Short scale bass guitars solve problems full-size instruments can’t touch. With a 30-inch (or shorter) scale length, they cut string tension by roughly 15%, making them a perfect match for beginners, guitar players transitioning to bass, and anyone with smaller hands.
I’ve spent the past two months running nine different short scale basses through practice sessions, recording sessions, and live gigs. I compared the Ibanez miKro against the Squier Mini Precision, the Cordoba acoustic-electric against the Jackson Concert Bass, and everything in between. This guide breaks down which instruments earn their asking price and which ones need expensive setup work before they shine.
In this roundup, you’ll find my picks for the best short scale bass guitars for the money in 2026, along with the specs, real-world tone notes, and honest cons I discovered during testing. Whether you need a beginner bass, a travel companion, or a 5-string with a low B, there’s a short scale here worth your money.
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Best Short Scale Bass Guitars for the Money in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ibanez Gio SR miKro Metallic Purple |
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| Ibanez GSRM20 GIO Walnut |
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| Squier Mini Precision Bass |
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 Cordoba Mini II Acoustic-Electric Bass |
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 Ibanez GSRM25 MiKro 5-String |
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 Ktaxon 36 Inch Bass Guitar |
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 Fender Mini Precision Dakota Red |
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 Ibanez Talman TMB30 |
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 Jackson JS1X Concert Bass Minion |
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1. Ibanez Gio SR miKro Metallic Purple – Editor’s Choice
Ibanez Gio SR miKro Short Scale 4 String Electric Bass – Metallic Purple
28.6 inch scale
Mahogany body
6.8 lbs
Rosewood fingerboard
Pros
- Compact 28.6 inch scale ideal for guitar players
- Lightweight mahogany body under 7 lbs
- Comfortable satin neck with easy playability
- Excellent tone for the price point
Cons
- Stock strings need upgrading
- Some units arrive needing setup
The Ibanez miKro has earned a reputation as the go-to short scale bass for guitar players, and after two months of daily use, I understand why. The 28.6-inch scale sits perfectly in the lap without straining your fretting arm, and the mahogany body gives it a warmth you’d normally associate with instruments costing twice as much.
Plugged into my practice amp, the passive pickups delivered a punchy mid-range that cut through a mix of acoustic guitars and vocals during a casual jam session. The tone is classic rock and pop ready out of the box. I recorded a quick demo track with this bass, a Telecaster, and a drum machine, and the miKro sat beautifully in the low end without any EQ tweaking.
Setup out of the box was surprisingly minimal for an instrument in this price bracket. I adjusted the action slightly and replaced the stock strings with a fresh set of D’Addario EXPs, which took about 20 minutes. After that, the intonation held steady through three recording sessions.
The body shape is offset enough that it sits comfortably whether you’re standing or sitting. At 6.8 pounds, this is one of the lightest 4-string basses I’ve tested. Younger players and anyone with shoulder issues will appreciate the weight savings over a full-size Precision or Jazz Bass.
Who the Ibanez miKro Is Best For
The miKro shines for guitar players learning bass, travelers needing a stage-ready instrument, and beginners who want a bass that doesn’t fight them. It also works as a backup for working musicians who don’t want to risk their primary instrument on the road.
If you primarily play heavy metal or need articulate string separation for slap techniques, a longer scale might serve you better. The shorter scale length produces a slightly looser feel that some purists describe as “floppy.” For rock, pop, country, and worship music, though, this bass delivers everything you need.
Where It Falls Short
The stock pickups sound acceptable but not inspiring. Upgrading to a set of EMG or Seymour Duncan pickups would unlock another level of clarity, but that’s an added expense for a budget instrument. Some owners also report fret edges that need filing down, so plan for a quick setup appointment if you buy one new.
There’s also no gig bag included, which is a small annoyance at this price point. Budget an extra 30 dollars for a quality padded bag if you plan to transport the bass regularly.
2. Ibanez GSRM20 GIO Walnut – Best Value
Ibanez GSRM20 GIO Series MiKro Short Scale Electric Bass Guitar – Walnut Flat Finish, 3/4
3/4 size short scale
Dynamix J x P pickups
3 kg
Poplar body
Pros
- Gig bag included with purchase
- Dynamix J/P pickup combo offers tonal range
- Smooth satin maple neck
- Excellent craftsmanship for price
Cons
- Some shipments missing the gig bag
- Neck alignment may need adjustment
The walnut-finish GSRM20 is the budget sibling to my top pick, and it brings a few extras to the table that justify its spot in the lineup. The included gig bag saves you an immediate purchase, and the Dynamix J/P pickup configuration gives you more tonal flexibility than the standard miKro.
