Sterling by Music Man Stingray Ray34 - Better than a used EBMM USA Stingray?! - LowEndLobster Review

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  • Опубликовано: 12 сен 2020
  • Looking to snag one of these basses? Use my Reverb affiliate link!- reverb.grsm.io/lowendlobster
    Hey everyone! Today we're reviewing the Sterling by MusicMan Stingray Ray34 single humbucker. This is the top of the line single humbucker model from Sterling, and features some features of last-gen USA 'Rays and one big feature of the current-gen USA lineup - a roasted maple neck! Is this a better deal than a second hand pre-facelift '17 USA Ernie Ball MusicMan Stingray? Let's find out!
    Big thanks to Dom @ ThirdFloorGuitars for setting up my instruments. You can find him at www.thirdfloorguitars.com
    Discord: discord.gg/dzrFMzD
    Facebook: LowEndLobster
    Twitter: @LowEndLobster
    Instagram: LowEndLobster
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Комментарии • 653

  • @trevormacdonald5110
    @trevormacdonald5110 3 года назад +395

    Can we just take a minute to appreciate how much Lobster communicates with his fans. Almost every comment has a heart, and a reply. Even if it's just a thanks, the interaction from this channel makes it one of, if not my favourite for bass content

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +40

      Aw thanks man! I appreciate everyone taking the time to watch and comment. :)

    • @russellzauner
      @russellzauner 3 года назад +10

      it'll change when he hits 10k subs. It's taking a while because some people are allergic to shellfish and it's causing them cognitive dissonance. But unless they're well prepared/experienced everyone hits a saturation point or two when they get sub bumps/spikes or just a hard ramp because there was a viral period of a few days. See: Riot Tourism and Amateur Livestreamers trying to scale OBS when it really won't lol

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +8

      LOL

    • @daltonbell2907
      @daltonbell2907 3 года назад +14

      I told you already Mr lobster, you will go down as the best bass reviewer simply because you communicate with your fans.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +7

      @@daltonbell2907 Aw thanks man :)

  • @DWdawgable
    @DWdawgable 2 года назад +3

    Man... Your videos have quickly become my favorite gear review videos of all time. You're a great player and a great tech. Aaaand... you are the only one I know of who keeps it straight forward and unbiased, no BS.
    I appreciate what ya do. Ya made me need to try out a ray34.
    Keep doing what you do!

  • @elmaiquillol
    @elmaiquillol 3 месяца назад +1

    Best demo and review of this bass series in RUclips hands down! Thank you!

  • @Novataro
    @Novataro 3 года назад +75

    I have a Ray34 and I never thought of putting the EQ all the way down as a starting point. It actually really opens up the voicing options. Thanks for the video!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +3

      Thanks for watching :). Glad you enjoyed it!

    • @honkytonkinson9787
      @honkytonkinson9787 3 года назад +2

      I've got an Ibanez bass with the three band and I tend to keep the EQ turned up kinda high. My SUB I keep turned down quite a bit cause it's so hot. It's a very different bass than anything else I've played; my two other basses are basically a passive P bass and an active J bass

    • @user-mb5qk7gd5i
      @user-mb5qk7gd5i 4 месяца назад

      Yeah, that's why it's only a starting point.

  • @polo_bgu2357
    @polo_bgu2357 Год назад

    There is nothing like your videos, very complete and the enjoy that you put on it, thanks for share your awesome videos and your love for the basses!! I think i'll probably get one of these Sterling Ray 34, these video convince me at all. Gracias totales maestro!

  • @OmegaRectum
    @OmegaRectum 3 года назад +34

    Hey Lobster I just wanted to revisit this video to let you know that I bought this exact bass after watching your review, it's been almost 2 months and every time I pick it up, I fall in love with it again. Thanks again for your review and demo!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +7

      Thanks Tibsahoy! That means a lot :) So glad you're enjoying the bass

    • @temperedOath
      @temperedOath 2 года назад +4

      Yeah here too. It’s friggen awesome.

  • @chriswenkle2635
    @chriswenkle2635 3 года назад +7

    Your videos are just plain fun to watch - and the reviews give plenty of info for us bass players suffering from G.A.S.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      Thanks Chris! Glad you're enjoying them :)

  • @Reddissleepingg
    @Reddissleepingg 7 месяцев назад

    I bought this same bass after I saw your video 3 years ago. Since then, it's traveled all over the US and played many many shows. Thanks for your in depth review!

