Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $3,350

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH is a quintessential blend of innovation and craftsmanship, designed for the discerning bassist seeking both style and substance. With its dual humbucking pickups powered by neodymium magnets, this 5-string electric bass offers a robust, articulate sound that cuts through any mix with ease. Its sculpted, double-cutaway design ensures that reaching the upper frets is effortless, while the lightweight, resonant ash body makes it perfect for long gigs or studio sessions.

The Bongo 5 HH is more than just a visually stunning instrument; it's a testament to Ernie Ball Music Man's commitment to quality. The roasted figured maple neck provides a smooth playing experience, complemented by a 24-fret fingerboard that enhances your ability to execute complex musical ideas. An active 18V preamp with a 4-band EQ allows you to dial in a wide array of tones, making it an incredibly versatile instrument suitable for any genre, from jazz to metal.

Designed in collaboration with BMW Designworks, the Bongo 5 HH sports an unconventional yet striking aesthetic. Its precision craftsmanship is evident in features like the adjustable truss rod wheel and patented compensated nut, ensuring optimal neck alignment and perfect intonation. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH is built to inspire and elevate your performance.

Key Features:

  • Dual humbucking pickups with neodymium magnets
  • Lightweight, resonant ash body with double cutaway
  • Roasted figured maple neck with 24 jumbo frets
  • Active 18V preamp with 4-band EQ
  • Adjustable truss rod wheel for easy neck adjustments
  • Patented compensated nut for precise intonation
  • 5-bolt neck attachment for secure alignment

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH
Made In United States
Categories 5- and 6-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 5-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH have?

The Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH is equipped with two Music Man humbucking pickups, providing a powerful and versatile sound suited for various music genres.

How does the 4-band EQ on the Bongo 5 HH enhance its tonal capabilities?

The 4-band EQ allows for precise tonal shaping, enabling you to adjust bass, midrange, and treble frequencies to suit different playing styles and musical contexts.

Is the Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH suitable for advanced bass players?

Yes, with its 24-fret rosewood fingerboard, active preamp, and versatile EQ, the Bongo 5 HH is designed to meet the needs of advanced players seeking a high-performance instrument.

What is the body shape and material of the Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH?

The Bongo 5 HH features a comfortable double-cutaway body made from basswood, which contributes to its balanced tone and playability.

Does the Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH come with a case?

Yes, the Bongo 5 HH includes a hardshell case, providing protection and easy transport for the instrument.

LowEndLobster

LowEndLobster

Music Man Bongo Sept '20 BFR - Sitting Down with the Honduran Hot Seat - LowEndLobster Review

Video thumbnail for Music Man Bongo Sept '20 BFR - Sitting Down with the Honduran Hot Seat - LowEndLobster Review by LowEndLobster

Music Man Bongo Sept '20 BFR - Sitting Down with the Honduran Hot Seat - LowEndLobster Review

LowEndLobster

LowEndLobster

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo BFR September 2020 Ball Family Reserve - WOW! - LowEndLobster Fresh Look by LowEndLobster

Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo BFR September 2020 Ball Family Reserve - WOW! - LowEndLobster Fresh Look

LowEndLobster

LowEndLobster

Video thumbnail for Bongo 5 HH Wild Cherry - BFR - Ball Family Reserve by DuBaldo Music Center

Bongo 5 HH Wild Cherry - BFR - Ball Family Reserve

DuBaldo Music Center

DuBaldo Music Center

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH.

Comparisons

  • The Bongo 5 HH offers more mid-range control with a 4-band EQ compared to the Stingray's 3/2-band, enhancing its versatility in cutting through mixes.

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  • The Bongo 5 HH is noted for its punchier low end compared to the Stingray Special, making it appealing for bassists seeking a deeper sound.

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Features and functionality

  • The Bongo 5 HH can mimic a range of tones, including a Stingray, P-bass, and Jazz bass, offering substantial tonal versatility.

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  • The Bongo 5 HH can be restrung EADGC to cater to specific playing styles, offering flexibility beyond standard tuning.

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  • The Bongo's neodymium pickups are highlighted for providing high headroom and stable tuning, contributing to its reliable performance across genres.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The Bongo's thinner neck may require frequent truss rod adjustments, though it is praised for its smooth playability.

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  • The streamlined design of the Bongo 5 HH allows for easy string changes, appreciated by players frequently altering tunings or experimenting with different string setups.

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User experience

  • Owners suggest using small EQ adjustments on the Bongo, as its +/- 18dB range can significantly alter tone with minute changes.

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  • A user highlighted the Bongo 5 HH's fit and finish as superior, noting it as the best they’ve handled in terms of craftsmanship.

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  • Some users find the Bongo's aesthetics polarizing, describing it as a "love it or hate it" design, yet praise its modern style as a refreshing alternative to classic looks.

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Value and pricing

  • A used Bongo V from 2016 was found for $1400, offering significant value for its versatile sound and smooth feel.

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Build quality

  • The neck of the Bongo 5 HH has been noted for its smoothness, but its thinness may lead to more frequent truss rod adjustments.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend replacing the stock tuners with Hipshot Ultralight's to address potential neck dive issues.

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Use cases and applications

  • The Bongo 5 HH is praised for its versatility, fitting seamlessly into genres ranging from funk to metal due to its tonal range and adaptability.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matthew Fackrell uses Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH

Matthew Fackrell

Bassist, Keyboardist

The Omnific

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo from the "The Law Of Augmenting Returns" video shoot, Fackrell can be seen holding a EBMM Bongo 5 HH.

Album Usage

The Ball Family Reserve Bongo 5 HH 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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