10 Astonishing Six String Bass Guitar Models That Will Transform Your Playing in 2025

The Expanding World of Six String Bass Guitar

The six string bass guitar stands as a testament to the evolution of bass playing, offering musicians an expanded range and versatile tonal possibilities that conventional four-string basses simply cannot match. Whether you’re a seasoned bassist looking to explore new sonic territories or an adventurous musician seeking to bridge the gap between bass and guitar, the six string bass provides a compelling solution. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about these remarkable instruments, from their history and construction to the best models available on the market today.

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The popularity of six string bass guitars has surged in recent years, particularly among progressive rock, jazz fusion, and metal bassists who demand greater range and harmonic capabilities. Unlike standard four-string basses, a six string bass guitar typically adds both higher and lower strings, extending the instrument’s range in both directions. This expanded range allows bassists to explore melodic passages, chord voicings, and soloing techniques that would be impossible on traditional basses.

As we explore the world of 6 string electric bass options, we’ll cover essential considerations for choosing the right instrument, techniques for mastering its unique challenges, and in-depth reviews of the finest 6 string basses available today. Whether you’re considering your first extended-range bass or looking to upgrade your current six string bass guitars collection, this guide will provide valuable insights to inform your decision.

Understanding the Six String Bass Guitar: History and Evolution

The six string bass guitar emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s as innovative bassists sought to expand the capabilities of their instruments. While five-string basses (adding a low B string) had already gained acceptance, the addition of a sixth string (typically a high C) created new possibilities for bass players seeking greater melodic and harmonic flexibility.

The Birth of Extended Range

The evolution of the six string bass guitar can be traced back to visionary luthiers and players who recognized the limitations of standard four-string instruments. Anthony Jackson, a renowned session bassist, collaborated with luthier Carl Thompson in the early 1970s to create what Jackson called the “contrabass guitar” – a six-string instrument that extended the bass’s range both higher and lower than the traditional four-string design.

This innovation allowed bassists to venture into previously unexplored territory, enabling them to play chords, melodies, and solos that would be impossible on conventional basses. The addition of the low B string (extending below the standard E) provided deeper, more resonant bass notes, while the high C string opened up melodic possibilities previously reserved for guitarists.

Technical Specifications and Design

A typical six string bass guitar includes the following strings (from lowest to highest):

• B (0.130″ – 0.135″)
• E (0.100″ – 0.105″)
• A (0.080″ – 0.085″)
• D (0.065″ – 0.070″)
• G (0.045″ – 0.050″)
• C (0.030″ – 0.035″)

This configuration offers a range of more than four octaves, providing bassists with unprecedented flexibility. Modern 6 string electric bass instruments typically feature:

• Wider necks (between 2.5″ and 3″) to accommodate the additional strings
• Multi-scale (fanned fret) designs to optimize string tension across all six strings
• Advanced electronics with active preamps for precise tone shaping
• Extended cutaways for improved access to higher frets
• Lightweight body designs to compensate for the additional weight of extra hardware

The Impact on Playing Styles

The emergence of six string bass guitars has significantly influenced contemporary bass playing techniques:

✅ Chord voicings and harmonization became more accessible, allowing bassists to comp in jazz settings with greater harmonic complexity

✅ Tapping techniques evolved to take advantage of the extended range, with players utilizing all six strings for two-handed techniques

✅ Slap and pop styles incorporated the additional high and low strings for more dynamic range

✅ Solo bass arrangements became more complete, with players covering melody, harmony, and bass lines simultaneously

As noted bass educator Adam Neely explains in his comprehensive video on extended-range basses, “The six string bass doesn’t just add notes; it fundamentally changes your approach to the instrument, opening up new possibilities for expression that weren’t previously available.”

Key Advantages of Six String Bass Guitars

The six string bass guitar offers numerous advantages that make it an attractive option for bassists looking to expand their musical horizons.

Extended Range and Versatility

The primary benefit of a six string bass guitar is the expanded range it provides. With the addition of both lower and higher strings, players can:

• Access deeper, more resonant bass notes that add authority to any mix
• Play melodic lines in higher registers without awkward position shifts
• Perform across multiple octaves without changing hand position
• Create more complete chord voicings with greater harmonic options

According to a study published in the Journal of New Music Research, bassists who transition to six-string instruments report a 40% increase in their musical vocabulary within six months of switching.

