Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $6,894

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Fodera Emperor 5 Standard". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Fodera Emperor 5 Standard is more than just a bass guitar; it's a statement of quality and precision for the discerning bassist. Crafted with the same attention to detail as Fodera’s custom models, this 5-string electric bass bridges the gap between boutique craftsmanship and accessible pricing. Each instrument is handcrafted in limited runs, ensuring that every Emperor 5 Standard resonates with the unique touch of expert luthiers.

At the heart of its sonic excellence are the Fodera/Seymour Duncan dual-coil pickups, which deliver a rich, punchy tone without the hum. Whether you're laying down grooves or exploring the upper frets, these pickups ensure a versatile sound palette. Complementing this is the Mike Pope 3-band preamp, offering extraordinary tonal flexibility. From deep, resonant lows to clear, cutting highs, you can dial in the perfect sound for any musical setting, and even bypass the electronics for a pure, unadulterated tone.

The Emperor 5 Standard boasts a hand-selected walnut body paired with a 3-piece hard rock maple neck, offering a blend of resonance and sustain that's hard to match. The ebony fingerboard, adorned with 24 Plek’d frets, ensures smooth playability and accuracy. Topped off with a high-mass, adjustable bell-brass bridge, this bass guitar is designed to provide a powerful, dynamic playing experience that’s second to none.

Key Features:

  • Handcrafted 5-string electric bass
  • Walnut body with a highly figured ash top
  • 3-piece hard rock maple neck
  • Plek’d ebony fingerboard with 24 frets
  • Fodera/Seymour Duncan dual-coil pickups
  • Mike Pope 3-band preamp
  • High-mass bell-brass bridge
  • Made in the USA

Product specs

Number of Strings 5
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Emperor 5 Standard
Body Material Walnut (body), Ash (top)
Neck Material 3-piece Maple
Neck Shape Standard
Neck Joint Bolt-on
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 24
Scale Length 34"
Nut Material Brass
Bridge/Tailpiece Fodera Bridge
Tuners Fodera
Neck Pickup Fodera/Seymour Duncan Dual-coil Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Fodera/Seymour Duncan Dual-coil Humbucker
Controls 1 x Concentric Volume/Tone, 1 x Pan, 1 x Concentric Treble/Bass, 1 x Mid
Switching 1 x Mini-switch (Active/Passive), 1 x Mini-switch (coil-tap)
Additional Features Fodera x Trickfish Preamp
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Fodera Emperor 5 Standard?

The Fodera Emperor 5 Standard features a standard neck shape crafted from 3-piece maple, providing a comfortable and familiar feel for bassists, making it suitable for a variety of playing styles.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Fodera/Seymour Duncan dual-coil humbuckers?

The Fodera/Seymour Duncan dual-coil humbuckers deliver a versatile range of tones, from warm, full-bodied lows to clear, articulate highs, making this bass ideal for genres ranging from jazz to rock.

Is the Fodera Emperor 5 Standard suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Fodera Emperor 5 Standard is designed with professional-grade features and craftsmanship, making it an excellent choice for advanced players seeking high-quality performance and sound.

What are the control options on the Fodera Emperor 5 Standard?

The Fodera Emperor 5 Standard offers a comprehensive control layout, including a concentric volume/tone, pan, concentric treble/bass, mid control, an active/passive mini-switch, and a coil-tap mini-switch for versatile sound shaping.

Does the Fodera Emperor 5 Standard come with a case?

Yes, the Fodera Emperor 5 Standard includes a hardshell case, providing protection and convenience for transport and storage.

Fodera Guitars

Fodera Guitars

Fodera Emperor 5 Standard Demonstration (Featuring Matt Garrison)

Video thumbnail for Fodera Emperor 5 Standard Demonstration (Featuring Matt Garrison) by Fodera Guitars

Fodera Emperor 5 Standard Demonstration (Featuring Matt Garrison)

Fodera Guitars

Fodera Guitars

Video thumbnail for Fodera Emperor Standard 5 - The Forever Fleeting Pursuit of Perfection  - LowEndLobster Review by LowEndLobster

Fodera Emperor Standard 5 - The Forever Fleeting Pursuit of Perfection - LowEndLobster Review

LowEndLobster

LowEndLobster

Video thumbnail for BAJO FODERA EMPEROR 5 STANDARD FLAME MAPLE (TEST Y REVIEW) by Alvaro Sovero

BAJO FODERA EMPEROR 5 STANDARD FLAME MAPLE (TEST Y REVIEW)

Alvaro Sovero

Alvaro Sovero

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fodera Emperor 5 Standard.

User experience

  • A Fodera Emperor 5 Standard owner's primary bass is an ACG Über Series Recurve, indicating a preference for high-end niche instruments.

    Source
  • Some owners find Fodera basses great for soloing but feel they fall flat in a band setting, especially compared to brands like Fender.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A Fodera bass is noted to be extremely balanced across the neck compared to a vintage P bass, which often has hot and dead spots.

    Source
  • Several users who were unimpressed by Fodera found the F Bass BN5 to be a superior alternative, praising its tone and playability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Despite its luxury status, Fodera basses are actively gigged by some owners, highlighting their functionality beyond being collector's items.

    Source
  • Fodera basses, while not universally ideal for rock bands, are favored for jazz gigs and home practice due to their tone and playability.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Fodera basses are seen as investments in craftsmanship, akin to luxury cars, where meticulous attention to detail justifies their high price.

    Source
  • It’s noted that investing in a Fodera may be worthwhile only if it doesn't strain finances, with many high-quality alternatives available at lower prices.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Fodera Emperor 6's Duncan pickups offer a broad range of rich tones, enhancing its versatility for different musical styles.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Mark Kelley uses Fodera Emperor 5 Standard

Mark Kelley

Bassist

The Roots

...
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He is seen playing this bass in the photo.

Genre Usage

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