First, condolences on the passng of your mom.I’m an official member here, or as much of a member as can be per the conditions set forth in the first post of this thread.
Several Stingrays have come and gone over the years, including the gorgeous Pearl Green 5H Special I let go in a brief period of uncertainty and I still regret.
This year has seen a few life-changing events, mostly positive, but losing our Mother was a big setback for us, as one can imagine. In the process of my brother and I working to settle her affairs, my brain has developed a craving for simple, uncomplicated ways of doing things. I’m currently at her residence with my go-to bass rehearsing new material for 3 situations (2 bands and church) and for the last couple of days, and out of nowhere, I’ve had a serious craving for another Stingray Special. As much as I love my go-to bass, I realized that it’s on its 3rd set of pickups and 4th preamp. And I can’t figure out why I’ve put myself through that kind of time, effort, and expense. While I love its tone (a Jazz-style bass), something unsettling has set in with it. Maybe it’s knowing that when I have a Stingray Special 5H, it’s positively perfect just the way it is straight out of the box. No “what if…” with the pickup and preamp. It’s there!
So while this isn’t a “hell freezes over” moment, I’m on the hunt for a Hot Honey 5H with a maple fingerboard. New, used, good deal, retail, don’t care. It may be a few weeks as I’m not selling anything to make the purchase. And I’m thinking it will be my go-to bass. Some folks try to make the ridiculous point of the Stingray tone being divisive or “too much”, but my Special 5H was always accepted and complimented when I would bring it bc along instead of my go-to.
I’m not sure why I felt compelled to write all this today, but mainly to say, I’ve missed the Stingray Special chatter here and the folks that participate as well. I see there’s many pages to catch on and as I’m house-sitting for a few more days, there will be time.
And to wax philosophically for a moment, hold the things you love close and the people you love closer. We aren’t here forever. Make your mark!
I look forward to posting of my new Stingray Special Day. Won’t be long now!….
Second, that bass is the kind of bass I’d look for just to drool over it. But I’m an HH guy, so there’s no risk of me sniping one from you. I’ll try to remember to get in touch if I see such a bass for sale.
Third, I’ve gotta agree with you, the Stingray just sounds right as-is. No mods needed! I’ve owned three and none of them ever made me consider changing anything sound wise (I often wish my Honeyburst had a matching headstock, but it’s still one of my lifetime keepers, as are all three of my current Musicmans).
And, finally, looking forward to your NBD post. I *will* drool over it when I see it!