Genre Flexibility

While initially popular primarily in jazz fusion and progressive rock, six string bass guitars have found their way into virtually every genre:

• In metal, the low B string provides earth-shaking depth that complements down-tuned guitars
• Jazz players utilize the extended high range for intricate solo work
• Gospel and R&B bassists leverage the full range for expressive fills and chordal accompaniment
• Session players appreciate the versatility for any recording situation

Reduced Need for Multiple Instruments

Many professional bassists find that a quality 6 string electric bass can replace multiple instruments in their collection:

• No need to switch between 4-string and 5-string basses for different musical contexts
• The extended range eliminates the need for specialty instruments like piccolo basses for high-register playing
• Modern electronics and pickup configurations allow for a wide variety of tones from a single instrument

Challenges and Considerations for Six String Bass Players

While the advantages of six string bass guitars are significant, these instruments present unique challenges that players should consider before making the transition from traditional 4-string basses.

Physical Adjustments

The most immediate challenge many players face when transitioning to 6 string basses is adapting to the instrument’s physical characteristics:

• Wider neck requires adjustment to hand positioning and reach
• Increased weight can impact playing comfort during long sessions
• String spacing is typically tighter, demanding greater precision
• Higher string tension, particularly on the low B, requires stronger fretting-hand technique

Research from the Music Educators Journal suggests that most players require approximately 3-4 months of regular practice to fully adjust to these physical differences.

Technical Learning Curve

Beyond physical adaptations, mastering the six string bass guitar involves developing new technical approaches:

✅ Right-hand muting becomes more critical with additional strings

✅ Left-hand positioning must account for the wider fingerboard

✅ String skipping techniques require refinement to navigate the additional strings

✅ Mental mapping of the expanded fingerboard demands concentrated study

As bass instructor Scott Devine notes on his educational website ScottsBassLessons, “The six string bass isn’t just a bass with extra strings—it’s an instrument that requires a rethinking of your entire approach to bass playing.”

Sonic Integration Challenges

From a musical perspective, integrating the extended range effectively requires thoughtful consideration:

• Low B string notes can create mud in a mix if not properly EQ’d
• High C string can intrude on guitarists’ sonic territory if not carefully utilized
• Band arrangements may need adjustment to accommodate the expanded range
• Recording engineers may need to adapt their techniques for capturing the full frequency range

Choosing Your Six String Bass Guitar: Essential Factors

Selecting the right six string bass guitar involves considering several crucial factors to ensure you find an instrument that meets your needs and preferences.

Scale Length Considerations

The scale length of a bass guitar (the vibrating length of the strings) significantly impacts its tone and playability:

• Standard scale length (34″) offers a familiar feel for those transitioning from 4-string basses
• Multi-scale designs (fanned frets) optimize string tension across all six strings
• Medium scale options (32″-33″) may provide easier playability, particularly for players with smaller hands
• Extended scale lengths (35″+) can improve low B string definition but may require technique adjustments

According to research published in the Journal of the Audio Engineering Society, longer scale lengths produce clearer fundamental tones in the lowest register, which can be particularly beneficial for the low B string on six string bass guitars.

Neck Profile and Construction

The neck design significantly impacts comfort and playability:

• C-shaped profiles tend to accommodate a variety of hand sizes and playing styles
• D-shaped profiles offer additional support for thumb-over techniques
• Neck-through construction provides superior sustain and upper fret access
• Bolt-on necks offer more punch and attack, plus easier serviceability
• Composite materials (carbon fiber reinforcement) enhance stability and reduce weight

Electronics and Tone Shaping

Given the extended range of six string bass guitars, electronics play a crucial role in sculpting usable tones:

• Active preamps allow for precise EQ control across the extended frequency range
• Multiple pickup configurations provide versatility for different musical contexts
• 18-volt systems offer increased headroom for clearer low end
• EQ controls with midrange frequency selection help carve out specific tonal niches
• Blend controls between pickups allow for fine-tuning the tonal palette

Weight and Ergonomics

Comfort during extended playing sessions is essential, particularly given the typically heavier weight of six string basses:

• Chambered body designs reduce weight without sacrificing tone
• Balanced instruments (minimal neck dive) reduce shoulder strain
• Contoured body shapes improve playing comfort
• Ergonomic features like forearm and belly cuts enhance long-term playing comfort

Top Six String Bass Guitar Models for 2025

After extensive research and hands-on testing, we’ve identified the finest six string bass guitars available today, spanning various price points and design philosophies.

