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Average Price: $790

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Designed for the modern guitarist seeking a blend of classic style and cutting-edge performance, the Sterling By Music Man AX40D is a formidable addition to any player's collection. This solid body electric guitar boasts a double-locking tremolo system, ensuring stable tuning and precise intonation, even after aggressive whammy bar usage. The AX40D inherits the distinct silhouette that Music Man guitars are known for, offering a comfortable playing experience with its sleek, contoured body design.

Equipped with DiMarzio Axis humbuckers, the AX40D delivers a powerful and crisp sound that cuts through the mix, providing a versatile tonal palette suitable for a wide range of musical genres. The bolt-on maple neck and fingerboard offer smooth playability and enhance the guitar's bright tonal characteristics. With its 5-way pickup selector, you can easily access a diverse range of tones, from warm, mellow rhythms to sharp, biting leads.

Whether you're shredding on stage or jamming in the studio, the AX40D's robust construction and premium components make it a reliable companion. Its eye-catching finish and meticulous craftsmanship reflect the heritage of Music Man's commitment to quality and innovation.

Key Features:

  • Solid body electric guitar with a contoured design
  • DiMarzio Axis humbucking pickups for versatile sound
  • Double-locking tremolo system for tuning stability
  • Bolt-on maple neck and fingerboard for enhanced playability
  • 5-way pickup selector for a wide range of tonal options
  • Music Man inspired body shape and aesthetic

Product specs

Brand Sterling
Model AX40D Axis
Finish Ruby Red Burst, Transparent Black, Transparent Blue, Transparent Gold, Transparent Green, Transparent Purple
Year 2013 - 2017
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, Blue, Gold, Green, Purple, Red
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
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 type of pickups does the Sterling By Music Man AX40D have?

The Sterling By Music Man AX40D is equipped with dual humbucking pickups, providing a powerful and versatile sound suitable for various music genres.

How does the locking tremolo bridge on the AX40D affect playability?

The locking tremolo bridge allows for stable tuning during heavy tremolo use, making it ideal for players who enjoy dive bombs and pitch modulation without sacrificing tuning stability.

Is the Sterling By Music Man AX40D suitable for beginners?

While the AX40D is designed with features that appeal to advanced players, its comfortable neck profile and versatile sound make it accessible for dedicated beginners looking to invest in a quality instrument.

What is the neck profile of the Sterling By Music Man AX40D?

The AX40D features a comfortable and fast-playing neck profile, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead playing styles.

How does the basswood body of the AX40D influence its tone?

The basswood body of the AX40D contributes to a balanced tone with a strong midrange presence, making it versatile for various musical styles.

Andrew Roz

Andrew Roz

Sterling AX40D Demo - Andres Nuñez

Video thumbnail for Sterling AX40D Demo - Andres Nuñez by Andrew Roz

Sterling AX40D Demo - Andres Nuñez

Andrew Roz

Andrew Roz

Video thumbnail for NAMM '13 - Sterling by Music Man John Petrucci JP70, AX40D, and John Petrucci JP100D Demos by Premier Guitar

NAMM '13 - Sterling by Music Man John Petrucci JP70, AX40D, and John Petrucci JP100D Demos

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Sterling By Musicman AX40D Demo - Sean Ashe by Sean Ashe

Sterling By Musicman AX40D Demo - Sean Ashe

Sean Ashe

Sean Ashe

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling by Music Man AX40D.

Comparisons

  • The AX40D is compared to the EVH Wolfgang Special, with the AX40D having a slightly thicker neck and less hot pickups.

    Source
  • The AX40D, like the AX30D, features Dimarzio EVH pickups, unique to Music Man guitars, offering a distinct tonal character.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The AX40D features genuine Dimarzio Axis pickups, providing a high-quality sound similar to USA MusicMan guitars.

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User experience

  • The asymmetrical neck profile of the AX40D is polarizing; some find it extremely comfortable, while others may not.

    Source
  • Some players prefer used models for their cost-effectiveness and potential for pickup customization without compromising quality.

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Value and pricing

  • The "D" series guitars, including the AX40D, incorporate higher quality electronics and Dimarzio pickups, justifying their higher price compared to standard models.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The AX40D is ideal for players seeking the legendary Axis sound without the high price of USA models.

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  • Ideal for rock and metal genres, the AX40D's pickups deliver a warmer tone, suitable for players seeking rich sound depth.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The AX40D can be enhanced by swapping in Fralin pickups, a recommended upgrade for those desiring superior tone.

    Source

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