Greetings from South Korea. IMHO, new version of Stingray has smoother and mellower midrange than the old one…I think that’s why it has more ‘open’ sound. I like both of them, but my choice is the old version; it has more agressive ‘bite’. BTW, my name is pronouced ‘KWON CHANG WOOK’.
The new doesn't snore like the old. There are more gain and also bass... Great sound! But the oldest still has characteristics that better define stingray.
Thank you for taking the time to do this. The comparisons are big. They're both a Stingray sound but the new one is warmer and rounder sounding generally. The classic one is more aggressive of a sound.
I gotta agree there. That said the new one does sound more girthy across the board to my ears, probably due to the 18v preamp. I have a 2013 stingray though and have played the specials in store and I wouldn't say the specials were made for Stingray lovers to upgrade but rather to entice stingray detractors to give them a shot due to a lot of the ergonomic and aesthetic upgrades. It's more competitive in the modern bass market but nobody should be throwing away their old Rays
For me that amount of fret buzz on Stingray has always been a "normal characteristic". It's strange, because on most other basses I would not tolerate it, but for Stingrays it just "fits".
Fingerstyle: New Stingray Pick: New Stingray Slap: Old Stingray The 2018 Stingray is much warmer and more punchy while the old one is brighter and has more clarity. Also that "trebly sizzle" that Stingrays were often associated with seems to be gone in the newer Stingrays which, to me, is a blessing since I hated that sizzle. I like bright basses but not bright to the point where your ears are ringing...that's what loud obnoxious guitarrists who crank their gain are there to do. However, for slapping, brightness is always a plus since the notes become more defined and everything sounds more lively. I'd compare the old Stingray to a tiger roaring at you, plenty of growl and agressiveness but not really a "threat" that's in your face. The new one is like a lion roar, it's very punchy and you immediately feel the fear rushing through your veins. A lot more bottom end as well.
I agree, but only because of the gain on the new Stingray, it can be reduced a bit and it would sound better as well, basically it's a 3/3 for new Stingray if you ask me, and yes I am surprised to see myself admit that because I thought the old one would be better, I was wrong
Now, THAT'S HOW A REVIEW IS DONE! I despise when a reviewer doesn't pay attention to details, such as new/old strings. Also, when a reviewer doesn't PLAY THE SAME PASSAGES, COVERING ALL RANGES OF THE TONAL SPECTRUM. Big thankS, for using simple, rational thinking when it comes to making a comparison/shootout/review video for basses, instead of letting the ego take over, just to end up wanting to play all the 'look at me blaze away' bullshit chops. By playing clean, simple lines that cover the highs/mids/lows in a bass review/comparison, allows me to even distinguish the differences in tone/attack from my cellphone speakers! And, by doing just that, it just tells me that the reviewer is an experienced, mature player that has complete confidence in their skills, and knowledge of pro-quality gear. As a bassist with over 35 years of pro studio/gig experience..... I'm sub'd for life. Keep up the great work!
Only those who don't play through a tube amp would go for the new version the original has unlimited tones more presence and definition the new version sounds like it's playing through a cheap solid state amp but with the original it sounds better through any amp
Which one is your favorite? NOTE: On both the Fingerstyle and Pick tests, after MID CUT, it should say TREBLE BOOST on the bottom, Not MID BOOST. That is just a mistake on the text.
@@wisecountryman49 Ah come on, don't be naïve. The difference between them comes from the different pre-amp (18v vs 9v headroom) and the different pickup. Wood, if even a factor, is barely noticeable among all that.
With the old one, the harmonics sound better without the cut or boost... the slap sound different, I enjoy the old one better. The new one sound less mid and treble focus and more balance, but it still retains the musicman stingray sound. The old one is just the OG sound people know and love from the MMSR, personally I really love the Mids of the old a bit better in my opinion. Me just thinking, I would use the Old one for the studio stuff because you can cut in a mix better, and the new one live, just the reason been I believe the sound guys are going to have an easier job with it. I still love them both... amazing sounding basses. Thanks for a great video Marcelo! Blessings!
I like the new one better. It has more headroom. and more smooth sound. And it weighs less than the old one, it is what I heard about it, I did not play either one.
Like the tightness of the high end on the newest model but torn on the low end . I think the low end on older model cuts through and sounds better. Combine the both of them and you’ll have Bass guitar magic!
It's actually the opposite, it's more mellow and has less character if you ask me. The old ones snarl, the new ones are perfect for old timer cover bands and for more boring generic tones.
I think the main difference is the action of the bass.... In the old one the action is a lot lower u can hear a lot of fret buzz that gives the impression of more bite IMO
I think the older one for me. I can get more mid-range out of it from EQ. It was cutting through too much and maybe a problem with mixing it with a track. Thanks for the great demo.
The new Stringray definitely sounds more open and bright in any kind of setting. The old Stingray sounds more as if the action is lower then on the new Stingray. I like them both but the sound of the old Stingray has my preference!!
I did an interesting experiment. Take the Stingray Special sample with FLAT EQ and make the following adjustments Level -3.0dB, Peaking EQ f0 = 4500Hz, +9dB, Q=2 (I'm sure with more tweaking I could get a closer match). The Re-EQ'd Stingray Special sounds a lot like the Old Stingray 3-band sample with FLAT EQ. So I'm guessing they pulled the 2.2nF cap which is across the pickup on the OLD Stingray. The cap contributes to the "OLD" sound.
