Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
$1,149.99
Guitar Center
$1,149.99
Amazon
$1,149.99
Reverb
$979.99 New
$769.95 Used
Musician's Friend
$1,149.99
Thomann
5.0 (1)
$1,199.00

Average Price: $1,078

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Sterling StingRay Ray35SM". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Sterling StingRay Ray35SM is a powerhouse of a bass guitar designed for musicians who demand exceptional sound and playability without breaking the bank. This 5-string electric bass is crafted with a stunning spalted maple top that not only looks exquisite but also enhances tonal richness. Its Music Man-designed alnico humbucker ensures a vintage-style tone that cuts through any mix, while the active 9-volt preamp with a 3-band EQ allows for precise tone sculpting, making it perfect for both live performances and studio sessions.

The body, made of nyatoh, is thoughtfully contoured to provide long-lasting comfort, complete with a curved armrest and a belly cut. These features make it ideal for extended playing sessions. Topping it off, the roasted maple neck offers remarkable stability and resists warping, ensuring smooth, reliable playability anywhere you go. With 21 medium-sized frets, this bass promises fluid navigation up and down the neck, making it a favorite among seasoned bassists.

Sterling by Music Man's commitment to quality is evident in the Ray35SM, delivering a blend of classic inspiration and modern innovation accessible to a wide range of musicians. From its top-loading bridge to open gear tuners, every detail is designed for rock-solid tuning stability and ease of use.

Key Features:

  • 5-string electric bass with a spalted maple top
  • Nyatoh body for comfort and style
  • Music Man-designed alnico humbucker
  • Active 9-volt preamp with 3-band EQ
  • Roasted maple neck for stability
  • 21 medium-sized frets for easy playability
  • Top-loading bridge and open gear tuners for tuning stability

Product specs

Number of Strings 5
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape StingRay RAY35
Body Material Nyatoh (body), Spalted Maple (top)
Body Finish Gloss
Neck Material Roasted Maple
Neck Joint 6-way Bolt-on
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Material Rosewood
Fingerboard Inlay White Dots
Number of Frets 22, 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 Alnico Humbucker
Controls 1 x volume, 3-band EQ
Strings Ernie Ball 2836 Regular Slinky, .045-.130
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What type of music genres is the Sterling StingRay Ray35SM suitable for?

The Sterling StingRay Ray35SM, equipped with a powerful Alnico humbucker and 3-band EQ, is versatile and excels in genres like rock, funk, and jazz, offering a punchy and clear tone suitable for diverse musical styles.

How does the neck profile of the Sterling StingRay Ray35SM affect playability?

The roasted maple neck with a 12" radius and medium frets provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience, ideal for fast playing and intricate bass lines.

Is the Sterling StingRay Ray35SM suitable for live performances?

Yes, the StingRay Ray35SM's robust construction and powerful electronics make it an excellent choice for live performances, delivering consistent and reliable sound on stage.

Does the Sterling StingRay Ray35SM require a specific type of amplifier?

While it can be used with various amplifiers, pairing the StingRay Ray35SM with a bass amp that can handle its dynamic range and EQ capabilities will enhance its tonal performance.

What are the benefits of the spalted maple top on the Sterling StingRay Ray35SM?

The spalted maple top not only adds a visually striking appearance but also contributes to the bass's tonal clarity and resonance, enriching its overall sound character.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sterling StingRay Ray35SM.

Build quality

  • The purple sparkle finish model has black tuners that are reportedly prone to issues, requiring potential replacement.

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  • The timber used is decent, but cost-saving is evident in parts like pots, switches, and wiring.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Initial friction in the pots can be resolved by loosening the screw and readjusting the height.

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User experience

  • New users may experience shoulder discomfort due to the bass's significant weight, approximately 10+ lbs.

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  • Owners suggest caution about upgrading costs potentially approaching those of a used EBMM.

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  • Fret dress issues have been noted, requiring adjustments for better playability.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners recommend wiring the pickup in parallel for improved performance.

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  • Swapping the preamp with a Darkglass Tone Capsule and pickups with Barts is considered for better sound quality.

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  • Seymour Duncan alnico Stingray pickups are recommended for improved sound.

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Comparisons

  • The Ray35's electronics are described as "scratchier" compared to MIA Stingray, suggesting lower quality components.

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