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Description

The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 H Fretless is a testament to the harmony between tradition and innovation in the bass guitar world. Revered since its inception in the '70s, this 5-string fretless bass continues to captivate musicians with its beefy humbucker and active 3-band EQ, offering a sound that's as versatile as it is powerful. Whether you're laying down the groove in a jazz ensemble or driving the rhythm in a rock band, the StingRay 5 H provides the punchy low-end and tonal flexibility needed to stand out.

Crafted with an ash body and a smooth-playing maple neck, this bass promises unmatched comfort and sustain. The pau ferro fingerboard adds a touch of warmth to its tone, while the gunstock oil and hand-rubbed wax blend finish ensure a silky-smooth playing experience. The 6-bolt neck attachment offers stability that rivals many set necks, making it a reliable companion for any gig.

Beyond its sonic capabilities, the StingRay 5 H is a visual masterpiece. Its sleek design, devoid of a pickguard, showcases the beautiful wood grain, while the Schaller tuners and hardened steel bridge ensure your performance remains in tune, no matter how intense the session.

Key Features:

  • 5-string fretless bass with versatile tonal capabilities
  • Beefy humbucker and active 3-band EQ for fat, punchy sound
  • Ash body with a select maple neck for comfort and sustain
  • Pau ferro fingerboard enhances playability and tone
  • Schaller tuners and hardened steel bridge for maximum stability

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model StingRay 5 H Fretless
Year 1999 - 2018
Made In United States
Categories 5- and 6-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, Pau Ferro
Frets Fretless
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 5-String
Nut Width 1.75"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 H Fretless bass?

The StingRay 5 H Fretless offers a rich, warm tone with a pronounced midrange, thanks to its single humbucking pickup with neodymium magnets and active preamp. It's ideal for genres requiring a smooth, expressive sound, such as jazz or fusion.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 H Fretless suitable for beginners?

While the StingRay 5 H Fretless is a high-quality instrument, its fretless design may present a learning curve for beginners. It's better suited for players with some experience who are looking to explore the unique tonal possibilities of a fretless bass.

What is the neck profile like on the StingRay 5 H Fretless?

The StingRay 5 H Fretless features a roasted figured maple neck with a smooth finish, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience. Its 1.75" nut width and 34" scale length offer a balanced feel for both fingerstyle and slap techniques.

How does the StingRay 5 H Fretless handle live performances?

With its active pickups and robust construction, the StingRay 5 H Fretless delivers consistent and powerful output, making it suitable for live performances. Its versatile tone control allows you to adapt to various musical settings with ease.

What materials are used in the construction of the StingRay 5 H Fretless?

The StingRay 5 H Fretless features an ash body and a roasted figured maple neck, with options for an ebony or pau ferro fretboard. This combination of materials contributes to its durability and resonant sound.

Charles Lambiase Endeavoros Bassantics

Charles Lambiase Endeavoros Bassantics

Tony Senatore's Fretless Musicman Stingray review!!!

Video thumbnail for Tony Senatore's Fretless Musicman Stingray review!!! by Charles Lambiase Endeavoros Bassantics

Tony Senatore's Fretless Musicman Stingray review!!!

Charles Lambiase Endeavoros Bassantics

Charles Lambiase Endeavoros Bassantics

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 5 H Fretless.

Build quality

  • Owners report variability in weight; some find it lighter than expected, while others note it's the heaviest bass they own, mainly due to the neck.

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  • A previous owner removed the logo due to their appreciation for the wood grain, indicating that the natural aesthetics of the instrument can be a strong selling point.

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Use cases and applications

  • Fretless StingRays are used in musical theatre to mimic upright bass tones and for jazz gigs, showcasing their versatility in these genres.

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  • GHS Pressurewounds strings are recommended to enhance the "mwah" tone typical of fretless basses.

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  • Although lined fretless models are often preferred for ease of transition, this unlined version still provides excellent tone and playability.

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User experience

  • Buying sight unseen can be risky, but sellers with good reputations often deliver instruments in excellent condition, easing buyer apprehensions.

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  • Owners indicate it doesn't inherently sound "fretless" unless played near the neck, allowing for versatility in rock contexts.

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  • A 2009 model was found in mint condition, suggesting some instruments are stored and barely used.

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Comparisons

  • Some users compare the weight to other bass models like the Bong 5, noting that the StingRay can feel lighter or heavier depending on the individual instrument.

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  • Noted as no Pedulla Buzz Bass, yet deemed balanced for varied musical settings.

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Features and functionality

  • The StingRay 5 H Fretless with H/S configuration is considered rare, offering unique tonal options.

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  • The three-way switch for the pickup offers versatile tonal variations, enhancing the instrument's adaptability across different music styles.

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Value and pricing

  • Prices have increased significantly; a bass initially bought for $1000 could now cost around $2000.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The action on the StingRay 5 H Fretless can be set incredibly low without causing any buzz, contributing to a fast and smooth playing experience.

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