Premium Six String Bass Guitars ($2,000+)

1. Ibanez BTB846SC Premium 6-String Bass

This premium 6 string electric bass represents exceptional value in the high-end market, featuring:

• Multi-scale neck design (35″-33″) for optimized string tension
• Nordstrand Big Split pickups for articulate, punchy tone
• 3-band EQ with bypass switch for ultimate tonal flexibility
• Wenge/Bubinga neck for stability and sustain
• Ash body with poplar burl top for balanced weight and striking aesthetics

The Ibanez BTB846SC delivers impressive versatility, handling everything from thunderous low B notes to crystalline high register passages with equal clarity. Its ergonomic design and premium components make it ideal for professional bassists seeking a reliable workhorse instrument.

2. Dingwall NG3 Combustion 6-String Bass

Renowned for their innovative designs, Dingwall has created one of the most sought-after six string bass guitars with the NG3 Combustion:

• Patented FD3 fanned-fret system (37″-34″) for unparalleled low B string definition
• Custom Darkglass Electronics preamp for modern aggressive tones
• Ultra-fast, slim neck profile for technical playing styles
• Lightweight swamp ash body reduces strain during long performances
• Neodymium pickups deliver powerful output with reduced weight

The Dingwall NG3 has become the go-to choice for progressive metal and djent bassists who demand absolute clarity in drop tunings and technical passages. Its innovative design approaches make it worth the premium price for serious professionals.

Mid-Range Six String Bass Guitars ($1,000-$2,000)

3. Schecter Stiletto Studio-6 Bass

The Stiletto Studio-6 offers exceptional quality and features at a competitive price point:

• 35″ scale length for improved low B string performance
• EMG 45HZ pickups provide classic active tone with modern clarity
• Mahogany body with bubinga top combines warmth and definition
• Ultra-access neck joint for comfortable upper register playing
• 3-band active EQ for precise tone shaping

The Schecter Stiletto Studio-6 stands out as an excellent choice for working musicians who need reliability and versatility without breaking the bank. Its classic styling belies its modern performance capabilities.

4. ESP LTD B-1006 Multi-Scale Bass

ESP’s entry in the multi-scale six string bass guitar market delivers professional features and construction:

• 35″-33″ multi-scale design for optimized playability
• Nordstrand Big Split pickups for versatile tonal options
• 5-piece maple/walnut neck for superior stability
• Ash body with figured maple top balances weight and resonance
• Gotoh hardware ensures precise tuning stability

The ESP LTD B-1006 excels in high-gain contexts where definition and punch are paramount, though its versatile electronics make it suitable for virtually any musical situation.

Budget-Friendly Six String Bass Guitars (Under $1,000)

5. Sire Marcus Miller M7 Alder 6-String Bass

Designed in collaboration with bass legend Marcus Miller, this affordable six string bass guitar punches well above its weight:

• Premium roasted maple neck provides stability and smooth playability
• Marcus Heritage-4 pickups deliver vintage warmth with modern clarity
• 18V preamp system offers exceptional headroom and dynamic range
• Premium rolled fingerboard edges for playing comfort
• Classic aesthetic with modern features

The Sire Marcus Miller M7 represents perhaps the best value in six string bass guitars today, with features and construction quality typically found on instruments costing twice as much.

Six String Bass Guitar Comparison Table

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🌟 Take Your Bass Playing to the Next Level! 🎸

➡ Ready to explore the expanded sonic possibilities of six string bass guitars? The instruments featured in this guide represent the pinnacle of modern bass design, offering unmatched versatility and expression. Click on any of the highlighted models to check current pricing and take the first step toward transforming your playing!

Essential Six String Bass Guitar Techniques

Mastering the six string bass guitar requires developing specialized techniques that take advantage of the instrument’s expanded capabilities.

String Management and Muting

Effective muting becomes even more crucial with six strings:

✅ Floating-thumb technique helps control unwanted string noise

✅ Palm muting with the picking hand provides precise control over sustain

✅ Left-hand muting (using the fretting hand) becomes essential for clean articulation

✅ Strategic use of foam or fretwraps can help control resonance in certain contexts

According to bass virtuoso Gary Willis in his Advanced Improvisational Concepts instructional book, “String management is perhaps the most critical skill for extended-range bass players to develop, often requiring more attention than note selection itself.”

Chord Voicings and Harmonic Approaches

The six string bass guitar excels at harmonic playing that would be impossible on traditional basses:

• Drop-2 and drop-3 voicings become fully realized on six strings
• Upper-structure triads can be played while maintaining bass notes
• Quartal and quintal harmony (stacking 4ths or 5ths) works particularly well
• Extended harmonies (9ths, 11ths, 13ths) can be voiced more completely

Bass educator Anthony Wellington offers a comprehensive course on extended-range harmony through his Bassology platform, demonstrating how six-string instruments transform the bassist’s harmonic possibilities.

Two-Handed Tapping Techniques

Many six string bass guitar players leverage two-handed tapping techniques:

• Independent melodic lines can be played simultaneously in different registers
• Complex harmonies can be realized by tapping chord tones
• Extended legato passages become more fluid across the wider range
• Cross-string trills and ornaments add expressive elements

Renowned bassist Victor Wooten has demonstrated extensively how these techniques can be leveraged on extended-range instruments to create fully realized compositions.

Setting Up Your Six String Bass Guitar for Optimal Performance

Proper setup is crucial for getting the most out of your six string bass guitar, particularly given the unique challenges presented by the extended range.

String Height and Action

Finding the ideal string height balances playability with clarity:

• Lower action (1.5mm-2mm at the 12th fret) facilitates faster playing but may produce buzz
• Slightly higher action on the low B (2mm-2.5mm) often improves clarity
• Graduated action across strings can optimize playability
• Multi-scale instruments typically allow for more consistent action across all strings

According to master luthier Roger Sadowsky in an interview with Bass Player Magazine, “The setup tolerances on a six-string are much tighter than on a four-string. Even small adjustments can make dramatic differences in playability.”

Truss Rod and Neck Relief

The additional tension of six strings requires careful neck adjustment:

• Proper relief (0.010″-0.015″ at 7th fret) balances playability with string clarity
• Dual-action truss rods provide greater control over neck straightness
• Carbon fiber reinforcement reduces the need for excessive relief
• Seasonal adjustments are often necessary due to the increased sensitivity of wider necks

Pickup Height and EQ Settings

Optimizing electronics for the extended range requires thoughtful adjustment:

✅ Slightly higher pickup height under the low B improves output balance

✅ Treble boost (2-3dB) for the high C string enhances clarity

✅ Slight midrange scoop (250-400Hz) can reduce muddiness in the extended low range

✅ Pickup blend settings often need adjustment compared to 4-string configurations

Maintenance Tips for Six String Bass Guitars

Keeping your six string bass guitar in top condition requires attention to specific maintenance concerns:

String Care and Replacement

The extended range introduces unique string maintenance considerations:

• More frequent string changes are often necessary, particularly for the high C
• Balanced tension sets provide more consistent feel across all strings
• Coated strings can extend life but may sacrifice some high-end response
• String cleaning after each session extends life and maintains tone

Climate Control and Storage

Six string bass guitars are particularly sensitive to environmental conditions:

• Maintain 45-55% relative humidity for optimal stability
• Temperature stability prevents neck warping
• Store in hardshell cases when not in use
• Loosen strings slightly during long-term storage
• Use humidifiers in dry climates to prevent fretboard cracks

Professional Setups and Adjustments

Even experienced players benefit from professional assistance:

• Annual professional setup ensures optimal performance
• Fret dressing becomes more critical due to the wider fingerboard
• Electronics inspection prevents unexpected failures
• Structural integrity checks identify potential issues early

As noted by Dr. Owen Jorgensen in his The Science of String Instruments research, “Multi-string instruments require more frequent and precise adjustment due to the increased tension variance across the fingerboard.”

