The Best Metal Basses of the Year: A Comprehensive Review

Are you looking for the best metal basses to add to your collection? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve got a comprehensive review of this year’s top metal basses so you can make an informed decision. Our picks are judged based on playability, sound quality, and affordability – all essential elements when choosing a new instrument. 

You’ll find your perfect metal bass with this guide, whether you’re just starting out or an experienced player. Get ready to make an informed decision that will give you years of enjoyment playing your favorite songs. Read on for our exclusive list of the best metal basses available today! 

Best Metal Basses Comparision 2023

• Best for Overall: Rickenbacker 4003 Bass Mapleglo
• Best for Unique Design: Fender Steve Harris Precision Bass
• Best for Best Bass For Metal: Fender Steve Harris Precision Bass
• Best for 5-string: Schecter Stiletto Studio-5 FF - Honey Satin
• Best for 4-string: Schecter Hellraiser Extreme-4

Best Metal Basses Reviews 2023

Best For Overall- Rickenbacker 4003 Bass Mapleglo

The Rickenbacker 4003 Bass Mapleglo is a formidable metal-playing machine. Its sleek, curvy body with double truss rods and neck-thru construction makes it not only visually appealing but sturdy enough to withstand the demands of performing heavy riffs. This powerhouse bass also offers superb audio clarity thanks to its high output single coil pickups, which deliver an expansive range of sound that can be sharpened up further by using the vintage tone selector for an added bite in your performance.

Plus, its Deluxe triangular fret inlays and Schaller Deluxe machine heads give it a unique look that is sure to turn heads. All in all, the Rickenbacker 4003 Bass Mapleglo in our list of the best metal basses is an excellent choice for any metal bassist looking to take their sound and style to the next level.

Pros: 

• Durable construction 

• High output single-coil pickups 

• Vintage Tone Selector boosts high end 

• Deluxe triangular fret inlays 

• Schaller Deluxe machine heads for tuning stability 

• Neck-thru-body construction for strength and sustain. 

Cons: 

• Not suitable for beginners. 

Best For Unique Design- ESP LTD Snakebyte Signature Series

The ESP LTD Snakebyte Signature Series is a precision-crafted guitar designed for James Hetfield, frontman of Metallica and one of the most highly respected rhythm guitarists. Featuring set-neck construction at a 24.75″ scale, with a mahogany body and a three-piece mahogany neck, the ebony fingerboard boasts  22 extra-jumbo frets with a snake inlay at the 12th fret. The guitar is powered by James’ own EMG JH SET active pickups and includes a TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece. Available in Black Satin or Snow White finishes and left-handed versions, this beautiful instrument is sure to please any and all rock fans. 

The playability of the ESP LTD Snakebyte Signature Series is superb, with a smooth neck that is easy to navigate and an incredibly responsive signal transfer between pickups. The tone is warm and dynamic, providing plenty of crunch for classic metal riffs and solos, but also capable of achieving a wonderful range of other tones for any style. The TonePros bridge and tailpiece give great tuning stability, and the EMG pickups provide plenty of power and clarity when needed. 

Overall, the ESP LTD Snakebyte Signature Series is an excellent guitar and one that should be considered by anyone looking for a quality instrument capable of producing some truly amazing tones. The craftsmanship and quality of this guitar are outstanding, and it is sure to be a prized possession for many years to come.  

Pros: 

• Set-neck construction for superior sustain and tone 

• Mahogany body and three-piece mahogany neck provide a smooth feel 

• EMG JH SET active pickups to deliver powerful, dynamic tones 

• TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece add tuning stability 

• Available in both right-handed and left-handed versions 

Cons: 

• Limited range of color options available (Black Satin, Snow White) 

Best For Best Basses For Metal- Fender Steve Harris Precision Bass

The Fender Steve Harris Precision Bass is the perfect guitar for experienced and beginner players. This awesome bass is crafted to deliver an unforgettable playing experience. The soccer team logo graphic and side paint schemes provide a distinctive look that gives this model an unmistakable style. But it’s not all about looks, as this bass has some impressive features.