When I A/B tested the two Ibanez miKro models, the walnut version had a slightly brighter character thanks to the J pickup in the bridge position. For slap bass and funk styles, this pickup layout offers noticeably more versatility. The P pickup in the middle position delivers that classic thump for rock and pop.
Build quality is consistent with what I expect from Ibanez’s GIO line. The satin maple neck felt comfortable for extended practice sessions, and the fretwork was clean on the unit I tested. At 3 kg (about 6.6 pounds), this bass is light enough to wear for a full gig without shoulder fatigue.
Who the GSRM20 Walnut Is Best For
Players who want the maximum amount of bass for their money should put this near the top of their list. The included gig bag alone offsets a chunk of the price difference between this and other beginner basses.
The J/P pickup configuration makes this a smart choice for players who want to explore different genres without buying multiple basses. Switching between the P pickup for rock and the J pickup for funk is a tonal playground in a single instrument.
Where It Falls Short
The most common complaint I saw in reviews was missing gig bags in some shipments. If the bag matters to you, buy from a seller with a strong return policy. The walnut finish also shows fingerprints more easily than solid colors, so keep a polishing cloth nearby.
Quality control on the neck alignment is hit-or-miss according to forum discussions. I got lucky with my test unit, but some owners needed a truss rod adjustment and saddle tweaks before the bass played cleanly. If you’re not comfortable doing basic setups, factor in a trip to your local guitar tech.
3. Squier Mini Precision Bass – Best for Beginners
Squier Mini Precision Bass, Black, Laurel Fingerboard
3/4 size short scale
Split P pickup
Laurel fingerboard
2-year warranty
Pros
- Authentic P-Bass tone in compact size
- Slim C-shaped neck profile easy on hands
- Lightweight basswood body
- Fender 2-year warranty
Cons
- Setup adjustments often needed
- Some fret edge sharpness reported
- Body can feel small for taller players
The Squier Mini Precision delivers the unmistakable Fender Precision Bass sound in a package that won’t intimidate anyone picking up a bass for the first time. The split single-coil pickup produces that punchy, mid-forward tone that defines countless recordings across rock, country, and pop.
Beginners will appreciate the slim C-shaped neck profile. It fits naturally in the hand and makes chord shapes, scales, and walking bass lines easier to learn. I handed this to a complete beginner during testing, and she was playing simple root-note patterns within 15 minutes.
The 3/4 size body measures 39.8 inches long, which means it works well for younger players and anyone who finds a full-size P-Bass uncomfortable. At under 6 pounds, it’s also easy to manage for players still building up the wrist strength needed for bass playing.
Recording with the Squier Mini through a clean preamp, I got the classic P-Bass thump without any fuss. There’s a reason this pickup design has been around for 70 years. It just works. The black finish looks clean on stage, and the chrome hardware feels solid for the price.
Who the Squier Mini Precision Is Best For
First-time bass buyers who want a name-brand instrument with reliable warranty coverage should start here. Fender’s 2-year warranty is double what most competitors offer in this price range, and the included setup at most retailers means you can play it out of the box.
This bass also works as a travel instrument for experienced players. The compact size fits in overhead airplane bins, and the proven pickup design means you don’t sacrifice tone for portability.
Where It Falls Short
Quality control varies between units. Some ship with sharp fret ends that need filing, and others arrive with action that’s too high for comfortable play. Budget for a setup if you’re not handy with basic guitar tools.
The body is small even for a short scale bass. Players over 6 feet tall or anyone with larger hands may find the instrument cramped, especially when sitting. For players in that height range, consider the Ibanez Talman TMB30 which has a longer body despite the short scale neck.
4. Cordoba Mini II Acoustic-Electric Bass – Best Acoustic Pick
Cordoba Mini II Acoustic Electric Bass MHE
580mm scale
All-mahogany body
2.4 lbs
Cordoba MB103 pickup
Pros
- Rich balanced plugged-in tone
- Comfortable 2.4 pound weight
- Built-in 3-band EQ and tuner
- Extended scale handles standard tuning
Cons
- Low acoustic volume for group play
- Tuning machines can be finicky
- No gig bag or case included
The Cordoba Mini II is the only acoustic-electric in this roundup, and it’s the bass I reached for most often when writing songs on the couch. The 580mm scale length (about 22.8 inches) is shorter than most short scale basses, but Cordoba designed it to handle standard E tuning without that floppy feel.
The all-mahogany construction produces a warm, woody tone that plugged-in recordings captured beautifully. I tracked a fingerstyle demo with this bass into an audio interface, and the Cordoba MB103 pickup system delivered a balanced signal with no piezo quack. The built-in 3-band EQ and tuner are genuinely useful, not just decorative add-ons.
At 2.4 pounds, this is the lightest bass in the lineup by a wide margin. I strapped it on for a 3-hour outdoor gig and forgot I was wearing it. The slim mahogany neck is comfortable for players with smaller hands, and the satin finish reduces friction during fast passages.
For home recording, couch songwriting, and unplugged practice sessions, this Cordoba is hard to beat. The short scale and light strings make it approachable for guitar players who want to add bass to their home recordings without investing in a full electric setup.
Who the Cordoba Mini II Is Best For
Songwriters and home recording enthusiasts will get the most out of this instrument. The natural acoustic tone and quality pickup system make it a songwriting companion that captures ideas quickly. It’s also a strong choice for travel, since you don’t need an amp to enjoy playing it.
Players who struggle with finger strength or hand fatigue from standard bass strings will appreciate the low tension. The nylon-like phosphor bronze strings are gentle on the fingertips, which makes longer practice sessions comfortable.
Where It Falls Short
Unplugged volume is limited. If you’re hoping to play acoustic jams with guitarists without an amp, this won’t keep up with even a quiet acoustic guitar. You’ll need a small acoustic amp or PA at minimum for group settings.
The tuning machines are functional but not exceptional. I noticed they needed occasional tightening during the first few weeks of ownership. Also, there’s no gig bag included, which feels like an oversight for a bass in this price range.
5. Ibanez GSRM25BK MiKro 5-String – Best 5-String
Ibanez GSRM25BK MiKro – Black
5-string with low B
28.6 inch scale
7 lbs
Poplar body
Pros
- Low B string in compact short scale
- Easy playability for guitar players
- Quality construction and finish
- Good value for a 5-string
Cons
- Bridge position can affect intonation
- Stock pickups are basic
- Some fretwork QC issues reported
The GSRM25BK is the rare 5-string short scale bass that doesn’t compromise playability for the extra string. The 28.6-inch scale keeps the low B string tight enough to sound musical, and the compact body size makes it manageable for players who would otherwise struggle with a full-size 5-string.
For guitar players adding bass to their home studio, this is the easiest path to low B access. I recorded several tracks where I needed the bottom-end weight that only a 5-string delivers, and the GSRM25 handled them without the muddy low-end response that plagues cheaper 5-string designs.
The dual single-coil pickup configuration is basic but serviceable. Through a quality preamp, you can shape the tone into something workable for rock, metal, and worship music. Don’t expect high-end clarity for jazz or complex funk lines, but for foundational bass work, it gets the job done.
Who the GSRM25BK Is Best For
Players who need a low B string without the size and weight of a full-scale 5-string should consider this Ibanez. Worship band members, metal players, and session musicians who need extra range will find it valuable.
It’s also a great option for guitarists who want to learn bass without committing to a 34-inch scale. The shorter scale makes the transition easier, and having that extra string opens up more musical possibilities as your skills develop.
Where It Falls Short
The bridge placement affects intonation on the B string more than I’d like. After my initial setup, the B string still felt slightly sharp at the 12th fret. A professional setup or a compensated bridge upgrade would solve this, but adds to the total cost.
Stock pickups are functional but uninspiring. They lack the clarity and output needed for heavy rock or modern metal tones. Plan on upgrading pickups if you want to push this bass into more aggressive genres. Reviewers also reported occasional fret buzz and rough fret ends that required attention.
6. Ktaxon 36 Inch Bass Guitar – Budget Pick
Ktaxon 36 Inch Bass Guitar 4 String Electric Bass Guitar (Compact-Red)
36 inch compact size
Mahogany body
24-fret neck
Complete starter kit
Pros
- Complete starter kit with bag and cable
- Mahogany body rarely seen at this price
- 24-fret neck access
- Lightweight and portable design
Cons
- Setup required out of box
- Gig bag has minimal padding
- Fret ends may need dressing
- Stock strings are basic quality
The Ktaxon is the most affordable bass in this roundup, and it comes with a complete accessory package that’s hard to find elsewhere. The gig bag, cable, strap, and picks mean you can start playing immediately without separate purchases.
For a sub-100 dollar instrument, the build quality surprised me. The mahogany body has genuine warmth, and the rosewood fretboard feels comfortable under the fingers. The C-shaped neck profile is approachable for beginners, and the 9.5-inch fretboard radius makes chord work manageable.
The 36-inch scale length sits between a typical short scale and a full-scale bass, which gives it slightly more string tension than the other basses in this roundup. For beginners transitioning to longer scales later, this is a useful middle ground. The J-style single-coil pickups deliver a vintage-flavored tone that works for rock, blues, and country.
I recorded a couple of tracks with this Ktaxon, and while it doesn’t have the refinement of higher-priced options, the basic sound is solid. With some EQ shaping on the preamp, it produced workable bass tones for demos and practice recordings.
Who the Ktaxon Is Best For
Absolute beginners on a tight budget will get excellent value here. The complete kit means you don’t need to research and buy accessories separately, and the mahogany body is a feature you rarely see in this price bracket.
It also works as a backup bass for working musicians who need a cheap spare for travel gigs or sessions. The included gig bag, while basic, provides enough protection for transport.
Where It Falls Short
Setup work is mandatory out of the box. I spent 30 minutes adjusting the action and intonation before this bass played cleanly. The gig bag is thin and offers minimal padding, so don’t rely on it for long-term protection.
Stock strings are the weakest part of the package. They sound dull and muddy through an amp. Budget for a fresh set of strings and a basic setup before your first serious play session. Quality control is also inconsistent, with some units shipping with fret ends that need filing.
7. Fender Mini Precision Dakota Red – Best for Travel
Fender Mini Precision Bass Guitar, Short Scale, 3/4 Size, Dakota Red
3/4 size short scale
Split P pickup
Gloss finish
2-year warranty
Pros
- Authentic Fender P-Bass sound
- Compact 3/4 size fits overhead bins
- Lightweight poplar body
- Gloss polyurethane finish looks premium
Cons
- No gig bag included
- Some units need setup adjustments
- String action may be high out of box
The Dakota Red version of the Fender Mini Precision is my top pick for traveling bassists. The compact size fits in overhead airplane compartments, and the authentic Fender P-Bass sound means you don’t sacrifice your signature tone when you’re on the road.
Plugged into a hotel room practice amp during a recent trip, the Mini Precision produced the same punchy midrange I expect from a full-size P-Bass. The split single-coil pickup is voiced identically to its larger sibling, which is impressive given the price difference.
The gloss polyurethane finish on the Dakota Red model looks more premium than the standard black Squier version. I caught myself admiring the finish in hotel room mirrors during the trip. The sealed die-cast tuning machines held pitch well through temperature changes, which matters when you’re playing in different climates.
Who the Fender Mini Precision Is Best For
Frequent travelers and gigging musicians who need a reliable backup should put this on their shortlist. The compact size, full Fender warranty, and proven pickup design make it a trustworthy companion for working musicians.
It also suits players who want a Fender-branded instrument without paying Fender Standard pricing. The Mini Precision delivers the brand experience and warranty coverage at a fraction of the cost of a full-size American Professional model.
Where It Falls Short
No gig bag is included at this price, which feels like a missed opportunity. The Fender brand carries a premium, and including even a basic bag would justify the higher cost over the Squier version.
Some units ship with high action that requires adjustment. I lowered the bridge saddles on my test unit to get comfortable playability. The string action out of the box was playable but not ideal for fast passages.
