Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $554

Standard/Professional

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Washburn AB5K Acoustic Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Washburn AB5K Acoustic Bass is a sublime blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, perfect for both budding bassists and seasoned performers. Its spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides creates a harmonious blend that produces a warm, resonant sound with rich overtones. This winning combination of tonewoods is not only aesthetically pleasing but also ensures that your sound is projected beautifully, whether you're strumming in an intimate setting or onstage under the lights.

Equipped with Washburn's proprietary Q-PH electronics, the AB5K offers a seamless transition from acoustic to amplified sound. The onboard 4-band EQ, along with phase and volume controls, allows you to shape your tone with precision and clarity, ensuring that every nuance of your performance is captured. The 32-inch scale neck, featuring an engineered wood fretboard, provides a comfortable playing experience, making it easy to navigate even the most complex bass lines.

Meanwhile, chrome die-cast tuners ensure your tuning remains rock-solid, allowing you to focus solely on your performance. D'Addario EPBB170 Phosphor Bronze strings come standard, adding to the bass's vibrant tonal palette. The Washburn AB5K is more than just a bass; it's a reliable partner that evolves with your musical journey, offering quality and tone right out of the box.

Key Features:

  • Spruce top with mahogany back, sides, and neck for a warm, resonant tone
  • Onboard Washburn Q-PH electronics with 4-band EQ, phase, and volume controls
  • 32-inch long scale neck with engineered wood fretboard
  • Chrome die-cast tuners for rock-solid tuning stability
  • Equipped with D'Addario EPBB170 Phosphor Bronze strings

Product specs

Brand Washburn
Model AB5K 4-String Acoustic Bass
Finish Natural
Year 2010s
Categories Acoustic Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Color Family Natural, Tan
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of music is the Washburn AB5K Acoustic Bass best suited for?

The Washburn AB5K Acoustic Bass is versatile, making it suitable for a range of genres including folk, jazz, and unplugged rock sessions. Its natural acoustic tone complements both solo performances and ensemble settings.

Does the Washburn AB5K require an amplifier for live performances?

While the Washburn AB5K can be played acoustically, using an amplifier is recommended for larger venues or louder band settings to ensure the bass is heard clearly.

What is the neck profile like on the Washburn AB5K Acoustic Bass?

The Washburn AB5K features a comfortable neck profile that is easy to play, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced bassists looking for smooth playability.

How does the active preamp on the Washburn AB5K Acoustic Bass enhance its sound?

The active preamp on the Washburn AB5K provides enhanced tonal control and volume, allowing for a more dynamic and precise sound when plugged into an amplifier.

Is the Washburn AB5K Acoustic Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Washburn AB5K is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable playability and versatile sound, making it a great choice for those new to playing bass.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Washburn AB5K Acoustic Bass.

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners suggest using flatwound electric bass strings instead of bronze acoustic strings for a less "chirpy" slide sound.

    Source
  • D'Addario ETB92S tape wound medium scale strings are praised for mellowing out acoustic brightness on 32” scale basses like the Washburn AB5K.

    Source
  • Owners caution that using long-scale strings may cause dullness due to thicker parts wrapping around the post, emphasizing the importance of medium scale for the Washburn AB5K.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Thomastik Enfield jazz flats are recommended for a warm sound on acoustic basses.

    Source
  • DR Rare strings are recommended for their longevity in brightness and tone, even though they may require trimming for optimal fit on a 32” scale.

    Source

User experience

  • Acoustic basses reveal finger placement errors more clearly, aiding skill improvement for electric bass playing.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Acoustic basses are noted for their specific sound, suitable for genres like Violent Femmes or early Jack Johnson.

    Source
  • Acoustic basses work well for small acoustic sessions without amps, but struggle with volume in larger settings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • DR and Elixir strings are noted for availability in longer scales, unlike Fender, which is more accessible in medium scale length locally.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jeff Ament uses Washburn AB5K Acoustic Bass

Jeff Ament

Bassist

Pearl Jam

...
Verified via YouTube

Played during 1992 Pearl Jam MTV Unplugged performance

Album Usage

The Washburn AB5K Acoustic 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.

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