I think the new Special sounds way better. Very clear. I got to play a special 5 string last week and I was amazed by the definition of every note, even on the low B.
I am blessed to have an old version of the SR5. I love my old SR5. I like the design and how thet made the new one lighter but for the tone itself.. i prefer the old one. Shout out from the Philippines. Thanks for the review i almost put on sale my old SR5. Lol
Great Review!! Thanks!! I think the New Stinray's definitely has more head room due to 18V preamp. While older stingray sounds more "agressive" I think new Stingray's preamp sounds more "musical" IMO whether eq's cut all the way or boosted all the way, all tones sounds more "useable". Whereas on the old Stingray, certain tones are way too agressive or toned down it's almost unusable.
This was great, and definitely helped me make an informed purchase on a Stingray Special 5! The improved comfort of the body was honestly the game-changer for me. I've had Ernie Ball basses in the past, but they've always felt large, bulky, and angular to me, especially as a smaller person used to playing smaller, contoured basses like Warwicks and Spectors. I've always loved the tone, but man, the new Stingray Special body shape has made me a Stingray fanatic again!
Great review, many thanks Marcelo! I had a ´89 Stingray 5 rosewood fingerboard and I now have the Special series Burnt Apple finish with roasted maple fingerboard which definitely takes that to a higher level. Much more versatility, definition and clarity both on stage and in the studio being able to obtain the MM classic sounds as well with the right EQ adjustment, plus the option of mellower tones very useful for R&B, Pop or Jazz & Fusion gigs. The EQ has been improved a lot compared to the old version and it responds better to any minor changes. The new structure changes also boost this new series way ahead the old one, the rounded light weight body , new neck contour, 11" radius fingerboard and 22 frets with a deeper heel allow more accurate execution overall. In your previous clip you mentioned the roasted maple thingy, well the trick is that this is a wood treatment method that opens the fibers, it actually changes the molecular structure of the wood blank making it more resonant by slow drying in a special oven. In other words, it makes a new instrument sound like an old one that has been already dried due to its age. So taking all these details into account I consider the Special series a real upgrade to the old series. In the end it´s the player that makes the real difference. All the best!
I listened from a FOH standpoint. If I were mixing the new Stingray I would pay attention to the warmer mids coming from it. Also the new one has a little more mud at the low end. The old Ray is a little more distinctive. If I had to mix for a bass solo, I want you to be playing the old'er bass. Now as a bass player I want the new one. I tried one yesterday. I like the weight, the neck and I'm starting to use the mids alot more and that warm sound from the new one is perfect.
I appreciate you posting this, my man. You're a great player. I've owned multiple 'Rays and I always ended up selling or trading them because I just wasn't feeling them. With this refresh, EB addressed almost every "issue" I had with the SR! Your video really highlights how much better the new SR is with most styles. I kind of agree with the poster that said the slap sound wasn't as "tight" with the settings you used, but I'm guessing that's not your preferred slap settings and the new SR can probably dial up a stronger slap tone with that sweet EQ. I just ordered a new SR5HH. Keep killin' it, bro!
I am curious as to how you like your new SR5HH? Have you figured out a way to drastically improve the slap sound? I was pretty sold on the new one until the slap section of this video. I am curious as to your findings.
@@barrylafever Hey. Well, I can definitely say that the slap sound of the new SRS is BEASTLY! If you dial up the "traditional" slap EQ(Bass & Treble boost/Mid cut), It's fantastic. The bass is deeper and the highs aren't as harsh, so the slap tone cuts without being obnoxious. It also seems to work in almost every pickup setting(using full Bass & Treble boost with both pups on can get really BIG, which ain't bad at all, but might skew a mix a little bass-y). It's not as "aggressive" as the old 'Ray, but it still sounds like a StingRay, and, to me, it sounds better...even slapping!
After watching this video again, I still prefer the old Stingray by far. More bite, growl, and presence. That's what made the Stingray so appealing in the first place in IMHO. No worries about getting lost in the mix ever!
Good Review, my only criticism is the old Stingray is in need of a set up. Alot more fret buzz than the new one which gives the new one substantially more clarity. Both sound great though! I need one asap!
The pre-amp on the new Stingray makes it louder than the older Stingray. I personally like the sounds from both models. Just wish it came in a L-handed version. I'm just learning to play the bass. And I've got a Sterling by Music Man SUB Ray 4, & a Sterling by Music Man Ray 4. I like both very much.
The new sting is less sting. You can love or hate the original, but it's unique. The new one sounds like many other basses. But the sting has to be not just a bass like others, it has to be the sting!
Great A/B comparison, very helpful, thank you for that. First impression of the new Stingray is WOW!! The new one sounds so much bigger than the old model, finger style and pick are simply amazing. I have the old Stingray 5 and love it, but really want the new one.
It looks like Rosewood fretboard on the old one and Ebony on the new one. I think I prefer the new one, but they should both not make much difference in the mix if not compared side by side
Hey Marcelo. I got a EBMM SR5 Special and only an old 3BAnd EQ 4 String SR to compare with...even though my old one got one sting less, the similarities to your comparison are obvious. The Specials sound softer with less high/high mid bite and a bass control, that gets really really boomy if you turn it all the way up.The Special even sounds more old-school than the standard 3Band EQ models to me. Your "old" SR5 has the typical 90`s/early 2000 Rock/Funk tone to me, wich I really like.
