What is the primary benefit of the 18-volt preamp in this model?

The 18-volt system provides higher headroom compared to standard 9-volt systems. This results in cleaner signal processing and unparalleled clarity even when boosting the 3-band EQ to extremes.

How do neodymium pickups differ from traditional magnets?

Neodymium magnets are stronger than traditional alnico magnets, allowing for a higher output and a broader frequency response. This gives the bass a more versatile and modern sonic profile.

What finish is used on the roasted maple neck?

The neck is treated with a specific blend of gunstock oil and wax. This combination provides a smooth, non-sticky feel that enhances playability and protects the wood.

Is the StingRay Special 5 String heavy?

No, one of the key design goals of the Special series is a lightweight design. It utilizes hardware and construction techniques specifically intended to prioritize player comfort compared to vintage StingRay models.

What kind of EQ controls are available?

The bass features a 3-band active EQ. This allows the player to independently cut or boost bass, middle, and treble frequencies for precise tonal shaping.

What is the significance of the 'H' in the model name?

The 'H' stands for Humbucker, indicating the instrument features a single humbucking pickup in the bridge position. This is the classic configuration for the StingRay sound.

For which genres is this bass suitable?

Thanks to its versatile electronics, the StingRay Special is suitable for almost any genre. It is frequently used in everything from jazz and funk to heavy metal and pop.

Does the 5-string model affect the neck feel?

While the neck is wider to accommodate the fifth string, the roasted maple construction and oil/wax finish ensure it remains easy to navigate and fast to play.

What is the typical price range for this instrument?

In the UK market, the Music Man StingRay Special 5 String H Purple Sunset typically retails for approximately £2,899.

How does the Purple Sunset finish appear?

Purple Sunset is a premium aesthetic finish that gives the instrument a modern and distinct look, setting it apart from more traditional sunburst or solid colour options.

What is roasted maple?

Roasted maple is wood that has undergone a thermal treatment process. This makes the neck more resistant to temperature and humidity changes while providing a darker, more aesthetic appearance.

Is this bass suitable for studio recording?

Yes, the high-clarity 18-volt preamp and neodymium pickup provide a very clean and powerful signal. This makes it a preferred choice for studio engineers who need a bass that sits well in a mix.

Gear article

Music Man StingRay Special 5 String H Purple Sunset

The Music Man StingRay Special 5 String H in Purple Sunset is a professional-grade electric bass guitar designed for modern performance requirements. It features an 18-volt active electronics system and neodymium magnet pickups, refining the classic StingRay design for improved clarity and ergonomics.

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Overview

The Music Man StingRay Special 5 String H represents a modern evolution of one of the most significant bass designs in history. Finished in a striking 'Purple Sunset', this five-string model is engineered to balance traditional craftsmanship with contemporary electronic demands. It is specifically built to cater to professional bassists who require a versatile, high-output instrument capable of cutting through dense mixes.

Electronics and Hardware

At the core of the StingRay Special is a re-engineered 18-volt 3-band EQ preamp. This high-headroom system provides significant control over the bass, middle, and treble frequencies while maintaining exceptional signal clarity. The instrument is equipped with a single powerful neodymium humbucking pickup, which offers a broader sonic landscape and higher output compared to traditional alnico magnets.

The hardware is designed for both durability and weight reduction. By utilizing lightweight materials, Music Man has addressed the common criticism of historical StingRay models being overly heavy, thereby enhancing player comfort during long performances.

Playability and Construction

The neck of the StingRay Special is constructed from roasted maple, a process that removes moisture to increase stability and resonance. It is finished with a unique combination of gunstock oil and a special wax blend, providing a smooth, fast feel that facilitates effortless movement across the fretboard. The five-string configuration provides extended low-end range, essential for modern genres ranging from jazz to heavy metal.

Sound Character

The sound of the StingRay Special 5 H is characterized by its punchy, articulate, and rich tone. The 18-volt electronics ensure that even with heavy EQ adjustments, the natural character of the strings and wood remains intact. The neodymium pickup provides a modern 'hi-fi' edge, delivering deep lows, a defined midrange, and crisp highs that are distinctly 'Music Man' in character.

Target Audience

This instrument is suited for professional musicians and serious enthusiasts who require a reliable, multi-genre workhorse. Because of its active 3-band EQ and high-output pickup, it is equally effective in session environments, live stage performances, and studio recording sessions where tonal flexibility is paramount.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the 18-volt preamp in this model?: The 18-volt system provides higher headroom compared to standard 9-volt systems. This results in cleaner signal processing and unparalleled clarity even when boosting the 3-band EQ to extremes.
How do neodymium pickups differ from traditional magnets?: Neodymium magnets are stronger than traditional alnico magnets, allowing for a higher output and a broader frequency response. This gives the bass a more versatile and modern sonic profile.
What finish is used on the roasted maple neck?: The neck is treated with a specific blend of gunstock oil and wax. This combination provides a smooth, non-sticky feel that enhances playability and protects the wood.
Is the StingRay Special 5 String heavy?: No, one of the key design goals of the Special series is a lightweight design. It utilizes hardware and construction techniques specifically intended to prioritize player comfort compared to vintage StingRay models.
What kind of EQ controls are available?: The bass features a 3-band active EQ. This allows the player to independently cut or boost bass, middle, and treble frequencies for precise tonal shaping.
What is the significance of the 'H' in the model name?: The 'H' stands for Humbucker, indicating the instrument features a single humbucking pickup in the bridge position. This is the classic configuration for the StingRay sound.
For which genres is this bass suitable?: Thanks to its versatile electronics, the StingRay Special is suitable for almost any genre. It is frequently used in everything from jazz and funk to heavy metal and pop.
Does the 5-string model affect the neck feel?: While the neck is wider to accommodate the fifth string, the roasted maple construction and oil/wax finish ensure it remains easy to navigate and fast to play.
What is the typical price range for this instrument?: In the UK market, the Music Man StingRay Special 5 String H Purple Sunset typically retails for approximately £2,899.
How does the Purple Sunset finish appear?: Purple Sunset is a premium aesthetic finish that gives the instrument a modern and distinct look, setting it apart from more traditional sunburst or solid colour options.
What is roasted maple?: Roasted maple is wood that has undergone a thermal treatment process. This makes the neck more resistant to temperature and humidity changes while providing a darker, more aesthetic appearance.
Is this bass suitable for studio recording?: Yes, the high-clarity 18-volt preamp and neodymium pickup provide a very clean and powerful signal. This makes it a preferred choice for studio engineers who need a bass that sits well in a mix.