Pricing and availability
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Description
The Ernie Ball Music Man Sterling 5 HH is a versatile powerhouse in the world of electric bass guitars, designed for musicians who demand both style and substance. This 5-string bass guitar showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design Ernie Ball is renowned for. With its dual humbucking pickups, this instrument delivers a rich, full-bodied tone that can cut through any mix. Whether you're laying down the groove in a jazz ensemble or rocking out with a metal band, the Sterling 5 HH adapts effortlessly to your playing style.
The active three-band EQ provides incredible tonal flexibility, allowing you to fine-tune your sound with precision. Crafted with a select hardwood body and a smooth maple neck, the Sterling 5 HH offers a comfortable playing experience, whether you're practicing at home or performing on stage. Its ergonomic design ensures that even extended sessions remain fatigue-free. The hardware is both durable and reliable, featuring a standard bridge for stable tuning and intonation.
Key Features:
- Dual humbucking pickups for a wide range of tones
- Active three-band EQ for precise sound shaping
- Select hardwood body with a maple neck for comfortable playability
- Standard bridge ensuring stable tuning and intonation
- Ergonomic design for extended playing comfort
- Five strings for expanded range and versatility
Product specs
| Brand | Ernie Ball Music Man |
| Model | Sterling 5 HH |
| Year | 2019 - 2020 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Active Pickups |
| Active Preamp | Active Preamp |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Color Family | Blue, Red |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Maple, Rosewood |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 5-String |
| Nut Width | 1.75" |
| Offset Body | Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 34" |
| Wood Top Style | Opaque |
FAQs
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What kind of tonal options does the Ernie Ball Music Man Sterling 5 HH offer?
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The Sterling 5 HH features dual humbucking pickups with an active preamp, providing a wide range of tonal possibilities from deep, punchy lows to clear, articulate highs, making it versatile for various music genres.
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Is the Ernie Ball Music Man Sterling 5 HH suitable for slap bass techniques?
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Yes, the Sterling 5 HH is well-suited for slap bass, thanks to its active electronics and responsive maple neck, offering bright, punchy tones that enhance slap techniques.
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How does the neck profile of the Ernie Ball Music Man Sterling 5 HH affect playability?
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The Sterling 5 HH features a comfortable maple neck with a smooth finish, providing easy playability and fast action, ideal for both beginner and advanced players.
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What is the scale length of the Ernie Ball Music Man Sterling 5 HH, and how does it impact performance?
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The Sterling 5 HH has a 34" scale length, which is standard for 5-string basses, offering balanced tension and playability across all strings for consistent performance.
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Does the Ernie Ball Music Man Sterling 5 HH come with a case or gig bag?
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The Sterling 5 HH typically includes a high-quality gig bag, providing protection and easy transport for your instrument.
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 Sterling 5 HH.
Build quality
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The Sterling Ray 5 HH is noted for its weight, though recent models are lighter; a wide leather strap can enhance comfort during extended play.
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Stock tuners and bridges on Ray4 models are considered subpar, with replacements like AlBridge enhancing performance.
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The rotary pickup switch on the EBMM short scale can break after about 10 months, affecting reliability.
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Features and functionality
Setup and maintenance
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For low tunings like drop A or G, thicker strings and possible neck tension adjustments are recommended for optimal performance.
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Proper setup, including action adjustments and new strings, significantly enhances the playability of Sterling Ray models.
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Some owners find the Sterling's neck too skinny, describing it as "broomstick," which may not suit those with larger hands.
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User experience
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A downside mentioned is the use of a 9V block, with some owners preferring rechargeable solutions to avoid frequent battery changes.
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Some owners experience inconsistency in quality control, particularly in Ray4 models, affecting the reliability of stock components.
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The Sterling Ray34's Neptune Blue poplar burl finish impresses with its transparent pickguard, adding visual appeal.
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Use cases and applications
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The Sterling Ray 5 HH delivers clarity, making it a good pick for low tunings, although a multi-scale or longer-scale bass might enhance brightness.
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Mods and upgrades
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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