Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $1,500

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

The Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice Bass is a stellar blend of classic style and modern functionality, making it a versatile choice for musicians of all genres. With its dual humbucking pickups, this bass delivers an impressive range of tones, from deep, punchy lows to articulate, resonant highs. Whether you're laying down a smooth jazz groove or cutting through a rock mix, the Caprice has you covered. Its compact offset body is not just visually striking but also ergonomically designed for comfort and balance, reducing fatigue during those long gigs or studio sessions.

The Caprice's slim neck profile ensures fast and fluid playability, while the top-loading hardened steel bridge enhances sustain and note clarity. Additionally, the bass is equipped with a patented compensated nut, ensuring precise intonation across the fretboard. With passive electronics featuring dual volume controls and a master tone control, the Caprice offers a pure and organic sound that is both dynamic and responsive. And let's not forget the oversized headstock with a 3+1 tuner arrangement, a nod to Music Man's iconic design heritage.

Key Features:

  • 4-string electric bass guitar with a wide tonal range
  • Dual humbuckers with distinct voicings for sonic versatility
  • Passive electronics with dual volume controls and a master tone control
  • Maple neck with a slim profile for fast and smooth playability
  • Hardened steel bridge enhances sustain and note definition
  • Patented compensated nut for precise intonation

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model Caprice
Finish Black, Classic Natural, Coral Red, Diamond Blue, Heritage Tobacco, Ivory White
Year 2016 - 2019
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Alder, Ash
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Natural, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Nut Width 1.5"
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration Split-Coil / S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice have?

The Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice features passive pickups with a split-coil and single-coil configuration, providing a versatile range of tones suitable for various music styles.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice suitable for beginner bass players?

While the Caprice offers professional-level features, its comfortable neck profile and passive electronics make it accessible for beginners who are serious about their bass playing journey.

What is the neck profile like on the Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice?

The Caprice has a slim neck profile made from select maple, offering fast playability and comfort for both intricate and aggressive playing styles.

What materials are used in the construction of the Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice?

The Caprice features an alder body with a maple neck and either a maple or rosewood fretboard, contributing to its balanced tone and solid build quality.

Does the Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice have an active preamp?

No, the Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice does not have an active preamp; it utilizes passive pickups for a more traditional bass sound.

What is the scale length of the Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice?

The Caprice has a standard 34-inch scale length, which is common for most 4-string bass guitars, providing a familiar feel and tension for players.

BassTheWorld.com

BassTheWorld.com

MUSIC MAN CUTLASS & CAPRICE BASSES

Video thumbnail for MUSIC MAN CUTLASS & CAPRICE BASSES by BassTheWorld.com

MUSIC MAN CUTLASS & CAPRICE BASSES

BassTheWorld.com

BassTheWorld.com

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

Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice Bass: Joe Dart Demos

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Review Demo - Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice by Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice Bass by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice Bass

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for GAK BASS : Music Man Caprice Bass by GAK

GAK BASS : Music Man Caprice Bass

GAK

GAK

Video thumbnail for 【デモ演奏】ERNiE BALL MUSIC MAN Caprice Bass Ivory White/M @ 御茶ノ水楽器センター by 御茶ノ水楽器センター

【デモ演奏】ERNiE BALL MUSIC MAN Caprice Bass Ivory White/M @ 御茶ノ水楽器センター

御茶ノ水楽器センター

御茶ノ水楽器センター

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice - Demo by Pertybass

Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice - Demo

Pertybass

Pertybass

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice Bass - NAMM 2016 by American Musical Supply

Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice Bass - NAMM 2016

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice Vs. Fender (P, PJ, J) by Pertybass

Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice Vs. Fender (P, PJ, J)

Pertybass

Pertybass

Reviews

PROS

  • Top quality fit and finish as expected from Ernie Ball Music Man

  • Satin neck finish offers smooth, comfortable playability

  • Compact, lightweight body enhances comfort without sacrificing tone

  • Unique passive humbuckers provide outstanding tonal versatility

  • Distinctive P and J bass tones with added character

  • Holds tune exceptionally well, ensuring consistent performance

  • Classic Music Man quality and playability

  • Remarkable definition and sustain for a passive bass

  • A rare model with limited production, often praised as a "Fender killer"

CONS

  • Bright tone with open settings may not suit all preferences

  • Smaller body size may be unexpected for some players

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice.

