Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$2,799.00
Reverb
5.0 (9)
$2,299.00 New
$2,000.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (12)
zZounds
5.0 (2)
$2,799.00

Average Price: $2,539

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Stingray5 Special H 5-String". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Discover the iconic sound of the Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray5 Special H 5-String Electric Bass in a striking Laguna Green finish. This legendary instrument, first introduced in 1976, has been the go-to choice for professional bassists worldwide due to its distinct sound and exceptional playability. This version, with a single humbucker and maple fingerboard, offers a unique look, feel and sound that is unmistakably StingRay.

The revamped design features a more rounded contour for enhanced comfort in all playing positions, while the sculpted neck joint offers unhindered access to all 22 stainless steel frets. The lightweight aluminum hardware not only makes the instrument easier to handle but also contributes to a more balanced feel when playing.

The StingRay5 Special H is powered by neodymium magnets for a higher output and a new 18-volt 3-band preamp for a clean headroom that doesn't clip. The robust construction, elegant oval pickguard, and the 4+1 tuning key configuration all add to the instrument's appeal. And, of course, the ever-popular Music Man humbucker is there, delivering that revered iconic StingRay sound.

Key Features:

  • Select Hardwood body
  • Enhanced arm contour for comfortable playing in all positions
  • 5-bolt contoured neck joint on the body
  • 22 stainless steel frets
  • Lightweight modern classic bridge and saddles
  • Lightweight aluminum hardware
  • Music Man tuning machines with a finer gear ratio
  • Neodymium pickup magnet for increased output
  • 3-band EQ
  • 18 V preamp for extra headroom without clipping

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model StingRay Special 5 H
Finish Amethyst Sparkle, Aqua Sparkle, Black, Black Rock, Brulee, Burnt Amber, Burnt Apple, Burnt Ends, Buttercream, Candyman, Charcoal Sparkle, Charging Green, Chopper Blue, Classic Natural, Cruz Teal, Dropped Copper, Firemist Silver, Frost Green, Genius Gold, Ghost Pepper, Ghostwood, Grape Crush, HD Yellow, Harvest Orange, Hot Honey, Ivory White, Jackpot, Jet Black, Kiwi Green, Laguna Green, Maroon Mist, Ocean Sparkle, Pacific Blue Burst, Pueblo Pink, Purple Sunset, Raspberry Burst, Sea Breeze, Smoked Chrome, Snowy Night, Speed Blue, Tectonic Blue, Vintage Tobacco
Year 2018 - 2025
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, Pink, Purple, Red, Silver, White, Yellow
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Ebony, Maple, 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 is the neck profile like on the Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray5 Special H 5-String?

The Stingray5 Special H features a comfortable C-shaped neck profile, providing smooth playability and easy access across the fretboard, ideal for both beginners and experienced players.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Stingray5 Special H pickups for rock music?

The active humbucking pickup in the Stingray5 Special H delivers punchy, aggressive tones with deep lows and clear highs, making it well-suited for rock and other high-energy genres.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray5 Special H suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the Stingray5 Special H is excellent for slap bass techniques, offering a responsive and articulate sound with its active electronics and well-balanced string spacing.

What is the body material of the Stingray5 Special H, and how does it affect the sound?

The body of the Stingray5 Special H is made from select ash, which contributes to its bright, resonant tone with a tight low end, enhancing its versatility across various music styles.

Does the Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray5 Special H come with a matching headstock?

Yes, the Stingray5 Special H features a matching headstock, providing a cohesive and visually appealing look that complements its stylish finishes.

Reviews

PROS

  • Signature Stingray sound that impresses musicians and sound engineers alike

  • Lightweight compared to regular Stingrays, reducing player fatigue

  • Satin finish on neck enhances playing comfort and feel

  • Diverse tonal range suitable for various music styles

  • Laguna green color and hardware provide a standout aesthetic

  • Swamp Ash body is visually striking and acoustically resonant

  • Consistently stays in tune, even with frequent gigging

  • Competes with and exceeds more expensive bass models in sound and feel

CONS

  • Lacks a bone nut stock, which may affect long-term durability

  • Transitioning from 4 to 5 strings can require adjustment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Stingray5 Special H 5-String.

Build quality

  • The tuning pegs on the Ray35 are prone to falling apart, necessitating glue repairs for stability.

    Source
  • The G string on 5-string models is positioned close to the fretboard edge, potentially causing it to slip off during play.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Consider upgrading the Ray35's pickups and preamp to enhance sound quality, though it already performs well on its own.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners feel a significant quality and sound difference between Sterling and EBMM models, with the Sterling achieving only about 50-60% of the EBMM's quality.

    Source
  • Some players find the neck pickup on the HH model obstructive when slapping, preferring the single H configuration for ease of play.

    Source
  • Owners note that the single H model delivers a preferred tone when the bridge pickup is engaged compared to the HH's bridge setting.

    Source
  • One user found the 5-string Stingray Special lighter than some 4-string basses they own.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EBMM Stingray Special offers what is considered one of the best 34" B strings available, noted for its light weight and tonal versatility.

    Source
  • Fender's Ultra series initially had similar G string placement issues, which they addressed, unlike EBMM.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 5H model includes a series/parallel switch absent in the HH version, offering unique tonal versatility.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The HH model's 5-way switch provides tonal variety, suitable for genres from jazz to country to worship, maintaining a strong mix presence.

    Source
  • A 5-string bass allows for efficient play across the fretboard, reducing the need for position shifts.

    Source

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