1979 Music Man StingRay Bass Natural, (Used)
The 1979 Music Man StingRay Bass in Natural is a highly desirable Pre-Ernie Ball electric bass from one of the most important periods in Music Man history. Known for its powerful active tone, punchy response and unmistakable StingRay identity, this bass is a superb choice for players and collectors looking for a vintage instrument with genuine late-1970s character.
This pre-owned 1979 Music Man StingRay Bass is listed in Very Good condition, meaning it shows some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership while remaining fully functional and ready to play.
Weighing 10.8lbs, this bass has a substantial, planted feel that many players associate with vintage StingRay instruments. It is ideal for funk, rock, soul, disco, pop, studio recording, live performance and collectors of Pre-Ernie Ball Music Man basses.
At A Glance
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Product | Music Man StingRay Bass |
| Brand | Music Man |
| Model | StingRay Bass |
| Year | 1979 |
| Era | Pre-Ernie Ball |
| Finish | Natural |
| Type | Electric Bass Guitar |
| Condition | Pre-Owned, Very Good Condition |
| String Configuration | 4-String |
| Weight | 10.8lbs |
| Main Appeal | Vintage Pre-Ernie Ball StingRay tone, feel and collector appeal |
| Best For | Funk, rock, soul, pop, disco, recording, live performance and collectors |
| Skill Level | Intermediate to professional, collectors and serious bass players |
Condition Overview
Very Good Condition
This 1979 Music Man StingRay Bass is in Very Good condition. This means it shows some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership, but remains fully functional and ready to play.
Very Good condition is ideal for players and collectors who want a clean, usable vintage bass with authentic age-related character.
What’s Included?
✔ 1979 Music Man StingRay Bass Natural
✔ Hardcase
✘ No Additional Accessories Included
Condition Notes
This bass shows light signs of previous use such as small marks, surface scratches, minor dings or general age-related wear consistent with Very Good condition.
No faults, repairs or modifications have been supplied for this listing. The bass has been checked for playability and functionality before sale.
Fair Deal Inspection & Assessment
This pre-owned 1979 Music Man StingRay Bass has been inspected and assessed by the Fair Deal Music team before being offered for sale.
Our checks include:
- Electronics tested
- Pickup checked
- Active preamp checked
- Volume and EQ controls checked
- Output jack tested
- Frets inspected
- Fingerboard checked
- Tuners checked
- Bridge checked
- Neck relief assessed
- General playability assessed
- Hardcase checked for basic usability
Service / Setup Work
All pre-owned bass guitars at Fair Deal Music are set up and checked before leaving the shop.
This Music Man StingRay Bass has been assessed for playability, with the following checked:
- Action checked
- Neck relief checked
- Frets inspected
- Tuning stability checked
- Electronics tested
- Hardware checked
- Bridge setup checked
- Intonation checked
- Overall playing comfort assessed
Please note that bass guitar setup can sometimes shift slightly during delivery due to changes in temperature and humidity. We take this into account during our checks, but wood can naturally move in transit.
Why Choose The 1979 Music Man StingRay Bass?
Desirable Pre-Ernie Ball Era
The Pre-Ernie Ball StingRay era is highly regarded by bass players and collectors. A 1979 example carries the appeal of an original late-1970s Music Man instrument, making it far more distinctive than a modern production bass.
Classic StingRay Punch
The StingRay Bass is famous for its bold, punchy and articulate sound. It delivers strong low-end, clear attack and the unmistakable snap that has made it a favourite across funk, rock, soul, disco and pop.
Natural Finish
The Natural finish gives this bass a classic late-1970s look. It highlights the instrument’s vintage character and suits the StingRay design beautifully.
Substantial 10.8lbs Feel
At 10.8lbs, this bass has a solid and substantial feel. Players who enjoy a weightier vintage instrument will appreciate the planted response and confident playing presence.
Excellent Studio And Stage Instrument
A great StingRay bass sits confidently in a mix. Its strong note definition, punchy attack and active voice make it a superb option for recording, live performance and professional bass work.
Strong Collector Appeal
The 1979 year, Pre-Ernie Ball era and Natural finish make this bass especially appealing to collectors, Music Man enthusiasts and players looking for a vintage instrument with genuine period identity.
Comparison Against Popular Alternatives
1979 Music Man StingRay vs Modern Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay
A modern Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay offers current production consistency and updated build features. This 1979 Pre-Ernie Ball StingRay offers vintage character, historical appeal and a different used-market desirability.
Music Man StingRay vs Fender Precision Bass
A Fender Precision Bass is known for its warm, simple and classic split-coil tone. The StingRay delivers a more aggressive, punchy and active voice, making it especially strong for funk, slap, rock and articulate modern bass lines.
Music Man StingRay vs Fender Jazz Bass
A Fender Jazz Bass offers two-pickup versatility and a slimmer traditional feel. The StingRay is more direct and powerful, with a bold active sound and unmistakable single-pickup identity.
Music Man StingRay vs G&L L-2000
The G&L L-2000 offers broad switching options and flexible tonal control. The StingRay is more iconic in its directness, delivering one of the most recognisable bass voices ever made.
Who Is It For?
