Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $2,434
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special Bass Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Step into the world of legendary grooves with the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special Bass Guitar—an instrument that marries classic design with cutting-edge innovations. Revered since its debut in the '70s, the StingRay Special is a staple for bassists aiming for that iconic sound with contemporary upgrades for the modern musician.
The powerful humbucking pickup, redesigned for greater punch and extended frequency response, is at the heart of this bass's signature sound. Paired with an advanced 18-volt preamp system, it ensures impressive headroom and a wide dynamic range, allowing you to command any stage with clarity and authority. Crafted with a select hardwood body and a roasted maple neck, this bass offers unmatched playability and durability. The neck's 5-bolt contoured joint ensures rock-solid tuning while providing easy access to all 22 stainless steel frets, perfect for those exploring the upper registers.
The ergonomic body contour and lightweight aluminum hardware offer comfort during extended sessions, making it an ideal companion for marathon gigs. Whether you're laying down a funky groove, a rock-solid rhythm, or a jazz fusion masterpiece, the StingRay Special delivers robust and versatile tones that resonate across genres.
Key Features:
- Select hardwood body with a deeply contoured design
- Roasted maple neck for stability and reduced weight
- 22 stainless steel frets for long-term durability
- Neodymium humbucking bridge pickup
- 18-volt preamp with 3-band EQ for tonal versatility
- Lightweight aluminum hardware for balanced performance
- Ergonomic design for enhanced comfort during play
- Crafted with precision in the USA
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 4 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Shape | StingRay |
| Body Material | Ash |
| Body Finish | Gloss Polyester |
| Neck Material | Roasted Maple |
| Neck Shape | C |
| Neck Joint | Bolt-on |
| Radius | 10" |
| Fingerboard Material | Roasted Maple |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Dots |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Scale Length | 34" |
| Scale Length Type | Standard-scale |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Vintage Music Man |
| Tuners | Custom Music Man |
| Bridge Pickup | Neodymium Humbucker |
| Controls | Volume, Treble, Mid, Bass |
| Strings | Super Slinky Bass, .045-.100 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Mono Softshell Case |
FAQs
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What kind of tone can I expect from the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special Bass Guitar?
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The StingRay Special is known for its punchy, aggressive tone with a strong midrange presence, thanks to its neodymium humbucker pickup. It's versatile enough for styles ranging from rock to funk, offering a clear and powerful sound.
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Is the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special suitable for slap bass techniques?
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Yes, the StingRay Special is highly regarded for slap bass due to its responsive neck and bright, punchy sound. The roasted maple neck and smooth fingerboard make it ideal for fast playing and dynamic slapping.
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What is the neck profile of the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special Bass Guitar?
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The StingRay Special features a C-shaped neck profile, which is comfortable for most players and allows for easy hand movement across the fretboard, making it suitable for various playing styles.
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How does the roasted maple neck affect the playability of the StingRay Special?
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The roasted maple neck offers enhanced stability and a smooth feel, which improves playability and reduces the risk of warping. It also contributes to a slightly warmer tone compared to untreated maple.
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Does the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special come with a case?
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Yes, the StingRay Special includes a Mono Softshell Case, providing protection and easy transport for your bass guitar.
Videos
Ernie Ball
The Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray Special Bass
The Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray Special Bass
Ernie Ball
Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Tony Levin Demo & Discussion
Ernie Ball
The Build & Sound of the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special Basses
Guitar Center
Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Mike Herrera Demo & Discussion
Ernie Ball
Ernie Ball Music Man 2018 StingRay Special Bass Guitar | Reverb Demo Video
Reverb
Review Demo - Music Man StingRay Special Bass
Premier Guitar
Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Stefan Lessard of Dave Matthews Band Demo
Ernie Ball
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptionally lightweight, reducing fatigue during long performances
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Roasted maple neck provides smooth playability and enhanced feel
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3-band EQ offers versatile tone shaping for diverse musical styles
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Swamp ash body with impeccable aluminum hardware adds aesthetic appeal
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Superior sustain allows notes to ring clearly and linger longer
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High-quality craftsmanship evident in the finish and fretwork
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18V electronics provide additional headroom for dynamic playing
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Reduced weight without sacrificing the classic Music Man sound
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Gunstock oil neck finish enhances playability
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Perfect setup right out of the box
CONS
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High-end sound lacks the sizzle of previous models
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 Special Bass Guitar.
Build quality
Features and functionality
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The StingRay Special features a roasted maple neck and a modern-styled bridge with a 3-band EQ and center-notched pots, targeting a modern playability approach.
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The StingRay Special retains its iconic single pickup version that can be EQ'd to mimic a neck pickup sound, catering to versatile tonal needs.
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The StingRay's built-in EQ can be adjusted to achieve a less trebly tone, suitable for Motown or vintage sounds when paired with flatwound strings.
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Comparisons
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Some prefer the Sterling Ray34 for its roasted neck and modern features over the US StingRay, citing a better value with similar tonal versatility.
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Some players find the neck pickup redundant for their playing style, preferring the tonal flexibility of a single bridge pickup setup.
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The Sterling Ray34 is noted for closely resembling the StingRay Special in terms of hardware and sound, despite being more affordable.
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User experience
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The Sapphire Iris finish receives praise for its unique aesthetic, although some prefer the more traditional finishes of older models.
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Owners express that a neck humbucker can interfere with popping techniques, preferring the single bridge pickup for classic slap sounds.
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Players appreciate the StingRay's ability to maintain tuning stability, even after months of disuse, emphasizing its reliability.
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Setup and maintenance
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It's reported that some StingRay Specials require shimming and adjustments to the nut height, contrasting with the more consistent setup of the Sterling Ray35.
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Specific Sterling models reportedly had truss rod issues; users recommend testing the truss rod within the warranty period to ensure functionality.
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Value and pricing
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The introduction of the Custom Design Experience allows direct-to-consumer customization, but it's expected to drive prices well over $3500.
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Other
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The StingRay Special's 2024 finish options include vibrant colors like Kiwi Green, Purple Sunset, and Grape Crush, offering a wide range of aesthetic choices.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Anthony DiDio is visibly playing a black Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special Bass Guitar with an ebony fretboard, as evidently shown in a Living Weapon performance at Hockessin, DE. (Fun fact: Anthony used to play bass and vocals for Vein, until 2016 when Sean Watson took over bass duties.)
This particular bass guitar is typically associated with Jon Lhaubouet in Vein.fm shows.
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 Special Bass Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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