Great video! As the owner of 5 Stingrays dating from 1991 to the new 2018 model, my Fav is the new model. I love the aqua sparkle! My only complaint is I miss the old chunky bridge for aesthetic reasons only :)
I feel a better balance when you are changing the EQ with the new one, but every single time you compared both using flat EQ I simply loved the oldest one
The new Stingray sounds like it would be much more useful in the studio than the classic. Probably more so than even a Fender P-Bass. I really like how they smoothed out the tone.
I like it I just am not loving the pick guard I love the original teardrop pickguard thars on my Tobacco Burst im a Sterling and Music Man fan for life my favorite Bass!!
I like how the Special's preamp has a more refined EQ: the bass isn't as boomy (I love low end, but boosting the extreme lows too much just makes things boomy and indistinct), the midrange is voiced a little higher so that it's not as "honky" (or when cut the scoop isn't as drastic), and the treble is a little lower so that it's not quite as "ice pick-y" when boosted. The regular Stingray probably has a larger variety and more extreme sounds compared to the Special, but overall the Special has both more warmth and clarity in all EQ settings.
Not sure if you're comparing a 9v circuit with an 18v but the new one sounds louder on all counts and mighty fine all round! What would be really interesting is a direct sonic comparison between a genuine Louis Johnson era vintage 2 band and your new one. I know there's an extra string and mid sweep involved but would be fascinating to hear a really detailed comparison like you did here especially on the slap tone!
Great job comparing these two basses. Pretty subtle differences and I think that I would characterize them differently than less aggressive. I think that the high end is a bit more even and I think that the low end is fuller and more balanced. I have owned three different Stingray 5 basses and I played them because like the aggressive tone so I am glad that that is still intact.
It feels like the range of usable sounds on the new stingray is wider, whereas the older one has a more aggressive cut and boost for each band. Either the new model has a wider Q for the eq controls or the older one has a much more powerful eq. Also seems like they affect different frequencies looking at the mid boost comparison. The flat sound is also quite different. Namely the classic seems to have a much more aggressive scoop than the new one. I think it kind of depends, but the better all-rounder seems to be the new one. I could see myself using the old one just as well though. I think it's mostly preference.
The new one is different in many ways starting with the pick ups. Neo pick ups are powerful at many levels and the preamp is quite different. Is another instrument rivaling only by Foderas and Alembics and those basses doesn't have Neo pick ups unless they already did the switch.That's why I bought it and with such short runs for the DarkRay, it was meritorious to hit it with a credit card purchase along with a Mark Bass combo amp loaded with two Neo 10 inch drivers. It was a solid investment.
Thanks a lot for answering the our questions, Marcelo! I surely can hear a lot more mids on the new stingray, and a little less treble (the old one sounds almost scooped in comparision, set flat). Also, I would say the mid voicing in the new preamp is more low mid focused, while the old preamp is more hi mid oriented. I guess you could say the old one is a tiny bit more agressive while the new one is a little more vesatile. The new one has a litle more gain too (18v versus 9v).
Thanx, for this. I truly am interested. I have a older 4H. your older model reminds of that. The new model is the one I would gravitate towards. More overall controlled sonically. I believe the newer pickups & slight changes in the preamp, w/the addition of 18 volts. Give a tighter sound. I always thought StingRays were slightly “bass shy”, straight out of the bass. The new model is the new king. Hopefully I can purchase a 5HH. Note:I’ve heard Leo designed the original preamp w/that high end, because @ that time he was losing some of his hearing.
Wish you had adjusted the old StingRay's neck to get rid of excessive fret buzz-it would have sounded better. Congratulations to Ernie Ball for improving the StingRay! I love the metallic paint job-should look killer under stage lights. Thanks for video!!
Thank you for that test, I would prefer if you choose to switch the humbucker from serie to single coil to parallel than boost or cut the EQ. In this test you're on the serie mode all the time which is already nice but ... would like to hear more. For me it's. Finger style: new one Pick : new one Slap: old one
Having owned a 76 Musicman for years,and having played in many Bars,and medium to large outdoor gig/festival settings my opinion is the older one in every situation, in a real concert setting,the old stinger cuts through in spades anyway.Having said that its each to their own, Exchange the new one for an old school P orJ and youll have the full arsenal.
That's definitely in the setup and not a consistent sound for the guitar. Stingrays tend to have that jangly clanky sound but my SR has zero fret noise/buzz unless I'm really digging in.
Guess that 18v really makes a difference. Just more full, present, and open. Wish both had the same volts so we knew how much was the 18v and how much was the hardware, new pickup, and roasted maple neck.
Hi Marcelo, nice comparison done well as usual. ! Honestly I prefer the old Stingray because I find it fuller, more mid-bass than the new one which seems louder and focused on the mid-highs. This of course is just my humble opinion. See you soon and keep it up.
Very cool review, one would think it's easy to do it right, but so many don't do a proper comparison like this My preferences: Fingerstyle: the new one. Slap: the old one. Pick: any as long as there's a mid boost.
I think that when you use pick and fingers the new version is more defined, however, I need the old fretted sound (probably the strings of the new version are higher), I prefer the old one in the slap, thank you very much, great job
Super tough call to say which is better! The new Ray sound like it has a modern mid boost which is awesome but bringing the bass up made it sloppy to my ear. The old Ray sounds better with the bass up, sounds flatter with the treble down. I like them both and think they're different animals, neither replaces the other.
