Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $2,450

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Unleash your creativity and explore new sonic territories with the Big Al SSS, an electric bass that defies expectations and delivers unparalleled versatility. Crafted with a high-gloss African mahogany body, this bass combines sleek aesthetics with a resonant and rich tonal foundation. The standout feature of the Big Al SSS is its trio of neodymium-magnet single-coil pickups, each equipped with its own on/off switch, allowing for endless tonal combinations.

Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the Big Al SSS offers ultimate control over your sound with its 4-band EQ system. Seamlessly switch between active and passive modes to suit any musical context, from deep, soulful grooves to punchy, vibrant funk. The fast maple neck, finished with a luxurious gunstock oil and wax blend, provides an exceptional playing experience, making it a favorite among serious bassists.

Designed by the innovators at Ernie Ball Music Man, the Big Al SSS reflects a legacy of groundbreaking bass craftsmanship. Join the ranks of legendary players who trust in the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you're pushing the boundaries or staying true to classic tones, this bass is your ticket to a world of musical possibilities.

Key Features:

  • High-gloss African mahogany body for rich, resonant tones
  • Three neodymium-magnet single-coil pickups with individual on/off switches
  • Versatile 4-band EQ system for extensive tone shaping
  • Switchable active/passive modes
  • Maple neck finished with gunstock oil and wax for smooth playability
  • Includes hardshell case for protection and convenience

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model Big Al SSS with Maple Fretboard, Big Al SSS with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Black, Blue Pearl, Cabernet Pearl, Candy Red, Egyptian Smoke, Electric Blue, Graphite Pearl, Ice Blue, Olive Gold, Orange Firemist, Sapphire Black, Silver Sparkle, Sky Blue, Sterling Silver, Tangerine Pearl, True Gold, Vintage Sunburst, White, White Pearl
Year 2009 - 2015
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Alder, Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Green, Grey, Orange, Red, Silver, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 4-String
Nut Width 1.5"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Ernie Ball Music Man Big Al SSS bass use?

The Big Al SSS features triple single-coil Neodymium magnet pickups, providing a range of tonal options suitable for various music genres.

How does the active preamp in the Big Al SSS bass enhance its sound?

The active preamp in the Big Al SSS offers increased tonal flexibility and dynamic control, allowing players to shape their sound with precision.

Is the Big Al SSS bass suitable for both beginners and advanced players?

Yes, the Big Al SSS is designed for a wide range of players, offering high-quality craftsmanship and versatile tone controls that appeal to both beginners and seasoned musicians.

What are the main differences between the maple and rosewood fretboard options on the Big Al SSS bass?

The maple fretboard delivers a brighter, snappier tone, while the rosewood fretboard provides a warmer, mellower sound, allowing players to choose based on their tonal preference.

How does the body material of the Big Al SSS bass affect its sound?

The body of the Big Al SSS is made from African Mahogany, which contributes to a rich, resonant tone with excellent sustain, ideal for a variety of musical styles.

What is the neck profile like on the Big Al SSS bass?

The Big Al SSS features a select maple neck with an 11" radius and a gunstock oil finish, offering a comfortable, smooth playing experience with easy access to higher frets due to its sculpted neck joint.

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Reviews

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
rodolfo

Great bass !

Great bass , with thousands of options, passive and active, Monster sound. I have it!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Brad Walst uses Big Al SSS

Brad Walst

Bassist

Three Days Grace

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture, on Three Days Grace's website Walst is using a Big-Al in the studio.

See how Stefan Ude uses Big Al SSS

Stefan Ude

Bassist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Stefan uses a Music Man Big Al most of the time. Here you see him playing a black one, but he has also a sunburst colored one. (photo taken Illingen, Germany, Aug. 2023)

See how Thomas Ramdhan uses Big Al SSS

Thomas Ramdhan

Bassist

GIGI

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Thomas Ramdhan using Big Al SSS

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Big Al SSS, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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