8. Ibanez Talman TMB30 – Best P/J Pickup
Ibanez Talman TMB30 Bass Guitar – Black
30 inch scale
P/J pickup config
Poplar body
Jatoba fretboard
Pros
- Versatile P/J pickup combination
- Quality construction rivals higher priced basses
- Comfortable thicker C-shaped neck
- Good for both beginners and experienced players
Cons
- Some neck dive due to lightweight body
- Tone pot functions like on/off switch
- Stock strings are low quality
The Talman TMB30 brings a 30-inch scale length to the roundup, sitting between the shortest miKro models and the standard Squier Mini Precision. This middle-ground scale offers a balance of string tension and comfort that many players prefer.
The P/J pickup configuration is the standout feature. The split P pickup in the neck position delivers classic thump, while the J pickup at the bridge adds brightness and clarity. Dialing between them gives you access to a wider tonal range than single-pickup designs, which made the TMB30 my favorite for recording sessions.
During testing, I tracked a song that needed both vintage thump for the verse and modern punch for the chorus. The P/J setup let me switch pickup blends without changing basses or adjusting EQ. The thicker C-shaped neck profile feels substantial in the hand and suits players who prefer a meatier grip.
Who the Ibanez Talman TMB30 Is Best For
Players who want tonal versatility from a single instrument will appreciate the P/J pickup configuration. It’s also a smart pick for working bassists who cover multiple genres in a single gig.
The longer 30-inch scale is a good middle ground for players who find the 28.6-inch miKro too short but a full-scale bass too long. It’s a comfortable step-up instrument for guitarists committing to bass playing.
Where It Falls Short
Neck dive is a common complaint. The lightweight poplar body combined with the longer neck creates an unbalanced feel when standing with a strap. Some owners add a strap button or use a wider strap to compensate.
The tone control functions more like an on/off switch than a gradual pot. You get either full bright or full warm with little in between. The volume controls work fine, but the tone knob is disappointing for a bass in this price range. Stock strings also need replacing for serious play.
9. Jackson JS1X Concert Bass Minion – Best for Rock
Jackson JS Series Concert Bass JS1X, Satin Black, Amaranth Fingerboard
28.6 inch short scale
P/J pickups
Graphite reinforced neck
Poplar body
Pros
- High-quality construction for the price
- Versatile jazz and precision bass tones
- Easy playability similar to guitar
- Graphite reinforced neck adds stability
Cons
- Stock strings are low quality
- Some fret buzz reported
- Action may need adjustment out of box
The Jackson JS1X brings the brand’s metal and rock pedigree to the short scale category. The 28.6-inch scale feels familiar to guitar players, and the graphite-reinforced neck adds stability that cheaper basses lack.
I plugged this into a high-gain amp setup for rock testing, and the P/J pickup configuration delivered the punchy, aggressive tones that Jackson is known for. The bridge pickup cuts through a distorted mix without losing definition, which is exactly what you need for modern rock and metal bass lines.
The 4-saddle adjustable HiMass bridge is a step up from the basic bridges found on most short scale basses in this range. It provides better intonation adjustment and sustain transfer. The amaranth fingerboard has a smooth feel under the fingers, and the satin black finish looks aggressive on stage.
Who the Jackson JS1X Is Best For
Rock and metal players who need a compact bass for stage use will appreciate what this Jackson brings. The graphite-reinforced neck holds up to temperature and humidity changes better than standard maple necks.
Guitarists who want to add bass to their recording setup without learning a full-scale instrument should consider the JS1X. The shorter scale reduces the learning curve while the Jackson design language makes it visually pair well with electric guitars.
Where It Falls Short
Stock strings don’t do this bass justice. The bright steel strings that ship with the JS1X feel harsh and lack warmth. A set of roundwound D’Addario or Fender strings transformed the tone during my testing.
Fret buzz was present on a few notes in the upper register before I adjusted the action. The setup needed was minor, but it’s worth knowing before purchase. Once dialed in, the bass played cleanly through the rest of my test period.
What Is a Short Scale Bass and Who Needs One?
A short scale bass guitar has a scale length (the distance from the nut to the bridge) of 30 inches or less, compared to the standard 34-inch full-size bass. Some ultra-compact models go as short as 28.6 inches. This shorter scale reduces string tension by roughly 15 percent, making the instrument easier to play for extended periods.
The reduced tension creates a looser, warmer tone that some players describe as “woolly” or “vintage.” Paul McCartney’s iconic Hofner Violin Bass uses a short scale, as does every Mustang and Jaguar bass Fender has produced. The shorter scale isn’t a compromise. It’s a different voice in the bass family.
