Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (3)
$299.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (6)
$299.99
Amazon
4.7 (13)
$299.99
Reverb
$283.92 New
$229.00 Used
zZounds
3.0 (1)
$299.99
Thomann
$321.00 $319.00 $2.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£329.00

Average Price: $291

Budget/Beginner

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 is a bass guitar that marries quality craftsmanship with affordability, making it the ideal choice for beginners and seasoned players alike. This electric bass pays homage to the classic StingRay design, featuring a poplar body that ensures a lightweight yet durable playing experience. The passive ceramic humbucker lies at the heart of its sound, delivering a robust, versatile tone suitable for genres ranging from rock to jazz.

Its hard maple neck and fingerboard provide a smooth, comfortable feel, perfect for those swift, intricate bass lines. The narrow 1.5" nut width and contoured body design further enhance playability, allowing the bass to sit snugly against your body. Topped off with open-gear tuning machines, the StingRay Ray2 ensures precise tuning and reliability, whether you're practicing at home or performing live.

Sterling by Music Man has packed the StingRay Ray2 with features that provide both a classic sound and a contemporary feel. From its contoured body for enhanced comfort to its master volume and tone knobs for sound customization, this bass guitar is a testament to Sterling's commitment to producing accessible, high-quality instruments. Whether you're just starting your musical journey or adding to your collection, the StingRay Ray2 offers a premium feel at an affordable price.

Key Features:

  • Poplar body with classic StingRay shape
  • Bolt-on hard maple neck and fingerboard
  • Passive ceramic humbucking pickup
  • 1.5" nut width for comfortable playability
  • Master volume and tone controls for sound customization
  • Open-gear tuning machines for precise tuning

Product specs

Number of Strings 4
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape StingRay RAY2
Body Material Poplar
Body Finish Gloss
Neck Material Hard Maple
Neck Joint 6-way Bolt-on
Radius 9.5"
Fingerboard Material Hard Maple
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 21, Medium
Scale Length 34"
Bridge/Tailpiece Fixed Bridge
Tuners Open Gear
Bridge Pickup Sterling by Music Man Designed Humbucker
Controls 1 x volume, 1 x tone
Strings .045-.105
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What type of music is the Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 best suited for?

The Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 is versatile, excelling in slap, finger-style, and pick playing, making it ideal for genres like rock, funk, and pop.

Is the Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 is suitable for beginners, offering classic bass tones and comfortable playability that make it accessible for new players.

What is the neck profile of the Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2?

The Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 features a hard maple neck with a satin finish and a 1.5" nut width, providing a smooth and comfortable playing experience.

What kind of pickup does the Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 have?

The Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 is equipped with a passive humbucking bridge pickup, designed by Sterling by Music Man, for delivering classic bass tones.

How many frets does the Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 have?

The Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 has 21 medium frets, offering a smooth playing experience across its 34" scale length.

What materials are used in the construction of the Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2?

The Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 features a poplar body with a gloss finish, a hard maple neck, and a hard maple fingerboard with dot inlays.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2.

Features and functionality

  • The RAY2 series is passive, differentiating it from the RAY4, which appeals to those who prefer simpler controls and fewer points of failure.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the new color options like sunrise orange and electric blue, which are considered more appealing than some RAY4 finishes.

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Comparisons

  • The RAY2 is compared to the budget Pete Wentz signature model, implying similar design with a passive configuration and reduced cost.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Removing the preamp allowed a price drop of around $100 compared to similar models, making it a notable budget option.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • A passive StingRay like the RAY2 is considered an excellent choice for beginners due to its straightforward features.

    Source

Build quality

  • The neck is noted to be thicker than some players prefer, impacting playability for those accustomed to slimmer necks.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Nordstrand MM4.2, Aguilar 4M, and Guitar Fetish GFS MM Pro pickups are recommended for achieving vintage Stingray tones, with the GFS MM Pro being cost-effective at $40.

    Source
  • Upgrading the nut to a bone nut is suggested to correct factory intonation issues, significantly enhancing playability.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Leaving the plastic on the pickguard can preserve its appearance, as removing it after years can reveal a mint condition underneath.

    Source

User experience

  • The bass is considered a great mod platform, with potential for significant improvement while maintaining a passive configuration.

    Source
  • Owners have successfully defretted similar models, suggesting this as a viable modification for those interested in a fretless option.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Sterling By Music Man Intro Series StingRay Ray2 review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The Sterling Intro Series StingRay Ray2 delivers excellent value for budget-conscious bassists. Priced under $250, it boasts impressive build quality and playability, thanks to its solid construction and comfortable neck. The single humbucker provides a clear, punchy tone, although the passive circuitry leaves room for future upgrades. While missing active electronics, the bass remains a standout choice for beginners or those seeking an affordable, reliable instrument with the iconic StingRay look. Overall, it's a strong contender in its price range, perfect for new players and even seasoned guitarists exploring bass.

positive

Review - Sterling Ray2 Intro StingRay Bass | Jazzwise

jazzwise.com

The Sterling Ray2 Intro StingRay Bass is a decent gateway for those drawn to the iconic StingRay sound without breaking the bank. With a price tag of £349, it delivers the aesthetic and tonal qualities of its pricier counterparts. However, its clunky neck and less refined craftsmanship compared to similar models may disappoint seasoned players. The poplar body and maple neck provide a balanced tone perfect for slap bass enthusiasts, while the ceramic passive humbucker adds heft. Yet, with only a single tone control, much of the sound shaping relies on the player's technique. A solid choice for intermediate players, but its cheaper materials and mass production finish might leave some wanting more.

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Genre Usage

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