Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
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Average Price: $811
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
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Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Sterling by Music Man StingRay RAY34 Electric Bass Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Sterling by Music Man StingRay RAY34 Electric Bass Guitar is the perfect blend of iconic sound and modern craftsmanship, bringing you an instrument that feels as good as it sounds. With a music man-designed alnico humbucker, this bass delivers that legendary StingRay growl, renowned for its powerful and deep tone. The RAY34 is equipped with a robust 3-band active preamp, letting you precisely sculpt your sound with dedicated controls for bass, midrange, and treble. Whether you're laying down a classic Motown groove or driving a modern rock rhythm, this bass offers the versatility to match.
Crafted with a lightweight nyatoh body, the RAY34 provides comfort during extended playing sessions, featuring a contoured design for easy handling. The roasted maple neck not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves stability and sustain, making it resistant to warping and perfect for any gig or studio session. This neck is paired with a smooth satin finish, ensuring quick and effortless transitions across the 21-fret fingerboard.
Ideal for both seasoned bassists and newcomers, the Sterling by Music Man StingRay RAY34 is a road-ready instrument that promises to deliver both in performance and in style. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this bass stands as a testament to quality and innovation, ready to help you craft your signature sound.
Key Features:
- Single Music Man-designed alnico humbucking pickup
- 3-band active preamp for comprehensive tone control
- Roasted maple neck with enhanced stability and sustain
- Contoured nyatoh body for comfort and playability
- 21 frets for extended range
- Open gear tuners for reliable tuning stability
- Top-loading bridge for ease of string changes
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 4 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Shape | StingRay RAY34 |
| Body Material | Nyatoh |
| Body Finish | Gloss |
| Neck Material | Roasted Maple |
| Neck Joint | 6-way Bolt-on |
| Radius | 9.5" |
| Fingerboard Material | Rosewood |
| Fingerboard Inlay | White Dots |
| Number of Frets | 21, Medium |
| Scale Length | 34" |
| Nut Width | 1.69" |
| Nut Material | Polyphenylene Sulfide |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Sterling by Music Man-Designed Bridge |
| Tuners | Open Gear |
| Bridge Pickup | Sterling Alnico Humbucker |
| Controls | 1 x volume, 3-band EQ |
| Strings | Ernie Ball 2834 Super Slinky, .045-.100 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Sold Separately |
FAQs
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Sterling by Music Man StingRay RAY34's pickup?
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The Sterling Alnico Humbucker pickup on the RAY34 delivers a powerful and punchy sound, known for its clarity and depth, making it ideal for rock, funk, and pop genres.
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Is the Sterling StingRay RAY34 suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the RAY34 is well-suited for live performances due to its robust build, reliable tuning stability, and versatile 3-band EQ, allowing for effective tonal adjustments on stage.
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How does the neck of the Sterling StingRay RAY34 feel for playing?
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The roasted maple neck with a 9.5" radius and medium frets offers a smooth and comfortable playing experience, making it suitable for both fast playing styles and intricate bass lines.
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What materials are used in the construction of the Sterling StingRay RAY34?
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The RAY34 features a nyatoh body with a gloss finish, a roasted maple neck, and a rosewood fingerboard, providing a balanced tone and a classic look.
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Does the Sterling StingRay RAY34 come with a case or gig bag?
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No, the Sterling StingRay RAY34 does not include a case or gig bag; these must be purchased separately to protect your instrument.
Videos
LowEndLobster
Sterling by Music Man Stingray Ray34 - Better than a used EBMM USA Stingray?! - LowEndLobster Review
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 RAY34 Electric Bass Guitar.
Comparisons
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EBMM Stingrays are noted for lighter weight and superior hardware compared to Sterling Ray34 models, with tighter build tolerances and higher-quality electronics.
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The Ray34 is described as having punchy mids and a solid low end, sitting uniquely between Precision and Jazz bass tones.
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Compared to Fender-style basses, StingRay RAY34 offers a unique growly tone but may lack the versatility of a Jazz or P bass for varied music styles.
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User experience
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Despite hardware issues, the Ray34's tone and feel receive high praise, leading users to overlook other shortcomings.
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The thick neck profile has been criticized by some, who prefer the slimmer feel of a Jazz bass neck.
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Heavy weight, particularly in the ash version, noted at around 11 lbs, which may not be comfortable for all players.
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Mods and upgrades
Build quality
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Recent batches have been noted for cheap-feeling tuners, prompting users to consider upgrades to brands like Hipshot for better reliability.
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The roasted maple neck and fretboard are highly praised for their feel, but the 43mm nut width can feel too wide for some players.
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Early 2000s US-built Musicman S.U.B. basses are praised for their matte finishes and robust construction, offering a unique blend of affordability and quality.
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Recent models have reported tuner issues, especially with black tuners breaking, though these can be replaced under warranty.
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Setup and maintenance
Value and pricing
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Sterling Ray34s from 2005-2018 are considered more reliable, with opportunities to find them mislisted and sold at lower prices.
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Features and functionality
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
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