Classic USA-made StingRay feel and punch with modern Nordstrand electronics for expanded tone and quiet operation. A great opportunity to own a USA-made StingRay with high-quality modern electronics upgrades. The current retail price on the MusicMan website is $3,099 + pickup & electronics upgrades.
Overview
For sale is a USA-made Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay 4-string bass, purchased new in the late 1990s (approx. 1999) and well cared for since. This bass retains the iconic StingRay build quality, ergonomics, and sound, with tasteful upgrades that improve reliability and tonal flexibility for modern players.
The bass plays great, sounds powerful, and has been upgraded with high-quality Nordstrand electronics to address noise issues and add versatility, while remaining true to the StingRay character.
Includes an Ernie Ball Music Man branded hardshell case in excellent condition.
Key Specs
- Model: Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay (no additional model designation on headstock)
- Year: Late 1990s (approx. 1999)
- Serial Number: E16411
- Made In: San Luis Obispo, California, USA
- Body: Ash (natural finish)
- Neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Scale Length: 34"
- Frets: 21
- Bridge: Music Man bridge
- Tuners: Original Music Man tuners
- Strings: Stringjoy Medium Gauge (50–105)
Electronics & Modifications
The bass has been professionally upgraded for improved clarity, lower noise, and added tonal options:
- Pickup: Nordstrand MM4.4
- Preamp: Nordstrand 2-Band Active Preamp
- Controls: Master Volume, Series / Parallel switch, Treble Boost / Cut, Bass Boost / Cut
- Wiring: Fully shielded and grounded — quiet, hum-free, and reliable
Other Mods
- 4-ply white pearloid pickguard (replacement)
- ZeroMod thumb rest (non-invasive and removable)
Original pickup, electronics, and pickguard are not included.
Condition: Excellent for age
This bass shows only light cosmetic wear, consistent with a well-maintained 20+ year old instrument:
- Light surface scratches
- No cracks, breaks, or repairs
- Neck is straight and stable
- Frets show light wear only
Overall, it presents very well and has been cared for responsibly.
Playability & Tone
Comfortable StingRay neck profile with excellent balance. The Nordstrand MM4.4 retains the signature StingRay punch while offering:
- Strong, tight low end
- Clear, articulate mids
- Smooth highs
- Added tonal flexibility via series/parallel switching
Works equally well for classic StingRay tones or more modern, versatile sounds.
What’s Included
- Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay Bass
- Ernie Ball Music Man branded hardshell case: Black plush interior; Excellent condition
| Listed | 5 months ago |
|---|---|
| Condition | Excellent (Used) Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more |
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Product safety information may be available here.













