Ernie Ball Stingray - NAMM Bass of the Year

What so special about these Stingrays?
Isn't this basically the same bass Leo invented in the 70's?

I give MM props for the Big Al and the Bongo as original ideas (the Big Al being a really original idea and the Bongo body shape was the same IMO).

What was the criteria for these being best in show other than politics?

 

Perhaps a little research on your part, I don’t think anyone here needs to justify it to you.

 

Why so salty??

 

True, but why the snarky approach? I'm curious about what it was that made the Stingray the NAMM Bass of the year, too.

But because I'm genuinely interested in the criteria used to make the decision. Not because I think there was something nefarious involved in the decision-making process.

I think it was a great choice. And it's quite alright if some folks don't agree. No need to get snarky about it either way

 

Well done and well deserved indeed!!

 

It looked like this year had some new and intersting designs at reasonable price points.
I was hoping to see some new guy move up the ladder.
Isn't this the same production bass they have making for years?

 

Interesting, I read elsewhere that the Dingwall D Bird 5 won the gold medal for Best Bass in Show. Not sure what the difference is between the two awards.

 

Nope.

StingRay Special | Basses | Ernie Ball Music Man

 

Far from it, but the visual changes do not tell the story. You need to get one in your hands to really appreciate the changes.

 

Found the specs and I stand corrected.
Sounds like new pe amp design, new pickup(s); also 1 extra fret, and different body contours

Edit: For the record, I like Stingrays. I have an 83' and a 06' and used to have a 96'

 

All that, plus lightweight aluminium hardware, lightweight roasted maple necks and impeccable fretwork. Yet in spite of all that, they still feel like home. All the right junk in all the right places!

 

My 06' is satin finish and feels great.
Sadowsky had said that he didn't care for roasted necks as he felt the wood was unstable.
Looks like MM has had different experiences with this material.

On the Special, is the pickguard painted or did they figure out how to mold a metallic finish onto plastic?

 

They're very good basses.
As for best of the year...

 

Is it an award for that particular bass, or for the new Special line in general?

 

If he removes the moisture doesn't that make it more stable?

 

Best instrument I’ve ever owned or played.

 

Yep, totally different feel. I love mine. For those of us that have them, we know. I’m fine with that staying a small group.