Features and functionality

  • The Caprice features an oversized headstock, distinguishing it from other Music Man models.

    Source
  • The Caprice maintains Music Man's signature vibe while offering a unique passive PJ configuration, providing a variety of usable tones.

    Source
  • Delano JMVC pickups are noted for producing a fatter, sparkly tone compared to the thinner, high-frequency voicing of single coil J pickups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to a US Fender PJ, the Caprice offers a more aggressive tone and enhanced playability.

    Source
  • Some users consider the Lakland 44-64 Gz as an alternative when choosing a PJ bass, suggesting it as a preferred option for some players.

    Source
  • Some players feel the Caprice doesn't justify its price compared to a Fender PJ, recommending consideration of used Sterlings, Stingrays, or higher-end Fenders like the MIA Jaguar.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Discontinued status has led to increased prices, with used models sometimes reaching $1800.

    Source
  • Opinions vary on the high price tag, with some owners feeling the cost is justified by the uniqueness and rarity, while others question its value compared to active models.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners express regret over missing the opportunity to purchase when it was available, indicating high satisfaction and desirability.

    Source
  • Owners find the Caprice's body shape, a variation on the classic P design, appealing and comfortable, despite mixed opinions on the headstock design.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It's suggested to achieve a similar sound to the Caprice by using Delano JMVC and PMVC pickups in another PJ bass, costing about $250 plus labor.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice delivers a snappy tone and lightning-fast neck, making it a strong entry into the passive bass market. With its comfortable design and classic aesthetic, it bridges the gap between passive and active bass tones. However, its tonal options are limited compared to active models, and the price might be steep for some. Overall, the Caprice holds its own in various musical situations, offering a distinctive Music Man sound for those who prefer passive instruments.

positive

Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice is a sleek, passive bass that delivers a classy look and vibrant tones. Its offset body and satin-finished neck offer comfort and smooth playability, while the twin humbuckers provide a versatile sound palette. Its lightweight design and high-quality build make it an attractive option, though the price may deter some due to economic factors. Despite this, the Caprice's blend of aesthetic, playability, and sound make it a worthy contender for bass enthusiasts seeking a passive instrument with depth and clarity.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Ben Kenney uses Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice

Ben Kenney

Guitarist, Bassist

Incubus

...
Verified via Photo

Kenney is pictured above s using the bass live

See how Justin Beck uses Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice

Justin Beck

Guitarist

Glassjaw

...
Verified via Bass Magazine - The Future of Bass

"Recently the kind people at Music Man introduced me to the Caprice, which is one of my favorites — light as hell, and it plays like you have a cheat code to the instrument. Caprices are very fluid, have great tone, and are fun to play. Definitely bringing more into the fold." - from https://bassmagazine.com/artists/justin-beck-glassjaws-post-punk-bass-legend

See how Tyler Williams uses Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice

Tyler Williams

Bassist

Counterparts

...
Verified via Photo

Tyler owns one of these in diamond blue, shown on the left.

See how Javier Ramírez "El Cha!" uses Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice

Javier Ramírez "El Cha!"

Bassist

Fobia

...
Verified via Photo

Javier Ramírez "El Cha!" used the Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice as his primary bass for the Fobia 2026 tour. This is supported by a photo credited to bouccan on Instagram.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ernie Ball Music Man Caprice, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Music Man Sterling
Music Man Sterling Electric Basses
1

More Ernie Ball Electric Basses

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    ryanfears
    ryanfears

    Gear IQ 803