Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $2,599

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* 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 Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie Butterscorch is a tribute to the legendary craftsmanship and timeless sound that has defined the world of bass guitars. Inspired by the original prototype crafted by Leo Fender, this bass effortlessly combines vintage aesthetics with modern playability. The 10-pole pickup is a standout feature, delivering a rich and full-bodied tone that is both smooth and powerful, making it ideal for a wide range of musical styles.

With its original active circuitry, this bass provides versatile tone shaping capabilities, allowing you to dial in everything from deep, punchy lows to crisp, articulate highs with its two-band EQ. The vintage-style bridge and saddle not only add to its classic look but also enhance the sustain and tuning stability, giving performers the reliability they need on stage.

Whether you're jamming with friends or performing for a crowd, the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie is designed to inspire creativity and elevate your musical expression. It’s more than just an instrument; it’s a piece of history that speaks to the heart of musicians who appreciate quality and heritage.

Key Features:

  • Inspired by Leo Fender's original prototype
  • 10-pole pickup for rich, smooth tone
  • Original active circuitry with two-band EQ
  • Vintage-style bridge and saddle for enhanced sustain and tuning stability
  • Versatile tone shaping capabilities

Product specs

Brand Ernie Ball Music Man
Model 40th Anniversary StingRay
Finish Blue Burst, Butterscotch, Chocolate Burst, Mint Green, Translucent Buttercream
Year 2016 - 2018
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Alder, Ash
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Blue, Brown, Green, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Nut Width 1.6875"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What makes the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie Butterscotch different from other StingRay models?

The Old Smoothie model features a unique pickup configuration and preamp designed to replicate the original 1976 StingRay bass, offering a smoother, warmer tone. Its distinct pickup placement and 2-band EQ provide a vintage-inspired sound that stands out from other StingRay models.

Is the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie Butterscotch suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the StingRay Old Smoothie is well-suited for slap bass due to its active electronics and responsive maple fretboard, which provide a bright, punchy attack ideal for this playing style.

How does the alder or ash body material affect the sound of the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie?

The alder or ash body of the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie contributes to a balanced tone with a strong midrange presence and clear highs, enhancing the bass's overall resonance and sustain.

What kind of music genres is the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie best suited for?

The Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie is versatile and excels in genres like rock, funk, and jazz, thanks to its active electronics and dynamic tonal range, allowing for both punchy and smooth bass lines.

Does the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie Butterscotch come with a case?

Yes, the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie typically comes with a hardshell case, providing protection and convenience for transport and storage.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Bass | 40th Anniversary

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Bass | 40th Anniversary by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Bass | 40th Anniversary

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Happy 40th Music Man You "Old Smoothie"... by Andertons Music Co

Happy 40th Music Man You "Old Smoothie"...

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man Old Smoothie Bass Guitar - Cosmo Music at NAMM 2017 by Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Ernie Ball Music Man Old Smoothie Bass Guitar - Cosmo Music at NAMM 2017

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Reviews

PROS

  • Authentic '70s design with modern improvements for better playability

  • Larger 10-pole pickup offers unique, smooth tone

  • Effortless neck and smooth fretboard for fast play

  • Two-band EQ for classic and versatile sound control

  • Classic look with chocolate burst finish and original bridge design

  • String-through-body design enhances unique tone

  • Built with a six-screw neck plate for improved stability

  • Retains StingRay's signature aggressive tone, but only when desired

  • Proudly made in the USA, ensuring quality craftsmanship

  • Ideal for those seeking vintage sound without vintage maintenance

CONS

  • Highs are not as prominent as other Classic EB StingRay models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie.

Build quality

  • Owners note that the “no finish” neck on Music Man basses offers a raw, tactile playing experience, which many find preferable to more polished finishes.

    Source
  • The roasted maple necks are praised for stability, with no movement after several months in arid climates, enhancing playability and durability.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report that, particularly in Sterling models, truss rods can be problematic and should be checked for functionality during the warranty period.

    Source
  • Users in humid areas note that action might rise due to moisture absorption, suggesting regular checks and adjustments for optimal performance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Music Man StingRay’s tone is described as inherently trebly and bitey, contrasting with the more woody tones of a traditional P bass.

    Source
  • Owners compare the tonal output of Ray4 basses to pricier US-made StingRays, noting minimal difference in sound quality despite significant price disparity.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The StingRay’s single pickup is praised for its ability to deliver a powerful sound, cutting through mixes effectively, especially when utilizing the built-in EQ for tonal adjustments.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite its singular pickup, the StingRay is noted to be versatile, able to adapt to various genres by using different playing techniques and EQ settings.

    Source
  • The all-black Ray34 with black hardware is described as having incredible sustain, maintaining quality even with older strings, suitable for diverse playing styles.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The StingRay's bright and vibrant tone is ideal for genres requiring a punchy and clear bass presence, but some find it aggressive for softer styles like worship music.

    Source
  • StingRay basses are favored for slap and fingerstyle playing, providing a bright tone conducive to funk and rock genres.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some players recommend lowering pickups for a more balanced tone, particularly when using flatwound strings, to enhance power pop and alternative music styles.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Sterling by Music Man models are highlighted as excellent value, offering nearly identical sound to higher-priced Ernie Ball models at a fraction of the cost.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray Old Smoothie review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

A masterful tribute to the original StingRay, the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie excels with its vintage charm and nuanced tones. It features a robust build quality and a thoughtful blend of classic and modern elements. The alternate pickup design offers a smoother, less aggressive sound, appealing to bassists seeking versatility. However, the absence of a mid-EQ setting may limit some players. Overall, it's a worthy addition for anyone looking to capture the spirit of the StingRay while enjoying contemporary playability. A triumph for both new and seasoned musicians!

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
rfmbass

Awesome Bass

Really enjoy it, all vintage sound of stingray with a lot of bass and mojo

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Traa Daniels uses Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie

Traa Daniels

Bassist

P.O.D.

...
Verified via YouTube

Traa used this musicman from early snuff the punk era to at least the start of the Brown Era of P.o.d

Genre Usage

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

More Music Man Electric Basses

Sterling HH

$470.39 - $1,995.00

 
Johnny Christ Roger Lima
2 artists using
StingRay Special

$2,199.00 - $2,988.00

 
Ben Flanagan
1 artist using

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    rfmbass
    rfmbass

    Gear IQ 383