• Music Man Sterling A Great Performer

  
  As reviewed by StevenZ on 9/28/2006

  Experienced musician have a sixth sense -- you can tell that an instrument is a good match for you the first time you pick it up. I've owned few basses that fit this description; my new Music Man Sterling is one of them. I purchased a Music Man Stingray in March of 1978 and played it until the spring of 2006. The first time I played a Sterling, I knew that the Stingray's days were numbered. The difference? The Sterling was smaller, lighter, had an easier neck to play and greater tonal variety. In short, it bettered my vintage Stingray in nearly every dimension. If you're a Jazz bass fan, you'll love the feel of the Sterling?s neck. If you're a Precision player, the variety of sounds the pickup selector and active electronics provide will please you. The fit and finish rival every other bass I've owned. The bass doesn?t scream Heavy Metal, but it?s suitable for nearly every musical style. If you?re looking for a high-quality, well-made, versatile bass, you should consider the Sterling.

  25 of 25 people found this review helpful.
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• Don't overlook this instrument

  
  As reviewed by peeder on 8/23/2006

  While the Stingray may well deserve its place as a standard instrument (to go along with the P-bass etc.), the Sterling may be a better option than either of those for many bassists. I'm not a big guy and so the J-bass-style slim-taper neck is far more comfortable to play for long sessions. I also love the sound of this humbucker and each of the three positions, which provide me with single-coil sounds as well as round and raunchy tone. The active three band EQ's are also great for tone molding. The fit and finish of the instrument is well above average and mine has barely a scratch on it even after extensive gigging and studio use. Lovely looking and sounding woods and very solid, reliable hardware combine to make me thrilled with this investment. Definitely an upgrade for those considering a P or a J.

  13 of 13 people found this review helpful.
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• The Sterling is the most versital bass around!

  
  As reviewed by jacqueslilavois on 9/22/2006

  I first played the Sterling at guitar center and was blown away by the variety of sounds you can get from it. I bought one within weeks. It can handle rock, jazz, reggae, slap, you name it. Much more versatile the Stingray in my opinion, and I've owned both. Features: It actually has 2 pickups, just looks like one. The pickup selector switch gives you the option of parrallel, series or bridge w/phantom coil. Series is good for finger style while parrallel is good for slapping. I find the other position is good for cutting through if you do any soloing. The tuners and bridge are high quality and hold tuning and intonation for days. Also, the neck truss rod is easy to adjust and you DON'T HAVE TO TAKE OFF THE NECK to do it. Just stick a screwdriver in and turn. You also don't have to open up the bass or take out any screws to change the 9v battery. Comfort: It's also the most comfortable bass I've played. Smaller body, thinner neck, great for getting around the entire fret board. I've owned a '74 Jazz, a MM Stingray and other basses. This one tops them all in terms of variety of sounds and versatility across all musical playing styles.

  10 of 10 people found this review helpful.
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