What is the scale length of this StingRay model?

This instrument is a short-scale bass, which typically measures 30 inches, making the frets closer together than a standard 34-inch long-scale bass.

What are the benefits of the roasted maple neck?

The roasted maple neck offers increased stability and durability by removing moisture from the wood. It also provides a smoother, faster feel for the player's hand.

Does this bass require a 9V battery?

No, this specific short-scale model uses passive electronics. It does not require a battery to operate, unlike active StingRay models.

What does the 3-way rotary switch do?

The rotary switch allows the player to select between parallel, true single-coil, and series wiring modes. This provides three distinct tonal characters from the single humbucker.

What kind of pickup is installed in this bass?

The bass is equipped with a single high-output neodymium humbucker. This magnet type is known for providing a powerful signal and a wide tonal range.

Is the Sterling StingRay Short Scale suitable for beginners?

Yes, its shorter scale and lightweight design make it easier for beginners or players with smaller hands to navigate the fretboard. However, its high-quality components also cater to seasoned bassists.

In what colours is the Sterling Short Scale StingRay available?

This specific model is available in Fiesta Red and Toluca Lake Blue. Both finishes offer a vibrant and sleek aesthetic.

How does the weight of this bass compare to standard models?

It features a lightweight design specifically intended to improve comfort. This makes it ideal for long gigs and reducing shoulder fatigue compared to full-sized StingRay basses.

What strings are recommended for this instrument?

The instrument is compatible with short-scale string sets, such as the Ernie Ball P02852 Regular Slinky Short Scale Bass set (45-105). Using long-scale strings is not recommended as the windings may not fit the tuners correctly.

How does this compare to the Gear4music Seattle Short Scale?

The Sterling StingRay is a higher-specification instrument featuring a roasted maple neck and neodymium pickups. The Gear4music Seattle is an entry-level alternative often sold in budget-friendly bundles with 15W amplifiers.

What is the typical price for this model in the UK?

The typical price range for the Sterling by Music Man Short Scale StingRay is approximately £699. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.

Can I achieve a single-coil sound with this bass?

Yes, the three-way rotary switch includes a 'true single-coil' mode. This bypasses one of the humbucker's coils to provide a thinner, vintage-style tone.

Gear article

Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short Scale Bass (Fiesta Red)

The Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short Scale Bass is a four-string electric bass featuring a reduced 30-inch scale length and a roasted maple neck. It combines the iconic StingRay aesthetic with passive electronics and a high-output neodymium humbucker designed for ergonomic playability.

Sterling by Music Man Sterling StingRay Short Scale Bass Fiesta Red

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Overview

The Sterling by Music Man StingRay Short Scale Bass is an instrument engineered to provide a professional playing experience for both beginner and seasoned musicians. By downsizing the traditional StingRay dimensions, the manufacturer has created a lightweight alternative that retains the brand's signature silhouette and hardware configuration. The Fiesta Red finish provides a classic aesthetic, distinguishing it within the Sterling catalogue alongside the Toluca Lake Blue variant.

Construction and Materials

A primary feature of this model is the roasted maple neck. The roasting process involves heat treatment to remove moisture, which significantly enhances the wood's durability and stability against temperature and humidity changes. This treatment also results in a smoother surface, contributing to faster playability. The instrument's body is designed to be lightweight, specifically intended to reduce physical strain during extended practice sessions or live performances.

Gear4Music Seattle Short Scale Bass Guitar + 15W Amp Pack Black

Electronics and Tonal Controls

Unlike many standard StingRay models that feature active preamps, the Short Scale version utilizes passive electronics. It is equipped with a single, powerful neodymium humbucker. The instrument features a unique three-way rotary switch that allows players to toggle between three distinct wiring configurations:

Parallel Mode: For a classic, bright humbucker tone.
True Single-Coil Mode: For a leaner, more vintage-inspired sound.
Series Mode: For a thicker, higher-output mid-range punch.

Market Position and Comparison

Retailing at approximately £699, this model occupies a mid-tier position in the market. While entry-level options such as the Gear4music Seattle, Chicago, or LA short-scale models provide budget-friendly starting points (often bundled with 15W amplifiers), the Sterling StingRay offers higher-specification hardware like the roasted maple neck. On the higher end of the spectrum, it serves as a more accessible alternative to boutique short-scale instruments like the Rickenbacker 4030S.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the scale length of this StingRay model?: This instrument is a short-scale bass, which typically measures 30 inches, making the frets closer together than a standard 34-inch long-scale bass.
What are the benefits of the roasted maple neck?: The roasted maple neck offers increased stability and durability by removing moisture from the wood. It also provides a smoother, faster feel for the player's hand.
Does this bass require a 9V battery?: No, this specific short-scale model uses passive electronics. It does not require a battery to operate, unlike active StingRay models.
What does the 3-way rotary switch do?: The rotary switch allows the player to select between parallel, true single-coil, and series wiring modes. This provides three distinct tonal characters from the single humbucker.
What kind of pickup is installed in this bass?: The bass is equipped with a single high-output neodymium humbucker. This magnet type is known for providing a powerful signal and a wide tonal range.
Is the Sterling StingRay Short Scale suitable for beginners?: Yes, its shorter scale and lightweight design make it easier for beginners or players with smaller hands to navigate the fretboard. However, its high-quality components also cater to seasoned bassists.
In what colours is the Sterling Short Scale StingRay available?: This specific model is available in Fiesta Red and Toluca Lake Blue. Both finishes offer a vibrant and sleek aesthetic.
How does the weight of this bass compare to standard models?: It features a lightweight design specifically intended to improve comfort. This makes it ideal for long gigs and reducing shoulder fatigue compared to full-sized StingRay basses.
What strings are recommended for this instrument?: The instrument is compatible with short-scale string sets, such as the Ernie Ball P02852 Regular Slinky Short Scale Bass set (45-105). Using long-scale strings is not recommended as the windings may not fit the tuners correctly.
How does this compare to the Gear4music Seattle Short Scale?: The Sterling StingRay is a higher-specification instrument featuring a roasted maple neck and neodymium pickups. The Gear4music Seattle is an entry-level alternative often sold in budget-friendly bundles with 15W amplifiers.
What is the typical price for this model in the UK?: The typical price range for the Sterling by Music Man Short Scale StingRay is approximately £699. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.
Can I achieve a single-coil sound with this bass?: Yes, the three-way rotary switch includes a 'true single-coil' mode. This bypasses one of the humbucker's coils to provide a thinner, vintage-style tone.