Cool comparison tenx. I own also older black stealth 4 and 5 string. I opted for the double humbucker but for the next I'll take the single hum one. Why did you go for the single hum? Tenx😎🤘
The controlled mids and smooth highs are nice on the new Stingray. It also seems the eq is not as dramatic, as far as boosting and cutting goes, on the new Stingray. It would cut well through a mix without a lot of work involved. Great comparison video👍
Damn. Its almost like youre comparing a Sterling sub to an Ernie Ball. The new one wins in every comparison imo. Deeper, warmer, richer, clearer in every positive way. A clear winner in my book
The new bass is a beast, very difficult to tell the difference, the older model is by far no slouch the new bass is the undisputed champion of this contest in my opinion, because its new enhancements.I would love to own it. The sound is bitching crAzy 😜
So I am struggling. I have a 1976 stingray which I love for slapping and stopped playing it because I feel like I lose the roundness on the g string when finger playing. I thought something was wrong with the pickup. I just picked up a 5 string 2014 stingray. And in a live scenario just like my 1976 the g string gets lost (too thin) 1. does anybody notice this characteristic? 2. Does anybody, including Marcelo think the new Special H addresses this concern?
I thought that the tone on the new one was better when playing with your fingers, but it was the opposite when playing with a pick. The old model had better tone with that. When you switched to slap technique, the new model seemed a bit more "open", but it was a bit harder to tell with that much action going one. Thanks for the comparison. It was informative.
One of the reasons why I never really went with Stingrays is because I always thought they were too bright for my tastes, but the new one is definitely has a bit more of a darker tone. Which I personally like.
I like the new one on all settings has a much fuller and smoother sound. I was thinking about one of these for a slap bass, with that in mind, the old one has much more pop and and funkier sound.
I believe the older MusicMan sounds better between the two. IMO the newer one doesn't have that true MusicMan sound (as much) based on your video. The new one does sound smooth which is nice, but I prefer the aggressive/punchy sounds of a MusicMan. Flea was the reason I originally bought my SingRay back in 91 (which I still have). Thanks for making this video.
Bravo from the UK 🤘 These basses are just arriving in the shops in England. The tone on the the new Stringray seems to be less metallic than the old style but this could be because of the older magnets in the older bass pick ups? Just a guess. I love the tone of the new Stringray though and can't wait to see the 4 string apple burst single H that a shop near me has ordered. New Stingray for me all day long! 🇬🇧
The new one... And not just because mine delivers Tuesday lol. I think the new one picked up a rounder tone but still has the magic Music Man tone. It's flat tone more like how I eq my current MM with a smidge more low mixed in. Really dug the side by side comparison. Tuesday can't get here fast enough...
IMO every new update to the SR5 has done something to tame the pre-amp a little and make them have a smoother sound/less aggressive. They’re are starting to sound more and more like a really, really good jazz bass. Not a bad thing, but not the super aggressive ceramic pup SR5 tone I love.
The EQ cut across the board sounds way less drastic with the new one though which I think is a good choice. When you cut the mids on the old one your sound dies!
Since the "New" StingRay Special doesn't have staggered polepieces to match the fretboard-radius anymors, the string to string volume seems to be a bit out of balance. The outer strings B+G are a bit louder than E, D and A. The A-string is the weakest. Thats what i found out as a long time SR5 player. Nontheless I like the new one because of the lower weight and the updated shapings.
Greetings from South Korea.
IMHO, new version of Stingray has smoother and mellower midrange than the old one…I think that’s why it has more ‘open’ sound. I like both of them, but my choice is the old version; it has more agressive ‘bite’.
BTW, my name is pronouced ‘KWON CHANG WOOK’.
I like this comment because i just bought the "old" stingray just before the new one came out😂
!
@@jackfitzgerald5291 I did the same thing :)
Yes it seems the new one has less clarity. I wonder if its the difference in the neck or possibly aluminum vs steel tuners
The new doesn't snore like the old. There are more gain and also bass... Great sound! But the oldest still has characteristics that better define stingray.
Thank you for taking the time to do this. The comparisons are big. They're both a Stingray sound but the new one is warmer and rounder sounding generally. The classic one is more aggressive of a sound.
I think the main reason I prefer the new one in this demo is that you have it set up properly. You're getting a lot more fret buzz on the older model.
I gotta agree there. That said the new one does sound more girthy across the board to my ears, probably due to the 18v preamp. I have a 2013 stingray though and have played the specials in store and I wouldn't say the specials were made for Stingray lovers to upgrade but rather to entice stingray detractors to give them a shot due to a lot of the ergonomic and aesthetic upgrades. It's more competitive in the modern bass market but nobody should be throwing away their old Rays
he uses the old one for slapping more than the new one so he sets the action lower to slap easier thus allowing fret buzzes to happen
For me that amount of fret buzz on Stingray has always been a "normal characteristic". It's strange, because on most other basses I would not tolerate it, but for Stingrays it just "fits".
I was surprised how much different they do sound from each other! The new model seems more clear and defined--less buzzy!
Fingerstyle: New Stingray
Pick: New Stingray
Slap: Old Stingray
The 2018 Stingray is much warmer and more punchy while the old one is brighter and has more clarity. Also that "trebly sizzle" that Stingrays were often associated with seems to be gone in the newer Stingrays which, to me, is a blessing since I hated that sizzle. I like bright basses but not bright to the point where your ears are ringing...that's what loud obnoxious guitarrists who crank their gain are there to do. However, for slapping, brightness is always a plus since the notes become more defined and everything sounds more lively.
I'd compare the old Stingray to a tiger roaring at you, plenty of growl and agressiveness but not really a "threat" that's in your face. The new one is like a lion roar, it's very punchy and you immediately feel the fear rushing through your veins. A lot more bottom end as well.
