The Ernie Ball Music Man 50th Anniversary StingRay is a striking tribute to one of the most iconic bass designs ever created. Finished in a radiant Molten Gold with no pickguard to interrupt its brilliance, this limited-edition instrument celebrates five decades of innovation with refined appointments, premium materials, and unmistakable StingRay tone. From its bold aesthetic to its meticulously engineered construction, this anniversary model embodies the heritage and forward-thinking craftsmanship that define the StingRay legacy.
Crafted from resonant ash, the body measures 13-1/2" wide, 1-5/8" thick, and 44-7/8" long (34.3 cm wide, 4.1 cm thick, 114.0 cm long), delivering a balanced feel and commanding presence. The high gloss polyester finish enhances both durability and visual depth, allowing the Molten Gold color to shimmer under stage lights. A Vintage Music Man® top-loaded bridge anchors the strings securely, optimizing sustain and tuning stability while honoring the classic StingRay design.
The neck is carved from roasted figured maple and shaped for speed and comfort, with an 11" (27.9 cm) radius that strikes a perfect balance between vintage familiarity and modern playability. Measuring 1-11/16" (42.86 mm) at the nut and 2-1/2" (63.5 mm) at the last fret, the neck offers a substantial yet comfortable grip. Its sculpted 5-bolt neck joint allows effortless access to the upper register, while the adjustable truss rod can be accessed without removing components or strings—making fine adjustments quick and convenient. Finished with gunstock oil and a hand-rubbed special wax blend, the neck feels smooth and natural in the hand, complemented by a matching Molten Gold headstock for a cohesive look.
An ebony fingerboard provides a sleek playing surface and crisp attack, outfitted with 22 high-profile, medium-width stainless steel frets for exceptional durability and clarity. Elegant gold dot inlays enhance visibility while reinforcing the celebratory aesthetic. The 34" (86.4 cm) scale length ensures classic StingRay tension and punch, perfectly suited for a wide range of styles.
Sonically, this 50th Anniversary StingRay delivers the unmistakable authority players expect. Its single humbucking pickup with neodymium magnets produces powerful output, articulate lows, and detailed highs. The onboard 3-band active preamp, powered by 18 volts of headroom, offers precise tonal sculpting through dedicated volume, treble, mid, and bass controls—providing everything from deep, thumping groove to cutting modern clarity. Custom lightweight Music Man tuning machines with tapered string posts and ergonomic design ensure excellent balance and smooth, reliable tuning stability.
Strung with 45w-65w-80w-100w (Super Slinky Bass #2834) strings, the instrument arrives ready to deliver tight low-end response and vibrant top-end presence. The Ernie Ball Music Man 50th Anniversary StingRay in Molten Gold is more than a bass—it’s a commemorative statement piece that fuses heritage, luxury, and performance into one unforgettable instrument.