Serious Bass Players
This is ideal for bassists who want a vintage instrument with strong tone, feel and stage presence.
Funk And Soul Players
The StingRay’s punchy attack and articulate response make it a natural fit for funk, soul, disco and groove-based playing.
Rock And Pop Bassists
Its strong low-end and clear note definition work beautifully in rock, pop and full-band arrangements.
Studio Musicians
The StingRay is a strong recording bass because it delivers defined low-end, clear attack and mix-ready presence.
Collectors
Collectors of vintage basses, Music Man instruments and Pre-Ernie Ball models will appreciate the 1979 year, Natural finish and period appeal.
Suitable Genres And Uses
This 1979 Music Man StingRay Bass is well suited to:
- Funk
- Soul
- Disco
- Rock
- Pop
- R&B
- Blues
- Fusion
- Studio recording
- Live performance
- Session work
- Slap bass
- Fingerstyle bass
- Pick playing
- Vintage bass collections
- Players wanting a Pre-Ernie Ball StingRay
Educational Section: Why Choose A Pre-Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay?
A Pre-Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay is one of the most desirable choices for players who want vintage bass character with real historical importance. These instruments come from the original Music Man era before Ernie Ball acquired the brand, giving them a strong collector identity and a distinct place in bass history.
The StingRay design is famous for its active electronics, punchy response and powerful single-pickup voice. It has been used across funk, rock, pop, soul and studio music because it offers clarity, authority and an unmistakable sound.
For players who want a bass that feels direct, confident and full of vintage personality, a 1979 Pre-Ernie Ball StingRay is a highly rewarding instrument.
Looking for advice on choosing the right vintage bass, Music Man StingRay or pre-owned collectible instrument? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.
Story & Context: Music Man StingRay Bass
The Music Man StingRay Bass is one of the most influential bass designs of the 1970s. It offered players a powerful active sound, bold styling and a more modern alternative to traditional passive bass designs.
Pre-Ernie Ball StingRay basses are particularly sought after because they represent the original era of Music Man production. They are valued by players who want vintage tone and by collectors who understand the significance of early StingRay instruments.
This 1979 Natural example captures that late-1970s appeal, offering the punch, weight, look and authority that made the StingRay one of the most recognisable basses in modern music.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Product Type | Electric Bass Guitar |
| Brand | Music Man |
| Model | StingRay Bass |
| Year | 1979 |
| Era | Pre-Ernie Ball |
| Finish | Natural |
| String Configuration | 4-String |
| Electronics | Active Electronics |
| Pickup Configuration | Single Pickup |
| Weight | 10.8lbs |
| Condition | Pre-Owned, Very Good Condition |
Power Requirements
This bass requires suitable battery power for the active electronics when plugged in. Use a standard 1/4" instrument cable and a suitable bass amplifier, pedalboard, PA system or audio interface.
Fair Deal Music Verdict
★★★★★ 5/5
A superb vintage bass with serious player and collector appeal. The 1979 Music Man StingRay Bass delivers the punch, authority and unmistakable active voice that made the model legendary, while the Pre-Ernie Ball era gives it genuine historical desirability.
This Very Good condition Natural example is a standout choice for bassists who want a substantial 10.8lbs vintage StingRay with classic late-1970s character, strong stage presence and excellent long-term appeal.
Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?
Choosing Fair Deal Music means buying from a passionate team of musicians who genuinely understand the products we sell. Whether you're purchasing your first instrument, upgrading your current setup or searching for something special, we're here to help you make the right choice with friendly advice and expert support.
When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:
Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians
Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment
Competitive prices on leading music brands
Secure UK-wide delivery
Flexible finance options available (subject to status)
Friendly support before and after your purchase
A trusted independent UK music retailer with decades of experience
Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.
Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.
We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.
Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.
It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.
FAQ
Is this a Pre-Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay?
Yes. This is a 1979 Music Man StingRay Bass from the Pre-Ernie Ball era.
What makes Pre-Ernie Ball StingRay basses desirable?
They come from the original Music Man production era and are valued for their vintage character, historical appeal and collector interest.
What styles does the Music Man StingRay suit?
It suits funk, soul, disco, rock, pop, R&B, blues, fusion, recording and live performance.
Is this bass good for slap playing?
Yes. The StingRay is well known for its punchy, articulate response, making it a strong choice for slap bass and rhythmic playing.
How does a StingRay compare with a Precision Bass?
A Precision Bass has a warmer passive split-coil sound, while a StingRay has a punchier active voice with more attack and brightness.
Is 10.8lbs a heavy bass?
Yes. 10.8lbs gives this bass a substantial vintage feel, best suited to players who are comfortable with a weightier instrument.
Does this bass need a battery?
Yes. Battery power is required for the active electronics when using the bass plugged in.
What does Very Good condition mean?
Very Good condition means the bass shows some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership, but remains fully functional and ready to play.
Is this suitable for collectors?
Yes. The 1979 year, Pre-Ernie Ball era and Natural finish give this bass strong collector appeal.
Can I try this bass in-store?
Fair Deal Music has a large Birmingham showroom, and our team can offer advice on vintage basses, Music Man StingRay models and pre-owned collectible instruments.