  • @theologian83
    @theologian83 2 года назад +1

    Thank you so much for this review LowEnd Lobster. Your informed, detailed review of this Ray 34 Bass, and the very detailed and informed video where you compare this to the Ray 24 and the American made Sting Ray bass. I bought the Ray 34 based on this video and haven’t looked back. Yes it’s a bit heavy, but I can tell it’s very well made, plays amazing, and has very versatile tone shaping abilities. You are what makes RUclips awesome!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  2 года назад +1

      Thank you very much! I'm so glad my videos helped you :)

  • @lookingatyouforever
    @lookingatyouforever 3 года назад +2

    0:51 The top of the line Ray34 is cute as hell....Love that tortoise coat! Thanks for reviewing it. I've decided to get one and care for it for the rest of my life. SPCA, here I come!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      HAH! This made my night. Cats rule haha

  • @donaldswan1587
    @donaldswan1587 9 месяцев назад

    You just improved my life! How? Well I don't even have one of these, but a Vintage copy (which for it's rediculously low price is a truly wonderful bass), but the mindset you suggested from Sterling Ball, of starting from pre-amp right down and working from there, gave me instantly improved tones, so thank you for passing on that gem!

  • @carriermonkey4821
    @carriermonkey4821 3 года назад +1

    Sorting out all the stingrays is very helpful Lobster thank you for doing this .

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thanks John! Glad you find these vids helpful :)

  • @arbdistress5592
    @arbdistress5592 6 месяцев назад +1

    Thanks to pointing out the QC issues and the weights. Usually these are overlooked factors when watching reviews on youtube since the appearance and tone are so similar.

  • @ratherbe7
    @ratherbe7 3 года назад +4

    Great review! Bought this same model last year and it rocks! Going to add either the HH model or short scale by years end.

  • @wilfredovazquez2942
    @wilfredovazquez2942 3 года назад +1

    Awesome review. Both are close on the sound. I'm thinking about buy one of those Sterlings now, thanks to you. Greetings from Puerto Rico.

  • @degeest5571
    @degeest5571 3 года назад +2

    I just bought the bass that you show here, very impressed. It feels a lot like a 70’s SR I played years ago. It has that MM sizzle. Love it.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thanks! Congrats on your new bass! They really nailed it with the Ray 34/5

  • @FoamSquatch
    @FoamSquatch 2 года назад +1

    Came back to watch this again. Thinking about getting one of the Ash/trans black and white grain versions of this. I couldn't like the video a second time, so I wanted to at least give you a comment for all the work you put into informing the Bass community.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  2 года назад +1

      Thank you Basturd! Interesting timing, the full review of the Ray34 Ash Black edition is coming out tomorrow :).

    • @FoamSquatch
      @FoamSquatch 2 года назад

      @@LowEndLobster perfect!!!!

  • @Thudmunky
    @Thudmunky 3 года назад +2

    I got one of these bad boys earlier in the year, and all the points you mentioned are the same as mine. My biggest bugbear is the weight, but on a strap it balances well and the tones are to die for. Great video again lobster 🦞🔥🤘

  • @rinaldiankingz
    @rinaldiankingz 3 года назад +2

    Few days ago i saw you wearing choco merch and now you are wearing Nurburgring shirt, which is one of my favorite tracks since Gran Turismo 4 era. Man, i love racing as well.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Awesome! Yeah man, I love me some gaming and cars. I actually got the shirt at the 'Ring back in 2011. I did Euro Delivery of a BMW 3-series and did two laps. Fun and scary! I had previously only driven the ring drunk while in college in Forza hahaha. Sober and in person was very different!

  • @jamessadler3623
    @jamessadler3623 3 года назад +3

    I purchased the exact model used in this demo, and I must say I am very impressed with it.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      Thank you! Glad you're enjoying it :)

  • @blackaccordlx
    @blackaccordlx 3 года назад +5

    Sterling really has come a long way. I dig it!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      They really have! They took off where OLP crashed and burned.

