Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$2,449.99
Guitar Center
$2,449.99
Reverb
4.0 (2)
$2,001.43 New
$1,622.59 Used
Musician's Friend
$2,449.99

Average Price: $2,195

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Spector Bantam 5". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Spector Bantam 5 is a medium-scale electric bass that seamlessly blends compact design with powerful performance. Perfect for musicians seeking a lighter instrument without sacrificing sound quality, this 5-string bass features a 32-inch short-scale that makes it incredibly comfortable to play. The body is crafted from chambered European alder, topped with a stunning figured maple, ensuring a lightweight yet resonant experience. Whether you're grooving to heavy riffs or serenading with softer melodies, the Bantam 5's dual EMG humbuckers deliver versatile tones, backed by the EMG BTC active EQ system for precise sound shaping. The 3-piece maple neck, paired with a silky rosewood fingerboard, offers smooth playability and response, while the deep-inset bolt-on neck enhances resonance and sustain. With its sleek NS body style, the Bantam 5 feels as good as it sounds, making it an ideal choice for stage performers and studio artists alike.

Key Features:

  • 5-string, 32-inch short-scale electric bass
  • Chambered European alder body with figured maple top
  • 3-piece maple neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Dual EMG humbucking pickups
  • EMG BTC active EQ system for versatile tone shaping
  • Deep-inset bolt-on neck for enhanced resonance

Product specs

Number of Strings 5
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Bantam 5
Body Material European Alder with Figured Maple top
Body Finish High Gloss
Neck Material 3-Piece Maple
Neck Shape C
Radius 16"
Fingerboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 22, Medium Jumbo
Scale Length 32"
Nut Width 1.825"
Nut Material Graphite
Bridge/Tailpiece Spector Lightweight Locking Bridge
Tuners Gotoh GB-707
Neck Pickup EMG 40DC Humbucker
Bridge Pickup EMG 45DC Humbucker
Controls 1 x master volume, 1 x blend, 1 x stacked 2-band Active EQ
Strings D'Addario, .045-.130
Case/Gig Bag Gig Bag

FAQs

What type of music is the Spector Bantam 5 best suited for?

The Spector Bantam 5, with its dual EMG 40DC humbucking pickups and active EQ, is versatile and well-suited for genres requiring punchy, clear tones such as rock, metal, and funk.

How does the 32" scale length of the Spector Bantam 5 affect playability?

The 32" scale length offers a more compact feel, making it easier for players with smaller hands to navigate the fretboard while maintaining the rich tone of a full-sized bass.

What are the tonal characteristics of the EMG pickups on the Spector Bantam 5?

The EMG 40DC and 45DC humbuckers deliver a powerful, clear sound with excellent low-end response, ideal for cutting through mixes in live and studio settings.

Is the Spector Bantam 5 suitable for beginner bass players?

While the Spector Bantam 5 offers professional features, its comfortable neck profile and shorter scale make it accessible for beginners looking to invest in a high-quality instrument.

Does the Spector Bantam 5 come with a case or gig bag?

Yes, the Spector Bantam 5 includes a gig bag, providing protection and portability for your instrument.

OfficialSpector

OfficialSpector

Spector: Bantam 5 Medium-Scale Bass with Ian Allison

Video thumbnail for Spector: Bantam 5 Medium-Scale Bass with Ian Allison by OfficialSpector

Spector: Bantam 5 Medium-Scale Bass with Ian Allison

OfficialSpector

OfficialSpector

Video thumbnail for Spector Bantam 5 Bass Demo by The Bass Channel

Spector Bantam 5 Bass Demo

The Bass Channel

The Bass Channel

Video thumbnail for Spector: Bantam5 Medium-Scale Bass by OfficialSpector

Spector: Bantam5 Medium-Scale Bass

OfficialSpector

OfficialSpector

Video thumbnail for Spector Bantam 5 - Summer Gear Slam '21 by Premier Guitar

Spector Bantam 5 - Summer Gear Slam '21

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Reviews

PROS

  • Lighter weight ideal for long gigs

  • 32" scale offers comfortable playability

  • Exceptional tone favored for performances and recordings

  • High-quality construction typical of Spector basses

  • Comparable to other short-scale models with familiar string spacing

CONS

  • String spacing may be too close for some players

  • Difficulties in dialing in desired sound

Owner Insights

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

Setup and maintenance

  • Medium scale strings are necessary for proper fit; long scale strings risk breakage, and short scale strings are too short.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Installing passive EMGs and a Bartolini 3-band EQ can enhance punchiness and clarity in the Spector Bantam 5.

    Source
  • Owners have considered replacing the Tone Pump Jr preamp with alternatives like the Darkglass Tone Capsule for improved tone control.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Spector Bantam 5's B string is surprisingly well-rounded with flatwounds, despite its short scale, avoiding the muddiness often associated with short-scale instruments.

    Source
  • The Bantam 5's neck-heavy design may require a wide, grippy strap to manage neck dive effectively.

    Source
  • The Bantam 5 features EMG40DCX Humbuckers and an 18V active preamp, which contribute to its dynamic sound range.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the stacked bass, treble, and mids tone knobs for extensive tonal customization.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Bantam 5 is noted for its surprisingly light weight at approximately 8 lbs, which makes it comfortable with a 4-inch strap.

    Source
  • The Bantam 5 boasts brass tuners and bridge, which are praised for their durability and tuning stability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Bantam 5 is versatile across genres, handling everything from classic rock to metal effectively, providing distinct tonal qualities for each style.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Spector launches 5-string version of its short-scale Bantam bass | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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