone with good projection, which has a vibrant and lively quality.

This makes it a great choice for players who want a responsive instrument that is easy to handle.

With its bright sound and good projection, spruce is an ideal wood for those seeking a lively and balanced tone in their bass ukulele.

What is the best string material for a bass ukulele?

The best string material for a bass ukulele will depend on personal preference and the type of sound you’re looking to achieve.

Some common string materials for the bass ukulele include:

1. Nylon: Nylon strings are the most commonly used strings for the bass ukulele, as they offer a warm and balanced tone. They are also relatively easy on the fingers and relatively durable, making them a great choice for beginners.
2. Steel: Steel strings offer a brighter and more articulate tone compared to nylon strings, but can be harder on the fingers and require more maintenance. They are a popular choice for players who are looking for a more aggressive or percussive sound.
3. Fluorocarbon: Fluorocarbon strings are a newer type of string that offer a tone that is similar to nylon strings but with increased clarity and projection. They are also relatively durable and long-lasting, making them a good option for players who are looking for a high-quality string material.
4. Cobalt: Cobalt strings are a newer type of string that offer a bright and articulate tone with increased output and projection. They are a popular choice for players who are looking for a modern, high-performance string material.

In the end, the best string material for your bass ukulele will depend on your personal playing style, the type of music you play, and your preferred tone.

I recommend trying out a few different string materials to see which one you prefer, and don’t hesitate to ask your local music store for advice!

What does a bass ukulele sound like?

A bass ukulele has a sound that is characterized by a deep, rich, and warm tone.

It is similar in tone to that of an upright bass a lot of people would say, but with a more compact and portable design.

Here is an excellent example of what a bass ukulele can sound like:

UKULELE BASS SOLO

The type of wood and the strings used can greatly impact the sound of a bass ukulele, so players should choose their instrument carefully based on the sound they desire.

The sound is not as bright as a traditional soprano ukulele, but it is not as dark as one might expect based on the thick black strings.

Bass ukuleles can deliver a decent volume in an unplugged setting, but preamps are often necessary when performing with others.

How does a bass ukulele work?

The challenge of producing a deep bass sound from a small ukulele has been overcome with the invention of synthetic polyurethane strings.

Said strings have the necessary density to produce a bassy tone while still maintaining the feel and dynamics of traditional ukulele strings.

The use of these synthetic strings, combined with the small size of the ukulele, has allowed for the creation of compact and portable bass ukuleles that offer a rich and warm bass tone.

To address the issue of low volume, most bass ukuleles are equipped with a pickup and preamp.

Its pickup captures the sound of the strings and sends it to the preamp, where it is amplified to a level that can be heard over other instruments in a band or ensemble setting.

This makes it possible for the bass ukulele to be used in live performance situations, where its compact size and portability make it a convenient option for musicians on the go.