Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $550

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The music man Ax40 is your ticket to electrifying performances and versatile soundscapes. Crafted for musicians who demand precision and high-quality sound, this solid body electric guitar embodies a harmonious blend of style and substance. It boasts a sleek basswood body adorned with a quilt maple veneer, providing not only visual appeal but also a rich, resonant tone. The DiMarzio AXIS pickups, a signature feature of the AX40, deliver power-packed sound perfect for both stage and studio. Whether you're diving into heavy riffs or soaring solos, the licensed double-locking tremolo promises stable tuning and expressive pitch control, allowing you to unleash your creativity without constraints.

Designed with a fast maple neck, the Ax40 ensures smooth playability, accommodating rapid transitions and intricate fingerwork. This guitar mirrors the coveted feel of premium models, offering musicians a premium experience at a more accessible price point. With its robust build and thoughtful design, it’s no wonder that the Ax40 stands as a reliable workhorse, ready to handle any musical challenge thrown its way. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring artist, the Ax40 is a worthy addition to your arsenal, promising to elevate your sound with every strum.

Key Features:

  • Basswood body with quilt maple veneer
  • DiMarzio AXIS pickups for dynamic, hard-rocking tones
  • Fast maple neck for smooth playability
  • Licensed double-locking tremolo for stable tuning and expressive control
  • Single volume control and 3-way switch for versatile sound shaping

Product specs

Brand Sterling
Model AX40 Axis
Finish Transparent Black, Transparent Gold, Transparent Red
Year 2010 - 2013
Made In Indonesia
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Basswood
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Gold, Red
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Fretboard Radius 12"
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Figured Veneer

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Sterling AX40 Axis best suited for?

The Sterling AX40 Axis, with its HH pickup configuration and locking tremolo bridge, is well-suited for rock and metal genres. Its basswood body and maple neck provide a balanced tone that's versatile for various styles.

How does the locking tremolo bridge on the AX40 Axis affect playability?

The locking tremolo bridge enhances tuning stability during heavy tremolo use, making it ideal for dive bombs and other expressive techniques common in rock and metal playing.

What is the neck profile like on the Sterling AX40 Axis?

The AX40 Axis features a bolt-on maple neck with a 12" fretboard radius, offering a comfortable and smooth playing experience, particularly suited for fast playing and easy bending.

Is the Sterling AX40 Axis suitable for beginners?

While the AX40 Axis offers high-quality features like a locking tremolo and HH pickups, its playability and versatility make it suitable for both beginners and more advanced players looking for a reliable rock guitar.

What are the finish options available for the Sterling AX40 Axis?

The Sterling AX40 Axis is available in Transparent Black, Transparent Gold, and Transparent Red finishes, each featuring a gloss finish with a matching headstock for a sleek, stylish look.

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about music man Ax40.

Build quality

  • The neck's smooth gloss texture and comfortable radius make it stand out, especially when compared to the Peavey Wolfgang Special's 15" radius.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Adjusting trem posts for full slack on a dive can raise action above the 12th fret, potentially requiring shims for optimal setup.

    Source
  • Some users report receiving guitars with dirty strings and poor initial setup, suggesting a setup might be necessary upon purchase.

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Features and functionality

  • The stock trem is solid in construction but feels sluggish, even after post adjustments, affecting its responsiveness during use.

    Source
  • The silent circuit system on the single coils is praised for reducing hum, noteworthy in regions with non-60 cycle hum.

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Comparisons

  • The guitar feels more akin to a Telecaster in playstyle, prompting more finger-picking than shredding, unlike the more shred-friendly Kramer Focus 1000.

    Source
  • Owners compare the Music Man AX40's build quality to high-end brands like Gibson and PRS, noting it as surprisingly well-built despite being more affordable.

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  • The AX40's neck is described as thinner and narrower than Fender Stratocasters, making it preferable for those seeking a slimmer neck profile.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite its small size being iconic on EVH, it can appear awkward on taller players, affecting comfort and aesthetics.

    Source
  • Many owners highlight the AX40's neck as exceptionally comfortable, likening it to Peavey Wolfgang's neck in terms of shape and playability.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Sterling by Music Man AX40 Electric Guitar Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

With the Sterling by Music Man AX40, you get the classic Music Man styling and playability without breaking the bank. This well-crafted guitar boasts a rock 'n' roll design with a quilted maple veneer top and comfortable maple neck. Its Alnico V pickups deliver a punchy, resonant sound, making it a perfect companion for high-gain amps, echoing its Eddie Van Halen heritage. However, the pickup switch could be sturdier and tone clarity may dip at high gain. Overall, the AX40 offers a commendable balance of style, performance, and affordability, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious players.

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Genre Usage

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