Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $2,414
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Discover the legendary charm of the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4, a bass guitar that has been captivating musicians since its debut in 1976. A true icon in the world of electric basses, the StingRay 4 stands out with its beefy alnico-powered humbucker, delivering a deep, rich response that resonates through every note. Designed by the legendary Leo Fender, this instrument is revered for its sleek aesthetic and unparalleled versatility.
The StingRay 4 is equipped with an active 18V three-band EQ, allowing for precise tonal shaping to suit any genre or playing style. Its solid construction and distinctive oval pickguard make it a roadworthy choice for both stage and studio performances. With its unique 3+1 tuning key configuration, this bass ensures stability and ease during every session. Trusted by renowned artists like Flea and Cliff Williams, the StingRay 4 continues to be the flagship model for Ernie Ball Music Man.
Whether you're laying down a groove or leading the rhythm section, the StingRay 4 offers a blend of tradition and innovation that will elevate your musical journey. Its combination of classic design and modern features makes it a must-have for any serious bass player.
Key Features:
- Alnico-powered humbucker pickup for a powerful sound
- Active 18V three-band EQ for versatile tone shaping
- Iconic oval pickguard and solid construction
- Unique 3+1 tuning key configuration for stability
- Trusted by legendary artists for its performance and reliability
- Includes a protective case for safe transport
Product specs
| Brand | Ernie Ball Music Man |
| Model | StingRay 4 H |
| Year | 1999 - 2018 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Active Pickups |
| Active Preamp | Active Preamp |
| Body Material | Ash |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Green, Grey, Natural, Orange, Purple, Red, Silver, Teal, White, Yellow |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss, Metallic |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony, Maple, Rosewood |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 21 |
| Number of Strings | 4-String |
| Nut Width | 1.625" |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | H |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 34" |
| Wood Top Style | Opaque, Plain |
FAQs
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What type of pickups does the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 Black/White feature?
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The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 Black/White is equipped with active pickups, providing a powerful and dynamic sound suitable for various music styles.
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Is the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 Black/White suitable for slap bass playing?
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Yes, the StingRay 4 is renowned for its punchy and articulate tone, making it an excellent choice for slap bass techniques.
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What is the neck profile of the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 Black/White?
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The StingRay 4 features a comfortable and fast-playing maple neck with a smooth finish, ideal for both beginners and advanced players.
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What materials are used in the construction of the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 Black/White?
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The body is made of ash, while the neck is crafted from maple, and the fretboard can be either ebony, maple, or rosewood, contributing to its robust tone and durability.
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Does the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 Black/White have a preamp?
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Yes, this model includes an active preamp, allowing for precise tonal adjustments and enhanced sound shaping capabilities.
Videos
Gear4music Guitars
Music Man StingRay 4 Bass RW, Classic Black | Gear4music demo
Music Man StingRay 4 Bass RW, Classic Black | Gear4music demo
Gear4music Guitars
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 StingRay 4.
Build quality
Setup and maintenance
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Owners have experimented with various strings, finding Ken Smith stainless steel rock masters offer a preferable tone over standard Slinkys.
Source
Features and functionality
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The StingRay Special includes a preamp, reinforcing its status as a leader among active basses.
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The new Custom Design Experience allows customers to choose from 30 unique finishes and various pickup configurations, including single H or double HH.
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The StingRay's iconic oval pickguard and 3+1 tuning key configuration have been retained in the 2024 models.
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The fretless StingRay Special option, previously rare and expensive, is now more accessible through the factory's custom order program.
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User experience
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Despite its cost, users believe the StingRay Special is a simple yet comprehensive instrument that fulfills all essential bass guitar needs.
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Value and pricing
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The StingRay Special is noted for its high price, with new models reaching $2,900, causing some long-time fans to reconsider their purchases.
Source
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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In the "Blink-182 Rig Rundown" video by Premier Guitar, at the 30:00 mark, Brian Diaz, who is Mark Hoppus' technician, is shown presenting one of Mark's Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 bass guitars.
He uses the Bass in the first shows of Rammstein for almost every song.
Mikey Welsh used an Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray during The Green Album Recording Sessions.
Album Usage
The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 has been featured on the following albums:
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 StingRay 4, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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