Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $3,216

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H is more than just an electric bass; it’s a harmonious blend of meticulous craftsmanship and cutting-edge innovation, ideal for musicians seeking an instrument that sets the stage ablaze. Crafted with a musically resonant ash body and an exquisite figured maple top, this bass is a visual and sonic masterpiece. The neodymium humbucking pickup delivers a powerful punch and an extended frequency response, ensuring your sound is both robust and versatile across genres.

The meticulously sculpted white flame maple neck, paired with a fingerboard that boasts a gunstock oil and hand-rubbed wax finish, provides an effortlessly smooth playing experience. The 5-bolt neck attachment guarantees superior stability and sustain, surpassing many set necks. The StingRay 4 H also features an 18-volt active preamp with a 3-band EQ, allowing for intricate sound sculpting and delivering exceptional clarity, even in the most demanding setups.

Whether you're laying down a groove in a jazz ensemble or rocking out on a metal stage, the StingRay 4 H offers the versatility and dynamic range you need. Its striking aesthetics are matched by blacked-out hardware, providing a captivating contrast that’s sure to turn heads.

Key Features:

  • Resonant ash body with a captivating figured maple top
  • Sculpted white flame maple neck and fingerboard with a smooth finish
  • Neodymium humbucking bridge pickup for powerful tone
  • 18V preamp with 3-band EQ for sound customization
  • StingRay Special bridge and lightweight Music Man tuning machines
  • Blacked-out hardware for an eye-catching visual contrast

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H
Made In United States
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H have?

The Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H is equipped with active pickups, providing a powerful and dynamic sound suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

Is the Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H is well-suited for slap bass techniques, thanks to its active preamp and responsive pickup configuration, which deliver a punchy and articulate sound.

How many frets are on the Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H?

The Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H features 22 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and expressive playing.

What is the body shape of the Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H?

The Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H has a double cutaway body shape, providing easy access to the higher frets and a comfortable playing experience.

Is the Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H available for left-handed players?

The Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H is designed for right-handed players, and there is no left-handed version available for this specific model.

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Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserved BFR Redwood Stingray 4H test drive

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserved BFR Redwood Stingray 4H test drive by expiredtree

Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserved BFR Redwood Stingray 4H test drive

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 H.

Build quality

  • Some users note that the tuners on certain Sterling Ray models can be faulty, described as made from subpar materials, and prone to breaking.

    Source
  • The Ball Family Reserve (BFR) StingRay features distinctive bird's eye maple necks, admired by owners for their aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship.

    Source
  • An owner returned a bass due to discoloration on the bridge and buzzing from the preamp, noting imperfections unacceptable for a $3K price.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report that unfinished necks on StingRays provide a comfortable playing experience, and are often preferred over finished necks for their raw feel.

    Source
  • One owner received a bass with action higher than a quarter inch at the 12th fret, requiring significant setup adjustments.

    Source
  • A major neck shim of 0.025 was required for a Tim Comerford passive model to correct initial setup issues.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A few users prefer G&L basses over Music Man for a more traditional tone, while others appreciate StingRay's modern, punchy sound that cuts through mixes.

    Source
  • Some players prefer single-pickup StingRays for their old-school charm over newer dual-pickup configurations, highlighting the unique tonal qualities of the single pickup setup.

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Use cases and applications

  • The StingRay's clear, wide full-range tone is optimal for about 75% of studio work, though it may lack the woody tone some genres require.

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  • The Ray34HH’s front pickup, while fat, works for Motown-era music with EQ adjustments.

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User experience

  • Several players highlight that StingRays are heavy, with some models weighing up to 9.5 lbs, which can be taxing during long gigs.

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  • A user expressed strong satisfaction after reacquiring a StingRay, stating it was the only Music Man bass they would ever need, emphasizing long-term contentment with the model.

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  • The roasted maple neck is praised for its delightful feel, reminiscent of a Telecaster, adding to the bass's playability.

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Features and functionality

  • The "Old Smoothie" model is a reissue that replicates the original StingRay design, often praised for its classic tone and aesthetics.

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  • This model includes neck binding, a detail appreciated by enthusiasts for its refined look and playability.

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  • Positions 2 and 4 on the Ray34HH offer vintage tones but switching causes a noticeable volume drop compared to the bridge pickup.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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