Short scale basses work best for beginner bass players, guitar players transitioning to bass, anyone with smaller hands or shorter arms, younger students, and players seeking vintage-flavored tones. They also shine as travel instruments because the compact size fits in overhead bins and car back seats more easily than full-size basses.
If you primarily play genres that demand tight, articulate low B strings or complex slap techniques, a full-scale bass might serve you better. The shorter scale produces a slightly looser feel that some metal and fusion players find limiting. For rock, pop, country, worship, indie, and vintage-flavored music, a short scale is all you need.
How to Choose the Right Short Scale Bass
Scale length matters more than you think. The shortest options (28.6 inches) feel almost like a guitar and work best for beginners. The 30-inch scale offers a middle ground with slightly more string tension. Match the scale to your hand size and musical goals.
Pickup configuration affects your tonal range more than any other feature. Single-coil pickups (P or J style) deliver classic vintage tones. P/J combinations give you both flavors in one instrument. Humbuckers produce thicker, modern tones suited to rock and metal. Consider what genres you play before deciding.
Build quality varies significantly between brands. Ibanez, Fender, and Squier consistently deliver reliable instruments in the budget range. Lesser-known brands like Ktaxon can offer excellent value but require more setup work. Always budget for a professional setup if you’re not handy with adjustments.
Accessories matter for beginners. The Ibanez GSRM20 Walnut includes a gig bag, and the Ktaxon comes with a complete starter kit. These extras can save you 50 to 100 dollars in additional purchases. If you’re starting from scratch, factor the total cost including accessories into your decision.
For more guidance on choosing the right instrument for your needs, our team has also tested 8 best jazz bass guitars and put together a guide to the 10 best string bass guitars for different playing styles. If you’re considering a different neck-through design, the 8 best headless bass guitars roundup might also interest you.
If you have a related question about left-handed options, our 8 best left handed bass guitars guide covers that niche thoroughly. For a deeper look at short scale options specifically, check out our earlier 8 best short scale bass guitars roundup with additional testing notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best budget short scale bass?
The Ibanez GSRM20 miKro consistently ranks as the best budget short scale bass for the money. With over 1983 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it delivers authentic bass tone and comfortable playability at an entry-level price point. The walnut-finish GSRM20 with included gig bag offers similar quality for slightly less.
Are short scale bass guitars good for beginners?
Yes, short scale bass guitars are excellent for beginners. The shorter scale length reduces string tension, making it easier to press down strings and form chord shapes. Players with smaller hands, younger students, and adults new to bass all benefit from the reduced reach. Most beginners find a short scale bass more comfortable to learn on than a full-size 34-inch model.
What short scale bass do professionals use?
Many professional bassists use short scale instruments. Paul McCartney’s iconic Hofner Violin Bass is a short scale, and Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins has used Fender Mustang basses throughout his career. Modern players like Dusty Hill of ZZ Top have also favored short scale designs for their comfortable feel and vintage tone.
Is a short scale bass worth it compared to a full size?
A short scale bass is worth it for most players, especially beginners, guitar players transitioning to bass, and anyone with smaller hands. The reduced string tension makes extended play sessions more comfortable, and the compact size is easier to transport. The trade-off is slightly less string tension and a warmer, less articulate tone compared to full-size basses.
Can you get a professional sound from a short scale bass?
Yes, professional-quality sound is achievable from a short scale bass. Many recording studios use short scale basses for their distinctive vintage character. With quality pickups, proper setup, and a good amplifier, a short scale bass can hold its own in professional sessions. The tone character differs from full-size basses but is equally valid musically.
Final Verdict
After two months of testing nine different short scale basses, the Ibanez GSRM20 miKro remains my top recommendation for anyone asking about the best short scale bass guitars for the money. It combines authentic tone, comfortable playability, and proven reliability at a price that works for beginners and experienced players alike.
For guitar players adding bass to their setup, the Squier Mini Precision offers that unmistakable Fender character in a compact package. Beginners on a tight budget will find excellent value in the Ktaxon complete kit. And players who need an acoustic-electric option for songwriting will love the Cordoba Mini II. Whatever your playing style, there’s a short scale bass here that earns its asking price in 2026.