Cort Guitars Will Release Retro 304 Bass in 2026
The manufacturer announced plans to launch a new short-scale electric bass guitar by June 2026.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Rock
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Cort Guitars will introduce the Retro 304, a short-scale bass designed with a 30-inch scale length to minimize player fatigue. The company plans to begin production of the new instrument in June 2026.
Why it matters
The choice of a shorter scale length reduces string tension, offering a different tactile experience for bassists compared to standard instruments. By utilizing a solid alder body, the design aims to balance playability with desired tonal warmth and resonance.
The Retro 304 features a 30-inch scale length, a 9.5-inch fingerboard radius, and 20 nickel silver frets. It includes a 1 5/8-inch nut width and is factory-strung with D'Addario EXL170S strings.
The players
Cort Guitars
Cort Guitars is a South Korean musical instrument manufacturer that produces a wide range of electric and acoustic guitars and basses.
D'Addario
D'Addario is a global manufacturer of musical instrument strings and accessories known for its industry-standard string sets.
The details
The bass is constructed with a solid alder body and a bolt-on hard maple neck that features a matte finish. It is equipped with a passive Cort Voiced Tone VTB-TB humbucker pickup and simple control layout consisting of one volume and one tone knob.
Timeline
Production of the Retro 304 bass begins in June 2026.
Roadmap
This release reflects a broader shift in the bass market toward prioritizing ergonomic comfort through shorter scale lengths. The move positions Cort Guitars to compete more effectively with legacy brands that have historically dominated the short-scale category.
Bassists seeking a more comfortable, lower-tension instrument will have a new hardware option available for purchase following the 2026 production rollout. Potential buyers can anticipate choosing between Seafoam Green and Candy Apple Red finishes upon release.
The takeaway
The development of the Retro 304 highlights how manufacturers are increasingly focusing on playability by reducing physical strain for musicians. Players interested in lower string tension should look for updates regarding local dealership arrival dates as the launch window approaches.
What happens next
Manufacturing of the Retro 304 bass is scheduled to commence in June 2026.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving landscape of electric instruments, visit the Rock section.
More information
View full technical specifications on the Cort Guitars official product page.
Live Poll
Do you prefer the sound and feel of modern short-scale basses over vintage models?
