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Average Price: $550

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$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

The Sterling StingRay Ray35QM is a powerhouse in the world of electric basses, merging classic design with versatile modern features. Its mahogany body, topped with an elegant quilted maple, not only exudes sophistication but also delivers a rich and resonant tone that's a hallmark of the StingRay series. Beneath its striking exterior, the Ray35QM houses a Music Man alnico humbucker and a 3-band active EQ, offering a spectrum of tones from deep, thunderous lows to bright, articulate highs. This bass is crafted for musicians who crave both style and substance without breaking the bank.

The Ray35QM’s playability is enhanced by its smooth, hard maple neck, which provides the perfect blend of sustain and punch. Its distinctive oval pickguard and contoured body make it comfortable for long gigs or studio sessions, while its Music Man-designed bridge and saddles ensure rock-solid tuning stability. This is more than just an instrument; it’s a reliable companion for any musical journey, offering the iconic StingRay experience at an accessible price point.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or an aspiring bassist, the Sterling StingRay Ray35QM promises to deliver impeccable performance and style that are sure to make you stand out on stage.

Key Features:

  • Contoured mahogany body with quilt maple top for rich tone and aesthetics
  • Hard maple neck for enhanced sustain and punch
  • Music Man alnico humbucker for powerful and clear sound
  • Active preamp with 3-band EQ for versatile tone shaping
  • Music Man-designed bridge and saddles for superior tuning stability

Product specs

Brand Sterling
Model StingRay Ray35QM
Year 2015 - 2023
Made In Indonesia
Categories 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Ash, Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Blue, Brown, Tan
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 12"
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 5-String
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Quilted

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Sterling StingRay Ray35QM's pickups?

The Sterling StingRay Ray35QM features active pickups that deliver a powerful and punchy tone, ideal for rock, funk, and pop genres. The active preamp enhances tonal versatility, allowing for deep lows and bright highs.

Is the Sterling StingRay Ray35QM suitable for beginners?

While the Sterling StingRay Ray35QM is a high-quality instrument suitable for players of all levels, its features and price point might be better suited for intermediate to advanced bassists looking for a reliable 5-string bass.

What is the neck profile of the Sterling StingRay Ray35QM like?

The Sterling StingRay Ray35QM features a comfortable maple neck with a 12" fretboard radius, providing a smooth playing experience that accommodates both fast runs and intricate fingerstyle playing.

Does the Sterling StingRay Ray35QM work well for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the Sterling StingRay Ray35QM's active electronics and responsive pickups make it an excellent choice for slap bass, offering bright and articulate tones that cut through the mix.

What materials are used in the construction of the Sterling StingRay Ray35QM?

The Sterling StingRay Ray35QM is crafted with an ash or mahogany body, a quilted maple top, and a maple neck, providing a balance of durability and resonant tone.

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Sterling by Music Man: StingRay Bass Demo (ft. Matt Kirkwood) - Ray35QM

Video thumbnail for Sterling by Music Man: StingRay Bass Demo (ft. Matt Kirkwood) - Ray35QM by Ernie Ball

Sterling by Music Man: StingRay Bass Demo (ft. Matt Kirkwood) - Ray35QM

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Sterling by Music Man Stingray Ray35QM Overview - Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray35QM Bass Guitar by American Musical Supply

Sterling by Music Man Stingray Ray35QM Overview - Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray35QM Bass Guitar

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling StingRay Ray35QM.

Build quality

  • The Ray35 has been noted to sometimes have quality control issues, particularly with the black tuners, which have reportedly been resolved in recent models.

    Source
  • Some owners note that Sterling Ray34 tuners are janky, especially on black hardware with purple sparkle finishes, but replacements like Hipshot HB7s improve stability.

    Source

User experience

  • The Ray35 is reported to weigh over 10 lbs, but a wide strap can mitigate discomfort during extended play sessions.

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  • Transitioning from a 4-string to the 5-string Ray35 can be disorienting initially, due to the additional string affecting hand placement and muting techniques.

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  • A Sterling Ray34 owner found the bass to be boomy with centered pots, needing bass pot adjustments to achieve clarity similar to an EBMM.

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Comparisons

  • Owners have compared the Ray35 with the Ernie Ball Music Man Stingray Special, noting the Ray35 offers comparable tone control and smoothness despite being significantly less expensive.

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  • The Ernie Ball Music Man neck is smoother with better fretwork compared to Sterling, but Sterling's pots have a smoother resistance.

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Use cases and applications

  • The Ray35 is favored by some users over a Fender Jazz Bass, particularly for genres requiring a versatile tone like reggae and jazz.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A user reported having to adjust pickup height significantly to balance string volume, particularly with D and G strings being quieter.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • One user highly recommends installing Hipshot HB7 tuners as a drop-in replacement for stock tuners to enhance tuning stability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Sterling Ray5's neck is described as very skinny, akin to a "broomstick," which might be uncomfortable for players with larger hands.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Sterling RAY35 5-String Bass

houstonmusicreviews.com

The Sterling StingRay Ray35QM is a standout in the budget bass market, delivering a sound and build quality that rivals its pricier siblings. The immaculate finish and factory setup are top-notch for its price range. Its active electronics provide a versatile tonal palette, though be prepared to adjust to its longer neck and 17.5 mm string spacing. While the 9 lbs weight might be a concern for some, the bass's comfort and balance make it a competent live performer. The Ray35 captures the signature StingRay sound effectively without feeling inferior, making it a fantastic option for musicians on a budget. Just don't forget that spare 9V battery!

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