  • @oliverEtxe
    @oliverEtxe 3 года назад +2

    Great video! A lot of tones and very nice phrasing. I have a 2015 Ray 35CA now discontinued. It’s my favorite bass, only two bands EQ. The construction and the sound are very impressive for the price.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thanks Oliver! I'd love to check out one of the 34/35CAs, enjoy yours in health and happiness :)

  • @rolandhauke964
    @rolandhauke964 2 года назад +1

    Thank you Lobster, your videos made the decision to buy a Ray34 HH MN and a Ray34 PB. The best decision, I haven't regretted it for a day.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  2 года назад +1

      Thank you Roland! Great to hear :)

  • @Dalfarrito
    @Dalfarrito 3 года назад +6

    Thank you lobster for making us discover this great instrument! The sound difference between these two are very slight nuances - to my ears at least - . GAS activated haha

  • @robertkerr9738
    @robertkerr9738 3 года назад +4

    Thank you so much for this video. I played one yesterday and was blown away. I’m seriously considering buying it and it’s good to get some confirmation that you share my assessment that this is a great bass and that I’m not crazy! Or, well, we’re crazy together?

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +2

      I'm not crazy! *stares at lobster claw*... I swear! ;P
      You're very welcome, Robert! Glad that you found my findings accurate :)

  • @Nerotique
    @Nerotique 3 года назад +41

    Jatoba huh? Does that mean if you see the fretboard, you become a Jatoba's witness?
    I'll see myself out.

  • @samlelowitch
    @samlelowitch 3 года назад +1

    @LowEndLobster Really enjoying the channel! You make a persuasive case for the Ray34 as it sure does sound good in the video. I personally think the hype around roasted maple seems generally well justified. It looks great, feels nice, and seems to contribute to good bass tone. Your description of Sterling Ball’s suggestion to start with everything off was intriguing. I’ll have to try that.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      Thanks Sam! So glad you enjoyed it :)

  • @liohrt
    @liohrt Год назад +2

    At 11:00, that's probably the best advice you can give to anyone starting with a Stingray, especially the special edition. I own a Special 5 HH and the preamp (especially the bass knob!) is just crazy. In most cases, Bass at 50% (so the theoretical neutral position) is already more than enough. It drove me crazy back in the day when I first bought this bass, and lowering the pickups don't solve completely the "problem", the sound can quickly become too boomy. So starting at 0% and increasing slowly the bass is how I finally got the right amount for all the pickups configurations

  • @stainless641
    @stainless641 3 года назад +47

    Thanks for the great review. Always like to hear how much low end thump a bass has before it gets too woolly, but most reviewers never show this. Everyone else cranks the highs and slaps which really gets annoying. As a bass player I always want to hear the tonal range, so again thank you.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +3

      My pleasure! That's what I'm shooting for. I want the bass to speak for itself, but give my own opinions on things as well. My opinions are my own, but I always hope the bass will do a lot of the talking for me. Thanks for watching and commenting :)

  • @Below-Average_Joe
    @Below-Average_Joe 3 года назад +2

    Great review, Lobster! You really click with Stingray style basses.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +3

      Thank you! They're my latest obsession. Can't get enough of em. I have a FEVAH and the only cure is MORE STINGRAY!

  • @bassbutter4767
    @bassbutter4767 11 месяцев назад

    Great and informative video! I really dug the side by side tests as opposed to 3 minutes on 1 bass & 3 minutes on the other one . On the first 2 side by side test, I thought that the Sterling sounded better and Fulle. The last test I thought that it was a tie. I finally came to the realizasian 2 weeks ago that Music Man & Sterling are my favorite bass guitars! They have a look, the feel and definitely the sound that stomps out all other basses no matter what the price… no matter what the price!!! I'm purchasing a Sterling 35HH in Daphne blue tomorrow! Can't wait!!😊😁🎶🎶

  • @goozrat
    @goozrat 3 года назад +4

    holy cow the mids sound so friggin good! it's so close to that john deacon sound! excellent review!

  • @twinplane8735
    @twinplane8735 3 года назад +1

    I wanted to buy a Sterling Shirt scale Bass,nur after watching this Video of the Ray 34 i Fell in Love with that Bass and Yesterday i bought a Seconds Hand Ray 34 for little money and it's absolutely amazing!
    Thanks Lobster!!!

  • @jonhill783
    @jonhill783 3 года назад +1

    Great video. Love the roasted neck. Think its gonna be my next bass

  • @rondeakin8876
    @rondeakin8876 3 года назад +1

    Brilliant !,this Guy does amazing reviews !

  • @b.ohlenschlager8985
    @b.ohlenschlager8985 9 месяцев назад

    Thank you for your reviews. I am looking after a new budget bass with the real growl. It is you leading me through this process. Sorry about my english, i am german.

