Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Reverb
4.0 (12)
$2,995.00 62 available Used
Thomann
4.8 (20)
$429.00 $425.00 $4.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£429.00

Average Price: $1,710

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Music Man StingRay 1976-1983". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

Product specs

Brand Music Man
Model StingRay with Maple Fretboard, StingRay with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Black, Inca Silver, Natural, Satin Finish Natural, Sunburst, Walnut, White
Year 1976 - 1983
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Ash
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Brown, Natural, Silver, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple, Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 7.25"
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 4-String
Nut Width 1.6875"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of the Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 bass?

The Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 is renowned for its punchy, aggressive tone, thanks to its active pickups and preamp. It offers a robust low end and clear high frequencies, making it versatile for various music genres.

How does the neck profile of the Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 affect playability?

The neck of the Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 features a comfortable C-shape profile, which is ideal for fast playability and smooth transitions. The 7.25" fretboard radius enhances the playing experience, especially for bassists who prefer a vintage feel.

Is the Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 is highly suitable for slap bass due to its responsive active electronics and clear, defined sound. The ash body and maple neck contribute to its bright, articulate tone, which is perfect for slap styles.

What type of music is the Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 best suited for?

The Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 is versatile and excels in rock, funk, and pop genres. Its powerful and dynamic tone makes it a favorite among bassists looking for an instrument that can cut through the mix.

How does the active preamp in the Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 enhance its sound?

The active preamp in the Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 allows for precise tonal shaping, offering bassists a wide range of sounds from deep lows to bright highs. It provides increased output and clarity compared to passive basses.

Reverb

Reverb

Music Man StingRay 4-String Bass Demo | Reverb Demo

Video thumbnail for Music Man StingRay 4-String Bass Demo  | Reverb Demo by Reverb

Music Man StingRay 4-String Bass Demo | Reverb Demo

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for Why the Stingray CRUSHES Everything by Scott's Bass Lessons

Why the Stingray CRUSHES Everything

Scott's Bass Lessons

Scott's Bass Lessons

Video thumbnail for The Music Man StingRay: A Short History by five watt world

The Music Man StingRay: A Short History

five watt world

five watt world

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 Bass: Joe Dart Demos by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4 Bass: Joe Dart Demos

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for Should you play a Stingray? by AMP

Should you play a Stingray?

AMP

AMP

Video thumbnail for Ernie Ball Music Man: Retro '70s StingRay Bass in Heritage Natural by Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball Music Man: Retro '70s StingRay Bass in Heritage Natural

Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball

Video thumbnail for New Music Man 70's Stingray Basses! by Andertons Music Co

New Music Man 70's Stingray Basses!

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Reviews

Critic Reviews

Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special Bass Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Special Bass is a modern refresh of a classic, offering a lighter build and improved playability with its roasted-maple neck and ergonomic tuners. The upgraded electronics, including an 18V preamp and redesigned humbuckers, enhance its tonal versatility, delivering both punch and clarity. While its EQ might not reach the crispy highs some purists crave, the StingRay Special still offers a balanced and authoritative tone. Overall, it's a positive evolution of an iconic bass that maintains its original charm while adding contemporary features for today’s players.

positive

Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4- and 5-string review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Ernie Ball's latest StingRay basses impress with modern upgrades while retaining their iconic sound. The new models offer a lighter build, enhanced hardware, and improved battery life. A standout feature is the 18-volt preamp with a 3-band system, elevating tonal versatility. The basses' distinctive, aggressive sound remains intact, thanks to updates like neodymium magnets and ergonomic body design. While priced at a premium, these refreshed instruments are a worthwhile investment for those seeking the classic StingRay punch with contemporary enhancements. No cons were noted, making this a highly recommended choice for bass enthusiasts.

positive

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Artist usage

Add artist
E

Elizabeth Davis

Bassist

7 Year Bitch

...
Verified
Year: 1975

In a 1990s Q&A, Elizabeth Davis stated that she uses a Music Man StingRay 1976-1983 and mentioned adding EMG pickups. This information is sourced from an archived FAQ page.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Music Man StingRay 1976-1983, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Gallien-Krueger 400RB
Gallien-Krueger 400RB Bass Amplifier Heads
1

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