Totally agree. The old Stingray had that classic "Stingray" slap sound. The new one....sounded like something else.
I agree, but only because of the gain on the new Stingray, it can be reduced a bit and it would sound better as well, basically it's a 3/3 for new Stingray if you ask me, and yes I am surprised to see myself admit that because I thought the old one would be better, I was wrong
Of course, slapper needs more high-mid frequency which is reduced in the new one
I think the new eq is much more useful and it can fix the “minus” with the slap tone
agree
Now, THAT'S HOW A REVIEW IS DONE! I despise when a reviewer doesn't pay attention to details, such as new/old strings. Also, when a reviewer doesn't PLAY THE SAME PASSAGES, COVERING ALL RANGES OF THE TONAL SPECTRUM. Big thankS, for using simple, rational thinking when it comes to making a comparison/shootout/review video for basses, instead of letting the ego take over, just to end up wanting to play all the 'look at me blaze away' bullshit chops. By playing clean, simple lines that cover the highs/mids/lows in a bass review/comparison, allows me to even distinguish the differences in tone/attack from my cellphone speakers! And, by doing just that, it just tells me that the reviewer is an experienced, mature player that has complete confidence in their skills, and knowledge of pro-quality gear. As a bassist with over 35 years of pro studio/gig experience.....
I'm sub'd for life. Keep up the great work!
THIS!
Man. This is a tricky one. I really like both of them.
The new one is so much more musical. Must. Get. This. Bass.
Only those who don't play through a tube amp would go for the new version the original has unlimited tones more presence and definition the new version sounds like it's playing through a cheap solid state amp but with the original it sounds better through any amp
Which one is your favorite?
NOTE: On both the Fingerstyle and Pick tests, after MID CUT, it should say TREBLE BOOST on the bottom, Not MID BOOST. That is just a mistake on the text.
i prefer the old version
Well you know you can't comapre them. The wood has differnt age, and that makes a lot of difference.
@@wisecountryman49 Ah come on, don't be naïve. The difference between them comes from the different pre-amp (18v vs 9v headroom) and the different pickup. Wood, if even a factor, is barely noticeable among all that.
With the old one, the harmonics sound better without the cut or boost... the slap sound different, I enjoy the old one better. The new one sound less mid and treble focus and more balance, but it still retains the musicman stingray sound. The old one is just the OG sound people know and love from the MMSR, personally I really love the Mids of the old a bit better in my opinion. Me just thinking, I would use the Old one for the studio stuff because you can cut in a mix better, and the new one live, just the reason been I believe the sound guys are going to have an easier job with it. I still love them both... amazing sounding basses. Thanks for a great video Marcelo! Blessings!
I like the new one better. It has more headroom. and more smooth sound. And it weighs less than the old one, it is what I heard about it, I did not play either one.
Im suprised how different it sounds. I'd buy the new one.
Like the tightness of the high end on the newest model but torn on the low end . I think the low end on older model cuts through and sounds better. Combine the both of them and you’ll have Bass guitar magic!
The NEW one has: 1. much powerful signal // 2. richer tone // 3. much defined (clearer) tone ● I think we have a winner... :)
I agree with the overall tone, for the new Stingray, is stronger.
It's actually the opposite, it's more mellow and has less character if you ask me. The old ones snarl, the new ones are perfect for old timer cover bands and for more boring generic tones.
I think the main difference is the action of the bass.... In the old one the action is a lot lower u can hear a lot of fret buzz that gives the impression of more bite IMO
Sorry fellas engineers want the old school they have unlimited tones the new one is limited in tones
I agree, the new one sounds like a massive improvement
Love the new one. Sound is tighter and more refined, but still has that Stingray bite. Thanks for doing the comparison!
New Stingray got "deeper" and "richer" sound
I think the older one for me. I can get more mid-range out of it from EQ. It was cutting through too much and maybe a problem with mixing it with a track. Thanks for the great demo.
I like the new one..more boosted pre-amp, reducing the high-mid freq which sounds more tidy & soft.. great comparison..thanks!
The new Stringray definitely sounds more open and bright in any kind of setting. The old Stingray sounds more as if the action is lower then on the new Stingray. I like them both but the sound of the old Stingray has my preference!!
I did an interesting experiment. Take the Stingray Special sample with FLAT EQ and make the following adjustments
Level -3.0dB, Peaking EQ f0 = 4500Hz, +9dB, Q=2
(I'm sure with more tweaking I could get a closer match).
The Re-EQ'd Stingray Special sounds a lot like the Old Stingray 3-band sample with FLAT EQ. So I'm guessing they pulled the 2.2nF cap which is across the pickup on the OLD Stingray. The cap contributes to the "OLD" sound.
I think the new Special sounds way better. Very clear. I got to play a special 5 string last week and I was amazed by the definition of every note, even on the low B.
We can see that they reduced a bit the size of the bridge and the sound is more soft, mellow, less mid-trebble... I like it. It's more "fenderish"
I am blessed to have an old version of the SR5. I love my old SR5. I like the design and how thet made the new one lighter but for the tone itself.. i prefer the old one. Shout out from the Philippines. Thanks for the review i almost put on sale my old SR5. Lol
Great Review!! Thanks!! I think the New Stinray's definitely has more head room due to 18V preamp. While older stingray sounds more "agressive" I think new Stingray's preamp sounds more "musical" IMO whether eq's cut all the way or boosted all the way, all tones sounds more "useable". Whereas on the old Stingray, certain tones are way too agressive or toned down it's almost unusable.
