Pricing and availability

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

Guitar Center
3.5 (2)
$699.99
Reverb
5.0 (5)
$699.99 New
$499.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (1)
$699.99
zZounds
3.0 (1)
$699.99
Thomann
3.5 (2)
$711.00 $699.00 $12.00 · All time low

Average Price: $675

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the groove with the Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA, a bass guitar that seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern performance. This 5-string electric bass embodies the spirit of the iconic StingRay models from the 1970s, featuring a nyatoh flat slab body that offers rich resonance and a comforting feel during those extended jam sessions. The hard maple neck, equipped with a skinnier nut width, delivers a smooth and fast playing experience, perfect for technical players who love to explore the full range of the fretboard.

The Ray25CA is powered by a robust 9-volt active preamp, delivering ample headroom and a versatile 2-band EQ for precise tone shaping. Whether you’re after vintage growl or modern punch, the ceramic humbucker in the bridge position is your ticket to powerful, thumping tones with an enhanced treble response. It’s a bass that doesn’t just produce sound; it creates an experience.

Constructed under stringent Sterling by Music Man specifications, this bass is designed to bring the revered Music Man quality to every player at an accessible price point. From its bold tones to its effortless playability, the StingRay Classic Ray25CA is a true testament to the enduring legacy of its predecessors while catering to today’s dynamic musicians.

Key Features:

  • Nyatoh flat slab body for a vintage feel and resonant tone
  • Bolt-on hard maple neck with a 38mm nut width
  • Single ceramic humbucker pickup
  • 2-band EQ and 9V active preamp for versatile tone shaping
  • Sterling by Music Man-designed bridge for superior string vibration transfer
  • 21 medium frets with black dot inlays on a maple fingerboard
  • Open gear tuners and a dual-action truss rod
  • Lightweight design for comfortable play during long performances

Product specs

Number of Strings 5
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape StingRay Classic RAY25
Body Material Nyatoh
Body Finish Gloss
Neck Material Hard Maple
Neck Joint 6-way Bolt-on
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Material Hard Maple
Fingerboard Inlay Black Dots
Number of Frets 21, Medium
Scale Length 34"
Nut Width 1.77"
Nut Material Polyphenylene Sulfide
Bridge/Tailpiece Sterling by Music Man-Designed Bridge
Tuners Open Gear
Bridge Pickup Sterling Ceramic Humbucker
Controls 1 x volume, 2-band EQ
Strings Ernie Ball 2836 Regular Slinky, .045-.130
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA's pickup?

The Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA features a ceramic humbucker pickup, delivering a punchy and clear tone with strong mids and lows, ideal for rock, funk, and pop genres.

Is the Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA suitable for beginners?

While the Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA is designed with quality features that appeal to advanced players, its straightforward controls and comfortable neck make it accessible for beginners as well.

What is the neck profile like on the Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA?

The Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA has a hard maple neck with a 12" radius and medium frets, providing a smooth and fast playing experience suitable for various playing styles.

Does the Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA require a battery for its electronics?

Yes, the Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA is equipped with a 9V powered 2-band active preamp, which requires a battery for operation, offering enhanced tonal control.

How does the Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA compare to the original Ernie Ball StingRay?

The Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA is modeled after the iconic Ernie Ball StingRay, offering similar aesthetics and tone at a more accessible price point, making it a great option for players seeking the classic StingRay sound.

Bassist Kamar

Bassist Kamar

Sterling By Musicman Ray 25 CA

Video thumbnail for Sterling By Musicman Ray 25 CA by Bassist Kamar

Sterling By Musicman Ray 25 CA

Bassist Kamar

Bassist Kamar

Reviews

PROS

  • Captures essence of StingRay tone at a lower price

  • Solid construction with slab body design

  • Aesthetic appeal with 5-string oval pickguard

  • Quality body finish

  • Great foundation for upgrades and customization

CONS

  • Neck and frets may require immediate attention and adjustments

  • Humbucker wiring not true to classic StingRay sound

  • Tuning machine issues, including sticking and misaligned screws

  • Soft nut material may need replacement

  • Shared electronics with lower-end models

  • Rough fret ends can be uncomfortable

  • Presence of debris in electronics compartment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling StingRay Classic Ray25CA.

Features and functionality

  • The Ray25CA uses a parallel-wired pickup similar to the SUB series, which may not deliver a true vintage tone, but is more suited for modern music styles.

    Source
  • The Ray25CA reportedly has active electronics with a 2-band EQ, allowing for versatile tone shaping, especially beneficial for genres like funk and modern rock.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Ray25CA and SUB series have minimal differences, primarily in the pickup quality; however, the Ray34 offers a more significant upgrade opportunity.

    Source

User experience

  • Transitioning from a 4-string to a 5-string like the Ray25CA presents a learning curve with muting techniques and utilizing the extended range.

    Source
  • Some owners mention that the Ray25CA can feel heavy, but a wide strap can mitigate discomfort during extended play.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some suggest waiting for deals on higher models like the Ray34, which have been offered at similar prices during special promotions.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Ray25CA might be appealing for those seeking a modern sound rather than a vintage one, making it suitable for contemporary music genres.

    Source
  • Owners find the Ray25CA excels in punchy, bright tones suitable for slapping techniques and genres requiring strong mid-range presence.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A few users have noted that the thick poly finish on the neck can have overspray, which can be easily smoothed with steel wool or a Scotch-Brite pad.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some players recommend using flatwound strings to mellow the tone, suggesting it can help achieve a more vintage sound.

    Source

Build quality

  • It's been noted that the active electronics in the Ray25CA may require soldering skills for maintenance if issues like loose wires occur.

    Source

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