Best Sterling by Music Man Miscellaneous 4-String Basses 2026
Premium Sterling by Music Man miscellaneous 4-string basses - legendary tone and craftsmanship
Last updated: August 27, 2026
⚡ The best miscellaneous 4-string basses in 2026 are Sterling by Music Man Bongo SBK (top pick), Sterling by Music Man Bongo FMPS for tighter budgets, and Sterling by Music Man StingRay Classic RAY24CA BSC for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $383–$1,865, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Sterling by Music Man Bongo SBK
Nut width
41 mm (1.61")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
300 mm (11.81")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Unique Designs
Specialty Applications
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This bass feels solid thanks to its mahogany body and maple neck. The active preamp gives you good control over the treble and bass, but you can't adjust the low end. It works well for players who want a warm tone without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body adds warmth to the tone.
- • Maple bolt-on neck ensures rock-solid stability.
- • Rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth playing surface.
- • Active preamp lets you shape the sound easily.
CONS
- • Stealth Black color may hide dirt and scratches.
- • No bass control on the active preamp section.
- • Weight is not listed so you can't guess it.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 638055
$1,049
Sterling by Music Man Bongo FMPS
Nut width
41 mm (1.61")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
300 mm (11.81")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Distinctive Sound
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This bass packs a big sound thanks to its mahogany body and thick humbuckers. The maple neck holds the rosewood fingerboard tight, making it easy to reach all 24 frets. It's a great choice if you need a punchy, active tone for loud bands, though the wide nut might feel tight for some players.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany body offers a warm, resonant foundation for your playing style.
- • Maple bolt-on neck ensures stable tuning and a strong connection to the strings.
- • Dual ceramic humbuckers deliver thick, powerful output ideal for rock and metal.
- • Active preamp with independent controls lets you shape the tone precisely on stage.
CONS
- • Heavy 41 mm nut width may feel cramped for players with smaller hands.
- • Black plastic pickguard can scratch easily during aggressive playing.
- • No weight specification provided makes long session comfort uncertain for some.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 638053
$1,049
Sterling by Music Man StingRay Classic RAY24CA BSC
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Experimental Music
Specialty Applications
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This bass sounds thick and warm thanks to the Nyatoh wood and ceramic pickups. The maple neck plays very smoothly, making it easy for beginners and pros alike. It's a budget-friendly option with an active preamp for shaping your tone.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body gives a warm, punchy low-end tone
- • Maple neck offers a fast, smooth playing feel
- • Two ceramic humbuckers deliver thick, powerful output
- • Active preamp lets you shape sound on the fly
CONS
- • No listed weight makes the guitar feel heavy
- • Single volume knob limits basic tone control
- • No specific finish type mentioned in details
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 638566
$792
#4
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Sterling by Music Man DarkRay BK
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Custom Features
Alternative Styles
Distinctive Sound
Key Feature:
This bass uses a Nyatoh body for that warm, thick low-end sound many players love. The roasted maple neck stays stable, and the active preamp gives you clean tones or heavy distortion when needed. It fits players who want a tight 34-inch feel and built-in grit without extra gear.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body offers warm, resonant low-end response
- • Active preamp adds distinct distortion options
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stable playability
- • 34-inch scale length tightens string tension
CONS
- • No active electronics mentioned for basses
- • Weight not listed in product description
- • Only one pickup type installed
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 638439
$1,866
Sterling by Music Man StingRay RAY34 BK
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Unique Designs
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This bass sounds big thanks to the Nyatoh body and Alnico pickup. The roasted maple neck keeps it in tune, while the active preamp lets you shape the tone. It fits players who want a warm, powerful sound without extra switches.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body offers deep, punchy low-end response
- • Roasted maple neck ensures stable tuning stability
- • Alnico humbucker delivers thick, warm bass tone
- • Active 3-band preamp gives precise tone control
CONS
- • No active EQ switches listed on the preamp
- • Rosewood fingerboard requires frequent oiling
- • Weight not specified in the description
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 638420
$1,049
#6
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Sterling by Music Man StingRay RAY34 PSK
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Unique Designs
Custom Features
Distinctive Sound
Key Feature:
This bass hits hard with a thick, mid-heavy tone from the Alnico humbucker and Nyatoh body. The active preamp lets you shape the sound exactly how you need it. It feels solid with a roasted maple neck and 21 frets, but you can't tell how heavy it is without lifting it. Great for players who want punch and clarity right out of the box.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body offers unique, warm tone resonance
- • Alnico humbucker provides thick, mid-heavy punch
- • Active 3-band preamp allows precise tone shaping
- • Bolt-on maple neck ensures stable tuning stability
CONS
- • No weight listed makes handling feel uncertain
- • Rosewood fingerboard can get slippery over time
- • Purple sparkle finish may hide surface scratches
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 638412
$1,224
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray4 WS
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Alternative Styles
Unique Designs
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This bass feels solid thanks to its bolt-on maple neck and fixed bridge. The active preamp keeps the signal clean while the ceramic pickup offers punch. It suits players who want a sturdy, modern instrument without extra features.