In addition, the Seymour Duncan split P pickup provides hum-free crushing output to ensure that your sound is powerful and clear. The Fender-designed hi-mass bridge ensures a clear tonal transfer and maximum resonation as you play. The modern ‘C’ shape neck profile and Steve Harris Rot sound flat wound strings make for comfortable extended playing sessions. 

Finally, Fender includes a Deluxe Gig bag and a Limited Lifetime warranty with your purchase, so you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your bass is fully taken care of. The Fender Steve Harris Precision Bass is a fantastic instrument for any fan of rock music. Whether you’re just starting or have been playing for years, this bass will be sure to inspire your creativity. It is a perfect choice in the collection of the best metal basses.

Pros: 

• High-quality craftsmanship for a stunning look and sound

• Seymour Duncan split P pickup for hum-free power 

• Fender-designed hi-mass bridge for maximum resonation 

• Steve Harris Rot sound flat wound strings for comfortable playing

• Deluxe Gig bag and Limited Lifetime warranty included with the purchase 

Cons: 

• None! The Fender Steve Harris Precision Bass is a great instrument for any level of player.

Best For 5-string- Schecter Stiletto Studio-5 FF – Honey Satin

The Schecter Stiletto Studio-5 FF – Honey Satin is an incredibly versatile electric bass guitar that caters to all kinds of musical styles. It has a mahogany body, a multi-scale rosewood fingerboard, active EQ, two humbucking pickups, and a maple/walnut neck – all of which combine to create a great tone and feel. The mahogany body is extremely resonant, allowing for clear articulation and sustain even when playing complex chords or fast licks. This bass offers plenty of definition in the mids and highs while still providing plenty of punchy low-end.

The multi-scale rosewood fingerboard adds to the overall playability of the instrument. It is smooth and comfortable against your fingertips, making it perfect for both fingering techniques and soloing. The active EQ gives you a wide range of tonal options, allowing you to tweak the sound as needed to get just the right sound for different musical styles.

The humbucking pickups offer a warm, full sound that is perfect for jazz and blues. The maple/walnut neck adds definition and clarity to the sound while still providing plenty of sustain and attack. Overall, the Schecter Stiletto Studio-5 FF – Honey Satin offers a great combination of tone and playability, making it an excellent choice for all types of musicians. 

Pros: 

• Resonance while playing complex chords or licks 

• Adds to the playability of the instrument 

• Wide range of tonal options 

• Warm, full sound perfect for jazz and blues 

• Sound is definition, clarity, and sustain 

Cons: 

• Not ideal for heavier styles of music due to its warm tone 

• Limited tonal options when compared to other modern bass guitars.

Best For 4-string- Schecter Hellraiser Extreme-4

The Schecter Hellraiser Extreme-4 is an impressive electric guitar that offers a potent blend of elegance and aggression. With its neck-thru-body construction and highly-figured maple top, this guitar looks great on the outside and delivers excellent performance on the inside. The Rosewood fretboard feels smooth and comfortable under your fingers as you play, and the EMG pickup combination provides a powerful tone that is perfect for any genre.

The new inlays and binding create a stunning visual appearance, while the Basswood body ensures long-lasting durability. Overall, the Schecter Hellraiser Extreme-4 is an excellent choice for any guitarist looking for an instrument that combines both beauty and power and is great for the list of the best metal basses.

Pros:

• Neck-thru-body construction for superior playability 

• Highly-figured maple top with stunning inlays and binding 

• Comfortable Rosewood fretboard 

• Powerful EMG pickup combination provides excellent tone 

• Durable Basswood body for a long life span 

Cons: 

• Expensive compared to similar models 

• Heavier than some other guitars in the same price range 

Ibanez SRMS805 Multi Scale 2018 5-String

The Ibanez SRMS805 Multi Scale 2018 5-String is one of the best impressive metal basses that offers plenty of features and quality craftsmanship. It has a walnut/mahogany body and two humbucking pickups with Deep Twilight coloring, giving it a powerful sound. The Panga Panga fingerboard adds a distinct feel and sound that is great for all types of music.

