Sterling by Music Man StingRay RAY2 Bass Misty Green
Sterling's StingRay RAY2 brings Music Man's legendary bass design to the import market. Active electronics, distinctive slap tone, and solid build quality for under $300. This is the budget StingRay that doesn't feel like a compromise.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Active humbucker delivers that signature StingRay punch and clarity
- +2-band EQ provides enough tonal shaping for most playing situations
- +Modern 'C' neck profile and comfortable body contours feel great for hours of playing
- +At $299, this is the cheapest way to get legitimate StingRay vibe
- +Sterling/Indonesia build quality is consistent and reliable
Cons
- −Active electronics require battery changes—9V system lacks headroom of 18V EBMM models
- −Import hardware and tuners are functional but not exceptional
- −Single pickup configuration limits tonal versatility compared to multi-pickup basses
The Verdict
The RAY2 is the best budget bass under $300, period. It sounds like a StingRay because it basically is one—just built overseas with import hardware. The active electronics give you that aggressive, cutting tone that sits perfectly in rock and funk mixes. Is it a USA Music Man? No. But at $299, it doesn’t need to be. If you’re a beginner or working player who needs that StingRay sound without the $2K price tag, the RAY2 delivers. Upgrade the strings and setup, and this bass will hang with instruments twice its price.