  • @NelsonMontana1234
    @NelsonMontana1234 Год назад +1

    I played a StingRay for years until the frets became so worn, they needed replacing -- which often doesn't work out all that well, so I went shopping for a new one. I came across the Ray 34 and was so impressed, I sold my old Sting Ray and used the money to buy a new Sterling Ray and had money left over. For all intents and purposes it's the same bass. By the way -- on natural wood finishes the wood of choice is usually Northern Ash -- which tends to be heavy. My Ray with a honey burst finish is 8 lbs.

  • @ThePunkDit
    @ThePunkDit 3 года назад +6

    Awesome video!
    I bought one of these a month ago and its absolute eye candy with that roasted maple neck.
    I had a sterling sub4 and found the neck to be super thin and really easy to play on but this one feels like a bigger c shape. I've gotten used to it and the tone is killer!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Nice! Yeah the necks between this and the SUB are very different, but are enjoyable in their own way. Love the roasties though. Enjoy em!

  • @jmichaellee
    @jmichaellee 3 года назад +1

    Great videos, Lobster. (And I'm from Nova Scotia where we know a thing or two about crustaceans!) Thanks to you I've found one of these on sale at Musician's Friend and am buying it today. I've enjoyed all of your videos that I've watched so far-including all the MusicMan videos more than once before reaching this decision. I'd echo a comment from below on a bit of pick playing. Best, Mike

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      Thanks Mike! I've started to use a pick more in my newer videos and will definitely revisit some of my 'Rays with a new perspective down the line :)

    • @jmichaellee
      @jmichaellee 3 года назад

      @@LowEndLobster Thanks! I slap very little but pick a good deal, so that's really helpful. Much appreciated!

  • @shoyale
    @shoyale 3 года назад +1

    Your videos are amazing! You convinced me to buy this bass! Best wishes from Germany nearby Nürburgring ;)

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      Thank you Alex! I visited Germany and the 'Ring 9 years ago and I hope to do it again :).

    • @shoyale
      @shoyale 3 года назад +1

      ​@@LowEndLobster Let me know if you are around! Would love to meet up for a jam session :) keep it up! Cheers

  • @Spaceman-mm6od
    @Spaceman-mm6od 3 года назад +2

    Saw this beautiful Sterling Ray34 Ash in the shop 2 weeks and fell in love with it, however it costs $1200 here (europe) :-(. I am in the look for used ones in Reverb but could not find any.
    Anyway, very nice video! I never got bored in the whole 19mins of it. Very good explanation and bass comparison!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thank you Spaceman! :)

    • @Spaceman-mm6od
      @Spaceman-mm6od 3 года назад

      Finally pulled the trigger on this (costs $1100 though) but man this sounds so awesooome

  • @Brotesque89
    @Brotesque89 3 года назад +2

    That's the one I bought in May! Love that bass.

  • @RumblinMan
    @RumblinMan 3 года назад +35

    Man, really nice sound on that Sterling.

  • @kevmac1230
    @kevmac1230 2 года назад

    Good job as always.

  • @jameshouchin5086
    @jameshouchin5086 3 года назад +1

    Thanks for the feedback on the neck!

  • @RayRay-vv7fw
    @RayRay-vv7fw 3 года назад +1

    Thanks for the quick response and feedback Lobster! Appreciate it!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      You got it! Always appreciate questions and feedback!

  • @keithpasculli7465
    @keithpasculli7465 3 года назад +11

    Sounds like a Ray to me. I had an older model ray 34 with a killer blue sparkle finish and a white pearloid pickguard and I thought that it sounded absolutely great. To my ear the US Ray had maybe a little more bite but the Sterling had a nice full tone.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +2

      Thanks Keith! Agreed, the tone is very similar but there are very subtle differences.

  • @user-gj3pf8jo6z
    @user-gj3pf8jo6z 4 месяца назад

    Great review Thank You!

  • @philipmcadam5339
    @philipmcadam5339 2 года назад +1

    Nice looking bass that sounds great. The USA built Stingray sounded bigger, bassier to me when I listened without looking. Thanks for the review, Lobster.

  • @DTaylorGuitars
    @DTaylorGuitars 3 года назад +2

    Wonderful sound and it looks fantastic!

  • @jaydoode15
    @jaydoode15 2 года назад +1

    Hey thanks for the great content. I watched your reviews on many of the Sterling basses. Just got this bass and out of the box it feels great, it is setup much better than the Fender Player P I got, the strings are much better quality than the cheap Fender ones on the P as well. While the Ray34 cost a little more it did come with a nice padded gig bag which is a nice addition. Feels great to play, slaps like a dream and has that sweet Stingray tone that I've wanted for so long!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  2 года назад

      Thanks Jay! Congrats on the Ray :)

    • @diegoesaufranco3257
      @diegoesaufranco3257 8 месяцев назад

      Hi man, I saw in other vids that some people have issues with the tunners or the truss rod, do you have any issues with that?