The jatoba/walnut neck also gives it an extra level of playability, and the poplar burl top makes it truly stand out. Whether you play rock, metal, funk, or blues, this bass guitar can provide you with plenty of tone options and a great playing experience. For the price, this Ibanez SRMS805 Multi Scale 2018 5-String is a fantastic choice that won’t disappoint. 

Pros: 

• Walnut/Mahogany body for a warm tone with plenty of sustain 

• Two humbucking pickups for a powerful sound 

• Panga Panga fingerboard for a unique feel and sound 

• Jatoba/Walnut neck for an extra level of playability 

• Poplar burl top for a beautiful finish 

• Great for all types of music genres 

Cons: 

• Not suitable for beginners due to the complex design and features.

Ibanez SR505BM Soundgear 5-String Bass

The Ibanez SR505BM Soundgear 5-String Bass is an excellent choice for any musician looking for a reliable instrument. Its body is made of mahogany, which gives it a robust sound with good resonance. The neck is constructed from five pieces of Jatoba and Bubinga wood, making it both durable and comfortable to play with. The fretboard is made of rosewood with an abalone oval inlay, giving it a beautiful look and feel.

Overall, this bass has excellent craftsmanship and great sound quality. It’s perfect for any style of playing from jazz to funk to rock. The Ibanez SR505BM Soundgear 5-String Bass is an excellent choice for anyone looking for good quality, affordable bass. 

Pros:  

• High-quality mahogany body 

• Durable five-piece neck made of Jatoba and Bubinga wood 

• Rosewood fretboard with abalone oval inlay 

• Great sound quality for any style of playing 

• Affordable price point for the level of quality delivered.

Cons:  

• No active electronics, which may limit some sound possibilities. 

ESP LTD B-205SM Spalted Maple Five-String

The ESP LTD B-205SM Spalted Maple Five-String is a stylish and versatile five-string bass guitar, offering players a unique look that stands out from the crowd. The ash body features an eye-catching spalted maple top with a Natural Satin finish, giving it an elegant and distinctive appearance. The extra thin U-shaped 5-piece maple/jatoba neck provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience, making it easy to play complex chords and progressions. 

Additionally, the instrument is outfitted with ESP Designed SB-5 pickups as well as an active ABQ-3 3-band EQ. Featuring good-looking black nickel hardware and delivered at an affordable price, the ESP LTD B-205SM Spalted Maple Five-String is an excellent choice for bass guitarists who are looking for a stylish, high-quality instrument that won’t break the bank. 

Pros:

• Attractive spalted maple top with Natural Satin finish 

• Thin U-shaped 5-piece maple/jatoba neck for a smooth playing experience 

• ESP Designed SB-5 pickups and active ABQ-3 3-band EQ for a wide range of tonal possibilities 

• Black nickel hardware for a stylish look 

• Affordable price 

Cons:

• Limited color options. 

ESP LTD B-204SM Spalted Maple Bass Guitar

ESP LTD B-204SM Spalted Maple Bass Guitar is a stunning instrument that stands out from the crowd with its unique coloration and grain pattern. It features an ash body and a spalted maple top in a Natural Satin finish, providing players with a great look that will draw attention. The extra thin U-shaped five-piece maple/jatoba neck offers an excellent playing feel. The instrument is also equipped with passive ESP Designed SB-4 pickups, an active ABQ-3 EQ, and attractive black nickel hardware. All in all, the ESP LTD B-204SM Spalted Maple Bass Guitar is a great choice for bassists looking for a powerful and stylish instrument. 

Pros: 

• Offers a unique and eye-catching look 

• Maple/Jatoba neck provides a superior playing feel 

• Features ESP Designed SB-4 pickups & ABQ-3 EQ for great sound control 

• Black nickel hardware adds to the instrument’s stylish appearance 

Cons: 

• Natural Satin finish may be challenging to keep clean 

• May take some time to get the most out of its sound capabilities. 

Schecter Stiletto Extreme-4 Bass Guitar

The Schecter Stiletto Extreme-4 Bass Guitar is an outstanding instrument that combines state-of-the-art features and superior craftsmanship to create a bass that sounds great, looks incredible, and provides effortless playability. The bass features a Graph Tech Tusq nut made from man-made composite materials designed to provide a  smooth and consistent tone. The pickups are Diamond Active, giving the bass a powerful sound with plenty of attack and punch.

