Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $2,580

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 HS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 HS is a revolutionary six-string electric bass that marries cutting-edge design with impeccable playability. Crafted with precision, its lightweight basswood body features a sleek double-cutaway, offering unparalleled access to the upper frets. The fast-playing maple neck, paired with an ebony fingerboard adorned with distinctive half-moon inlays, ensures a smooth and responsive playing experience. Designed in collaboration with BMW Designworks, the Bongo's unique lines and bold aesthetics make it stand out in any setting.

This bass is not just about looks; it's a tonal powerhouse. Equipped with a humbucker and a single-coil pickup, both featuring neodymium magnets, the Bongo 6 HS delivers a versatile range of punchy, robust tones. The onboard 18-volt active preamp with a 4-band EQ provides extensive control over your sound, making it adaptable to any musical genre, from progressive rock to jazz fusion.

Whether you're tearing through intricate solos or laying down a solid groove, the Bongo 6 HS ensures no compromises on sound quality or playability. With its innovative design and superior craftsmanship, it remains a favorite among professional bassists like John Myung and Dave LaRue.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight, resonant basswood body with double cutaway
  • Fast-playing maple neck and ebony fingerboard with half-moon inlays
  • Humbucker and single-coil pickup with neodymium magnets
  • 18-volt active preamp with 4-band EQ for versatile tone control
  • 5-bolt neck attachment for secure alignment
  • Sculpted neck joint for easy upper register access
  • Adjustable truss rod wheel
  • Graphite acrylic resin-shielded body cavity and aluminum control cover

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model Bongo 6 HS
Year 2008 - 2019
Made In United States
Categories 5- and 6-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 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 HS bass?

The Bongo 6 HS offers a versatile tonal palette, thanks to its active pickups and preamp. It delivers rich, deep lows and clear, articulate highs, making it suitable for various music genres including rock, jazz, and funk.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 HS suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Bongo 6 HS is designed with advanced players in mind, featuring a 6-string configuration, 24 frets, and a high-quality preamp system, providing extensive tonal control and playability.

What is the neck profile like on the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 HS?

The Bongo 6 HS features a bolt-on select maple neck that offers a smooth, comfortable feel, ideal for fast playing. The neck's design supports precision and ease of movement across the fretboard.

How does the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 HS handle live performances?

The Bongo 6 HS is well-suited for live performances, with its active electronics providing powerful output and clarity. The double-cutaway design also ensures easy access to higher frets, enhancing stage playability.

What materials are used in the construction of the Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 HS?

The Bongo 6 HS features a basswood body, a maple neck, and either an ebony or rosewood fingerboard, ensuring a combination of durability and rich tone. The use of high-quality materials contributes to its robust sound and long-lasting performance.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 Bass: Joe Dart Demos

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 Bass: Joe Dart Demos by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 Bass: Joe Dart Demos

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man: Bongo 6 Demo with Max Gerl by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man: Bongo 6 Demo with Max Gerl

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man: Bongo 6 Demo 2 with Max Gerl by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man: Bongo 6 Demo 2 with Max Gerl

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

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 6 HS.

Comparisons

  • The Ibanez SR506, priced at $750, offers significant playability and is suggested as a cost-effective alternative to the Bongo 6.

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Features and functionality

  • The John Myung Bongo 6 features a six-string setup on a five-string neck, and a simplified preamp compared to standard Bongos.

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  • The Bongo 6 HH's active preamp is praised for offering a nearly limitless range of tones, especially when paired with additional EQ and effects pedals.

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  • Owners appreciate the Bongo's neck, a blend of P and J bass profiles, with a stable painted satin finish that remains comfortable over long periods.

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  • The 18v preamp is perceived as overly hot, potentially overwhelming many amp inputs, which can affect compatibility with certain distortion and fuzz pedals.

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Use cases and applications

  • Owners highlight the Bongo 6's suitability for metal genres, drawing inspiration from John Myung's use with Dream Theater.

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  • Owners describe the Bongo 6 HH as capable of producing a diverse array of tones, making it suitable for varied musical styles beyond just metal.

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  • The Bongo's powerful midrange enhances clarity when using overdrive, suitable for metal styles with a focus on mid-heavy tones, similar to Chevelle's "The Clincher."

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  • The Bongo's versatility is highlighted, excelling in various genres due to its adaptable tone capabilities, making it an ideal all-around instrument.

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User experience

  • Some users note discomfort due to the Bongo's body shape and neck positioning, affecting playability when standing.

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  • Enthusiasts express admiration for the Bongo 6 HH's design, with some citing it as the instrument that inspired them to start playing bass.

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  • The Bongo is noted for its surprising lightness despite a wide body, providing comfort during extended playing sessions, both seated and standing.

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Value and pricing

  • There's a consensus that $3000 is high, considering alternatives like the Dingwall NG3 for $2000, which is also highly regarded for metal.

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  • A used Bongo with a D tuner was acquired for $1200, representing significant value compared to current retail prices.

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Build quality

  • The Aqua Sparkle finish is highlighted for its standout aesthetic appeal, differentiating it from other available finishes.

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Critic Reviews

Ernie Ball Music Man HS Bongo 6 Six-string Bass Review

gear-vault.com

The Ernie Ball Music Man Bongo 6 HS is a head-turner with its unique design and standout sonic signature. Its robust B string and clear tone make it a reliable choice for cutting through dense mixes, appreciated by players like Dream Theater's John Myung. While its modern look and broad neck width may not appeal to everyone, it offers a solid U.S.-made build and exceptional six-string performance. Minor gripes include tricky B-string muting and EQ preferences, but overall, it’s a high-quality bass for those seeking something distinct yet versatile.

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