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Description

When it comes to delivering iconic tone and exceptional playability, the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 H Neck-Through 3EQ stands as a benchmark in the world of electric basses. This masterpiece combines classic design with modern engineering, offering bassists a versatile tool that feels just as good under your fingers as it sounds through your amp. At the heart of the StingRay's distinctive voice is its neodymium humbucking pickup, renowned for delivering a powerful, clear sound that cuts through any mix with ease.

The neck-through construction not only enhances sustain and tonal resonance but also provides an incredibly stable feel, perfect for those long gig nights or studio sessions. Coupled with the 3-band active preamp, this bass offers a wide range of tonal possibilities, from deep, growling lows to bright, snappy highs. The ergonomic body shape and smooth satin neck finish ensure comfort and speed, allowing you to focus on your performance without hindrance.

Whether you're slapping, tapping, or fingerpicking, the StingRay 5 H Neck-Through is designed to keep up with your creativity, making it a reliable workhorse for both stage and studio settings.

Key Features:

  • Neodymium humbucking pickup for powerful, clear sound
  • Neck-through construction for enhanced sustain and stability
  • 3-band active preamp for versatile tone shaping
  • Ergonomic body shape and satin neck finish for comfortable playability
  • 5-string configuration offering extended range

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model StingRay 5 H Neck-Through 3EQ
Year 2015 - 2019
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, Purple, White
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony, Rosewood
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 type of music genres is the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 H Neck-Through 3EQ best suited for?

The StingRay 5 H is versatile, making it suitable for a range of genres including rock, funk, and jazz due to its powerful active pickup and 3-band EQ which allow for a wide tonal palette.

How does the neck-through construction of the StingRay 5 H affect its playability?

The neck-through construction enhances sustain and stability, providing a smooth, uninterrupted playing surface that is particularly beneficial for fast playing and complex bass lines.

What are the tonal benefits of the active preamp in the StingRay 5 H?

The active preamp offers precise control over bass, midrange, and treble frequencies, allowing players to easily shape their sound for different musical contexts and environments.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 5 H suitable for live performances?

Yes, the StingRay 5 H is ideal for live performances due to its robust build, reliable electronics, and dynamic tonal range, making it a favorite among professional bassists.

What materials are used in the construction of the StingRay 5 H's body and neck?

The body of the StingRay 5 H is made from ash, offering a bright and resonant tone, while the neck is constructed from maple, providing strength and a smooth playing feel.

Guitar World

Guitar World

NAMM 2015 - Ernie Ball Neck Through StingRay

Video thumbnail for NAMM 2015 - Ernie Ball Neck Through StingRay by Guitar World

NAMM 2015 - Ernie Ball Neck Through StingRay

Guitar World

Guitar World

Video thumbnail for 15 sec. of Musicman Stingray 5 Neckthru by Bassline Music Shop

15 sec. of Musicman Stingray 5 Neckthru

Bassline Music Shop

Bassline Music Shop

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 Neck-Through 3EQ.

Setup and maintenance

  • The 3-band EQ features center detents; keep settings around these for gradual tone adjustments.

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  • For optimal performance, unplug the bass after use to conserve battery life.

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  • Owners often replace stock strings with Dogal Jaco JC106C flats, which are compared to Labella LTFs for brightness and low tension, enhancing playability and tone.

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User experience

  • The StingRay's humbucker pickup is powerful, picking up clacks and nuances, especially if plucking over it with treble dialed in.

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  • A 2012 StingRay 5H owner highlights its EQ's ability to achieve reggae tones, with substantial low-end adjustments providing a rich bass sound.

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Features and functionality

  • A retractable mute bridge can be a drop-in replacement for stock USA MM bridges, offering a more traditional look.

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  • Older StingRay models (pre-2018) have a six-bolt neck plate and use a single 9V battery, differing from newer Specials.

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  • The StingRay's active EQ is celebrated for its tonal versatility, allowing users to explore various sound profiles beyond the traditional StingRay high mid and treble focus.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Installing a series/parallel switch is recommended for accessing a range of StingRay tones from classic to modern.

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  • Dogal vintage flats are favored for their thumping sound, noted as brighter than Labella DTFs, providing a distinctive thud on basses like the MTD Jazz.

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Comparisons

  • Owners have noted that the build quality of the StingRay often surpasses non-custom shop Fender basses.

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  • The Sterling Ray34 and Ray35 models are praised for their quality and value, especially when purchased used, offering a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive StingRays.

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