Custom contour Musicman Stingray Classic 5?

[sheeny]

Hi, just putting it out there for some feedback.

I have a bass that I'm basically in love with except for one thing. The slab body of my Musicman Stingray 5 Classic.

I'm seriously looking at introducing a tummy and forearm contour like its cousin the MM SR5 (which I also own). I tried a alternative strap lock location (like the spector). Needless to say, it helped a little bit but not enough.

Not sure why anyone would prefer a slab body over a contour, as the distinct lack of forearm contour just niggles away while I'm performing.

I do intend to hold onto it for a long time, but I'm also interested in the impact on the resale value nonetheless.

Its a natural gloss finish, and I'll refinish it exactly as it was.

Thoughts?

 

[mouthmw]

If it bothers you, I'd say do it. I've seen a few USA SUB basses (also slab) with added contours, but those were refinished since they have that specific textured matte finish. If you have the know how and the tools, and it's a keeper, heck yea, go for it. I haven't done such permanent changes to my basses, but I have zero qualms about changing pickups/electronics in my basses. Value impact? Yes, that's definitely to be expected.

Another option would be to grab another MM SR5 and replace the electronics with a Stingray 2 band preamp. Perfect replacement would be something like John East 3 band preamp. I have it in my 3 band ray and it nails the vintage 2 band Stingray preamp (it's a '76 replica). But then you lose the Classic Stingray looks.

 

[sheeny]

Thanks mouthmw! I think that if the contours and an authentic refinish in Polyester is done right ( I mean really right) , I cant see why the value would be too far depreciated? The fact that it's an "improvement" as far as comfort is concerned would be a big plus for any prospective purchaser. I do know now, that I would definitely lean more towards buying a "contoured" classic over an original slab body. I've noted also on a few other forums that the slab body without contours is an obvious disadvantage. Notwithstanding, the original untouched bass is based on the "authentic" classic body style, and some prefer that.

 

[liverbird]

Don't do it. You're essentially paying to devalue your bass.

And no, prospective buyers - should you ever decide to sell it - will not see it as an 'improvement'.

 

[Double Agent]

If you KNOW you're in it for the long haul, do what you want. But, I would always advise caution as TB classifieds are filled with basses whose owners "never thought they would sell this one".

Why not trade it for a regular SR5? They aren't exactly the same, but they aren't exactly miles apart either.

 

[sheeny]

Okay, I finally bit the bullet. I was not going to stand there and just look at an incredibly uncomfortable Stingray 5 Classic. Sure it looked beautiful and it sounds incredible, but it was too heavy and that slab body was just killing me.

Sooooo, I recently disassembled it, stripped it right back, contoured it like I wanted, new two pack vintage tint epoxy coating, reassembled it, and NOW its PERFECT.

Check it out:

Cheers, Sheeny.

P.S. Haters will hate, but it's mine and I totally dig it now!

 

[DonaldR]

I wish they offer 5 strings Stingray with that body as a production model.
Good job!

 

[madscientist]

Older thread, but... that tummy contour is solid work!