Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (2)
$649.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (3)
$549.99
Amazon
5.0 (1)
$649.99
Reverb
4.0 (3)
$549.99 New
$399.00 Used
Thomann
$683.00 $677.00 $6.00 · All time low

Average Price: $582

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Sterling SR50 StingRay with Roasted Maple Neck". 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

Experience the seamless blend of vintage charm and modern prowess with the Sterling SR50 StingRay featuring a roasted maple neck. This guitar pays homage to the classic '70s Music Man design while introducing contemporary enhancements that cater to today's discerning musicians. Made from lightweight poplar, the SR50's body offers a balanced tonal foundation, complemented by the smooth playability of its roasted maple neck. Whether you're delivering intricate solos or steady rhythm sections, its 22 medium jumbo frets and 25.5" scale length ensure comfort and precision.

The SR50 is equipped with a pair of Sterling-designed humbuckers, offering a rich, mid-forward sound that stands out in any mix. With a versatile 3-way pickup selector, you can easily switch from bright and crisp tones to deep, resonant lows, tailoring your sound to any musical context. The vintage-style tremolo bridge adds a layer of expressiveness, allowing for subtle pitch modulation without compromising tuning stability, thanks to the locking tuners.

Designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, the StingRay SR50 features a unique 4 + 2 headstock and a satin-finished neck for a sleek, high-end look. The guitar’s robust construction and meticulous attention to detail make it a formidable choice for players seeking a reliable and stylish instrument that doesn't break the bank.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight poplar body with vintage-inspired solidbody design
  • Roasted maple neck with a 25.5" scale length and 22 medium jumbo frets
  • Sterling by Music Man-designed humbucking pickups with a 3-way selector
  • Vintage-style tremolo bridge for expressive playing
  • Locking tuners for enhanced tuning stability and quick string changes
  • Sleek satin neck finish for smooth playability

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape StingRay
Body Material Poplar
Body Finish Gloss
Neck Material Roasted Maple
Neck Shape StingRay
Neck Joint 5-way Bolt-on
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Material Roasted Maple
Fingerboard Inlay Black Dots
Number of Frets 22, Medium
Scale Length 25.5"
Nut Width 1.650"
Nut Material Polyphenylene Sulfide
Bridge/Tailpiece Vintage Tremolo
Tuners Locking
Neck Pickup Sterling by Music Man Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Sterling by Music Man Humbucker
Controls 1 x master volume, 1 x master tone
Switching 3-way toggle pickup switch
Strings Ernie Ball Slinky, .010-.046
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Sterling SR50 StingRay?

The Sterling SR50 StingRay features a roasted maple neck with a StingRay shape, offering a comfortable 12" radius that is well-suited for both rhythm and lead playing.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Sterling SR50 StingRay pickups?

The Sterling SR50 StingRay is equipped with dual Sterling by Music Man humbuckers, providing a powerful and versatile tone that excels in rock, blues, and heavier music genres.

Is the Sterling SR50 StingRay suitable for beginners?

The Sterling SR50 StingRay is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable neck profile, locking tuners for stable tuning, and versatile pickup configuration, making it a great choice for learning various styles.

Does the Sterling SR50 StingRay have a tremolo system?

Yes, the Sterling SR50 StingRay is equipped with a vintage tremolo bridge, allowing for expressive pitch modulation and vibrato effects.

What is the body material of the Sterling SR50 StingRay?

The body of the Sterling SR50 StingRay is made from poplar, which contributes to a balanced tone with a good midrange presence.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Sterling by Music Man: StingRay SR50 Demo (ft. Donnie Laudicina) - SR50

Video thumbnail for Sterling by Music Man: StingRay SR50 Demo (ft. Donnie Laudicina) - SR50 by Ernie Ball

Sterling by Music Man: StingRay SR50 Demo (ft. Donnie Laudicina) - SR50

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Sterling by Music Man: StingRay SR50 Demo (ft. Jacob Evergreen) - SR50 by Ernie Ball

Sterling by Music Man: StingRay SR50 Demo (ft. Jacob Evergreen) - SR50

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Sterling by Music Man: StingRay SR50 Demo (ft. Jacob Evergreen) - SR50 by Ernie Ball

Sterling by Music Man: StingRay SR50 Demo (ft. Jacob Evergreen) - SR50

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for GETTING STUNG: UNBOXING A STERLING SR50 STINGRAY by Guitar Nuts Anonymous

GETTING STUNG: UNBOXING A STERLING SR50 STINGRAY

Guitar Nuts Anonymous

Guitar Nuts Anonymous

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile humbuckers handle jazz cleans to overdrive effectively

  • Retains a nostalgic 70s vibe with a modern sound

  • Fast, fuller neck offers a Strat-like feel

  • The Buttermilk finish and tortoise pickguard are visually striking

  • Excellent sustain even when unplugged

  • Offers great value as a budget version of higher-end models

  • Asymmetrical roasted maple neck is highly praised

  • Locking tuners and fantastic tremolo enhance playability

  • Suitable for players looking to step up from other budget guitars

CONS

  • Some units have intonation issues and faulty tone knobs

  • Weighs around 10 lbs, which may be heavy for some players

  • Action issues requiring bridge adjustment and potential neck shimming

  • The truss rod may need disassembly due to freezing

  • Pickups may not satisfy all players, described as "meh" by some

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling SR50 StingRay with Roasted Maple Neck.

Build quality

  • The Sterling Ray34 models have a known issue with janky tuners, particularly on the purple sparkle finishes.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Sterling short scale StingRay is passive, yet retains the signature StingRay growl, appealing to those who prefer passive electronics.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite being passive, Sterling’s short scale StingRay still delivers a tone comparable to its active counterparts.

    Source
  • The Sterling Ray34’s battery holder was criticized as being poorly designed, causing difficulties during battery changes.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EBMM Stingray’s neck is described as the smoothest, surpassing even high-end instruments like a $6000 Les Paul Custom.

    Source
  • Sterling basses often have very skinny necks, which some find too narrow, comparing them to broomsticks.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Sterling by Music Man Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides