New 2018 Stingray Bass Range Unveiled!
Ernie Ball Music Man have released a fresh series of Stingray models, promising diverse pickup configurations, stunning Roasted Maple necks and bold new finishes. That's right, best just got better - and we're lucky enough to have UK exclusivity!
First stock in the UK - read all about it below!
What's a Stingray bass?
The Stingray bass stands shoulder to shoulder with some of the most iconic instruments in modern history. Designed by the masterful Leo Fender and introduced in 1976, they’ve garnered a reputation for reliability and distinct aesthetics. They’ve since been used by countless artists on the international circuit, from Pino Palladino to Mark Hoppus.
Key Features
- Solid Ash bodies
- Bolt-on Roasted Maple necks
- Rosewood or Roasted Maple fretboards
- Music Man Humbuckers with Neodymium magnets
- Stainless steel fret wire
- 3-band active EQ
- 18V active preamp
What's new?
The Stingray bass has, for quite some time, been a winning formula. So how do you go about improving something that’s already so darn good? Rest assured, Ernie Ball Music Man have a fair few tricks up their sleeve. Let’s take a closer look:
- Active EQ – active electronics were one of the primary features that put the Stingray on the map. They offered punchier tones than many competitors, with plenty of extra clarity for cutting through any mix. For the 2018 range, Music Man have provided an 18V active 3-band EQ for an even broader tonal palette!
- Neodymium Pickups – the Music Man humbuckers provide heaps of gutsy tone with plenty of headroom, but this year, they’ve taken it to the next level. Neodymium magnets offer more power and a uniquely crystal-clear output, perfectly complemented by the new active EQ.
- Roasted Maple necks – roasting Maple has two primary effects: the wood is far more stable because moisture has been removed from the wood, and it looks freakin’ cool. Couple this with a bolt-on design and a softer neck join contour, and you’ve got a snappy response that’s super accessible, regardless of your playing style!
- Lighter Hardware – the weight of the hardware has been reduced on the 2018 Stingrays. This makes for a more comfortable playability, as well as allowing the Ash & Maple combination to truly sing without compromising stability.
- Slick Finishes – maybe an obvious observation, but Music Man have gone all-out with new finishes this year. Sparkle, metallic, burst, natural, vibrant – there really is a bit of everything. Whether you’re after classic looks or a brazen fashion statement, you’ll find what you’re after!
How Much Do They Cost?
The 2018 Stingray basses are priced between £2099 and £2299, depending on the specs. This is affected by the improved magnets, the new active circuitry, the Roasted Maple and other factors.
The good news is that we offer a number of different finance options on all of our instruments, not to mention free UK delivery on orders over £99. You can own the bass of your dreams without having to worry about big cash sums or expensive delivery!
If you’ve got any questions about the 2018 Stingray range, or if you’re interested in placing an order, please don’t hesitate to get in touch without friendly team – they’ll tell you everything you need to know!