PROS
- • Bolt-on maple neck ensures stable tuning and easy setup
- • Active preamp gives clear signal without high gain noise
- • Walnut matte finish offers a sleek, modern look
- • Fixed bridge provides rock-solid intonation for all frets
CONS
- • Missing specific weight data makes handling unknown
- • Ceramic humbucker lacks the warmth of traditional magnets
- • No active EQ options beyond just two bands
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 638032
$512
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray4 VC
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Distinctive Sound
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Sting Ray4 is a solid workhorse for players who want tight lows and easy setup. The bolt-on maple neck and ceramic pickup give it a focused sound that cuts through a mix. While the active preamp adds clarity, the fixed bridge makes raising the strings hard, and the basswood body is a bit dull compared to maple. It is a smart choice for budget-minded musicians who need reliability over rich resonance.
PROS
- • Sturdy bolt-on maple neck for stability
- • Ceramic humbucker delivers tight low-end punch
- • Active two-band preamp for clear tone shaping
- • Affordable price point for solid build quality
CONS
- • Fixed bridge limits string action adjustment
- • Basswood body lacks resonance of maple or alder
- • No specified weight for player comfort
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 638030
$512
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray4 TBKS
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Distinctive Sound
Experimental Music
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
This Sting Ray4 is a lean, solid choice for players who want a stable, easy-to-play bass. The bolt-on maple neck and fixed bridge keep it in tune, while the active preamp adds clarity. It suits anyone needing a reliable workhorse for gigs without the bulk of heavier bodies.
PROS
- • Lightweight basswood body keeps the instrument easy to lift and play long sets
- • Maple bolt-on neck provides a solid, stable connection for tight intonation
- • Active preamp lets you shape the tone precisely without losing low-end punch
- • Fixed bridge offers rock-solid tuning stability for aggressive playing styles
CONS
- • No specific weight rating is listed, so you cannot be sure how heavy it feels
- • Single ceramic pickup limits tonal variety compared to two-pickup options
- • Trans Black Matte finish may hide minor scratches and wear over time
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 638028
$512
Sterling by Music Man StingRay2 Sunrise Orange
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Custom Features
Distinctive Sound
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
This bass has a nice poplar body and a sturdy maple neck that locks in well. The ceramic humbucker gives it a thick sound, while the fixed bridge helps you stay in tune. It is a straightforward instrument perfect for players who want a solid, reliable workhorse without extra features.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body provides good resonance
- • Maple bolt-on neck ensures strong connection
- • Fixed bridge keeps intonation stable
- • Ceramic humbucker delivers thick tone
CONS
- • No weight listed in description
- • Single volume and tone only
- • Open-gear heads need frequent tuning
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 637840
$384
Sterling by Music Man StingRay RAY34 Dorado Green
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Custom Features
Unique Designs
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
The RAY34 is a fantastic entry point into the Music Man vibe. Dorado Green looks killer, and the active StingRay pickup delivers a punchy, modern tone that cuts through a mix really well. It's a great choice for gigging musicians who want a reliable, versatile bass with a bit of attitude without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth playing feel.
- • Active preamp delivers a powerful, defined low-end with excellent clarity.
- • Sterling bridge design provides solid tuning stability and comfortable string spacing.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while good, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or ash.
- • Rosewood fingerboard might feel a bit dry to some players – consider oiling.
- • Active electronics require a power source; battery replacement is a factor.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 585268
$1,049
#12
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Sterling by Music Man StingRay RAY34HH Charc Frost
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Body
Nyatoh body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Alternative Styles
Specialty Applications
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The RAY34HH is a serious contender if you want that classic StingRay growl without the premium price tag. The roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play, and those humbuckers deliver a ton of punch and versatility. This is a fantastic choice for rock, funk, and heavier styles – a real workhorse bass.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- • Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and smooth playability.
- • Active 3-band EQ delivers powerful shaping and tonal flexibility.
- • Alnico humbuckers provide thick, punchy low-end and aggressive upper harmonics.
CONS
- • Nyatoh, while good, isn't the prestige of Ash or Alder found on higher-end StingRays.
- • Charcoal Frost finish, while striking, might not appeal to everyone's taste.
- • Bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the sustain of a set-neck construction.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 585249
$1,282
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B Sting Ray4 HH Cobra Blue
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Distinctive Sound
Key Feature:
This S.U.B StingRay4 HH is a fantastic value – it nails that Music Man vibe without the premium price tag. The active electronics give it a modern edge, while the Cobra Blue finish is seriously cool. It's a great option for players wanting a punchy, versatile bass for rock, funk, or heavier genres.
PROS
- • Jabon body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • H-1 humbuckers deliver a powerful, aggressive tone with plenty of low-end.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel for quick playing.
- • 5-way blade switch adds tonal flexibility, offering a range of sounds.
CONS
- • Jabon wood can be somewhat susceptible to temperature/humidity changes.
- • Open gear tuners aren't as precise as locking tuners for ultimate stability.
- • Fixed bridge limits string-through-body sustain and advanced setup options.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 585145
$629
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B Sting Ray4 HH ST BLK
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
240 mm (9.45")
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Specialty Applications
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
This Sterling StingRay4 HH is a seriously fun bass – it’s got that Music Man vibe without the premium price tag. The humbuckers and active preamp give you a punchy, modern sound that cuts through the mix, and the Jatoba fingerboard feels really nice under your fingers. It's a great choice for players looking for a versatile, aggressive tone at an affordable price point.
PROS
- • Jabon body provides surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers snappy response and comfortable playability.
- • Humbucker pickups deliver thick, aggressive tone ideal for rock and modern styles.
- • Active preamp adds significant output and tonal shaping flexibility.
CONS
- • Jabon body, while resonant, can be less stable than mahogany or ash.
- • Open gear tuners aren’t as precise or stable as sealed gear alternatives.
- • The 5-way switch offers limited tonal variation compared to more complex EQ systems.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 585157
$629
Sterling by Music Man StingRay2 Black
Nut width
40 mm (1.57")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Distinctive Sound
Alternative Styles
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
The Sterling StingRay2 is a fantastic entry point into the Music Man lineage. It's got that classic StingRay punch and growl, perfect for rock, funk, and heavier styles. Beginners and budget-conscious players will find a lot to love with its playability and aggressive tone.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- • Maple neck and fingerboard offer a snappy, articulate feel.
- • Ceramic humbucker delivers a focused, aggressive low-end response.
- • Bolt-on construction ensures easy adjustability and a bright, modern sound.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while good, isn't as tonally complex as mahogany or ash.
- • Fixed bridge limits string-through-body sustain and intonation options.
- • Single humbucker pickup limits tonal versatility compared to multi-pickup basses.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 612689
$384
Every miscellaneous 4-string basses that matches
22 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray4 Chopper Blue | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Frets 21 frets · Body Basswood body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $512 |
| 17 | Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray 4 HH CAR | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body | $617 |
| 18 | Sterling by Music Man StingRay 4 HH MN Olive | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Basswood body | $617 |
| 19 | Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray 4 VSS | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Frets 21 frets · Body Basswood body | $512 |
| 20 | Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray 4 MG | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Frets 21 frets · Body Basswood body | $512 |
| 21 | Sterling by Music Man StingRay2 Misty Green | Nut width 40 mm (1.57") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body | $384 |
| 22 | Sterling by Music Man StingRay2 Electric Blue | Nut width 40 mm (1.57") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body | $384 |
Miscellaneous 4-String Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 408 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,166
from $256 to $4,491
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 762 mm (30") to 864 mm (34.02") · 356 models
Frets
median 22
from 20 to 24 · 220 models
Strings
median 4-string
from 4-string to 4-string · 21 models
Fingerboard
maple, rosewood, ebony
most common · 237 models
Nut width
median 39.2 mm (1.54")
from 38 mm (1.5") to 43 mm (1.69") · 321 models
Neck profile
C, D, V
most common · 50 models
Body
okoume, alder, ash
most common · 301 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 240 mm (9.45") to 508 mm (20") · 128 models
Weight
median 3.9 kg
from 3.2 kg to 4.3 kg · 44 models
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 22 of 408 miscellaneous 4-string basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
How to Choose the Best Miscellaneous 4-String Basses
Budget Planning
- • Under $200: Entry-level
- • $200-$500: Intermediate
- • $500-$1000: Advanced
- • $1000+: Professional
Quality Check
- • Sound clarity & tone
- • Build materials & finish
- • Hardware durability
- • Overall craftsmanship
Key Features
- • Your musical style
- • Skill level match
- • Intended use case
- • Brand reputation
Frequently Asked Questions
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Higher-priced miscellaneous 4-string basses typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.
