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Description

The Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active is a robust and reliable choice for bass players seeking a dynamic range and modern playability. Engineered with the discerning musician in mind, this 5-string electric bass offers the perfect blend of performance and value. It is equipped with a powerful active electronics system that delivers a wide array of tonal possibilities, ensuring your sound stands out whether you're in the studio or on stage. The bass features a solid hardwood body that contributes to its rich sustain and punchy low end, while the smooth satin-finished maple neck allows for quick and comfortable playability.

Designed to meet the needs of both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic beginners, the SUB Bass 5 Active includes a high-output humbucking pickup that reduces unwanted noise and enhances clarity. Its intuitive controls make dialing in your preferred sound effortless, giving you precise control over your musical expression. The 5-string setup extends your range, providing deeper bass tones perfect for a variety of musical genres. Whether you're laying down the groove in a rock band or exploring jazz or funk, this bass is a versatile tool that can handle it all.

Key Features:

  • Active electronics system for diverse tonal options
  • High-output humbucking pickup for reduced noise
  • Solid hardwood body for enhanced sustain
  • Satin-finished maple neck for smooth playability
  • 5-string configuration for extended range
  • User-friendly controls for easy sound customization

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model SUB Bass 5 Active
Year 2003 - 2006
Made In United States
Categories 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Poplar
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Grey, Red, Teal, White
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
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

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active's active pickups?

The active pickups on the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active provide a powerful and punchy tone with a wide dynamic range, making it suitable for genres like rock, funk, and metal.

Is the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active is designed with advanced players in mind, offering features like a 5-string configuration and an active preamp for versatile sound shaping.

How does the poplar body of the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active affect its tone?

The poplar body of the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active contributes to a balanced tone with a good mix of warmth and brightness, making it versatile for various musical styles.

What is the neck profile of the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active?

The Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active features a maple neck with a comfortable profile, allowing for smooth playability and easy access across all 21 frets.

Does the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active have a satin finish?

Yes, the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active has a satin finish, which provides a smooth feel and reduces glare under stage lights.

Mark "Nessie" Nesmith

Mark "Nessie" Nesmith

2004 Ernie Ball Music Man USA Sub 5 bass demo - made in San Luis Obispo, California ** For Sale **

Video thumbnail for 2004 Ernie Ball Music Man USA Sub 5 bass demo - made in San Luis Obispo, California ** For Sale ** by Mark "Nessie" Nesmith

2004 Ernie Ball Music Man USA Sub 5 bass demo - made in San Luis Obispo, California ** For Sale **

Mark "Nessie" Nesmith

Mark "Nessie" Nesmith

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 SUB Bass 5 Active.

Features and functionality

  • The preamp's treble control may not provide enough cut or boost for some users, affecting tonal flexibility.

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  • The Sterling SUB series basses have a notably high output volume, significantly louder than Sire V7s and Warwick Fortress, even at minimal knob settings.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Lowering the pickup and using flatwound strings can significantly improve the overly hot and harsh stock sound.

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  • Sanding or refinishing the neck is a common modification for better playability, though it might impact resale value.

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  • Lowering the pickup height can mitigate the excessive volume and slightly enhance the tonal character by adding a touch of clipping and compression.

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User experience

  • The B string is considered solid, but not as strong as on an Ibanez SR505, highlighting a minor limitation in tonal depth.

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  • Some players find the personality and unique sound of the Musicman SUB more compelling than the Ibanez neck, despite preferring the latter's feel.

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  • Adjusting amp settings, such as using an active input or engaging a -15db pad, effectively manages the Sterling's high output during performances.

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Comparisons

  • Compared to the Sandberg Electra series, Sterlings lack an active/passive switch, which some players prefer for added versatility.

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  • The USA-made SUBs were produced in the same plant as EBMM basses, unlike later Sterling models made in Indonesia.

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  • Owners often compare the textured finish of USA-made SUBs unfavorably to the smoother finishes on other models, but appreciate the playability.

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  • Compared to Sire basses, which have internal trimpots for gain adjustment, the Sterling lacks this feature, contributing to its hotter output.

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Value and pricing

  • Despite some limitations, the SUB 5 is regarded as a top choice in the under $500 range, offering great build quality and playability.

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Build quality

  • Early 2000s USA-made SUBs feature a textured paint finish and a slab body, with a thin diamond plate pickguard and painted black neck.

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Mods and upgrades

  • John East preamps are recommended for easy active preamp mods, enhancing the tonal range by simply dropping in the control plate.

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  • Some users suggest rewiring the volume control to post-preamp for better signal management and to reduce the overly hot output.

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