2018 EBMM Stingray Special vs. 2017 and older Stingray years

[Mastermold]

The biggest, most tangible difference is the weight.
They still sound and play like a stingray

I own a '13 SR5 that weighs just 9.0 lbs. I searched for a light one and found it so weight isn't an issue. It plays great, I really like the 3 band EQ and the tones I'm able to get. It's my main 5 string.

I've not owned but played a few Specials, first at NAMM when they were first shown and subsequently in music stores. I've liked every one I've played. They feel great in the hands too, no reason not to get one IMO except the price tag. They are expensive.

 

[darwin-bass]

No, I've not tried them.

Unless you don't care about weight, my theory is the Special is the best - If it doesn't sound quite like you want it you can change pickups and/or preamps and end up with a light-weight bass that sounds just right.

There is nothing you can do to significantly lighten the older models.

By for ergonomics, mod for sound.

 

[LadyLoveStingRay5]

this thread has no pictures

All you had to do was ask.

 

[RumblinThunder]

View attachment 3255396
All you had to do was ask.

drooldrooldrool

Thanx
I was running low on GAS

 

[detracti]

this thread has no pictures

I don't get white pickguards. :/

 

[hyp.spec]

Have a 2015 Stingray 4HS and a Special 5HH. Completely different basses. The 4HS is definitely more aggressive, and if slap is your thing it's awesome. The 5HH is a bit more mellow, but the EQ is phenomal. A true chameleon.

 

[mothra2]

Anyone out there compared the different fretboards and their effect on the sound of the Special?

Please note that this is NOT a "how does maple sound or feel compared to ebony" in general, but rather "is there a noticeable difference on the Special"?

 

[detracti]

Anyone out there compared the different fretboards and their effect on the sound of the Special?

Please note that this is NOT a "how does maple sound or feel compared to ebony" in general, but rather "is there a noticeable difference on the Special"?

No difference that I notice. Just that I can run Rotosound RS66's without fear of fretwear, since they are steel.

 

[SteveCS]

...

I need to get my hands on one and try it. That will be the deciding factor.

I would suggest not doing that unless you have the $$ in your pocket as the decision will only go one way... I tried a handful a few weeks ago - they are not named special for nothing.

 

[Geri O]

I own a '13 SR5 that weighs just 9.0 lbs. I searched for a light one and found it so weight isn't an issue. It plays great, I really like the 3 band EQ and the tones I'm able to get. It's my main 5 string.

I've not owned but played a few Specials, first at NAMM when they were first shown and subsequently in music stores. I've liked every one I've played. They feel great in the hands too, no reason not to get one IMO except the price tag. They are expensive.

I just bought a 2011 SR5, my 5th one, and I always thought I liked the ceramic pups in the ones I had before this one (all 2008s), but I've gotten used to the smoother, slightly less-aggressive tone of the Alnico pups. And yes, I've always liked the 3-band preamp, mostly because of the detents in the tone controls at the flat position. Makes it easier to keep a consistent tone setting (I prefer to keep the EQ at flat anyway).

I would love, love, love to try the new Specials. I'll just have to make a road trip to a city with a store that will have one in stock.

 

[Kevin Wolfe]

Drink the Kool-Aid.

 

[KB5]

I'm just waiting to see if EBMM comes out with a Sterling special. If they do I will probably not be able to resist.

 

[Geri O]

Drink the Kool-Aid. View attachment 3278033

Dang.

Every chance I get....

 

[BigDrew]

I'm just waiting to see if EBMM comes out with a Sterling special. If they do I will probably not be able to resist.

I thought that this was confirmed in a different thread from Scott Ball. Also a redesigned Bongo.

 

[LadyLoveStingRay5]

I thought that this was confirmed in a different thread from Scott Ball. Also a redesigned Bongo.

First I'm hearing if it. But that would be great.

 

[BigDrew]

1. Sep 25, 2018#519
   Scott Ball
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   Anyone know if USA Sterling is being discontinued? Not the lower priced Stingray version, but the smaller, US bass. Thanks!
   Nope, the Sterling will come with some new finishes and appts next year!
   
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   maverick49, BrentSimons, 2 others and Sep 25, 2018#519 like this.

 

[Stevorebob]

I love my Special, and will probably get a second one. I also love my pre-2018 'Rays. They are different beasts that cover some common ground.

The pre-2018s are aggressive and brash. They can be tamed, but they want to snarl, growl and bite. The Specials are easily tamed but can be coaxed to snarl, growl and bite.

If you've never loved a 'Ray, there's a good chance the Special will please you. If you love a 'Ray, you can get Special to do that. But the Special does more and is so much more versatile. If you've wanted a 'Ray to be more like a Jazz Bass, that's the Special.

 

[Stevorebob]

Oh, and there's the weight thing. If 10-11lbs is okay, then a pre-2018 will work for you. If under 9lbs is a must, get the Special.

 

[LadyLoveStingRay5]

Oh, and there's the weight thing. If 10-11lbs is okay, then a pre-2018 will work for you. If over 9lbs is a must, get the Special.

9lbs or less I think he meant.
And yes to this.

 

[Stevorebob]

9lbs or less I think he meant.
And yes to this.

Fixed.