Pricing and availability

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Reverb
5.0 (1)
$1,199.99 New
$799.99 Used
Thomann
4.5 (22)
$849.00 $839.00 $10.00 · All time low

Average Price: $950

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Cort A5 Plus SCMS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 19, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your groove potential with the Cort A5 Plus SCMS, a bass guitar that marries stunning craftsmanship with versatile performance. This 5-string electric bass is crafted from swamp ash with a poplar burl top, providing not only an aesthetically pleasing appearance but also a resonant, full-bodied sound. The neck-thru-body design, using a 5-piece combination of maple and panga panga, ensures exceptional sustain and stability, making it an ideal choice for serious musicians who demand reliability during intense performances.

The A5 Plus SCMS is equipped with two Bartolini MK-1 humbuckers, delivering a powerful and articulate tone that can be tailored to your liking with the Bartolini 3-band EQ. Whether you're laying down a solid foundation in jazz, rock, or funk, the onboard controls for volume, bass, middle, treble, and balance offer precise tonal shaping at your fingertips. The mini toggle switch provides additional on/off functionality for swift adjustments on stage.

For ultimate playability, the panga panga fretboard features a smooth 24-fret layout with a 400 mm radius, providing a comfortable feel for both intricate soloing and foundational bass lines. The Hipshot Trans Tone bridge and Hipshot Ultralight machine heads ensure tuning stability and ease of play, making this bass a trusted companion for any gig or studio session. With its open-pored finish and premium softcase included, the Cort A5 Plus SCMS is a complete package designed for the modern bassist seeking both style and substance.

Key Features:

  • Body: Swamp ash with poplar burl top
  • 5-piece neck-thru-body: Maple / Panga Panga
  • Fretboard: Panga Panga with 24 frets
  • Scale: 864 mm (34.02")
  • Pickup: 2 Bartolini MK-1 humbuckers
  • Bartolini 3-band EQ
  • Hipshot Trans Tone bridge
  • Hipshot Ultralight machine heads
  • Strings: D'Addario YB-XL 170
  • Includes premium softcase

Product specs

Available since March 2020
Colour Amber
Soundboard Swamp Ash
Neck Maple, Panga Panga
Fretboard Panga Panga
Frets 24
Scale Long Scale
Pickup System HH
Elektronic Aktive, Passive
Incl. Case No
Incl. Gigbag Yes

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the body of the Cort A5 Plus SCMS, and how does it affect the sound?

The Cort A5 Plus SCMS features a swamp ash body, known for its lightweight and resonant properties, providing a balanced tone with pronounced mids and a clear high end.

How many frets does the Cort A5 Plus SCMS have, and what is its scale length?

The Cort A5 Plus SCMS has 24 frets and a long scale length, which allows for extended range and better string tension, ideal for versatile playing styles.

What pickup configuration does the Cort A5 Plus SCMS use, and what tones can I expect?

The Cort A5 Plus SCMS uses a dual humbucker (HH) pickup system, offering a wide range of tones from deep, punchy lows to bright, articulate highs, suitable for various music genres.

Is the Cort A5 Plus SCMS suitable for both active and passive playing styles?

Yes, the Cort A5 Plus SCMS supports both active and passive electronics, providing flexibility in tone shaping and adaptability to different playing preferences.

Does the Cort A5 Plus SCMS come with a case or gigbag?

The Cort A5 Plus SCMS includes a gigbag, offering protection and easy transport for the instrument.

BassTheWorld.com

BassTheWorld.com

SINGLECUT & MULTISCALE - Cort Artisan A5 Plus SCMS

Video thumbnail for SINGLECUT & MULTISCALE - Cort Artisan A5 Plus SCMS by BassTheWorld.com

SINGLECUT & MULTISCALE - Cort Artisan A5 Plus SCMS

BassTheWorld.com

BassTheWorld.com

Video thumbnail for The Sessions: Cort Artisan A5 Plus Single Cut by Cort Guitars and Basses

The Sessions: Cort Artisan A5 Plus Single Cut

Cort Guitars and Basses

Cort Guitars and Basses

Video thumbnail for Cort A5 Plus Single Cutaway MultiScale bass (SCMS) - video review by Alberto Rigoni