Besides, the Diamond Bass Bridge is solid and rugged, providing excellent stability for intonation as well as improved sustain. Last but not least, Schecter Tuners ensure that this guitar stays perfectly in tune no matter what you put it through. All in all, the Schecter Stiletto Extreme-4 Bass Guitar is an outstanding instrument that offers superior sound, stylish looks, and reliable performance – backed up by a limited lifetime guarantee. 

Pros: 

• Graph Tech Tusq Nut for improved tone and consistency 

• Diamond Active pickups provide plenty of attacks and punch 

• Solid, rugged Diamond Bass Bridge for better intonation and sustain 

• Schecter Tuners ensure stable tuning no matter what you put it through 

• Limited lifetime guarantee  

Cons: 

• None! The Schecter Stiletto Extreme-4 Bass Guitar is a superb instrument that provides excellent sound, durability, and playability.

Jackson JS Series Spectra JS3Q Bass Guitar

The Jackson JS Series Spectra JS3Q Bass Guitar is the perfect instrument for any bassist looking to add a modern touch to their sound. From its glossy poplar Spectra body to its 34″ scale satin maple neck with laurel fingerboard, this bass guitar has many features that make it stand out from other bass guitars. The Jackson medium-output humbucking pickups add a great amount of warmth and power to your sound, and the Jackson HiMass bridge delivers optimum tone.

Furthermore, the sealed die-cast tuners also provide superior tuning stability, so you can trust that your sound will remain consistent throughout your performance. This incredible bass guitar is perfect for any discerning musician who wants a modern instrument that is packed with great features. The Jackson JS Series Spectra JS3Q Bass Guitar will help you take your music to the next level! 

Pros:

• Glossy poplar Spectra body delivers a modern look and feel 

• 34″ scale satin maple neck with laurel fingerboard provides excellent playability 

• Jackson medium-output humbucking pickups provide warmth and power to your sound 

• Jackson HiMass bridge ensures the optimum tone 

• Sealed die-cast tuners offer superior tuning stability 

• Perfect for any discerning musician looking to add a modern touch to their sound. 

Cons: 

• Not suitable for beginner bass players. 

Yamaha 4 String Bass Guitar

The Yamaha 4 String Bass Guitar is an incredibly well-crafted instrument that offers a truly versatile sound. The solid mahogany body provides the perfect tonal foundation for any playing style, from powerful and aggressive slap bass to smooth and mellow fingerstyle. This bass also features a five-piece maple/mahogany neck and active electronics for added versatility. The Performance EQ switch allows you to tailor the sound to fit your specific playing style, from the slap and pick to flat or solo play.

Overall, this bass is an excellent choice for any musician looking for a reliable instrument with plenty of tonal options. It’s surprisingly lightweight yet still delivers a full-bodied sound that will cut through any mix. With its high-quality construction and versatile sound, the Yamaha 4 String Bass Guitar is an ideal choice for the modern bassist.

Pros: 

• Rich, full-bodied sound 

• Excellent playability and sustain 

• Versatile tone options 

• Easy to handle during extended playing sessions 

• High-quality construction ensures reliable performance

Cons: 

• May require some adjustment to get the perfect sound 

Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3 – Metallic Red

The Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3 – Metallic Red is a 4-string electric bass guitar with a poplar body and maple neck. It has two active humbucking pickups that provide many tonal options. The instrument is finished in a beautiful metallic red, adding to its aesthetic appeal. 

The Laurel fingerboard is comfortable to play with and provides an excellent response. The neck has a fast and smooth playing feel, making it easy to transition between chords. The body has great resonance when played acoustically, while the pickups are powerful and provide plenty of volumes. Moreover, the tone options available with this instrument are impressive; you can get everything from warm, precise jazz tones to full-bodied rock tones. The pickups are responsive and can easily pick up nuances in your playing style.

Overall, the Jackson JS Series Spectra Bass JS3 – Metallic Red is an excellent instrument for beginning bass players and professionals alike. It’s versatile, comfortable to play, and has a great look that will stand out on any stage. 