    • @jaydoode15
      @jaydoode15 8 месяцев назад

      @diegoesaufranco3257 yeah the truss rudd barely turns and the tuning gears tend to get stuck and grind, but other than that the bass still stays in tune with good strings and sounds great!

  • @Idontlikethisever
    @Idontlikethisever 3 года назад +1

    You always sound amazing

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      Thank you! I really appreciate that :)

  • @reubenkinsey2947
    @reubenkinsey2947 Год назад

    Thanks, love all of your video's, as a Bass player to another sounds great 🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸

  • @violetgumibear
    @violetgumibear 2 года назад +1

    Picked up a new one of these for $400, bless up, it just sounds so amazing, and exactly what I've been looking for.

  • @BrendanOriginal
    @BrendanOriginal Год назад

    Dude I love your shirt!!!

  • @ft6755
    @ft6755 3 года назад +3

    Great video! I've got a Sterling SB14 that I got new about 12 years ago, I'm not quite sure where this model fits in the current Sterling/Stingray lineup, but I remember it being around £700 back then, so probably bridged the gap between a Sterling and a Stingray. Great bass, not quite as versatile as I would like it to be but fantastic tones for funk and amazing for slap.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thanks FT! Ah, the SB14. I have an SB4 here that I plan on making some videos on and modding. What you have is essentially the Sterling by Music Man version of the Ernie Ball Music Man Sterling, a model separate to the stingray. The SB14 is an excellent bass which was unfortunately discontinued. Hold onto it, they're really cool!

    • @seanparry2k8
      @seanparry2k8 3 года назад +2

      I bought a sb14 10 years ago for £540 new. Such a shame they discontinued it.

  • @davestreet7191
    @davestreet7191 3 года назад +1

    I like your reviews..thank you for posting.

  • @YvesBelliveau
    @YvesBelliveau 3 года назад +6

    Wow, zoom-out shot... production quality's getting up there, Lobster ;)
    Edit: Little did I know where the video would end up going. Talking basses??? lmao

  • @MusicZtorm
    @MusicZtorm 3 года назад +1

    Thank you for this review ! ( especialy for the comparison with the us model ! ) . I’ve checked the weight of a classic stingray : around 10.5 lbs ;) not too far !

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      So glad you enjoyed this! My classic ray is 10 lbs on the money, and the Smoothie is 9.2. The classic isn't too far off, but the slight increase in heft is noticeable (though not a deal breaker for me IMO.. over 11 LBs would be another story haha)

  • @alesstysanchez1614
    @alesstysanchez1614 Месяц назад

    Nice I just picked up one of these bad boys yesterday. You can feel by the weight that the construction is solid. A bit heavy but the equals tone

  • @josensototorres7070
    @josensototorres7070 3 года назад +2

    Great video!!!! To me the USA sounds a little little clear, but not twice. I own a Ray 35 and I love it. Maybe the USA are more polished but to me they don’t sound twice as good. I appreciate this video. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🇵🇷

  • @plague_doctor666
    @plague_doctor666 10 месяцев назад

    Looking at getting one and this has helped out, cheers.

    • @user-mb5qk7gd5i
      @user-mb5qk7gd5i 4 месяца назад

      Play one first and get one that was built and set up right. I did, abd never looked back.

  • @rattmann3170
    @rattmann3170 3 года назад +4

    Great job Music Man! Yamaha has been doing thumb rest pickups for years. They also have an active passive switch and battery indicator light on the back of the bass. That would be something else great to copy from Yamaha.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thanks Ratt Mann! Great comment, I agree those little innovative touches can add a lot of value.

  • @davegiard2221
    @davegiard2221 2 года назад +6

    Just got a RAY34PB and it is AMAZING. Only complaint I have are that the bushing for the tuners came loose from the factory. Since it is press fit there isnt much you can do, will need to upgrade them for sure but it still holds tuning like nobodies business. Great bass.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  2 года назад +1

      Awesome! Congrats! Enjoy it :)

    • @danschneider9921
      @danschneider9921 2 года назад

      I want to as well. My only issue with mine as well. Hoping someone has some suggestions as to which models/brands work

  • @hodaridaniels8786
    @hodaridaniels8786 3 года назад +2

    Nice looking and sounding bass

  • @logun.watkins
    @logun.watkins 3 года назад +6

    Love the sterling instruments. You seem to like a lot of humbucker Basses, I’d like to hear you play and your thoughts on the G&L kiloton and tribute models.