I’ve the old stingray 5 strings with double HH... but this is fabulous too
This was great, and definitely helped me make an informed purchase on a Stingray Special 5! The improved comfort of the body was honestly the game-changer for me. I've had Ernie Ball basses in the past, but they've always felt large, bulky, and angular to me, especially as a smaller person used to playing smaller, contoured basses like Warwicks and Spectors. I've always loved the tone, but man, the new Stingray Special body shape has made me a Stingray fanatic again!
Great review, many thanks Marcelo! I had a ´89 Stingray 5 rosewood fingerboard and I now have the Special series Burnt Apple finish with roasted maple fingerboard which definitely takes that to a higher level. Much more versatility, definition and clarity both on stage and in the studio being able to obtain the MM classic sounds as well with the right EQ adjustment, plus the option of mellower tones very useful for R&B, Pop or Jazz & Fusion gigs. The EQ has been improved a lot compared to the old version and it responds better to any minor changes. The new structure changes also boost this new series way ahead the old one, the rounded light weight body , new neck contour, 11" radius fingerboard and 22 frets with a deeper heel allow more accurate execution overall. In your previous clip you mentioned the roasted maple thingy, well the trick is that this is a wood treatment method that opens the fibers, it actually changes the molecular structure of the wood blank making it more resonant by slow drying in a special oven. In other words, it makes a new instrument sound like an old one that has been already dried due to its age. So taking all these details into account I consider the Special series a real upgrade to the old series. In the end it´s the player that makes the real difference. All the best!
Ah i love the sound of fretbuzz in the morning.
Facts!
The consistency in your playing is great
I just picked up an 04 5H and I think it's the coolest bass I've ever played. Love that aggressive tone!!
The older Stingray is voiced for analog recording where you get treble roll off. I have both as well a ‘78 and 2020.
I listened from a FOH standpoint. If I were mixing the new Stingray I would pay attention to the warmer mids coming from it. Also the new one has a little more mud at the low end. The old Ray is a little more distinctive. If I had to mix for a bass solo, I want you to be playing the old'er bass. Now as a bass player I want the new one. I tried one yesterday. I like the weight, the neck and I'm starting to use the mids alot more and that warm sound from the new one is perfect.
I appreciate you posting this, my man. You're a great player. I've owned multiple 'Rays and I always ended up selling or trading them because I just wasn't feeling them. With this refresh, EB addressed almost every "issue" I had with the SR! Your video really highlights how much better the new SR is with most styles. I kind of agree with the poster that said the slap sound wasn't as "tight" with the settings you used, but I'm guessing that's not your preferred slap settings and the new SR can probably dial up a stronger slap tone with that sweet EQ. I just ordered a new SR5HH. Keep killin' it, bro!
I am curious as to how you like your new SR5HH? Have you figured out a way to drastically improve the slap sound? I was pretty sold on the new one until the slap section of this video. I am curious as to your findings.
@@barrylafever Hey. Well, I can definitely say that the slap sound of the new SRS is BEASTLY! If you dial up the "traditional" slap EQ(Bass & Treble boost/Mid cut), It's fantastic. The bass is deeper and the highs aren't as harsh, so the slap tone cuts without being obnoxious. It also seems to work in almost every pickup setting(using full Bass & Treble boost with both pups on can get really BIG, which ain't bad at all, but might skew a mix a little bass-y). It's not as "aggressive" as the old 'Ray, but it still sounds like a StingRay, and, to me, it sounds better...even slapping!
After watching this video again, I still prefer the old Stingray by far. More bite, growl, and presence. That's what made the Stingray so appealing in the first place in IMHO. No worries about getting lost in the mix ever!
Thats what im saying brothehr, not sure what year the old one is tho
I get what you're saying, but imo, the old one has way too much high end and it's grating on the ears.
Great comparison. You can really hear the differences between the two basses. I wish everyone set their reviews up as logically and effectively.
Good Review, my only criticism is the old Stingray is in need of a set up. Alot more fret buzz than the new one which gives the new one substantially more clarity. Both sound great though! I need one asap!
Thank you so much for this very helpful comparison, Marcelo. Great stuff!
I like the new one better. Sounded more Punchy all the way around every time you picked it up
Hi Marc! your bass reviews are the best of all ! I also love the MM stingray sound
Personately, I found that first models gets more dynamic !
The pre-amp on the new Stingray makes it louder than the older Stingray. I personally like the sounds from both models.
Just wish it came in a L-handed version. I'm just learning to play the bass. And I've got a Sterling by Music Man SUB Ray 4, & a Sterling by Music Man Ray 4. I like both very much.
The old one all day for my ears!! I love that growl !!
Very complete review. Sounds like the old signal is more clean but the new stingray have more presence.
The new sting is less sting. You can love or hate the original, but it's unique.
The new one sounds like many other basses. But the sting has to be not just a bass like others, it has to be the sting!
Great A/B comparison, very helpful, thank you for that. First impression of the new Stingray is WOW!! The new one sounds so much bigger than the old model, finger style and pick are simply amazing. I have the old Stingray 5 and love it, but really want the new one.
It looks like Rosewood fretboard on the old one and Ebony on the new one.
