Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $2,650

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

Dive into the world of deep tones and precision craftsmanship with the Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 HH, a bass guitar designed for both the seasoned professional and the enthusiastic hobbyist. This model is part of the exclusive Ball Family Reserve lineup, showcasing premium materials and meticulous attention to detail.

The StingRay 4 HH features dual humbucker pickups, providing a broad range of tonal options, from punchy, articulate sounds to warm, rounded lows. Its active 18V preamp ensures you have the power and clarity needed for any performance setting, whether on stage or in the studio. The neck is carved from roasted figured maple, offering not only stunning aesthetics but also enhanced stability and resonance.

Players will appreciate the smoothness of the high-gloss polyester finish, which allows for seamless playability and comfort during extended sessions. The instrument's hardware is also top-notch, including custom Music Man tuning machines and a hardened steel bridge plate for reliable performance and tuning stability. With its combination of cutting-edge technology and traditional craftsmanship, this bass guitar is a testament to Ernie Ball Music Man's commitment to quality.

Key Features:

  • Ball Family Reserve edition with premium materials
  • Dual humbucker pickups for versatile sound
  • Active 18V preamp for powerful output
  • Roasted figured maple neck for enhanced resonance
  • Custom Music Man tuning machines
  • High-gloss polyester finish for smooth playability
  • Hardened steel bridge plate for tuning stability

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 HH
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 HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 HH?

The StingRay 4 HH offers a versatile range of tones, from punchy and aggressive to warm and smooth, thanks to its dual humbucker configuration and active preamp. It's suitable for various genres, including rock, funk, and jazz.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 HH suitable for beginners?

While the StingRay 4 HH is a high-quality instrument favored by professional bassists, its playability and ergonomic design can also make it suitable for dedicated beginners who are serious about investing in a long-term instrument.

How does the active preamp in the StingRay 4 HH affect its sound?

The active preamp in the StingRay 4 HH provides enhanced tonal control and a wide dynamic range, allowing players to dial in precise EQ settings for their preferred sound. This feature is particularly useful for cutting through mixes in live or studio settings.

What is the neck profile like on the Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 HH?

The StingRay 4 HH features a comfortable neck profile that facilitates smooth playability and easy access to all 22 frets, making it ideal for both fingerstyle and slap techniques.

Are the pickups on the StingRay 4 HH suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the dual humbucker pickups on the StingRay 4 HH are well-suited for slap bass, providing a clear, articulate sound with plenty of punch and definition.

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 Ball Family Reserve StingRay 4 HH.

Build quality

  • Some Sterling models have truss rod issues and tuners made from subpar metal, affecting durability.

    Source
  • The Ernie Ball Music Man BFR StingRay features striking bird's eye maple detailing and bound neck, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Ray34 owners recommend checking truss rod functionality and tuning stability early to catch potential defects.

    Source
  • Users note that the saddle set screws on Stingray Special HH can loosen over time, suggesting Blue Loctite as a fix.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The single H pickup model is praised for its simplicity and signature tone, but the HH model may not suit everyone's taste.

    Source
  • The "Old Smoothie" design is a remake of the original StingRay, reflecting Leo Fender's vision with unique pickup configuration for a signature tone.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A Fender American Standard Deluxe 5 is considered less suitable than a Stingray for 80s/90s cover bands, but better for church/worship music.

    Source
  • The "Old Smoothie" model is often preferred by some enthusiasts over newer versions for its classic design and unique tonal characteristics.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Stingray is noted for its clear, full-range tone, making it ideal for studio work without extensive post-processing.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users find the string spacing too narrow for chordal work, affecting playability for specific styles.

    Source
  • Owners express strong attachment, noting regret over past trades and satisfaction with re-acquisition, highlighting long-term value and emotional connection to the instrument.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Ernie Ball Electric Basses

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides