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Average Price: $3,344
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Description
Celebrating two decades of iconic sound and craftsmanship, the Ernie Ball Music Man 20th Anniversary StingRay 4 is a tribute to the legacy of one of the most revered bass guitars in the world. This special edition combines classic design with modern enhancements to deliver an unparalleled playing experience. The StingRay 4 is renowned for its robust build and versatile tonal range, making it a favorite among bassists across genres.
Its select Ash body offers a resonant and balanced tone, while the roasted maple neck provides smooth playability and impressive stability. The bass features a single neodymium humbucking pickup paired with a powerful 3-band active preamp, allowing for precise tonal shaping. This combination ensures you get everything from deep, punchy lows to bright, articulate highs.
The 20th Anniversary model includes unique aesthetic touches like a special inlay and a commemorative neckplate, making it not only a superb instrument but also a collector's piece. With high-quality Schaller tuners and a vintage-style Music Man bridge, this instrument promises exceptional tuning stability and sustain.
Whether you're laying down grooves in the studio or performing live, the StingRay 4's legendary reliability and sound quality will elevate your bass playing to new heights.
Key Features:
- Select Ash body for balanced tone
- Roasted maple neck for smooth playability
- Single neodymium humbucking pickup
- Active 3-band EQ for versatile tone shaping
- Unique 20th Anniversary inlay and neckplate
- Schaller tuners for exceptional tuning stability
- Vintage-style Music Man bridge for increased sustain
Product specs
| Brand | Ernie Ball Music Man |
| Model | 20th Anniversary StingRay 4 |
| Year | 1996 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Active Pickups |
| Active Preamp | Active Preamp |
| Body Material | Ash |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Color Family | Natural |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Maple |
| Frets | Medium Jumbo |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 21 |
| Number of Strings | 4-String |
| Nut Width | 1.625" |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | H |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 34" |
| Wood Top Style | Plain |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile like on the Ernie Ball Music Man 20th Anniversary StingRay 4?
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The Ernie Ball Music Man 20th Anniversary StingRay 4 features a comfortable C-shaped neck profile, crafted from maple, which offers smooth playability suitable for both intricate fingerstyle and aggressive slap techniques.
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What kind of tones can I expect from the active pickups on this bass?
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The active humbucker pickups in the StingRay 4 produce a punchy, clear tone with a strong low-end presence and articulate mids, making it versatile for genres like rock, funk, and jazz.
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Is the Ernie Ball Music Man 20th Anniversary StingRay 4 suitable for beginners?
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While the StingRay 4 is a premium instrument with professional features, its comfortable neck and versatile sound make it accessible for dedicated beginners who seek a long-term investment in their bass playing journey.
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What is the body material of the Ernie Ball Music Man 20th Anniversary StingRay 4, and how does it affect the sound?
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The body of the StingRay 4 is made from ash, which contributes to its bright, snappy tone with a pronounced midrange, enhancing the bass's ability to cut through a mix.
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How does the 20th Anniversary model differ from other StingRay basses?
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The 20th Anniversary StingRay 4 features unique appointments like a natural gloss finish and specific anniversary markings, while retaining the classic StingRay sound and playability that players love.
Videos
Keng Bassist
ERNIE BALL/MUSIC MAN 20th Anniversary Sting Ray (1976-1996) (Old Strings) by Keng-Bassist
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ernie Ball Music Man 20th Anniversary StingRay 4.
User experience
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Owners appreciate the StingRay's finish, describing it as spectacular and reminiscent of classic designs, highlighting its unique appeal and nostalgia factor.
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Users transitioning from Jazz Basses may find the StingRay's string spacing and anchor point position significantly different, requiring adjustment.
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Use cases and applications
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The StingRay pairs well with amps like Phil Jones Bass 8x5" cabs, noted for achieving impressive bottom end with smaller drivers, suitable for non-venue performances.
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Value and pricing
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A user acquired a mint condition 1996 StingRay with original case and papers, suggesting these models can be found at attractive prices for collectors.
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Used StingRays can offer excellent value; one owner sold a fretless model almost at purchase price after 18 years, highlighting strong resale value.
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Build quality
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The 20th Anniversary StingRay is noted for its enduring quality, with users reporting successful long-term use even after re-fretting and neck resurfacing.
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Features and functionality
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The StingRay's preamp and neodymium pickups offer a highly musical sound, suitable for various styles, and contribute to its premium feel and versatility.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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