Sterling by Music Man Stingray Ray4 SUB w/ Seymour Duncan Pickup + Preamp!- LowEndLobster Fresh Look

[@DamianPendragon]

Thank you for all your videos on the sterling Ray4. You have done an amazing service to us Ray4 users

[@augustus1562]

I have the same bass for 3 years now! i use it both live and recordings from our band. all stock, no mods, it's a beginner bass and i looooove it so much!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Augustus! So glad to hear it :)

[@berniedumas3565]

I use mine stock as well and I love it!!!!!

[@chadsmith6309]

Have you experienced the low E string to be louder than the others? I got the stock version as well and have this issue, even after tilting the pickup height.

[@bradymorris9074]

That is encouraging to hear. I have been eyeing one for a while now and have been thinking about getting it for myself, but was wondering how it holds up as an entry-level bass. Good to know that it stands up to regular use.

[@dante-nj8gr]

Thank you so much for trying all the preamps and pickups on the SUB bass. I'm thinking about modding my SUB bass and I appriciate your effort a lot. Cheers!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you Duy Le! I'm so glad that you're enjoying the videos and finding them informative :)

[@rmccain99]

Don't! Get you a used MTD 5gang Hier and install an Audere preamp, then call it a day.

[@boscobaracus1823]

this video is still helping people o/

[@twocats2543]

I watched this video with headphones and when the Ernie Ball Stingray was played, man, it sounded excellent. I don't think the Sterling by Music Man was bad by any means, but the Ernie Ball sounded fantastic. Looking forward to the next videos! Definitely makes me miss by Ernie Ball Sterling back home 😭

[@rl-ub9hx]

Agreed, I didn't hear it until I put on my cans. The eb stingray was way meatier.

[@LowEndLobster]

MEAT!

[@rmccain99]

The EB sounded like cardboard.

[@dabicho117]

I have a left-handed sub ray 4, the same model but with the old logo. The bass sounded distorted and it was practically impossible to get a decent EQ. I installed a Seymour Duncan SMB4DS combination, which is practically the same but with the ceramic pickup. The improvement is amazing, it sounds like another instrument. Greetings from Chile.

[@revlewisrees9880]

It’s amazing what can be achieved these days with aftermarket electronic upgrades. The USA Ray still shaded things. Personally, I loved the slap setting.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Rev!

[@Bassic778]

Sounds great and a lot more StingRay-like with more bite and punch than the original SUB electronics. I actually like the sound of the moded SUB more than the USA StingRay!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Keith!

[@rmccain99]

Your ears do not lie.

[@guy5359]

I preferred the sound of that bass with the "Slap Mode" off but the difference was very subtle... On my cheap speaker anyway! Thanks for another good demo LowEndLobster!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Guy! Going to be messing with the trim pots to see what impact that has on the slap mode.

[@bassman1290]

you went from Mr. Nobody to one of the most bass channel on youtube. I'm waiting for your Aguilar and Nordstand videos ;)

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you Quang! It's been an incredible journey and it's still going :) Thank you for being a part of it.

[@marciosouza8656]

Excelente trabalho Lobster ! Você faz os melhores reviews de Music Man/Sterling da web. Continue assim ! Translation: "Great job Lobster! You make the best Music Man / Sterling reviews on the web. Keep it up !"

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you very much :)

[@CØFFĮN_ÐĘLĮVĘRY]

Dude, thank you so much for this. It’s exactly that kind of video I was looking for. Slapped a like and hit the bell, brother.

[@davegiard2221]

Man all of these stingray videos def fueled me to buy my Ray34. Great stuff as always lobster

[@Blackphyre]

Bruh, that Seymour Duncan is SWEET! I want that preamp!

[@cheers-jimi]

I like slap mode off - you’re totally right about keeping the signature stingray bite!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks man! :D.... CHEERS!

[@boomerbassmeme]

Sounds from a GAS Anonymous meeting: "My name is 🦞 and I have a Stingray problem" 🤣

[@LowEndLobster]

... and I have a Sabre Classic coming today :X

[@rl-ub9hx]

Some call it a problem, I see a man with stingray solutions!

[@boomerbassmeme]

@@rl-ub9hx Next time someone complains about my stable of 11 basses Imma say "sheeeet 🦞 has that many Stingrays alone" 🤣

[@rl-ub9hx]

@@boomerbassmeme yea... his channel is gonna get me in trouble

[@boomerbassmeme]

@@rl-ub9hx As long as you don't call the wife Stingray you should be OK 😁

[@basshoh]

LOVE LOVE LOVE ..the TALKING bass voice and idea....for SURE a KEEPER....!!!!!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

Goldy never knows when to shut up ;P

[@dupajas4671]