    • @logun.watkins
      @logun.watkins 3 года назад +1

      Also you should get your hands on a dimension bass!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +3

      Great suggestions! Both are on my radar :)

  • @alexshepherd4705
    @alexshepherd4705 3 года назад +4

    I have had mine since 9/2019. Same exact model, except mine only weighs 9.75 lbs. The roasted maple neck is amazing. A couple of drops of fret oil rubbed into the back of the neck really made a difference. I got annoyed with the output jack not always working with certain cords (import issue). Then I installed a Switchcraft - problem solved. It sounds and plays like a broken in Stingray. I finally don't miss my USA stingray anymore. Its that close.

  • @oskarus3
    @oskarus3 3 года назад +3

    I remember Sterling Ball once said about Bongo bass, that you should start with volume in the middle. I think that it may be also applied to Stingray - that way you are less likely to overdrive your preamp.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      I had my focusrite a little too high on this, but that's not a bad idea. I like his control philosophies

  • @pwhite102
    @pwhite102 3 года назад +2

    it sounded pretty good with everything down. Really interesting.

  • @jerryllucassr6557
    @jerryllucassr6557 3 года назад +1

    I developed the great desire for a Music Man Sting Ray but since I didn't have a lot of money I found a deal on a new Sterling Ray34 with an ash body and roasted maple neck, just like the one you tested. The sound is vastly different from my Fender Jazz Basses and my G&L JB2, at least to me. It kind of feels like a Precision Bass on steroids or coke or something. The neck is almost chunky to me but smooth, especially after I took some Scotchbrite and went over the back of the neck a few times. The pickup and electronics are still showing me new sounds and tones. It seems like a fairly well made instrument. It plays well and feels good, especially after I put on a set of D'Addario ECB80 light gauge flat wound strings, almost like a different bass. I'm still getting used to the bass and so far I like it a lot. The sound, to me, is clearer and cleaner than my other basses and cuts through the mix very well. This old dog has quite a bit to learn with this new "bone", but it's growing on me. It is a bit weighty but not like those old Peavey T40 basses or a couple of 70's Fender Precision Basses made out of the heaviest ash they could find. Thanks for your review it helped. I still don't like the gig bag with which it came.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      Thanks Jerry! congrats on the new bass. The Stingray is definitely a different beast from the J's that you're used to, and the Ray34 is a great example that hits very very close to the pre-facelift US 'Ray! Enjoy exploring all that it has to offer :)

  • @rubenriverarojas7910
    @rubenriverarojas7910 3 года назад +1

    I really love the powerful sound Stingray basses have

  • @jmichaellee
    @jmichaellee 3 года назад +1

    Mine arrived today. Sounds terrific and plays great after an hour or so of filing fret ends. It sounds more like a proper Stingray than my old MusicMan HH every did. But oooh Lordie...11.25 lbs!!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Congrats! Wowzers that's a big bass haha. Enjoy!

  • @CatalystOfFire
    @CatalystOfFire 6 месяцев назад

    Had a black on black Ray35 with the humbucker series/parallel/tap switch on it... And it ruled. It was like $900 and worth every penny.

  • @milosmajinovic8034
    @milosmajinovic8034 Год назад

    Just wanna tell u i started form your 1st video, and I'm going to the end 😁😁😁

  • @Jozef_Drab
    @Jozef_Drab Год назад

    Few years ago I sold my US Stingray cause I thought I would finish playing (too many hobbies). But never say never. Now I have started again, of course, and I am so sad I sold it and for ridiculous price. So after watching your review I guess I will buy Ray34. Thanks for inspiration ;)).

  • @KasimierzOff
    @KasimierzOff 2 года назад +1

    I currently have a Sire Marcus Miller V5, and the neck is roasted too, and I can't enjoy any other bass neck since I got it.
    So seeing a roasted Stingray...
    I mean..
    It's probably the next bass I'll be buying.
    I can't thank you enough for making this video. 🙏

  • @adammadtin8451
    @adammadtin8451 2 месяца назад

    I picked up a used ray 34 about a year ago and I can’t believe how good it plays and sounds. Is very heavy though.

