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Average Price: $2,599
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$400
$1001+
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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
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What makes the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie Butterscotch different from other StingRay models?
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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.
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Is the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie Butterscotch suitable for slap bass techniques?
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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.
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How does the alder or ash body material affect the sound of the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie?
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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.
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What kind of music genres is the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie best suited for?
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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.
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Does the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie Butterscotch come with a case?
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Yes, the Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie typically comes with a hardshell case, providing protection and convenience for transport and storage.
Videos
Ernie Ball
Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Bass | 40th Anniversary
Reviews
PROS
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Authentic '70s design with modern improvements for better playability
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Larger 10-pole pickup offers unique, smooth tone
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Effortless neck and smooth fretboard for fast play
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Two-band EQ for classic and versatile sound control
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Classic look with chocolate burst finish and original bridge design
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String-through-body design enhances unique tone
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Built with a six-screw neck plate for improved stability
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Retains StingRay's signature aggressive tone, but only when desired
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Proudly made in the USA, ensuring quality craftsmanship
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Ideal for those seeking vintage sound without vintage maintenance
CONS
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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
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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.
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The roasted maple necks are praised for stability, with no movement after several months in arid climates, enhancing playability and durability.
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Setup and maintenance
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Some users report that, particularly in Sterling models, truss rods can be problematic and should be checked for functionality during the warranty period.
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Users in humid areas note that action might rise due to moisture absorption, suggesting regular checks and adjustments for optimal performance.
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Comparisons
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The Music Man StingRay’s tone is described as inherently trebly and bitey, contrasting with the more woody tones of a traditional P bass.
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Owners compare the tonal output of Ray4 basses to pricier US-made StingRays, noting minimal difference in sound quality despite significant price disparity.
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Features and functionality
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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.
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User experience
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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.
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The all-black Ray34 with black hardware is described as having incredible sustain, maintaining quality even with older strings, suitable for diverse playing styles.
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Use cases and applications
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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.
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StingRay basses are favored for slap and fingerstyle playing, providing a bright tone conducive to funk and rock genres.
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Mods and upgrades
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Some players recommend lowering pickups for a more balanced tone, particularly when using flatwound strings, to enhance power pop and alternative music styles.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
383
Awesome Bass
Really enjoy it, all vintage sound of stingray with a lot of bass and mojo
Artist usage
Add artistGenre Usage
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