Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (2)
$2,899.00
Guitar Center
3.5 (3)
$2,899.00
Amazon
5.0 (1)
$2,899.00
Reverb
5.0 (21)
$2,199.00 New
$1,695.00 Used
Musician's Friend
$2,899.00
zZounds
$2,899.00
Gear4Music
£2,988.00

Average Price: $2,627

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "StingRay Special". 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

The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special is a legendary bass guitar that has been captivating musicians since its introduction in 1976. This modern iteration marries classic design with cutting-edge advancements, offering bassists an instrument that is both familiar and refreshingly new. At the heart of the StingRay Special is its redesigned neodymium humbucker and a powerful 18V active preamp, providing a robust tonal palette that has defined its iconic sound. Whether you're laying down fat, punchy grooves or exploring intricate melodic lines, the StingRay Special delivers with precision and authority.

The roasted maple neck and fingerboard not only enhance the bass's stability and sustain but also offer a silky smooth playing experience, thanks to its special wax and gunstock oil finish. Paired with a select hardwood body, the StingRay Special promises a solid, roadworthy construction that’s designed to endure life on tour or in the studio. Its sculpted body and lightweight hardware make it a delight to play over long sets, reducing fatigue while ensuring you stay in peak form.

For musicians seeking a bass that combines historical significance with modern innovation, the StingRay Special stands out as a top contender. It’s a versatile tool capable of delivering everything from deep, resonant lows to bright, cutting highs, making it a valuable addition to any bassist’s arsenal.

Key Features:

  • Select hardwood body with a high-gloss polyester finish
  • Roasted maple neck and fingerboard with 22 stainless steel frets
  • Single humbucking pickup with neodymium magnets
  • 18V active preamp with 3-band EQ for versatile tone shaping
  • Lightweight hardware for improved playing comfort
  • Classic oval pickguard and 3+1 tuning key configuration

Product specs

Number of Strings 4
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape StingRay Special 4 H
Body Material Select Hardwood
Body Finish High Gloss Polyester
Neck Material Roasted Maple
Neck Shape C
Neck Joint 5-way Bolt-on
Radius 11"
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 22, Stainless Steel
Scale Length 34"
Nut Material Compensated Melamine
Bridge/Tailpiece Vintage Music Man top loaded chrome plated, steel bridge plate with vintage nickel plated steel saddles
Tuners Custom Music Man
Bridge Pickup Music Man Neodymium Humbucker
Controls 1 x volume, 3-band EQ
Strings Ernie Ball Super Slinky Bass, .045-.100
Case/Gig Bag Softshell Case

FAQs

What kind of neck profile does the StingRay Special have?

The StingRay Special features a C-shaped neck profile made from roasted maple, offering a comfortable grip for most playing styles.

What type of pickups does the StingRay Special use?

The StingRay Special is equipped with a Music Man Neodymium Humbucker, providing powerful and clear tones suitable for a variety of music genres.

Is the StingRay Special suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the StingRay Special's design, including its 3-band EQ and responsive pickup, makes it highly suitable for slap bass techniques and dynamic playing.

What is the body material of the StingRay Special?

The body of the StingRay Special is made from select hardwood, finished with a high gloss polyester for durability and aesthetic appeal.

How many frets does the StingRay Special have?

The StingRay Special features 22 stainless steel frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and smooth playability.

Does the StingRay Special come with a case?

Yes, the StingRay Special comes with a softshell case, providing protection for transport and storage.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

The Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray Special Bass

Video thumbnail for The Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray Special Bass by Ernie Ball

The Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray Special Bass

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Tony Levin Demo & Discussion by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Tony Levin Demo & Discussion

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man 2018 StingRay Special Bass Guitar | Reverb Demo Video by Reverb

Ernie Ball Music Man 2018 StingRay Special Bass Guitar | Reverb Demo Video

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Mike Herrera Demo & Discussion by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Mike Herrera Demo & Discussion

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Review Demo - Music Man StingRay Special Bass by Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Music Man StingRay Special Bass

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Josh Woodard Demo & Discussion by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Josh Woodard Demo & Discussion

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for 2018 Ernie Ball Music Man Sting Ray Special! by Riffs, Beards & Gear

2018 Ernie Ball Music Man Sting Ray Special!

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Sterling Ball Demo + Closer Look by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man: Stingray Special Bass - Sterling Ball Demo + Closer Look

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Reviews

PROS

  • 18V pre-amp offers increased headroom and tonal flexibility

  • Significantly lighter than previous models, ideal for long gigs

  • Roasted maple neck provides a smooth feel and enhanced playability

  • Swamp ash body delivers great sound and reduced weight

  • 3-band EQ allows for versatile tone shaping

  • Exceptional sustain; notes ring out clearly and last longer

  • Impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail in design

  • Gunstock oil neck finish ensures smooth and fast playing

  • High-quality aluminum components enhance durability and aesthetics

  • Burnt Apple Red finish is visually stunning

CONS

  • High price point might not be accessible for all buyers

Critic Reviews

Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special Bass Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special delivers a well-engineered, lighter bass that revives an iconic design with modern flair. Its sleek aesthetics and improved playability shine, while the updated electronics provide punch and clarity, making it a versatile choice for various playing styles. However, the EQ could benefit from a broader top-end range, limiting tonal exploration for some players. Overall, this bass strikes a commendable balance between tradition and innovation, appealing to both new players and StingRay purists alike.

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5.0 out of 5

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Ben Flanagan uses StingRay Special

Ben Flanagan

Bassist

Black Map

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Black Map - SUPER DELUXE" on YouTube, Ben Flanagan can be seen playing an Ernie Ball StingRay Special.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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