  • @user-mb5qk7gd5i
    @user-mb5qk7gd5i Год назад

    I just picked up a new firemist silver ray34 after watching your review. Yet to plug into my markbass amp as I can't play where I live but using headphones. Loving the tones. Learning to master the tones and eqs. I did t-one oil the neck and headstock. Boy o boy rich chocolate color. Looks great. My bandmates will flip.

    • @diegoesaufranco3257
      @diegoesaufranco3257 8 месяцев назад

      Hi man, I saw in other vids that some people have issues with the tunners or the truss rod, do you have any issues with that?

    • @user-mb5qk7gd5i
      @user-mb5qk7gd5i 4 месяца назад

      ​@diegoesaufranco3257 not as of yet, but have some concern. I let a pro guy set it up and stays in tune long after playing. As I've seen, play one first and get one that is good quality. I've seen some "abused" for lack, that wouldn't be worth it, but find a good one, and you'll be impressed.

  • @hodshonf
    @hodshonf Год назад +2

    my Ray34 is 9.4 pounds. keeper!

  • @suprbird
    @suprbird 2 года назад

    I bought a stingray sub model the newer one and the neck is just too thin. I had one of these basses the ash black edition with the clear pickguard but sold it due to its weight. But they sound and play so good and I missed mine so much that I just snagged one up in Neptune Blue Satin.
    As always, thanks for the great review!

  • @stickplayer2
    @stickplayer2 Год назад

    I've got the EB Stingray, HH 5 string, from 2003. I have to say, that final sound comparison section was convincing -- with eyes closed, I can't tell any appreciable difference in the samples you played.
    You mention the 11+ pound weight. My 2003 is exactly 10.

  • @VeitLehmann
    @VeitLehmann 11 месяцев назад

    The two really sound pretty much the same to me. So definitely a really great option! Now they went up in price new, but they are also very easy to find on the used market, and there have been a lot of different colors available by now. And on top, there's the 5-string version, and both with one or two humbuckers. Sadly, my favorite pickup combination, H/S, has never been released. But if I had to choose, It would be the Sterling Ray35HH.

  • @joshuapaaske3043
    @joshuapaaske3043 3 года назад +1

    I'd love to see you cover a made in usa sterling!

  • @wayneroy6694
    @wayneroy6694 Год назад

    I was wanting a Sting Ray to round out my stable. But I couldn't swing the money. But the Sterlings that my GC carries all have tiny broomstick necks. I found one of these because I heard it had the bigger 'legitimate Ray' neck. And for way less money. Mine is a beast.

  • @hatzili1272
    @hatzili1272 3 года назад +2

    love the Nürburgring shirt

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      Thanks Hatzili! The 'ring is a magical place

  • @mitchellbruce6256
    @mitchellbruce6256 3 года назад +1

    Dope shirt 👌

  • @fredd036
    @fredd036 3 года назад +2

    I just bought a Ray34 on sale for Black Friday and I love it. In this video, it seems like the American StingRay had more high end and sounded a little more clearer. I only heard it on my phone though

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thanks Freddy! The differences are very slight but are there, however I think a lot of those would diminish further when playing in a band setting. The Ray34 is a great value (especially on sale!)

    • @michaelblaney4461
      @michaelblaney4461 3 года назад +2

      I bought one on the black Friday too, not the type of bass I usually go for . but I really like it

  • @XVIIIIVMCMLXII
    @XVIIIIVMCMLXII 7 месяцев назад

    great video and great bass ...by the way I have the Sterling

  • @andrewbecker3700
    @andrewbecker3700 2 года назад +4

    They've gone up to $899 now, but I'd just grabbed a B stock in firemist silver for $749 a mere week before all the price hikes! I have a matching Cutlass CT50 HSS and after awhile the finish on the necks have gotten much smoother once played in. They're both great and cant be beat for the price.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  2 года назад

      Wow! Thanks for the update.

    • @user-mb5qk7gd5i
      @user-mb5qk7gd5i 6 месяцев назад

      Me too a firemist and I love it more each time I play it.

    • @andrewbecker3700
      @andrewbecker3700 6 месяцев назад +1

      @@user-mb5qk7gd5i It's a really hard color to lay down perfectly. The new colors have bigger and more metal flake. Teal almost. Firemist silver reminds me of Corvettes from the mid 70's. Just the right balance of blue and silver.

  • @ianscharaga6639
    @ianscharaga6639 3 года назад +1

    well...I bought it!! this weekend..thanks for "talking" me into it .lol

  • @hudsond3181
    @hudsond3181 3 года назад +3

    That stingray ray 34 looks pretty cool!
    I sent you an email.😃
    Keep up the great work man!!!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thanks Hudson!

