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Description

The Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 HS is the epitome of modern bass innovation, designed for bassists who demand versatility and power. With its ergonomic body crafted from resonant basswood, this 4-string electric bass provides a comfortable playing experience, making it an ideal choice for both studio sessions and live performances. The sleek, double cutaway offers unrestricted access to the upper frets, ensuring you hit every note with precision.

Equipped with a potent combination of a humbucker and single-coil pickups, both featuring advanced neodymium magnets, the Bongo 4 HS delivers a robust, punchy tone that can effortlessly cut through any mix. The onboard 18-volt preamp and 4-band EQ provide an expansive tonal palette, allowing you to shape your sound with precision, whether you need a thunderous low-end for rock or a crisp, articulate treble for jazz.

Designed in collaboration with BMW Designworks, the Bongo 4 HS doesn't just sound great—it looks stunning, with its unique aesthetic setting it apart from traditional bass guitars. The fast-playing maple neck and ebony fingerboard offer a smooth, responsive feel, while the 5-bolt neck attachment and sculpted neck joint ensure stability and easy playability.

Whether you're pounding out metal riffs or laying down intricate jazz lines, the Bongo 4 HS offers the versatility and reliability that professional bassists expect.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight, resonant basswood body with double cutaway
  • Fast-playing maple neck with ebony fingerboard
  • Humbucker and single-coil pickups with neodymium magnets
  • 18-volt preamp with 4-band EQ for extensive tonal control
  • Ergonomic design with sculpted neck joint for easy upper register access
  • 5-bolt neck attachment for stability and precision

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model Bongo 4 HS
Year 2003 - 2020
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Basswood
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Blue, Gold, Green, Grey, Orange, Purple, Red, Silver, White
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony, Rosewood
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 4-String
Nut Width 1.625"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 HS?

The Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 HS features a comfortable and fast-playing neck profile, crafted from maple, which is ideal for both intricate fingerwork and smooth playability across its 24 frets.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Bongo 4 HS pickups for rock music?

The Bongo 4 HS is equipped with active pickups and an active preamp, delivering a powerful and versatile tonal range, perfect for rock music with its punchy lows, clear mids, and crisp highs.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 HS suitable for beginners?

While the Bongo 4 HS offers advanced features that seasoned players will appreciate, its ergonomic design and smooth playability make it accessible for beginners looking for a high-quality instrument.

What materials are used in the construction of the Bongo 4 HS?

The Bongo 4 HS features a basswood body, a maple neck, and a choice of ebony or rosewood fretboard, all contributing to its balanced tone and comfortable feel.

Does the Bongo 4 HS have a gloss finish?

Yes, the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 4 HS comes with a gloss finish that enhances its aesthetic appeal and durability, complete with a matching headstock for a cohesive look.

theoldiesmusics

theoldiesmusics

Ernie Ball Music man Bongo 4 HS Stealth Black at #twinbemusic

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music man Bongo 4 HS Stealth Black at #twinbemusic by theoldiesmusics

Ernie Ball Music man Bongo 4 HS Stealth Black at #twinbemusic

theoldiesmusics

theoldiesmusics

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 Bongo 4 HS.

Value and pricing

  • It's noted that the Bongo is surprisingly expensive new, with a recommendation to buy used due to better deals like a $1200 purchase with a D tuner.

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  • A used Bongo can be found for as low as $1050 at major retailers, with some buyers describing finding one as a rare, lucky opportunity.

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Use cases and applications

  • Despite initial aesthetic reservations, many players find the Bongo's comfort and sound quality lead them to favor it over more traditionally designed basses.

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  • It's noted that the Bongo's midrange clarity shines with overdrive, making it suitable for metal when played at moderate speeds.

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  • The Bongo 4 HS is described as a "tone behemoth," suitable for varied musical styles, including those requiring strong slap tones.

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User experience

  • Some owners report the Bongo 4 HS as surprisingly lightweight, estimating around 8-10 pounds, which contrasts with its visually heavier appearance.

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  • Despite its controversial aesthetics, the Bongo is praised for its comfort, with smooth edges that enhance playability compared to a Rickenbacker's hard ridges.

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  • The Bongo is described as extremely light despite its wide body, providing comfort without restricting fret access.

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  • The Bongo 4 HS is praised for its impressive live tone, with some users preferring it over other Music Man models for performances.

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Comparisons

  • The Bongo's ergonomics and sound quality are often compared favorably against other models, with some players initially put off by the design but converted after playing.

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  • The neck is described as a comfortable mix between a P bass and a J bass neck, combining familiar elements for Fender enthusiasts.

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  • Owners find the Bongo’s flatter radius more comfortable compared to the Stingrays.

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Features and functionality

  • The roasted maple neck combined with a single coil neck pickup is specifically highlighted for its unique configuration and appeal to enthusiasts.

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  • The 4-band EQ allows for significant tonal flexibility, with some owners preferring its flat tone for its powerful midrange.

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  • BMW Designworks contributed to the Bongo's design, making it a unique collaboration in the bass world.

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Build quality

  • The thumb peg on the scratch plate, located above the 24th fret, is noted for aiding playability when playing closer to the neck.

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  • The neck's painted satin finish is praised for its smoothness, changing some owners' opinions about painted necks.

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