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Description

When you're ready to make some serious noise, the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 HS is your go-to electric bass. Known for its neck-through design, this bass delivers monumental sustain and a tonal clarity that will have you standing out in any band setting. The StingRay 4 HS is engineered for versatility, featuring a dynamic single-coil and humbucker pickup combo that brings a rich palette of sounds to your fingertips. Whether you’re laying down groovy bass lines or adventurous solos, the StingRay 4 HS ensures you have the punch and precision needed to make your mark.

Constructed with an ash body and a maple through-neck, this bass offers a seamless blend of durability and playability. The compensated nut ensures precise intonation, making every note you play crisp and in tune. This is a bass that doesn’t just look good—it performs exceptionally well. Add to that Ernie Ball Music Man's active electronics and 3-band EQ, and you have a bass that's as flexible as it is powerful.

For those who demand stability, the StingRay 4 HS is equipped with Schaller tuners and a hardened steel bridge, ensuring your instrument stays in tune even during the most energetic performances. With a reputation that attracts legendary bassists, this instrument is a staple for any serious musician who values both quality and performance.

Key Features:

  • Neck-through design for improved sustain and tonal clarity
  • Single-coil and humbucker pickup configuration for versatile sound options
  • Active 3-band EQ for detailed sound sculpting
  • Compensated nut for precise intonation
  • Ash body and maple through-neck for enhanced playability
  • Schaller tuners and hardened steel bridge for maximum stability
  • Includes a hardshell case for protection and portability

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model StingRay 4 HS, StingRay 4 HS with Maple Fretboard, StingRay 4 HS with Rosewood Fretboard
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 Style Gloss
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 HS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 HS have?

The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 HS features an active pickup configuration with a single humbucker at the bridge and a single-coil pickup at the neck, providing versatile tonal options.

How does the neck profile of the StingRay 4 HS affect playability?

The StingRay 4 HS features a comfortable maple neck with a 1.625" nut width, offering a smooth and fast playing experience suitable for various playing styles.

Is the StingRay 4 HS suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the StingRay 4 HS is well-suited for slap bass, thanks to its active electronics and the punchy response of its ash body and pickup configuration.

What are the differences between the maple and rosewood fretboards on the StingRay 4 HS?

The maple fretboard provides a bright, snappy tone, while the rosewood fretboard offers a warmer, mellower sound, allowing players to choose based on their tonal preference.

Can the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 HS handle different musical genres?

Absolutely, the StingRay 4 HS is versatile enough to handle various genres, from funk and rock to jazz and pop, due to its active electronics and diverse tonal capabilities.

theperfectbass

theperfectbass

Music Man StingRay HS w/ Maple Fingerboard Demo - The Perfect Bass

Video thumbnail for Music Man StingRay HS w/ Maple Fingerboard Demo - The Perfect Bass by theperfectbass

Music Man StingRay HS w/ Maple Fingerboard Demo - The Perfect Bass

theperfectbass

theperfectbass

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 HS.

Build quality

  • The newer StingRay Special models feature lighter weights, which are appreciated by users for long gigs, addressing past complaints of heaviness.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare the StingRay Special to the Sterling Ray35, noting that the Sterling can offer a similar or better experience if weight is not a concern.

    Source
  • Some users find the tonal differences between the 2-band and 3-band EQs in StingRays to be negligible, appreciating both configurations for their respective qualities.

    Source
  • A G&L L2500 offers a neck pickup positioned further towards the bridge, facilitating easier slapping compared to the HH StingRay.

    Source

User experience

  • It's noted that older models, such as the US SUB, are heavier but praised for their playability despite being challenging for those with physical limitations.

    Source
  • Some players find the HH model's neck pickup obstructive for slap bass techniques, favoring the single H for its clear playing area.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The roasted maple necks on the StingRay Special are part of a modern trend across several brands, adding appeal for those seeking contemporary playability.

    Source
  • The single H StingRay is known for its aggressive snarl, while the HH model offers warmer tones, ideal for versatile musical styles.

    Source

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