Pros: 

• Active humbucking pickups for a wide range of tonal options

• Comfortable Laurel fingerboard and smooth playing neck

• Powerful pickups with great response to nuances in your playing style 

• Beautiful metallic red finish adds aesthetic appeal 

Cons: 

• Electronics might require some tweaking before finding the perfect tone 

• Some users have reported difficulty in string bends due to the neck profile. 

Ibanez Standard SR300E Bass Guitar

The Ibanez Standard SR300E Bass Guitar is an impressive instrument that combines a sleek, modern design with top-of-the-line features. Its mahogany body is immaculately finished, giving the guitar a beautiful aesthetic that stands out among other bass guitars. The neck is made of maple wood and rosewood,  providing players with a comfortable and fast playing experience.

The PowerSpan dual coil pickups provide an impressive sound that is perfect for all types of music, from rock to jazz. Additionally, the Ibanez custom electronics 3-band EQ allows users to create unique tones and experiment with different sounds. Overall, the Ibanez Standard SR300E Bass Guitar is an outstanding choice for any musician looking for a high-quality instrument with great features.

Pros: 

• Sleek and modern design 

• Immaculately finished mahogany body 

• Fast and comfortable neck made of maple wood and rosewood 

• Impressive sound provided by PowerSpan dual coil pickups 

• Ibanez custom electronics 3-band EQ for creating unique tones 

Cons: 

• Best suited for experienced players 

Squier by Fender Bronco Bass

The Squier by Fender Bronco Bass is a great option for those looking for an affordable, versatile bass guitar. It features a slim and comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile, which makes it easy to play and ensures that your hand won’t tire after extended playing sessions. It also has a single-coil Bron co Bass pickup, providing all the classic bright and punchy tones you’d expect from a Fender instrument. 

The short 30“ scale length helps to keep the sound focused and tight, while the thin and lightweight body makes it easy for players of any size to hold and play. Finally, the satin neck finish gives it a smooth feel that’s comfortable for your hands. Overall, the Squier by Fender Bronco Bass is one of the best metal basses on the market today and a great option for beginners and experienced players alike.

Pros: 

• Slim and comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile 

• Single-coil Bronco Bass pickup for classic Fender tones 

• Short 30” scale length helps keep sound focused and tight 

• Thin and lightweight body makes it easy to play for all sizes 

• Satin neck finish provides a smooth feel 

Cons: 

• Limited tonal options 

• Pickup configuration may not suit all genres of music. 

Best Metal Basses Benefits

Best metal basses offer a unique sound and tone that is both powerful and versatile. The deep, resonant tones of the best metal basses have been used to great effect in rock, jazz, and even classical music. Best metal basses are also incredibly durable instruments that can be used for years without needing repairs or maintenance.

Best metal basses provide an excellent platform for experimentation with different sounds and a solid foundation from which to develop your playing style. With their wide range of tones, dynamic responses, and long-lasting durability, it’s no surprise why so many musicians choose the best metal basses for their musical needs. 

Best metal basses provide a great opportunity for players of all levels to expand their sound and give them an instrument that will last for years. Best metal basses are also perfect for those who want to create their signature sound or explore the different sounds and tones available in the metal genre. Best metal basses offer something for everyone and can be used in any musical situation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the best metal basses provide the perfect companion for your musical exploration. 

Your best metal bass should be something that is comfortable to play and sounds great too. Try out different models and brands until you find the one that suits you best. With many options available, finding the right bass for your style and needs is easy. Best metal basses provide the perfect balance between great tone, quality construction, and affordability – making them an excellent choice for any musician looking to take their playing to the next level. 

With some research and dedication, you can find the best metal bass that fits your needs and provides you with a high-quality instrument to help you bring your music to life. By investing in one of the best metal basses available, you’ll surely get many years of enjoyment out of it for years to come.

The reason why you should choose Metal Basses

• Durable and long-lasting construction for years of use

• Wide range of tones suitable for all genres of music 

• Great platform to experiment with different sounds 

• Perfect companion to expand your sound and explore new possibilities 

• Affordable yet high-quality instrument to bring your music to life 

• Comfortable to play and easy to maintain 

• Variety of options available for all levels of players 

• Unique sound and tone that is powerful and versatile. 

