Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $7,499

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Spector NS-5 Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Spector NS-5 Bass is not just an instrument; it's a statement in craftsmanship and sonic versatility. A staple for any serious bassist, the NS-5 combines a 3-piece neck-thru-body construction with a flamed maple body, ensuring a robust build that enhances resonance and sustain. The ebony fingerboard, adorned with mother of pearl inlays, offers smooth playability across its 24 frets, making it perfect for intricate solos or groove-heavy rhythms.

At the heart of its sound are two EMG 40 DCX humbuckers, delivering a full-bodied, punchy tone that can be molded to your liking with the active Darkglass Tone Capsule. This ensures that whether you're laying down thick, driving bass lines or exploring higher-register melodies, the NS-5 has you covered. The Spector locking bridge, crafted from aluminum, not only ensures excellent tuning stability but also contributes to the bass's light weight, making it a comfortable choice for extended gigs.

The hardware, finished in black, adds a sleek, modern aesthetic, perfectly complementing the bass's timeless design. Whether you're a session player or part of a touring band, the Spector NS-5 is designed to meet the demands of the stage and studio alike.

Key Features:

  • USA Customshop Model
  • Weight-reduced flamed maple body sides
  • 3-Piece neck-thru-body: Maple
  • Ebony fingerboard with mother of pearl inlays
  • Nut width: 46 mm
  • Scale: 864 mm (34")
  • Pickup: 2 EMG 40 DCX Humbuckers
  • Active tone control: Darkglass Tone Capsule
  • Spector Locking bridge made of aluminum
  • Hipshot UltraLite machine heads
  • Includes case
  • Made in USA

Product specs

Number of Strings 5
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape USA NS-5
Body Material Swamp Ash (wings), Walnut Burl (top)
Body Finish Matte
Neck Material 3-piece Roasted Maple
Neck Shape C
Neck Joint Neck-through
Radius 16"
Fingerboard Inlay Roasted Maple Crowns
Number of Frets 24, Medium Jumbo, Nickel Silver
Scale Length 35"
Nut Width 1.81"
Nut Material Brass
Bridge/Tailpiece Spector Locking Aluminum
Tuners Spector Branded Gotoh GB7, 20:1
Neck Pickup Aguilar DCBJ5 Single-coil
Bridge Pickup Aguilar DCB M5 Humbucker
Controls 1 x volume, 1 x blend, 1 x bass/treble (stack), 1 x mid (push/pull freq)
Strings Spector .045-.130
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the body of the Spector NS-5 Bass?

The Spector NS-5 Bass features a body made of Swamp Ash with a Walnut Burl top, providing a balanced and resonant tone with striking visual appeal.

What pickups are installed in the Spector NS-5 Bass?

The Spector NS-5 Bass is equipped with an Aguilar DCBJ5 single-coil neck pickup and an Aguilar DCB M5 humbucker bridge pickup, offering a versatile range of tones suitable for various music genres.

Is the Spector NS-5 Bass suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Spector NS-5 Bass is designed for advanced players, featuring a 35" scale length, neck-through construction, and high-quality components like Aguilar pickups and a brass nut for enhanced playability and sound.

What is the neck profile of the Spector NS-5 Bass?

The Spector NS-5 Bass features a C-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable grip and smooth playability for both complex and straightforward bass lines.

Does the Spector NS-5 Bass come with a case?

Yes, the Spector NS-5 Bass comes with a hardshell case, ensuring protection and safe transportation for your instrument.

Fret Nation

Fret Nation

Spector NS-5XL – Myrtle Burl & Maple – Woodstock Custom Collection

Video thumbnail for Spector NS-5XL – Myrtle Burl & Maple – Woodstock Custom Collection by Fret Nation

Spector NS-5XL – Myrtle Burl & Maple – Woodstock Custom Collection

Fret Nation

Fret Nation

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

User experience

  • Some owners note that the NS Dimension 5 has a significant neck dive, which can be managed with a wide leather strap.

    Source
  • Transition to playing on fanned frets is reportedly easy for many, though playing above the 12th fret may take more adjustment time.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The multi-scale design offers a 37" to 34" scale length, providing enhanced tension and clarity, especially on the low B and E strings.

    Source
  • Fishman electronics, once criticized for low output on the low B, are now reported by some owners to deliver strong performance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some players prefer the NS Dimension 5 over Dingwall for its non-twangy sound, though others find Dingwall more polished in build quality.

    Source
  • The NS Dimension 5 is favorably compared to the Warwick Thumb for its low B string sound, and it is noted to be cheaper by around $1000.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Graham Maby uses Spector NS-5 Bass

Graham Maby

Singer, Bassist

They Might Be Giants

...
Verified via guitarworld

"On tour, Maby and his trusty Spector 5-string handle the bass role on all of the album songs included in the set list (including those cut on upright by Greg Cohen)—nary an issue for the versatile veteran."

Bass Player Magazine: The second half of your career with Joe included a reunion of the original band. GM: "Yes, Joe had gotten a bit miffed at me when my commitment to Marshall prevented me from doing his Big World album, but we made up and I returned for Blaze of Glory, in 1989, which was when I got the Spector NS-5 that’s still my go-to bass. "

Maby currently plays two different NS-5s, his original 1988 one and a 1997 model.

Album Usage

The Spector NS-5 Bass has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Spector NS-5 Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
S

six_pack_bassist

Gear IQ 58

More Spector Electric Basses

Spector Euro 5LX

$2,699.00 - $3,599.99

# 95

Rank

Steven Wilson John Cooper Olivier Pinard
19 artists using
Spector NS-2 Bass

$5,999.00 - $8,099.00

 
Eddie Van Halen Jason Newsted Flea
42 artists using
Spector Euro 4LX

$2,699.99 - $3,499.99

 
Rex Brown Mike Starr Mike Inez
18 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides