Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $6,400

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* 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

Unlock a piece of rock history with the Cliff Williams StingRay, an electric bass that embodies the raw power and precision of AC/DC's legendary sound. This meticulously crafted instrument is a faithful recreation of Cliff Williams's iconic 1979 Sunburst StingRay. Its rich heritage is woven into some of the band's most memorable tracks like "Back in Black" and "Hell's Bells." Designed by Music Man, this bass boasts a select poplar body paired with a maple neck, offering a lightweight yet robust feel that’s perfect for both stage and studio.

Every detail is a nod to the original, from the aged hardware to the expertly relic'd finish that captures the authentic wear and tear of a seasoned performer. The custom humbucker pickup with elongated alnico magnets delivers a growling tone that cuts through the mix, staying true to the StingRay’s reputation for sonic bite and clarity. An active micropowered preamp with Treble and Bass EQ controls ensures your sound stays versatile and vibrant, whether you're rocking out in a crowded venue or laying down tracks in the studio.

Complete with a set of Cliff Williams signature accessories, including a certificate of authenticity and a custom G&G hardshell case, this bass is both a collector’s dream and a musician’s trusted companion.

Key Features:

  • Exact replica of Cliff Williams's #1 touring and studio bass
  • Select poplar body with a maple neck and fingerboard
  • Custom humbucker with elongated alnico magnets for a biting tone
  • Active micropowered preamp with Bass and Treble EQs
  • Vintage-style relic'd finish and aged hardware
  • Includes signature accessories and custom G&G hardshell case

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model Cliff Williams Signature StingRay Bass
Finish Vintage Sunburst Relic
Year 2020 - 2021
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Poplar
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Brown
Finish Features Relic
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Nut Width 1.6875"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What makes the Cliff Williams StingRay bass unique compared to other StingRay models?

The Cliff Williams StingRay is an authentic recreation of Cliff's personal 1979 StingRay, featuring a 3-piece select poplar body and a pre-EB faded nitro "Back In Burst" finish. It includes a micropowered pre-amp 2-band EQ and a pickup duplicated to match Cliff's exact high output impedance readings.

What type of pickups does the Cliff Williams StingRay bass use?

The Cliff Williams StingRay bass is equipped with active pickups, specifically designed to match the exact high output impedance readings of Cliff's original bass, providing a powerful and distinctive sound.

Is the Cliff Williams StingRay bass suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Cliff Williams StingRay bass is well-suited for live performances, featuring a robust active preamp and strings-thru-body bridge for enhanced sustain and clarity, making it ideal for stage use.

How does the neck of the Cliff Williams StingRay bass affect playability?

The bass features an original 70’s 3-bolt neck attachment with a Micro-Tilt neck shim adjustment and a walnut skunk stripe, offering stability and comfort. The 7.5” fretboard radius and maple neck provide smooth playability suitable for various playing styles.

What is the finish of the Cliff Williams StingRay bass?

The Cliff Williams StingRay bass boasts a vintage sunburst relic finish, known as the "Back In Burst," which replicates the look and feel of Cliff's original 1979 bass with a pre-EB faded nitro finish.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

The Cliff Williams Icon Series StingRay Bass

Video thumbnail for The Cliff Williams Icon Series StingRay Bass by Ernie Ball

The Cliff Williams Icon Series StingRay Bass

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man: Cliff Williams StingRay Bass Trailer by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man: Cliff Williams StingRay Bass Trailer

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Cliff Williams Signature Music Man Review | Lexington Lab Band by Lexington Lab Band ®️

Cliff Williams Signature Music Man Review | Lexington Lab Band

Lexington Lab Band ®️

Lexington Lab Band ®️

Video thumbnail for Music Man Cliff Williams Stingray Bass Demo by Eddie's Guitars

Music Man Cliff Williams Stingray Bass Demo

Eddie's Guitars

Eddie's Guitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Cliff Williams StingRay.

Use cases and applications

  • Flatwounds on a Stingray offer a punchier, less mellow tone than a P Bass, ideal for funk or disco grooves with clear note definition.

    Source
  • Disco Ulysses by Vulfpeck demonstrates the unique tone of flats on a Stingray, differing significantly from a P Bass sound.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Stingray's bridge-position humbucker produces a bright sound, distinct from the warmer, vintage tone of a P Bass's neck/middle humbucker.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • LaBellas are recommended for Stingrays to achieve a classic flatwound funk sound, while cobalt flats are noted for their quality.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Joe Dart uses a passive Sterling, which influences his tone significantly compared to a typical active Stingray setup.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Behind an Icon: Making the Ernie Ball Music Man Cliff Williams StingRay

mixdownmag.com.au

The Ernie Ball Music Man Cliff Williams StingRay is a masterclass in craftsmanship, capturing the essence of a classic with a modern touch. The meticulous attention to detail, from the period-correct materials to the hand-worn finish, showcases a deep respect for the instrument's history and its iconic player. However, while the unique tonal qualities and vintage aesthetics are impressive, the high price point may deter some musicians seeking more budget-friendly options. Overall, this signature model is a significant tribute, but its exclusivity and cost make it a niche choice for most bassists.

positive

Ernie Ball Music Man Unveils Cliff Williams Icon Series StingRay Bass – No Treble

notreble.com

While the Cliff Williams Icon Series StingRay Bass is a meticulously crafted homage to the legendary bassist's original instrument, its steep $7,000 price tag raises eyebrows. Crafted with period-correct components and impressive attention to detail, it replicates the feel and sound of Williams' 1979 StingRay. However, the high cost may alienate many fans and aspiring players who admire Williams but cannot afford such an exclusive model. Additionally, some critics argue that Ernie Ball could have offered a more accessible tribute version, similar to Fender's approach with Geddy Lee's Jazz Bass. Ultimately, this bass is a stunning collector's item but comes with serious budgetary considerations for the average musician.

Ernie Ball Music Man announces super-limited-edition Cliff Williams Icon Series StingRay bass | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The Ernie Ball Music Man Cliff Williams Icon Series StingRay bass is a striking tribute to the AC/DC legend, crafted with meticulous attention to detail reminiscent of the original 1979 model. From its three-piece poplar body to the authentic pickups, this bass is sure to please fans of the iconic musician. However, the steep price tag of $7,000 might deter many potential buyers, especially given its limited availability of just 26 units. While it embodies a rich legacy and offers high-quality craftsmanship, its exclusivity and cost may leave some musicians contemplating their investment.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Cliff Williams uses Cliff Williams StingRay

Cliff Williams

Bassist

AC/DC

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram post, Cliff Williams is using a Ernie Ball Cliff Williams StingRay bass. Cliff Williams has been using the bass for so many years, and he recorded many Studio Albums and did a lot of tours with this type of bass.

Genre Usage

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

More Music Man Electric Basses

Sterling HH

$470.39 - $1,995.00

 
Johnny Christ Roger Lima
2 artists using
StingRay Special

$2,199.00 - $2,988.00

 
Ben Flanagan
1 artist using

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides