• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Differencw between MusicMan Stingray and Bongo?

#4
Well, imo the Bongo is a million times more versatile than the Stingray. However, 70% of bassists seem to have a huge problem with the Bongo's looks. I don't mind them one bit. The bongo is the most comfortable bass I have yet played.

But I like Stingrays too. They may not be as versatile, but if they capture the one sound you use perfectly, why would one need versatility? ;)
 
#8
If the Stingray is an HH or an HS, it's as versatile as the bongo. Soundwise, the stingray is funkier sounding. Not sure how to really describe it, but it's warmer and rounder sounding than the Bongo. The Bongo has it's own unique thing going on though - so your best bet is to play and listen to them both. Stingray weighs a little more, and the neck is unfinished. The finished neck on the Bongo feels smooth to me though and to be honest, I don't really even notice the difference. Both are great slapping basses, I prefer the Stingray although the maple fingerboard on mine might have something to do with it. My $.02. And worth every damn penny of it!!!!!!
 
#9
It's easier to list the similarities. Tuners, bridge, and some colors. Maybe fret wire? They're totally different basses IMHO. I don't care too much for the Stingray. The Bongo is much better. Too bad it's ugly. I've said before and I'll repeat. EBMM needs to take the feel and tone of the Bongo and repackage it in a conventional looking instrument. They'll sell a million of them.
 
#10
-For a "grind" sound, nothing can beat a Sting Ray. Incredibly comfortable to finger, pick, or slap. It's a slap machine. For some reason, I can play faster on a Sting Ray than any other bass (possibly excepting the Geddy Jazz).

-Bongos are just plain cool. Incredibly versatile, very comfortable, and one of the coolest looking basses there are (especially the Stealth).

Both are awesome, but distinct.
 
#14
the difference is, bongo's are extremely tasty and go perfectly with soup,... oh wait,.... I'm getting them confused with.............




head-prd_goldfish.jpg
[/IMG]
bongo.jpg
[/IMG]



easy to see where my confusion happened huh? :hiding: :D
 
#15
I own a Sterling HS so I might be missplaced here but IMO they're both awesome basses.
I think a Ray HS or HH will give you plenty versatility, but still, they wont necessarily nail each other's sound.
If I was doing studio work then I might even go with the Bongo, but as long as I have to go play my instrument in front of crowds, I'll stick with the one that won't give people the urge to throw fruit at me...
 
#17
I had a Bongo 5 HHP for a while. I think it was too much bass for me - too many bells and whistles, I felt like I needed to take some kind of course to get a good sound out of it. In a more competent set of hands, I'm sure it was just the ultimate, but it made me crave simplicity. Some people love that, though; it can essentially do anything you ask it to.

The looks were a different issue entirely. There is the whole toilet seat thing, yes, but buttercream and stealth versions are pretty sexy, if you ask me.
 
#18
Greetings Group!

I have the pleasure of owning both a Bongo 5 HH and a couple of Ray 5 HH.

Hands down, the Ray 5 HH is more versatile. In the middle lever position you have close to what a Bongo sounds like with both pu's on. The Ray 5 HH will make 5 very distinct sounds and the EQ is very effective and easy to use.

However, nothing beats the Bongo for sheer power, clarity, and depth of tone. Put on a set of HiBeams and you are all set.
 
#19
I think it really depends on which of the two models you're comparing. Both are available in H, HS, and HH pickup configurations. Then there's even a Piezo option too.

For what its worth I've owned several single H StingRays and a HH Bongo. All were excellent basses but I have to admit, I loved the Bongo the most.

IMO the single H Bongo is best of the bunch. Its simple and straightforward like a classic StingRay, but with all the modern refinements of the Bongo.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back