Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
Average Price: $775
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Stingray Short Scale". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.
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Description
The Ernie Ball Music Man Short Scale StingRay bass offers a big thumpy round sound in a convenient smaller package. A 30” scale allows for easier playability due to the shorter spacing between the frets. The Ernie Ball Music Man passive humbucking pickup, equipped with higher output neodymium magnets, has been specially designed for the short scale bass, providing its signature warm tone. Electronics package includes a 3-way rotary switch featuring parallel, true single-coil, and series modes. Like its big brother the Stingray Special, the short scale bass comes standard with a modern classic bridge, 22 stainless steel frets, and new lightweight Music Man tuning machines with a finer gear ratio.
Product specs
| Brand | Ernie Ball Music Man |
| Model | StingRay Short Scale |
| Finish | Black, Black Cherry Burst, Black Sparkle, Blood Orange, Brulee, Burnt Amber, Burnt Ends, Candy Man, Goldbar, Kiwi Green, Marine Blue, Pacific Blue Burst, Plum Crazy, Raspberry Pearl, Seashell, Silver Shadow, Starry Night, Vincent Blue, Vintage Blue Pearl, Vintage Sunburst, White |
| Year | 2017 - 2025 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | 4-String Basses, Short Scale Basses |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Passive Pickups |
| Active Preamp | No Preamp |
| Body Material | Ash |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Green, Orange, Purple, Red, Silver, White |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony, Maple, Rosewood |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 4-String |
| Nut Width | 1.5" |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | H |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 30" |
| Wood Top Style | Opaque, Plain |
FAQs
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What is the scale length of the Stingray Short Scale bass?
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The Stingray Short Scale bass features a 30-inch scale length, making it more accessible and comfortable for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a shorter reach.
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What type of pickups does the Stingray Short Scale use?
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The Stingray Short Scale is equipped with passive pickups, providing a warm and natural tone without the need for active electronics.
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Is the Stingray Short Scale suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Stingray Short Scale is well-suited for beginners due to its shorter scale length and easier playability, which can help reduce strain on the hands and fingers.
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What materials are used for the body and neck of the Stingray Short Scale?
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The body of the Stingray Short Scale is made from ash, while the neck is constructed from maple, offering a balance of durability and resonance.
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What are the available finish options for the Stingray Short Scale?
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The Stingray Short Scale is available in a variety of finishes, including Black, Black Cherry Burst, Blood Orange, Burnt Amber, Goldbar, Marine Blue, and many more, allowing for personalized aesthetic choices.
Videos
Patrick Hunter
Ernie Ball Music Man Short Scale StingRay! [Demo]
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Stingray Short Scale.
Build quality
Setup and maintenance
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Fret sprout and poor fret jobs are frequently reported, requiring filing and hammering for optimal playability.
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Comparisons
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The Sire U5 is praised for its fit and finish, especially the rolled edge neck, but lacks the punchiness of the Stingray.
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Sterling by Music Man short scale Ray is noted for its higher-end bridge and passive electronics without a battery door, differentiating it from other models.
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The JMJ Mustang is considered superior in quality to the Sterling short scale Stingray by some users.
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User experience
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Owners enjoy the thick, compressed punchiness of the Stingray, likening it to Joe Dart's sound on "1612".
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Sterling by Music Man short scale Rays are reportedly harder to find due to their popularity, indicating high demand and user satisfaction.
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The weight distribution feels more balanced compared to a Vintera 60s Mustang, improving playability.
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Mods and upgrades
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Sanding the back of the neck to 600 grit can significantly improve the feel, creating a smooth satin finish.
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Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 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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