I tried the STC preamp in my ‘94 3-band Stingray sometime around ‘08 or so. It definitely smoothened out the tone and took away the harsh nasal midrange of the EB preamp (which it sounds like the Special still has). When I spoke with SD tech support about the preamp (I had a noise issue because I used the stock pickup which does not have the pole pieces shielded like the SD pickup), they told me that the design of the STC-MM-3 takes what made the original 2-band and brings it into 3-band flexibility. So perhaps comparing its tone to your Classic Stingray would be a better idea.... Just a thought... The Slap Contour mini pots on the PCB control the amount of desired Bass Boost and Mid Cut when you engage the circuit. If you don’t want to lose the signature Stingray Zing, I’d suggest just boosting the Bass and minimize the Mid-cut. I plan on building an SR5-style bass in the future and will be using the STC-MM3 preamp with their SMB-5D ceramic pickup (SMB-5S set)

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you Dwarde! I'm going to be messing with the trim pots on the preamp some more. I think I've decided to keep this SUB, and will be doing more content with it compared some of my other rays including the SR classic that I recently got :)

[@dupajas4671]

Cool. I had also forgot to mention that the SD SMB-4A AlNiCo pickup is also designed around a 70’s Stingray pickup as well, while the Ceramic magnet version is designed to have the more aggressive 90’s tone. It’s all in their product descriptions. All the more reason to compare this SUB with the Classic SR. Not that I’m trying to tell you how to run your show...I’m just trying to be somewhat relevant in this world and perhaps contribute some knowledge gained from experience...or you can just tell me to STFU and crawl back under my rock from which I occasionally emerge... Hey, none of those jerks on TalkBass ever listen to me, so why should The Lobster? [I miss that New England Lobster and some Chowdah...right now all I can get are Chesapeake Blue Crabs...]

[@LowEndLobster]

@@dupajas4671 Indeed! No worries my friend, I genuinely appreciate the suggestions! I'm honestly super stoked on my 'Ray collection right now. There will be a LOT of comparison videos headed your way in the future, my friend! Don't you worry :).

[@kevmac1230]

Sounds very nice,but the love you show kitty warms the cockles of my heart ❤️ lol.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Kev! She deserves it :)

[@natereid9711]

Sounds great! I have a feeling you’ve beat the the Ray 24 when it comes to tone but I would still be interested to see a comparison.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Nate! I have a 24 coming sometime this week, vid will be coming soon. The SD SUB will definitely make an appearance in that vid.

[@jaxonvictoria4345]

I own a Ray24 and I gotta say the preamp Is pretty good. I spoke with somebody who swapped out the preamp for an Ernie Ball replacement and a Mojotone MusicMan Clone, and he swears the difference is barely noticeable. I do wish that the Ray24 came with alnico humbuckers though! I fancy that more.

[@TheGAMEGod_YT]

I’m on a stingray binge !!! Let’s gooooo

[@LowEndLobster]

Donny Benet- Mr. Experience, listen to the album if you haven't already. The man is a modern Stingray legend.

[@TheGAMEGod_YT]

@@LowEndLobster yes sir mister lobster sir

[@paulevans4334]

So it was the preamp that made the ESP LTD GB4 sound so good. Interesting.

[@LowEndLobster]

Indeed! I've heard folks say that the pickups alone in the GB-4 are weak (someone mentioned they popped them in some other bass), but the preamp and pickup combo definitely makes em shine.

[@alwilson7437]

I just have to say this, I brought the Seymour Duncan SMB-4A 4string bass Alnico pick-up and the STC-3M4 pre-amp. This had to most time-consuming pre-amp I have ever put together. Not a lot of information on it, and I still did not get it done after 5-7 hours. The wiring was so flimsy that it broke. Trying to figure out the color code was crazy. If you can help me out, let me know, I would appreciate it. Thanks love your videos, Al.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Al. I came to this conclusion as well in my Stingray mod series. The SD wiring was just so flimsy. I haven't used a Seymour Duncan product since. Join our discord channel, we've built a really helpful and great community that could definitely help you out.

[@alwilson7437]

This is what I did, I used the seymour ducan pickup (SMB-4A) and didn't use the STC-2A EQ Preamp. I must say, what a difference. Love it. Until next time, and thank you. Later.

[@ormand.943]

@@LowEndLobster i want to join!!

[@japas]

I upvoted for the amazing content, but mostly for the love you gave to your kitty cat

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you :)

[@thefool2007]

Thanks for this video. I have a Ray4 SUB in mint green. I’m looking to upgrade pups/electronics. The Yellow EBMM sounded richer and more sophisticated....but the SUB held its ground well for the price. I’ve been playing for this stock as main player while my Modulus enjoys semi-retirement. It kills through my Zoom B3 with compression/limiting. Great video.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Rick! I'm curious to see how the Aguilar and Nordstrand setups will stack up, but those will take a bit longer to get here. Hopefully these vids help narrow down your choices!

