The Best Double Bass for the Money

Finding the best double bass for the money means balancing build quality, setup and tone at each price point. A poorly set-up expensive instrument is often outplayed by a properly set-up cheaper one, so budget for both the instrument and a professional setup from the start.

Best Under £800: Stentor Student II and Eastman VB305

The Stentor Student II and Eastman VB305 are reliable entry-level options with consistent build quality. Both benefit significantly from a professional setup — lower the bridge if the action is too high, change strings from factory to something like Thomastik Spirocore or Pirastro Obligato, and adjust the soundpost if needed. After setup, either instrument is a solid foundation for early study. The Eastman has a slight edge in tone and finish. Budget £100–£150 for setup on top of the purchase price.

Best £800–£2,000: Upton Standard and Eastman 305 Hybrid

The Upton Standard and Eastman 305 Hybrid both feature carved or hybrid tops that produce noticeably better tone and response than full laminate instruments at this price. The Upton Standard, built in the US, is particularly well-regarded for its setup quality out of the box. Upton's staff are specialists and their instruments arrive ready to play without further luthier work in most cases. The Eastman hybrid is a strong European alternative. Both are suitable for serious students through to early professional study.

Best for Jazz: Christopher and Upton Hybrid

For jazz players who prioritise pizzicato tone and ease of playing, the Christopher DB100 series and Upton Hybrid models are well regarded. Both take jazz strings (Spirocore Weich, Innovation Slap or Helicore Pizzicato) well and have setups that support lower action for comfortable extended pizzicato playing. The Christopher is available from UK dealers and is a strong option at the £1,200–£1,800 range. Have any new instrument set up specifically for jazz by a luthier before extended use.

Best for Orchestral Playing: Samuel Shen and Upton Standard

Samuel Shen instruments are widely used in UK and US youth orchestras and conservatoires. The SB80 and SB180 models offer solid construction and good orchestral tone in the £1,500–£3,000 range. They are a practical choice for students entering serious orchestral training. The Upton Standard is also widely used in orchestral contexts and offers excellent value with reliable setup.

For a full overview of the instrument, see the features guide. For guidance on what to look for when buying, see the buyer's guide.

The Bottom Line

At every price point, setup matters as much as the instrument itself. The best value comes from buying from a specialist dealer who sets up instruments before shipping or sale, budgeting for string upgrades, and choosing a bow to match your grip style and playing context.

Frequently Asked Questions