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Average Price: $1,612
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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
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active's active pickups?
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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.
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Is the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active suitable for advanced players?
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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.
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How does the poplar body of the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active affect its tone?
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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.
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What is the neck profile of the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active?
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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.
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Does the Ernie Ball Music Man SUB Bass 5 Active have a satin finish?
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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.
Videos
Mark "Nessie" Nesmith
2004 Ernie Ball Music Man USA Sub 5 bass demo - made in San Luis Obispo, California ** For Sale **
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
Setup and maintenance
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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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