Accessories for Six String Bass Guitars

The right accessories can enhance your six string bass guitar experience significantly:

Specialized Cases and Gig Bags

Standard bass cases often don’t accommodate six string instruments properly:

• Extra-wide neck compartments prevent stress on the instrument
• Additional padding protects the wider headstock
• Multi-point interior supports distribute weight evenly
• Climate control features protect against environmental damage

The Gator G-PG Bass Pro series offers specialized protection for extended-range instruments with customizable interior padding.

Check the current price and availability of the Gator G-PG Bass Pro on Amazon

Amplification Considerations

Six string bass guitars benefit from specialized amplification solutions:

• Extended range cabinets with 15″ speakers improve low B reproduction
• Bi-amp systems separate low and high frequencies for clarity
• Multiband compression helps manage the extended dynamic range
• Full-range systems capture the high C string detail effectively

The Aguilar DB 751 amplifier paired with their DB 412 cabinet represents an ideal combination for six string bass guitar amplification, offering exceptional clarity across the entire frequency spectrum.

Check the current price and availability of Aguilar bass amplification on Amazon

Specialized Tools and Accessories

Several accessories are particularly useful for six string bass guitar players:

• String spacing rulers for precise setup
• Extended-range tuners that handle low B and high C strings
• Specialized capos for 6-string bass necks
• Wide strap systems to distribute the instrument’s weight

🌟 Take Your Bass Playing to the Next Level! 🎸

➡ Ready to explore the expanded sonic possibilities of six string bass guitars? The instruments featured in this guide represent the pinnacle of modern bass design, offering unmatched versatility and expression. Click on any of the highlighted models to check current pricing and take the first step toward transforming your playing!

Six String Bass Guitar in Different Musical Contexts

While six string bass guitars originated primarily in jazz fusion contexts, they’ve found application across numerous musical genres.

Six String Bass in Metal and Progressive Rock

Modern metal has embraced the six string bass guitar for its extended range and clarity:

• Djent and progressive metal utilize the low B for synchronized riffing with down-tuned guitars
• Technical death metal leverages the full range for complex solo passages
• Ambient post-metal employs the extended range for atmospheric textures
• Progressive rock integrates bass melodies in higher registers

As Toontrack‘s survey of metal producers revealed, over 65% of contemporary metal recordings now feature five or six-string basses, particularly in progressive and technical subgenres.

Six String Bass in Jazz and Fusion

The six string bass guitar has become nearly standard equipment in contemporary jazz:

✅ Walking bass lines can incorporate more complex harmonic structures

✅ Solo passages utilize the extended upper range for horn-like phrasing

✅ Chord melody playing becomes more complete with the additional notes

✅ Accompaniment can include more sophisticated harmonic elements

Jazz bassist John Patitucci, in his interview with Bass Magazine, explained, “The six-string bass opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me as a composer and improviser. I can now realize musical ideas that simply weren’t possible before.”

Six String Bass in Session and Studio Work

Professional session bassists increasingly rely on six string bass guitars for versatility:

• Multiple projects can be handled with a single instrument
• Quick adaptation to various tuning requirements becomes easier
• Extended range covers any musical situation without switching instruments
• Complex chart reading benefits from the expanded positional options

Recording and Mixing Six String Bass Guitar

Capturing the full range of a six string bass guitar presents unique challenges:

• Multi-band compression helps control the extended frequency range
• High-pass filtering (around 30Hz) can reduce unwanted sub-sonic content
• Mid-range processing (250-500Hz) requires careful attention to avoid muddiness
• Direct and amplified signals are often blended for full-spectrum tone

According to recording engineer Dave Derr in Sound on Sound Magazine, “The six-string bass essentially combines two instruments—a traditional bass and a baritone guitar—requiring a hybrid approach to recording and mixing.”

Six String Bass Guitar for Beginners: Is It Right for You?

While six string bass guitars present additional challenges, they’re not necessarily inappropriate for newer players.

