Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$399.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (75)
$399.99 $339.99 $60.00
Amazon
4.5 (378)
$399.99
Reverb
5.0 (30)
$349.99 New
$200.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (12)
$399.99
zZounds
5.0 (25)
$399.99
Thomann
4.1 (11)
$425.00 $419.00 $6.00 · All time low

Average Price: $364

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4 Electric Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4 Electric Bass is a modern take on a classic favorite, designed for the bassist who values both style and substance. Known for its iconic StingRay silhouette, this bass is crafted to deliver the familiar punch and clarity that players crave. With a robust basswood body and a smooth maple neck, it ensures that every note resonates with precision and clarity, making it suitable for any genre or playing style.

Equipped with a ceramic humbucker pickup, the StingRay Ray 4 offers a warm and articulate tone that captures the nuance of your playing. The 2-band active preamp system allows you to tailor your sound with ease, offering distinct highs and lows that cut through any mix. Whether you're slapping, popping, or laying down a groove, the StingRay supports your technique, ensuring a satisfying performance every time.

The StingRay Ray 4 is not just about sound; its playability is unmatched. The 9.5-inch fingerboard radius offers comfort across the fretboard, while the medium-jumbo frets provide a familiar feel for seasoned players. The fully adjustable bridge and classic open-gear tuners ensure that your setup remains as precise as your playing.

For those who want reliability without compromising style, the StingRay Ray 4 stands as a testament to Sterling by Music Man's commitment to quality and affordability.

Key Features:

  • 4-string electric bass inspired by the iconic StingRay design
  • Basswood body with a smooth maple neck for balanced tone
  • Ceramic humbucker pickup for warm, articulate sound
  • 2-band active preamp system for enhanced tonal control
  • 21 medium-sized frets with a 9.5-inch fingerboard radius
  • Fully adjustable bridge for precise intonation
  • Classic open-gear tuning machines for easy tuning

Product specs

Brand Sterling
Model StingRay Ray4
Year 2018 - 2025
Made In Indonesia
Categories 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Basswood
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Green, Pink, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Satin
Fretboard Material Jatoba, Maple
Fretboard Radius 9.5"
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Nut Width 1.5"
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What kind of pickups does the Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4 have?

The Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4 is equipped with an active humbucker pickup, providing a powerful and versatile sound suitable for various music genres.

Is the Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4 is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile, manageable weight, and straightforward controls, making it easy to play and learn on.

What is the body material of the Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4?

The body of the Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4 is made of basswood, which contributes to its lightweight feel and balanced tonal characteristics.

Does the Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4 have a built-in preamp?

Yes, the StingRay Ray 4 features an active preamp with a 2-band EQ, allowing players to shape their tone with precision.

What is the scale length of the Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4?

The Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray 4 has a 34-inch scale length, which is standard for most full-sized bass guitars, providing a familiar feel and tension for bass players.

Nate Navarro

Nate Navarro

STERLING by MUSIC MAN - This Affordable STINGRAY ROCKS!!! (Quick Demo)

Video thumbnail for STERLING by MUSIC MAN - This Affordable STINGRAY ROCKS!!! (Quick Demo) by Nate Navarro

STERLING by MUSIC MAN - This Affordable STINGRAY ROCKS!!! (Quick Demo)

Nate Navarro

Nate Navarro

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 StingRay Ray 4 Electric Bass.

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners frequently replace the stock ceramic pickup with a Delano Alnico pickup, often rewiring it in parallel for improved sound quality.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users feel the Ray 4's ergonomics and sound are superior to comparable Ibanez, Yamaha, and Squier models in the same price range.

    Source
  • Some owners suggest the SBMM SB14 as a superior option, highlighting its Stingray mode, single coil mode for brightness, and parallel mode for a mid-growly tone.

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  • The Ray 4 is compared to the discontinued SUB series, with some users noting the tonal similarities despite the name change.

    Source

User experience

  • Some players, even those with multiple basses, find the Ray 4 instantly feels right in terms of ergonomics and sound at its price point.

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  • Some users appreciate the punchy sound and lightweight feel, noting these features contribute to its perceived value.

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Features and functionality

  • The stock electronics are often considered the weakest part of the Ray 4, making them a common target for upgrades.

    Source
  • The Ray 4 is noted for its ability to produce clear bass frequencies, even at lower ranges on the 5-string model.

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Use cases and applications

  • Beginners are advised to experiment with different string types and brands to explore tonal possibilities without modifying the bass.

    Source
  • The 5-string variant is recommended for players interested in electronica, offering a wider range with the BEADG tuning.

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Build quality

  • The satin finish on the black Ray 4 can appear cheap, resembling watercolor-stained wood, and may scuff easily.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners consistently find the Ray 4 provides unexpectedly high quality for its $300 price, making it a standout option in its price range.

    Source

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