I think I prefer the new one, but they should both not make much difference in the mix if not compared side by side
Hey Marcelo. I got a EBMM SR5 Special and only an old 3BAnd EQ 4 String SR to compare with...even though my old one got one sting less, the similarities to your comparison are obvious. The Specials sound softer with less high/high mid bite and a bass control, that gets really really boomy if you turn it all the way up.The Special even sounds more old-school than the standard 3Band EQ models to me. Your "old" SR5 has the typical 90`s/early 2000 Rock/Funk tone to me, wich I really like.
Great video! As the owner of 5 Stingrays dating from 1991 to the new 2018 model, my Fav is the new model. I love the aqua sparkle! My only complaint is I miss the old chunky bridge for aesthetic reasons only :)
I feel a better balance when you are changing the EQ with the new one, but every single time you compared both using flat EQ I simply loved the oldest one
I want both!! Im lookin into the old ones first ,then ill get a new one. Thanks for the great review
The new Stingray sounds like it would be much more useful in the studio than the classic. Probably more so than even a Fender P-Bass. I really like how they smoothed out the tone.
I like it I just am not loving the pick guard I love the original teardrop pickguard thars on my Tobacco Burst im a Sterling and Music Man fan for life my favorite Bass!!
I like how the Special's preamp has a more refined EQ: the bass isn't as boomy (I love low end, but boosting the extreme lows too much just makes things boomy and indistinct), the midrange is voiced a little higher so that it's not as "honky" (or when cut the scoop isn't as drastic), and the treble is a little lower so that it's not quite as "ice pick-y" when boosted. The regular Stingray probably has a larger variety and more extreme sounds compared to the Special, but overall the Special has both more warmth and clarity in all EQ settings.
I’d love to compare the stingray special to the classic stingray.
Prob get the same sound if you add foam to the old one and increase the volume. That extra battery on the new one def gives it more punch.
Not sure if you're comparing a 9v circuit with an 18v but the new one sounds louder on all counts and mighty fine all round!
What would be really interesting is a direct sonic comparison between a genuine Louis Johnson era vintage 2 band and your new one. I know there's an extra string and mid sweep involved but would be fascinating to hear a really detailed comparison like you did here especially on the slap tone!
Great job comparing these two basses. Pretty subtle differences and I think that I would characterize them differently than less aggressive. I think that the high end is a bit more even and I think that the low end is fuller and more balanced. I have owned three different Stingray 5 basses and I played them because like the aggressive tone so I am glad that that is still intact.
It feels like the range of usable sounds on the new stingray is wider, whereas the older one has a more aggressive cut and boost for each band. Either the new model has a wider Q for the eq controls or the older one has a much more powerful eq. Also seems like they affect different frequencies looking at the mid boost comparison. The flat sound is also quite different. Namely the classic seems to have a much more aggressive scoop than the new one.
I think it kind of depends, but the better all-rounder seems to be the new one. I could see myself using the old one just as well though. I think it's mostly preference.
I have the new 4HH Special and love it. Great review, thanks!
The new one is different in many ways starting with the pick ups. Neo pick ups are powerful at many levels and the preamp is quite different. Is another instrument rivaling only by Foderas and Alembics and those basses doesn't have Neo pick ups unless they already did the switch.That's why I bought it and with such short runs for the DarkRay, it was meritorious to hit it with a credit card purchase along with a Mark Bass combo amp loaded with two Neo 10 inch drivers. It was a solid investment.
Thanks a lot for answering the our questions, Marcelo!
I surely can hear a lot more mids on the new stingray, and a little less treble (the old one sounds almost scooped in comparision, set flat).
Also, I would say the mid voicing in the new preamp is more low mid focused, while the old preamp is more hi mid oriented.
I guess you could say the old one is a tiny bit more agressive while the new one is a little more vesatile.
The new one has a litle more gain too (18v versus 9v).
Thanx, for this. I truly am interested. I have a older 4H. your older model reminds of that. The new model is the one I would gravitate towards. More overall controlled sonically. I believe the newer pickups & slight changes in the preamp, w/the addition of 18 volts. Give a tighter sound. I always thought StingRays were slightly “bass shy”, straight out of the bass. The new model is the new king. Hopefully I can purchase a 5HH. Note:I’ve heard Leo designed the original preamp w/that high end, because @ that time he was losing some of his hearing.
They both sound great. I wish EB would send you a HH double hum bucker to compare
Hi Marcelo, definitely the New Stingray has a great improvement in the sound definition. All the textures of tone are outstanding.
Wish you had adjusted the old StingRay's neck to get rid of excessive fret buzz-it would have sounded better. Congratulations to Ernie Ball for improving the StingRay! I love the metallic paint job-should look killer under stage lights. Thanks for video!!
Thank you for that test, I would prefer if you choose to switch the humbucker from serie to single coil to parallel than boost or cut the EQ. In this test you're on the serie mode all the time which is already nice but ... would like to hear more.
For me it's.
Finger style: new one
Pick : new one
Slap: old one
The old one for sure, if you want that true classic stingray growl!! All day!!!
Having owned a 76 Musicman for years,and having played in many Bars,and medium to large outdoor gig/festival settings my opinion is the older one in every situation, in a real concert setting,the old stinger cuts through in spades anyway.Having said that its each to their own, Exchange the new one for an old school P orJ and youll have the full arsenal.
The new one sounds great. There seems to be loads of fret buzz on both basses though.
That's definitely in the setup and not a consistent sound for the guitar. Stingrays tend to have that jangly clanky sound but my SR has zero fret noise/buzz unless I'm really digging in.
Guess that 18v really makes a difference. Just more full, present, and open. Wish both had the same volts so we knew how much was the 18v and how much was the hardware, new pickup, and roasted maple neck.
