Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$3,899.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$3,899.00
Amazon
$3,899.00
Reverb
$2,899.00 4 available Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (41)
$3,899.00
zZounds
$3,899.00

Average Price: $3,732

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserve StingRay 5 H". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience the harmonious blend of craftsmanship and performance with the Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserve StingRay 5 H electric bass. This instrument is a testament to meticulous design, offering a seamless fusion of aesthetic allure and sonic versatility. The limited-edition allure comes from its exclusivity, with only 150 pieces available, each accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, adding a touch of collector's prestige to its ownership.

Crafted with an ash body and topped with spalted maple, this bass isn't just about looks—it's engineered for sound excellence. The single humbucking pickup at the heart of this beast delivers a rich, dynamic range that captures every nuance of your playing, whether you're going for deep, resonant lows or sharp, articulate highs. The pickup's design ensures minimal noise and maximum clarity, making it suitable for a variety of playing styles—from smooth grooves to aggressive slaps.

The figured maple neck is designed for superior playability, boasting a satin finish for a fast, silky feel. With 22 stainless steel frets and Paua-colored Atlante block inlays, it delivers both durability and visual appeal, promoting an effortless playing experience across the fretboard. The high-grade hardware ensures consistent performance, with a bridge engineered for precise intonation and open-gear tuners for smooth, accurate adjustments.

Key Features:

  • Single humbucking pickup for dynamic tonal range
  • Limited edition with only 150 units available
  • Ash body with spalted maple top for aesthetic and sonic excellence
  • Figured maple neck with satin finish and stainless steel frets
  • High-grade hardware for stability and performance
  • Includes a Certificate of Authenticity for collector's appeal

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model Ball Family Reserve StingRay 5 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 5-String
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserve StingRay 5 H?

The StingRay 5 H features a figured white maple neck, known for its smooth playability and premium craftsmanship, making it comfortable for extended playing sessions.

What kind of tones can I expect from the StingRay 5 H's pickup configuration?

The dual humbucker HH pickup configuration provides powerful and versatile tones, suitable for a wide range of music genres from rock to jazz.

Is the StingRay 5 H suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its active pickups and preamp, the StingRay 5 H delivers robust sound and dynamic range, making it ideal for live performances.

How does the ash body with a spalted maple top affect the sound of the StingRay 5 H?

The ash body with a spalted maple top offers a resonant tone with a balanced midrange and bright highs, while also providing stunning visual appeal.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man Ball Family Reserve StingRay 5 H a limited edition model?

Yes, the StingRay 5 H is limited to 150 units, each with a numbered Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring its exclusivity and collectible value.

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 5 H.

Build quality

  • Some owners note that Stingray basses may arrive with poorly leveled frets, requiring additional setup or a Plek service for optimal playability.

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  • The poly finish on the Sterling's body is described as tacky and less durable compared to the slick and glossy finish on the Ernie Ball.

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  • The absence of a pickguard on certain BFR models enhances the visibility of the finish but may detract from the traditional Stingray aesthetic for some players.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Blue Loctite is recommended for securing bridge saddle set screws to prevent them from loosening during play.

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  • Owners report the Sterling's tuners require frequent retuning, with strings often going slightly out of tune every 2-3 songs.

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Features and functionality

  • Users appreciate the unfinished neck for its smooth feel, comparable to a sanded Fender neck for a fast, comfortable play experience.

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  • Ernie Ball basses have an 18v mid boost-cut preamp, offering more tonal flexibility compared to the Sterling's 9v system.

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Comparisons

  • The Stingray's biting tone can be adjusted using flatwound strings and built-in EQ, making it suitable for more subdued styles, unlike inherently trebly tones.

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  • A Stingray's single H configuration is favored over the HH by some users for a cleaner, less cluttered aesthetic and more straightforward tone control.

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  • For players seeking a passive/active switch, the Sandberg M4 was preferred over a Ray34 for its flexibility and unique sound profile.

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  • The Sterling Ray34, post-2018 models, closely resemble pre-18v Ernie Ball Stingrays in sound, though they're still 9v.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Some users replace Sterling's ceramic pickups with Alnico for a sound closer to vintage Stingrays, alongside a Retrovibe Stinger 77 preamp upgrade.

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User experience

  • Owners appreciate the stability of Ernie Ball's tuning pegs, noting their basses stay in tune even after long storage periods.

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  • Enthusiasts express a strong preference for the Oxblood finish, indicating its potential as a highly desirable color option for collectors and players alike.

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  • There is a demand for left-handed versions of the Stingray, particularly in the HH configuration, which is currently unavailable.

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Value and pricing

  • Recent pricing trends indicate the Stingray's street price is approaching $4,000, highlighting a significant investment for potential buyers.

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