Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $763
Standard/Professional
$400
$1501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Sterling Music Man JP70". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
For those seeking a guitar that effortlessly bridges the gap between technical prowess and tonal versatility, the Sterling Music Man JP70 is a standout choice. Crafted as a signature model for Dream Theater's virtuoso John Petrucci, this 7-string electric guitar is engineered for players who demand both precision and power. The JP70 boasts a nyatoh body that resonates with a rich, full-bodied tone, while the hard maple neck and rosewood fingerboard ensure each note rings with clarity and warmth.
This guitar's dynamic range is driven by custom-designed humbucking pickups, which deliver everything from searing leads to thunderous rhythms. A 3-way selector switch and dedicated volume and tone controls offer you the flexibility to sculpt your sound with precision. The 16-inch fingerboard radius provides a comfortable playing experience, engaging your fingers to explore the full potential of its 24 medium jumbo frets. And with a modern tremolo system on board, the JP70 invites endless expressive possibilities.
Designed with the gigging musician in mind, the JP70 features a 5-bolt neck pattern for ultimate stability and locking tuners that keep your guitar perfectly in tune, even during the most intense performances. The 25.5-inch scale length and 1.95-inch nut width ensure a spacious and buzz-free playing environment, making this instrument a must-have for any serious guitarist.
Key Features:
- Signature model by John Petrucci for Sterling by Music Man
- Nyatoh body with hard maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
- Custom humbucking pickups with 3-way selector
- 24 medium jumbo frets with 16-inch fingerboard radius
- Locking tuners and modern tremolo system
- 25.5-inch scale with a 1.95-inch nut width
Product specs
| Brand | Sterling |
| Model | JP70 John Petrucci Signature 7-String |
| Finish | Mystic Dream, Pearl Red Burst, Stealth Black, Trans Green Burst, Trans Purple Burst |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Solid Body Electric Guitars |
| Body Material | Basswood |
| Body Shape | S-Style |
| Body Type | Solid Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Tremolo Bridge |
| Color Family | Black, Green, Purple, Red |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Fretboard Radius | 16" |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Number of Frets | 24 |
| Number of Strings | 7-String |
| Offset Body | Non-Offset Body |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
FAQs
-
What kind of music is the Sterling Music Man JP70 best suited for?
-
The Sterling Music Man JP70 is ideal for progressive rock and metal, offering a 7-string setup that provides extended range and versatility for complex riffs and solos.
-
Does the Sterling Music Man JP70 have a comfortable neck for fast playing?
-
Yes, the JP70 features a slim maple neck with a 16" radius rosewood fretboard, designed for fast and smooth playability, making it excellent for shredding and intricate finger work.
-
What type of pickups does the Sterling Music Man JP70 use?
-
The JP70 is equipped with dual humbucking pickups, providing a powerful and clear tone suitable for heavy distortion and clean settings alike.
-
Is the Sterling Music Man JP70 suitable for beginners?
-
While primarily aimed at intermediate to advanced players due to its 7-string configuration and specialized features, dedicated beginners with a focus on metal and progressive styles might also find it rewarding.
-
How does the Sterling Music Man JP70 handle tuning stability?
-
The JP70 features a tremolo bridge and locking tuners, which help maintain tuning stability even during aggressive playing and bending.
Videos
Ernie Ball
John Petrucci demos his Sterling by Music Man JP70
Reviews
PROS
-
Excellent neck comfort for transitioning from 6-string guitars
-
Locking tuners for stable tuning retention
-
Versatile tone, suitable for prog rock, jazz, and more
-
Easily modifiable for added versatility
-
Matte-finished neck enhances playability
-
User-friendly setup with pinwheel truss rod adjustment
-
Trem bridge holds tuning well, impressive for price range
-
Forearm scoop and slim neck improve comfort
-
Transparent Green Burst finish is visually appealing
-
Great value for the price, punches above its weight
CONS
-
Pickup selector switch obstructs strumming
-
Stock strings may feel unbalanced in tension
-
Limited to accepting a 60 gauge for lowest string
-
Trem bar attachment system requires an allen wrench
-
25.5" scale length may cause floppiness in drop tunings
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling Music Man JP70.
Build quality
-
The JP70's paint to fretboard boundary is criticized for being unprofessional, with visible nut glue residue on the first fret.
Source
Setup and maintenance
-
The guitar has a recurring issue with saddles breaking the high e string, even with minimal use over one year.
Source -
Owners mention the JP70's scale length feels comfortable, but achieving sweet, smooth pinch harmonics may require precise pickup adjustments.
Source -
Many Sterling JP models, including the JP70, have the high e string positioned too close to the fretboard edge, often requiring neck screw adjustments, which might not fully resolve the issue.
Source
Comparisons
Value and pricing
Other
-
The production of Sterling models is handled by Praxis under a license, not directly by Ernie Ball Music Man, affecting perceived quality control.
Source
Features and functionality
Mods and upgrades
-
Many owners replace the stock pickups with Juggernauts or Seymour Duncan Alpha Omegas for improved tone and ease of achieving pinch harmonics.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 8 Ratings
132
Best Playing/Sounding 7 String In This Price Range.
As I stated above, the sound is great, the feel is great, absolutely smooth and precise in sound and playability. Definitely a good deal to get one if you can.
Artist usage
Add artistAlbum Usage
The Sterling Music Man JP70 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Sterling by Music Man Extended Range Guitars
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Extended Range Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
giurgeca_alexandruGear IQ 99
-