Cort A5 Plus Single Cutaway MultiScale bass (SCMS) - video review

Alberto Rigoni

Alberto Rigoni

Video thumbnail for Cort A5 PLUS SCMS review by 🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

Cort A5 PLUS SCMS review

🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

🇺🇦 IGOR ODARYUK

Video thumbnail for Cort A5 Plus SCMS - Chris by Cort Guitars and Basses

Cort A5 Plus SCMS - Chris

Cort Guitars and Basses

Cort Guitars and Basses

Video thumbnail for A5 Plus SCMS by Cort Guitars and Basses

A5 Plus SCMS

Cort Guitars and Basses

Cort Guitars and Basses

Video thumbnail for Best budget Multi Scale Bass!! Cort A5 Plus SCMS! by Bassku

Best budget Multi Scale Bass!! Cort A5 Plus SCMS!

Bassku

Bassku

Video thumbnail for Cort A5 Plus SCMS OPN Open Pore Natural - Vox Pathfinder Bass 10 by MyDukkan

Cort A5 Plus SCMS OPN Open Pore Natural - Vox Pathfinder Bass 10

MyDukkan

MyDukkan

Reviews

PROS

  • Comes with a sturdy hardshell case, not a soft gig bag

  • Elegant appearance with spalted maple top, draws frequent compliments

  • Multi-scale fretboard offers even tension and better intonation

  • Comfortable neck-thru-body construction with 5-piece maple and panga panga

  • Bartolini MK-1 pickups provide strong output and versatile tone control

  • No volume difference when switching between active and passive modes

  • Lightweight for a 5-string, with excellent balance

  • Individual hardtail bridges improve string definition and articulation

  • Highly effective EQ controls for precise sound adjustments

  • Excellent price-to-quality ratio, comparable to higher-end models

CONS

  • Some units have issues with wobbly or loose knobs

  • Bridge saddles may require modification for perfect intonation

  • Electronics compartment can be overly cramped, causing potential issues

  • Blend pot may reduce pickup signal strength compared to dual volume pots

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Cort A5 Plus SCMS.

Build quality

  • The Cort A5 Plus SCMS features a neck-through design, appreciated by owners for its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some owners choose the Cort A5 Plus SCMS for its distinctive single-cut body, preferring it over more versatile but less visually unique models like the Marcus Miller M5.

    Source
  • Comparable to Ibanez in build quality, with speculation that they may be produced in the same factory.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Cort A5 Plus SCMS has experienced a price increase, influencing some potential buyers to consider alternatives due to budget constraints.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the Cort A5 Plus SCMS report a strong preference for its design and feel, often prioritizing it over other basses in their collection.

    Source
  • Despite the intonation issue, owners praise the stunning look and perfect balance of the bass, with some stating they would never sell it.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners achieve very low action without fret buzz, although the neck's thin profile and tight string spacing may not suit everyone.

    Source
  • B string intonation issues can occur, requiring a minor modification if using the 9th to 24th frets; newer models might not have this problem.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The stock MK1 Bartolini pickups are considered "diet barts," with some suggesting real Bartolini pickups for improved tone.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The fanned frets are noted to be priced high, with a 35-35.5" scale length, potentially limiting appeal compared to longer scales.

    Source
  • The preamp delivers a clean sound but becomes muddy when heavily distorted, according to some users.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The bass suits those who down tune, maximizing the benefits of its multi-scale design.

    Source

Other

  • The electronics are praised for being super quiet, enhancing the overall playing experience.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Cort Artisan Series A5 Plus Single-Cut - Guitar Interactive Magazine

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

Cort's A5 Plus SCMS is a stunning blend of modern design and functionality, boasting a sleek single-cutaway shape and impressive multi-scale neck for balanced playability. Its exquisite woodwork, highlighted by the unique Poplar Burl top, stands out in both aesthetics and sound. Equipped with Bartolini pickups, the tonal range is delightfully versatile, allowing players to achieve both clarity and warmth. However, the instrument might not cater to those seeking traditional styling or extreme metal vibes, as its contemporary look may not appeal to everyone. Overall, this bass delivers excellent value for its price, making it a solid choice for musicians across various genres.

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Artist usage

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See how Stian "Nagash" Arnesen uses Cort A5 Plus SCMS

Stian "Nagash" Arnesen

Bassist

Dimmu Borgir

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