Question Value positioning for EBMM models

[Bassguy]

Hi All,

Can someone help me understand where the models line up from most to least expensive? Can you also point out what some of the differences are between the models?

I am trying to understand where the SLO fits in compared to a Sting Ray, would it be considered a step up or a step down and what are some of the differences?

Also, what about a Sterling versus a Sting Ray?

It seems a little weird that there are these 3 models that all see to go for about the same prices on the used market and I am trying to understand it better.

I did do some searching on the net for this info but a lot of what is out there seems to be more opinion based ("I have a SLO and it is the best" type stuff) than fact based.

Thanks,

Rob

 

[JayDawg]

Rob,

You can buy a Stingray or a Stingray SLO special. The SLO special is a Stingray with a Sterling neck, which is slightly thinner. A Sterling bass in comparison to the Stingray has a slightly smaller body, thinner neck, different electronics and has a selector switch.

As far as which one is better, that is all personal choice.

As far as pricing goes, I know the Stingray and Sterling basses are real close in price new unless you get a BFR, Limited Edition or PDN. A BFR stands for Ball Family Reserve. Basically, they are rare basses made from the nicest material and cost more as a result. They are called Ball Family Reserve because these are the type of basses that the Ball family would normally reserve for making for an artist, close personal friend or themselves but they then take that and make it available to the general public. A Limited Edition or a PDN, which stands for Premier Dealer Network are basses that are ordered usually in a 1 month window and are only able to be ordered through certain Music Man premier dealers like Bass Central, The Perfect Bass or Debaldo Music etc. These too are very nice basses.

You then have the other Music Man bass models.

The Bongo. (My personal favorite out of all Music Man models)
Big Al. based off of the Albert Lee guitar
Reflex.
Game Changer. (Research this one and watch videos on it. It is too awesome to describe)
Stingray Classic. Similar to the traditional Stingray but has many features of the original Stingray from the 70's, pre Ernie Ball.
Sabre. Was just re-released at N.A.M.M. a few days ago so I don't have a lot of details yet but rest assured, they will be awesome! Kind of like the Stingray Classic version of the Stingray.

 

[Holdsg]

The "value" side of things is very subjective, of course. But usually the more "stuff" on a bass, the more it will cost. Five strings cost a little more than fours, dual humbucker pickups a bit more than single humbucker pickups, and roasted necks, fancy tops, etc, cost more tan the standard models. I have found EBMM basses among the best value of any American made volume bass manufacturer. That means excluding the custom and boutique builders.

Then you have the Sterling by Music Man family of imported basses, geared at the true value buyer, and priced to compete with similar import lines from other manufacturers.

 

[Bassguy]

Thanks for the info guys, I really appreciate the detail JD, you cleared up a lot for me!

 

[jlepre]

Also in the Sterling by Music Man (SBMM) family you have THE SUB SERIES. This is the BUDGET line and pretty much mimic the EBMM line, but at a MUCH lower price point. Home - Welcome to the Sterling by Music Man Website