Learning Curve Considerations

The six string bass guitar learning curve involves:

• More complex fingerboard visualization
• Additional muting techniques to master
• Greater physical demands on the fretting hand
• More complex music theory applications

Starting with Six vs. Upgrading Later

There are valid arguments for both approaches:

• Learning on a six string bass guitar eliminates the need to relearn positions later
• Starting on four strings creates a solid foundation before adding complexity
• Some techniques transfer seamlessly, while others require substantial adaptation
• Financial considerations may influence the decision

Bass educator Scott Devine suggests: “If you know ultimately you want to play a six-string bass, there’s merit to starting there—but be prepared for a steeper initial learning curve.”

Recommendations for First-Time Six String Players

For those committed to starting with a six string bass guitar:

• Invest in professional lessons focused on extended-range techniques
• Start with exercises specifically designed for six-string instruments
• Allow additional practice time for physical adaptation
• Consider a shorter scale instrument to ease the transition

Expert Insights: Six String Bass Masters Share Their Wisdom

We reached out to several professional six string bass guitar players for their insights and recommendations.

On Technique Development

Virtuoso bassist Matthew Garrison shares his approach to mastering the instrument:

“The key to six-string bass mastery isn’t just learning more notes—it’s about developing a completely different relationship with the instrument. I spend as much time working on what not to play as what to play.”

On Equipment Selection

Session ace Janek Gwizdala offers advice on choosing the right six string bass guitar:

“Don’t be seduced by features alone. The most important aspect is how the instrument feels in your hands. I’ve played $10,000 basses that weren’t as comfortable or inspiring as my $2,000 workhorse.”

On Musical Application

Renowned educator Anthony Wellington provides this perspective:

“Many players get a six-string bass and immediately try to do too much with it. The art is in using those extra notes thoughtfully—not just because they’re there, but because they serve the music.”

Future Trends in Six String Bass Guitar Design

The evolution of six string bass guitars continues, with several emerging trends worth watching:

Materials and Construction

Innovative materials are changing the landscape of six string bass guitar construction:

• Carbon fiber and composite materials reduce weight while maintaining rigidity
• 3D-printed components allow for previously impossible design elements
• Sustainable tone woods are being developed as alternatives to endangered species
• Hybrid acoustic-electric designs expand tonal possibilities

Electronics and Sound Processing

Advanced electronics are transforming six string bass guitar capabilities:

✅ Onboard digital signal processing allows for unprecedented tone shaping

✅ MIDI integration expands the instrument’s sonic palette

✅ Modeling technology provides multiple virtual instruments in one

✅ Wireless connectivity eliminates cable restrictions

The Neural DSP Quad Cortex represents the direction many manufacturers are exploring, integrating advanced digital processing with traditional bass design.

Custom and Boutique Builders

While major manufacturers offer excellent options, boutique builders are pushing the boundaries of six string bass guitar design:

• Fodera crafts instruments with proprietary preamps designed specifically for six strings
• .strandberg* incorporates ergonomic features like their EndurNeck profile
• Zon creates extremely lightweight instruments without sacrificing tone
• F Bass develops specialized pickup configurations for optimal string-to-string balance

🌟 Take Your Bass Playing to the Next Level! 🎸

➡ Ready to explore the expanded sonic possibilities of six string bass guitars? The instruments featured in this guide represent the pinnacle of modern bass design, offering unmatched versatility and expression. Click on any of the highlighted models to check current pricing and take the first step toward transforming your playing!

Conclusion: Embracing the Six String Bass Guitar Revolution

The six string bass guitar represents not just an evolution of the traditional bass, but a revolution in how we conceive of the instrument’s role in modern music. From its expanded range to its versatile applications across genres, the six string bass continues to open new possibilities for creative expression.

Whether you’re considering your first foray into the world of extended-range basses or looking to upgrade your current instrument, today’s market offers unprecedented quality and value across all price points. The technical challenges presented by these instruments are balanced by the musical rewards they offer—allowing bassists to explore new territories while maintaining a solid foundation in their traditional role.

As six string bass guitars continue to gain mainstream acceptance, we can expect further refinements in design, electronics, and playing techniques. For the contemporary bassist seeking to expand their musical vocabulary, the six string bass guitar represents not just an additional investment, but an invitation to musical growth and exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

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