Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$2,999.00
Guitar Center
$2,899.00
Amazon
$2,999.00
Reverb
5.0 (14)
$2,199.00 New
$2,000.00 Used
Musician's Friend
$2,999.00
zZounds
$2,999.00

Average Price: $2,728

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 HH Bass Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special HH Bass Guitar is an iconic masterpiece that marries timeless design with cutting-edge innovation. Revered since its revolutionary debut in 1976, this bass is a favorite among professional players for its bold output and versatile sound. The dual Neodymium humbucking pickups deliver an expansive tonal range, providing a powerful low-end punch and a sparkling high-end clarity. Perfect for any genre, from funk to rock to jazz, the StingRay excels both in studio and live settings.

Its ergonomic design ensures that comfort and playability are at the forefront, featuring a deeply contoured ash body and a sleek ebony fretboard for seamless finger movements. The inclusion of an 18-volt active preamp with a 3-band EQ system gives players exceptional control, allowing for precise tonal adjustments and unmatched dynamic range. The lightweight aluminum hardware and modern classic bridge reduce fatigue, making this bass a reliable companion for long gigs.

For those who crave a blend of heritage and innovation, the StingRay Special HH stands as a testament to Ernie Ball's commitment to quality. With components designed for durability, like the stainless steel frets and robust hardware, this bass is built to endure the rigors of extensive use while maintaining consistent performance.

Key Features:

  • Ash body with a contoured design for enhanced comfort
  • Sleek ebony fretboard with 22 stainless steel frets
  • Dual Neodymium humbucking pickups for versatile and powerful tones
  • 18V active preamp with 3-band EQ for extensive tonal control
  • Lightweight aluminum hardware for improved balance and reduced weight
  • Iconic oval pickguard and 3+1 tuning key configuration
  • Durable construction ensures long-term reliability and performance stability

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
Neck Pickup Neodymium Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Neodymium Humbucker
Controls Volume, Treble, Mid, Bass
Strings Super Slinky Bass, .045-.100
Case/Gig Bag Mono Softshell Case

FAQs

What tones can I expect from the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special HH Bass Guitar?

The StingRay Special HH offers a versatile range of tones, from deep, punchy lows to bright, articulate highs, thanks to its dual neodymium humbuckers and 3-band active EQ. It's well-suited for genres like rock, funk, and jazz.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special HH suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the StingRay Special HH is designed with professional features like a roasted maple neck, stainless steel frets, and high-quality electronics, making it ideal for advanced players seeking precision and versatility.

How does the neck profile of the StingRay Special HH affect playability?

The StingRay Special HH features a C-shaped roasted maple neck, providing a comfortable grip and smooth playability, suitable for both fast runs and complex fingerwork.

What makes the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special HH different from other StingRay models?

The Special HH variant includes dual humbuckers for increased tonal versatility, a lightweight body for enhanced comfort, and a revoiced preamp for improved sound clarity.

Does the Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special HH come with a case?

Yes, the StingRay Special HH includes a Mono Softshell Case, offering excellent protection and portability for the instrument.

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Reviews

PROS

  • Punchy, dynamic sound with versatile tonal range

  • Well-made with exceptional attention to detail

  • Lightweight compared to other bass guitars

  • Smooth playability, highly praised by experienced players

  • Powerful pickups enhance sound diversity

  • Preamp allows for broad sound customization

  • Attractive design and visually appealing neck

  • Professional-grade bass suitable for various genres

CONS

  • Pickups emit a strong, unpleasant smell

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 HH Bass Guitar.

Build quality

  • Some owners prefer the older StingRay models for their more detailed grain in the wood finish, compared to the newer models' roasted maple necks.

    Source
  • The Purple Sparkle finish on Sterling models reportedly has issues with tuners turning brittle after a few restrings, and many models come with broken truss rods.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special is lighter than older models, addressing weight issues that some users faced during long gigs.

    Source
  • The single pickup StingRay tends to deliver a more classic StingRay punch and aggression compared to the HH, which can mimic a P-bass but isn't as authentic.

    Source

User experience

  • A user noted the need for a shim and a higher nut adjustment on the StingRay Special compared to the Sterling Ray35.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the tonal variety of the HH but note the bridge pickup delivers the quintessential StingRay sound more effectively.

    Source
  • Some owners find the neck pickup on the HH model obstructive for popping techniques, preferring the single H version for slapping.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The StingRay Special's versatile sound is appreciated by those who want a modern approach with features like a 3-band EQ and modern bridge design.

    Source
  • The HH's second position (coils 2&3) offers a scooped sound ideal for slap/pop styles, offering tonal versatility beyond the bridge pickup.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The lighter weight of the StingRay Special is seen as a benefit for those who perform long gigs, contrasting older, heavier StingRay models.

    Source
  • The neck pickup on the HH can obstruct slap techniques, particularly for players using the finger for popping.

    Source
  • A new Custom Design Experience allows for detailed customization, including 30 finishes, 3 hardware options, and 5 pickguard choices.

    Source
  • The StingRay Special offers a 3+1 tuning key configuration and iconic oval pickguard, maintaining classic design elements.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Recommended pickup height for both pickups is 1/4 inch; adjusting the neck pickup flush with the pickguard can aid slap technique.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users modify the HH for improved tonal satisfaction, though specifics on modifications were not widely detailed.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners highlight frustration with rising prices, noting a StingRay Special HH now costs $2,900, compared to $1,750 in 2017.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review - Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special HH - Bass Musician Magazine, The Face of Bass

bassmusicianmagazine.com

The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special HH is a bass guitar icon, revered for its reliability, robust construction, and impressive sound. This 2018 model continues the legacy with updated features and enhanced playability. Musicians will appreciate its versatility, offering both single and dual humbucking versions, and a range of stylish colors. However, its starting price over $2,000 might be a consideration for budget-conscious players. Overall, it's a worthy investment for those seeking quality and performance.

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Artist usage

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See how Sam Farrar uses Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special HH Bass Guitar

Sam Farrar

Guitarist, Bassist

Maroon 5

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:28 into the video, Sam is seen playing an Ernie Ball Stingray Special HH bass.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special HH Bass Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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alexaaschaeferr

alexaaschaeferr

Gear IQ 113

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alexaaschaeferr

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