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Average Price: $1,995
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$400
$1001+
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Description
A true icon in the world of bass guitars, the Music Man Stingray Classic 5 is a blend of vintage charm and modern innovation. This electric bass is revered for its ability to deliver a full-bodied sound that resonates with both budding musicians and seasoned professionals. Its classic humbucker pickup, meticulously crafted with alnico pole pieces, ensures a rich, powerful tone that cuts through any mix with ease. The bass features a sleek, comfortable design that makes it a joy to play, whether you're thumping out grooves in the studio or laying down the foundation in a live performance.
The Stingray Classic 5 is equipped with a 2-band active preamp operating on a nine-volt battery, providing players with precise control over their sound. This setup allows for dynamic tone shaping, offering everything from smooth lows to pronounced mids and bright highs, all adjustable with just two knobs. The timeless design, paired with a robust construction, makes this bass not only a sonic powerhouse but also a reliable companion for any musical journey.
Key Features:
- Five-string design for extended range
- Classic humbucker pickup with alnico pole pieces
- 2-band active preamp with nine-volt operation
- Streamlined tone control with two knobs
- Robust construction and vintage-inspired design
Product specs
| Brand | Ernie Ball Music Man |
| Model | Classic StingRay 5 |
| Finish | Black, Candy Apple Red, Chili Red, Classic Natural, Coral Red, Diego Blue, El Dorado Gold, Lake Tahoe Blue, Mint Green, Natural Gloss, Powder Blue, Raspberry Sorbet, Sledge, Vintage Sunburst, White |
| Year | 2009 - 2020 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Active Pickups |
| Active Preamp | Active Preamp |
| Body Material | Ash |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Color Family | Black, Blue, Brown, Gold, Green, Grey, Natural, Red, White |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Maple, Rosewood |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 21 |
| Number of Strings | 5-String |
| Nut Width | 1.625", 1.75" |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | H |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 34" |
| Wood Top Style | Opaque, Plain |
FAQs
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What kind of tones can I expect from the Music Man StingRay Classic 5's pickups?
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The Music Man StingRay Classic 5 features active pickups and an active preamp, delivering a powerful, punchy tone with clear mids and highs, ideal for funk, rock, and slap bass styles.
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Is the Music Man StingRay Classic 5 suitable for advanced players?
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Yes, the StingRay Classic 5 is well-suited for advanced players due to its high-quality craftsmanship, versatile tone options, and robust build, making it a favorite among professional bassists.
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What is the neck profile like on the Music Man StingRay Classic 5?
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The StingRay Classic 5 features a comfortable maple neck with a smooth finish, providing a fast and easy playing experience that suits a wide range of playing styles.
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How does the ash body of the Music Man StingRay Classic 5 affect its sound?
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The ash body contributes to the StingRay Classic 5's bright and resonant sound, enhancing its punch and sustain, which is particularly beneficial for cutting through in band settings.
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What are the finish options available for the Music Man StingRay Classic 5?
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The StingRay Classic 5 is available in a variety of finishes, including Black, Candy Apple Red, Classic Natural, and Vintage Sunburst, allowing players to choose a style that suits their personal aesthetic.
Videos
Ernie Ball
Ernie Ball Music Man Classic StingRay 5 Bass: Joe Dart Demos
Reviews
PROS
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Unique soundscape distinct from P-Bass and Jazz basses
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Warm 2-band EQ enhances tonal richness
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String-through design ensures strong string contact on bridge
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Exceptional recording bass with its own sonic identity
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Excellent action and feel promotes diverse tonal exploration
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Stunning vintage aesthetic with options like a 3-tone burst finish
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Exotic flamed neck with easier adjustment adds stability
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Low B string provides powerful room-shaking bass
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Solid construction ensures durability and presence in the mix
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Closest experience to a 1976 Stingray with a natural feel
CONS
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Heavy weight may not suit all players
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Bridge saddle screws may require adjustment for flatness
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Music man stingray classic 5.
Features and functionality
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The Classic 5 features a 2-band EQ, unlike the more modern Stingray models that have a 3-band EQ.
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The Classic 5 lacks a pickup selector, distinguishing it from other Stingray models that include this feature.
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The Stingray 5’s 17.5mm string spacing is noted for making slapping more challenging compared to Lakland 5-string basses with 19mm spacing.
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Comparisons
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The body of the Classic 5 differs from modern Stingray 5 models, with fewer bevels and a shape that doesn't resemble Silhouette and JP guitars.
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The Ray25 model is often criticized for its muddy sound due to its series wired ceramic pickup, unlike the Ray5 which is considered better value with a parallel wiring option.
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User experience
Build quality
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
63
Amazing
made from a slab body with a traditional string through body Bridge, The Music Man Stingray classic 5 is an absolute monster. I can't say enough about this instrument. It has all of the Vintage Music Man tones from the 1970 Plus in this case, a low B string that absolutely shakes the room.
Artist usage
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