Hi Marcelo, nice comparison done well as usual. !
Honestly I prefer the old Stingray because I find it fuller, more mid-bass than the new one which seems louder and focused on the mid-highs.
This of course is just my humble opinion.
See you soon and keep it up.
Very cool review, one would think it's easy to do it right, but so many don't do a proper comparison like this
My preferences: Fingerstyle: the new one. Slap: the old one. Pick: any as long as there's a mid boost.
I think that when you use pick and fingers the new version is more defined, however, I need the old fretted sound (probably the strings of the new version are higher), I prefer the old one in the slap, thank you very much, great job
Super tough call to say which is better! The new Ray sound like it has a modern mid boost which is awesome but bringing the bass up made it sloppy to my ear. The old Ray sounds better with the bass up, sounds flatter with the treble down. I like them both and think they're different animals, neither replaces the other.
You can tell that the new 18v preamp has tons of punch and power, you can hear some clipping in the video.
I own the classic series but after I watched vdo I love new series more especially during play by pick 😊
Sheesh those string harmonics are something else 🥰
Harmonics on that new Stingray are something else! I still think I prefer the old one though. I may be biased as I have one...🤔
Cool comparison tenx. I own also older black stealth 4 and 5 string. I opted for the double humbucker but for the next I'll take the single hum one. Why did you go for the single hum? Tenx😎🤘
The controlled mids and smooth highs are nice on the new Stingray. It also seems the eq is not as dramatic, as far as boosting and cutting goes, on the new Stingray. It would cut well through a mix without a lot of work involved. Great comparison video👍
Damn. Its almost like youre comparing a Sterling sub to an Ernie Ball. The new one wins in every comparison imo. Deeper, warmer, richer, clearer in every positive way. A clear winner in my book
The new bass is a beast, very difficult to tell the difference, the older model is by far no slouch the new bass is the undisputed champion of this contest in my opinion, because its new enhancements.I would love to own it. The sound is bitching crAzy 😜
dude really enyoing your channel! thats how you do a good review!
So I am struggling. I have a 1976 stingray which I love for slapping and stopped playing it because I feel like I lose the roundness on the g string when finger playing. I thought something was wrong with the pickup. I just picked up a 5 string 2014 stingray. And in a live scenario just like my 1976 the g string gets lost (too thin) 1. does anybody notice this characteristic? 2. Does anybody, including Marcelo think the new Special H addresses this concern?
The Older Sting Ray Sounds Great. It has the bright edge that the Sting Ray is known for. The new is missing the Hi edge. Thanks for the post.
I thought that the tone on the new one was better when playing with your fingers, but it was the opposite when playing with a pick. The old model had better tone with that. When you switched to slap technique, the new model seemed a bit more "open", but it was a bit harder to tell with that much action going one. Thanks for the comparison. It was informative.
One of the reasons why I never really went with Stingrays is because I always thought they were too bright for my tastes, but the new one is definitely has a bit more of a darker tone. Which I personally like.
They’re both great in their own character! Thanks for this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Man that new one with a pick sounds fantastic 🎸
The new one sounds clearer more open and punchier at the same time (is it because it is louder ?). If I could afford it I'd go to the new one
I like the new one on all settings has a much fuller and smoother sound. I was thinking about one of these for a slap bass, with that in mind, the old one has much more pop and and funkier sound.
I believe the older MusicMan sounds better between the two. IMO the newer one doesn't have that true MusicMan sound (as much) based on your video. The new one does sound smooth which is nice, but I prefer the aggressive/punchy sounds of a MusicMan. Flea was the reason I originally bought my SingRay back in 91 (which I still have). Thanks for making this video.
Yes old one has that Louis Johnson sound
I think maybe your low B sounds more consistent on your old one? But the new one has slight better tone overall
Old Stingray!!!
Old Stingray sounds better - unless thats what I think ;) take care Bass Wizard ;-)
Bravo from the UK 🤘
These basses are just arriving in the shops in England.
The tone on the the new Stringray seems to be less metallic than the old style but this could be because of the older magnets in the older bass pick ups? Just a guess. I love the tone of the new Stringray though and can't wait to see the 4 string apple burst single H that a shop near me has ordered.
New Stingray for me all day long! 🇬🇧
the old sounds more woody
but i don"t understand one thing: the old stingray has only bass and treble controls, and doesn't have - middle control
The new one... And not just because mine delivers Tuesday lol. I think the new one picked up a rounder tone but still has the magic Music Man tone. It's flat tone more like how I eq my current MM with a smidge more low mixed in. Really dug the side by side comparison. Tuesday can't get here fast enough...
IMO every new update to the SR5 has done something to tame the pre-amp a little and make them have a smoother sound/less aggressive. They’re are starting to sound more and more like a really, really good jazz bass. Not a bad thing, but not the super aggressive ceramic pup SR5 tone I love.
The EQ cut across the board sounds way less drastic with the new one though which I think is a good choice. When you cut the mids on the old one your sound dies!
I would just be happy to get either 😂
I want to upgrade so bad 😁
From what I heard from the review I like the new one because it’s more articulate.
Since the "New" StingRay Special doesn't have staggered polepieces to match the fretboard-radius anymors, the string to string volume seems to be a bit out of balance. The outer strings B+G are a bit louder than E, D and A. The A-string is the weakest. Thats what i found out as a long time SR5 player. Nontheless I like the new one because of the lower weight and the updated shapings.