    • @hudsond3181
      @hudsond3181 3 года назад +2

      Hey lobster, just wondering if you got my email? 👑🦞

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      I did! Thank you so much! You rock :)

    • @hudsond3181
      @hudsond3181 3 года назад +2

      Oh cool, glad you liked it!! Thanks for making awesome bass guitar reviews and videos!! 🦞👍

  • @danielarcaris8965
    @danielarcaris8965 3 года назад +3

    I would and have chosen the Ray34. Got it new for $500 at guitar center on black friday special.

  • @randomguy5598
    @randomguy5598 2 года назад +1

    Insightful video. I was wondering if the baseline you played at 2:31 was improv or from an actual song because I really liked the groove of it

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  2 года назад

      Thank you Random Guy! That bassline is a little groove I came up with, I've used it in a few videos but it's just something I made up

  • @mikarage3677
    @mikarage3677 3 года назад +1

    great review, just bought a new ray 34 thanks to this video. honestly all ego aside, it's sound 99.9% the same. and with a roasted neck, lighter and more stable. no brainer.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thanks Mika! Enjoy the bass :)

    • @firemarshal2629
      @firemarshal2629 3 года назад +2

      Eyes closed, no one can tell the difference. I bought a HH Sterling Stingray for recording and comparing it to my EBMM, it was apples to apples. Squire and Epiphone should really take some notes.

    • @mikarage3677
      @mikarage3677 3 года назад

      @@firemarshal2629 damn right, i have a sub usa, a 2eq 1990 stingray and a 2017 3eq stingray. The Ray 34 with Ash body sound the same. I've sold all my usa basses and kept the Sterling and will buy another one for Christmas.

  • @phil-good
    @phil-good 7 месяцев назад

    I have always been told the heavier …. The better 😁
    On the favorite setup the US model seemed a bit more mellow and The Sterling one more bite with a bit more mid range but still deep on the bass side.
    The other setup was very similar !
    I got the black Ash with the white grains and looks and sounds really great !!

  • @bepivisintainer2975
    @bepivisintainer2975 3 года назад +1

    This Sterling would do a sterling fretless one once defretted. Sterling job m8!

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад

      Sterling comment as well my friend XD! Thank you :)

  • @lowqualityguitarvideos
    @lowqualityguitarvideos 3 года назад +2

    this sounds great.

  • @zitronenpuppies7225
    @zitronenpuppies7225 2 года назад +1

    Hey Lobster! Great review, sounds great for the price. What upgrades would you recomend on this bass? (Pickup for example..)

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  2 года назад

      Thanks! It really depends on what you want out of it. Stock I think it nails the modern pre '18 Stingray USA tone pretty well. A John East preamp would give you more flexibility over the stock pre, or a pickup swap could get you more in line with that 'Vintage' Stingray tone. It's all up to you :)

  • @thiagodeandradeneves4585
    @thiagodeandradeneves4585 3 года назад +2

    My main bass. I love it. Would love to hear it with different preamps.

    • @LowEndLobster
      @LowEndLobster  3 года назад +1

      Thanks Thiago! Though I won't be modifying this bass, I have modified an SUB (with a second mod coming VERY soon). What kind of preamp would you like to see?

    • @thiagodeandradeneves4585
      @thiagodeandradeneves4585 3 года назад

      @@LowEndLobster Yeah, I'm following the SUBs series. There's a video here in youtube where a guy called Kleber shows his EBMM Ray with Seymour Duncan pickup and preamp which I like very much, sounds so good and still very true to the MM sound.

  • @JoeMarks-od4wv
    @JoeMarks-od4wv Год назад

    I really appreciate this particular video. I have always played Fender Jazz basses except for my favorite bass of all time "Ibanez Blazer Bass" It was stolen after a gig. It was the girl that got away, I was distraught and broken-hearted. They are so hard to find now. So, I started looking at the StingRays and realized I don't want to spend that much on a bass that I haven't played much. The Ray34 looks and sounds great and it's priced to sell. The tone controls are great and allows me to rock out or pop and slap all day long. I really like it. The only thing I don't like is the pick guard that came with it. I'm struggling to find a replacement pick guard made specifically for the Ray34. The pick guards I see online are for the Ernie Ball Stingray, Those bodies are bigger than the Sterling bodies. Can anyone tell me where to find those pickguards? And where can I find an Ibanez Blazer for me to re-kindle my first love? Hahaha! Thanks again Mr Lobster