• Allows you to create your signature sound. 

• Perfect balance between cost, quality, and performance. 

Factors To Consider When Choosing Best Metal Basses

When it comes to choosing the best metal bass guitar, many factors need to be taken into consideration. From tone and feel to craftsmanship and design, each player has different needs when searching for their perfect instrument. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, finding the right bass can make all the difference in your playing experience. Here are five key points to consider when selecting your new metal bass guitar. 

Tone 

The tone of your bass is one of the most important aspects of playing metal music. A strong low-end presence combined with clarity and definition will create a powerful sound that cuts through any mix. Pickups play a major role in determining how much power and clarity you get from your instrument, so choose wisely depending on what type of sound you’re looking for. Single-coils have more bite, while humbuckers provide more warmth; both have their place depending on what style you want to play. 

Feel

The feel of your metal bass is just as important as its tone – if it doesn’t feel comfortable in your hands, you won’t play it. Ideally, the neck should fit comfortably in your hand, and the strings should not be too high off the fretboard. Neck shapes are important; some basses may have thinner necks than others, making playing more comfortable for those with smaller hands. Look for a bass with a good balance between weight and stability, so it can handle the intense playing style of metal music. 

Craftsmanship 

The craftsmanship of a bass guitar is often overlooked when selecting an instrument, but it’s still important to consider. A well-made bass will last for many years as long as it’s taken care of. Look for basses with solid construction and good-quality hardware, such as locking tuners and heavy-duty bridges. This will ensure that your instrument stays in tune, even during the most energetic performances. 

Design  

The design of your bass is important, not only because it determines the sound and feel but also because it adds to the aesthetic appeal. Metal basses can range from classic designs reminiscent of vintage instruments to more modern shapes with unique body contours. Consider the type of music you want to play and choose a bass that looks as good as it sounds. 

Price 

Price is perhaps the most important factor when buying a metal bass guitar, as it can range from very affordable models to expensive custom instruments. Remember that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a great-sounding bass; plenty of quality instruments are available in the mid-price range that will suit most players. Do your research and compare different models to find one that fits your budget and playing style. 

No matter what type of metal bass guitar you choose, ensure it meets all of the abovementioned criteria. With a bit of research, you’ll be sure to find an instrument that will help you create the sound and feel you’re looking for. 

FAQs about Best Metal Basses

What is the best metal bass guitar for beginners? 

For beginners, we recommend an entry-level instrument with solid construction and good-quality hardware, such as locking tuners and heavy-duty bridges. This will ensure that your instrument stays in tune while playing. 

Are single-coil pickups better for metal bass guitars? 

Yes, single-coil pickups are generally considered to be better suited for metal music because they provide more clarity and definition than humbuckers. However, both have their place depending on what type of sound you’re looking for. 

How does the neck shape affect a metal bass guitar’s playability? 

The neck shape can greatly impact how comfortable it is to play; some models may have narrower necks, which can make them easier to handle if you have smaller hands or shorter fingers. It’s important to try out different instruments to find one that fits your hand size comfortably.  

Can I play metal bass guitar without the use of pedals or effects? 

Yes, you can play metal bass without the use of pedals or effects by using your fingers and picking technique to create a heavy sound. However, if you want to add in some extra texture, then incorporating distortion or overdrive pedals can help create a more intense sound. 

What should I consider when selecting a metal bass guitar? 

When choosing a metal bass, you should consider the type of music you want to play, the craftsmanship of the instrument, its design, and your budget. Doing your research will help you find an instrument that fits your needs and playing style. 

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a bass guitar that can handle the intensity of metal music, then it pays to do your research and evaluate different models. Consider factors such as craftsmanship, design, price range, pickup type, and neck shape when selecting an instrument. With all these criteria in mind, we highly recommend Rickenbacker 4003 Bass Mapleglo.

So pick up your new bass guitar today and start jamming out confidently knowing that you’ve chosen an instrument tailored specifically for metal music. Thank you for reading and following more useful information from us!