Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (3)
$1,249.99
Guitar Center
$1,249.99
Amazon
$1,049.99 Used
Reverb
4.0 (3)
$1,149.99 New
$700.00 Used
Musician's Friend
$1,249.99
Thomann
4.0 (1)
$1,199.00

Average Price: $1,121

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM is a dynamic electric bass that melds classic design with contemporary enhancements, making it a prime choice for both stage veterans and emerging artists. Crafted with a sleek nyatoh body and topped with a stunning spalted maple veneer, this bass doesn't just sound great—it looks the part. The dual alnico humbuckers are at the core of its impressive sound range, delivering everything from punchy lows to articulate highs, perfect for any musical genre.

The roasted maple neck is not only visually appealing but also ensures that the instrument remains stable and resistant to environmental changes. This neck, paired with a rosewood fingerboard, offers a smooth playing experience, whether you're laying down intricate bass lines or holding down the rhythm. The 5-way pickup selector switch and 3-band active EQ provide a versatile tonal palette, allowing you to tailor your sound to any performance setting.

Ergonomically designed with a modern cutaway, the Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM ensures easy access to higher frets, encouraging uninhibited play. With its combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern features, this bass guitar remains a timeless piece for any musician’s arsenal.

Key Features:

  • Nyatoh body with a spalted maple veneer top
  • Roasted maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Dual alnico humbucker pickups
  • 5-way pickup selector switch
  • Active 3-band EQ for versatile tone shaping
  • 21 medium frets for comfortable playability
  • Open gear tuners for precise tuning stability
  • Ergonomic cutaway for easy upper fret access

Product specs

Number of Strings 4
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape StingRay RAY34
Body Material Nyatoh (body), Spalted Maple (top)
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
Neck Pickup Sterling Alnico Humbucker
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

What type of wood is used in the body of the Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM, and how does it affect the sound?

The Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM features a Nyatoh body with a spalted maple top. Nyatoh provides a warm, resonant tone with a balanced mid-range, while the spalted maple top adds a unique visual appeal and subtle brightness to the sound.

What kind of pickups are in the Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM, and what tones can I expect?

The bass is equipped with dual Sterling Alnico humbucker pickups, delivering a powerful and punchy tone suitable for various genres, from rock to funk. The 5-way selector switch and 3-band active EQ offer versatile sound-shaping options.

Is the Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM suitable for beginners?

While the Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM offers professional-level features, its playability and ergonomic design make it accessible for beginners who are serious about learning and want a quality instrument that can grow with them.

What is the neck profile of the Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM, and how does it affect playability?

The Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM features a roasted maple neck with a 9.5" radius, providing a comfortable and smooth playing experience. The medium frets and 34" scale length offer a familiar feel that suits various playing styles.

Does the Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM come with a case or gig bag?

The Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM does not come with a case or gig bag; these must be purchased separately to ensure protection during transport and storage.

BUZZBEE TV

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[GearTimes 3068회] 스털링 바이 뮤직맨 Sterling by MusicMan 베이스 RAY34HHSM

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[GearTimes 3068회] 스털링 바이 뮤직맨 Sterling by MusicMan 베이스 RAY34HHSM

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Reviews

PROS

  • Offers a wide tonal range with its five-position switch

  • Smooth, well-fretted neck enhances playability

  • Active pickups provide powerful and precise sound

  • Classic StingRay bridge pickup plus warm neck pickup tone

  • Beautiful design and visually striking

  • Stays in tune exceptionally well

  • Highly versatile, suitable for various music styles

  • Comfortable neck with a natural feel

  • Robust build quality, feels solid and durable

  • Many positive comments on its sound and appearance in public performances

CONS

  • Quality control issues with necks and fret buzz

  • Clear plexi pickguard may not appeal to everyone

  • Selection lever can be noisy when switching

  • Requires professional setup for optimal playability out of the box

  • Some may find it slightly heavy to handle

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling StingRay Ray34HHSM.

Features and functionality

  • The Sterling Ray34HH offers five tone modes: neck solo, bridge solo, equal mix, inside pickups, and outside pickups, providing extensive tonal flexibility.

    Source
  • A noted limitation for slap bass players is the proximity of the neck pickup to the end of the neck on the Ray34HH, requiring precise technique.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Ray34HH's bridge pickup solo mode closely mirrors the tone of the Ray34 H, making it versatile for those who prefer the single humbucker sound.

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  • Compared to Fender Jazz or P-basses, the Ray34HHSM offers a distinct StingRay sound, but isn't considered a "jack of all trades" like Jazz or PJ basses.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report the Ray34HH has a slightly hotter preamp compared to the Ray35, resulting in a louder output without distortion.

    Source
  • There is a noticeable volume drop when switching to single pole modes on the HH, which can be managed by adjusting the volume knob or amp settings.

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  • Some players find the neck of the Ray34HHSM wider than preferred, with a 43mm nut width, which might not be comfortable for those used to narrower necks.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners have rewired their Ray34HH from series to parallel wiring to alter the tonal characteristics.

    Source

Build quality

  • Recent Sterling models reportedly have QA issues with necks and tuners, particularly black tuners breaking and truss rods being unresponsive.

    Source
  • The natural ash version of the Ray34HHSM is notably heavy, weighing around 11 lbs, making it potentially uncomfortable for extended play.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners recommend checking truss rod functionality and tuner durability in-store due to frequent reports of issues in these areas.

    Source

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