[@honkytonkinson9787]

The comparison: they sound different but I don't know that one is better than the other. Seems like you could tweak the settings and make one sound like the other if you wanted.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Honky! I'm going to be messing with the trim pots in the preamp, and this bass will make another appearance when I get my Ray24CA in :).

[@rmccain99]

The USA is better construction but needs the Duncan Preamp. I only use EMG pickups. Hands down.

[@basshoh]

@@rmccain99 I had a EMG MM in my ESP 30th anniversary model Surveyor and a EMG soap bar....and MAYBE it was the preamp that was in it ..BUT it was thin sounding to me ??????...i have others with EMG stuff in them and LOVE those but just not the MM p/ u for whatever reason

[@nathanchalcraft6919]

I have this preamp and you really gotta dial in that slap tone to make it sound diffrent. I'm still undecided on whether to have it on or off.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Nathan! I think I'm going to open the preamp up and play with the trim pots before the 3 way comparison. This'll need some fiddlin

[@nathanchalcraft6919]

@@LowEndLobster if you dial in the sound I think you could make it sound alot more like the usa stingray. That stingray sounds like it has alot more mids compared to the much brighter sub.

[@LowEndLobster]

@@nathanchalcraft6919 I agree! Not a lot of clear documentation on the actual function of the trim pots, it'll take some messin' with but we'll get to the bottom of this and get that slap mode sound fine tuned :)

[@nathanchalcraft6919]

@@LowEndLobster just don't forget to show me how! I really wanna know!

[@bDoom88]

I love any SD product and i've already put on my jazz a couple of SJB-3 pickups with the STC blackout preamp. Killer sound. But... On my custom made bass i mounted a SMB.4D with the OBP-3 from Aguilar. No words, just orgasms.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Basil! Honestly, this was my first aftermarket forray into SD. I dig em! Going to try and do more pickup videos in the future.

[@bDoom88]

@@LowEndLobster Oh yeah!!!!!

[@rmccain99]

I have found that EMG Hz's cure most ailments. I don't like the EMG 40's they are only good for Motown so if you want Motown buy an EMG 40 and throw the domino's out.

[@bDoom88]

@@rmccain99 i tried the 40's sound when i got a spector euro5 lx. Funky sounding pickups, also good for metal, motown, rock and jazz! Really crazy, but Seymour duncan jb pickups and mm pickups make it way better. Active pickups are too impersonal and modern-sounding and it makes me prefer standard passives in quite any situation.

[@JJaguar333]

Both basses sounded pretty much the same other than the EBMM sounding slightly ‘deeper’ and less trebly. Would put that down to better quality body woods used in its construction. My SUB finally arrived here in NZ and managed to grab the SD pickup+preamp combo of Amazon. Is getting installed this week. Complete bass at around the $NZD 1100 vs $3500 NZD for a EBMM. Or $1999 for the Ray 34. Thanks 😊

[@J.R.zsf47]

Hey, it has a good tiny tone. I have one, with the stock p/u, and don't dig it so much . No comparison to the yellow. It's like a kids bass compared to the adult version. Thanks

[@mentula3784]

Sheeeeit listen to the low end on that EBMM.... 😲 The sterling sounds good, just not the same although the money saved could definitely persuade me. Great platform to build from

[@basshoh]

SWEEET....love my GB4 and my 99 Warwick FNA ..which has the exact same SD preamp!!!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

WOOO!

[@thiagodeandradeneves4585]

Wow, I had high expectations, but it sounds even better than expected. I remember telling you about Duncan's MM line in the Ray34 video, this one kinda scratches my itch. Might swap my Ray 34 electronics someday :)

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Thiago! That's a great idea, but you may need to swap the pickguard too as the Ray34 pickup doesn't have the "nubs" at the top of the pickup and instead has them combined into a thumb rest.

[@bobt5778]

If it matters, I installed this pickup with the stock preamp in minty sub ray, which is about the only combo not tried by Mr. Lobster. It is a very nice upgrade in case that's what your budget or expertise allows.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Bob!

[@ahmetcangokceer]

Sounds very, very good! The main thing stopping me from getting an SUB is the Jazz style thinner neck : ( too bad you dont get that with the Ray 24 upgrade as well....

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you! Ah, yes the necks are very different with the Ray34 and USA ones being much more substantial. There's always the status graphite option ;P

[@rmccain99]

I agree 100%. A P-bass neck has more mass and therefore has more booty.

[@ahmetcangokceer]

@@LowEndLobster haha true ::)

[@BullyThaKidd]

I kinda like the sterling man... Just gotta get the buzzing under control

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks man! Yep, not sure if a ground got loose or if it needs some shielding. She's gonna go under the knife again to play with those trim pots, will figure it out!

[@rmccain99]

I like your channel.

[@ormand.943]

@@LowEndLobster im having the same problem with this exact mods seymour pick and sub, to much noise. Exactly like you but in my ray34ca. How can i fix it?

[@jonathanmayfield2603]

The sub actually sound better to me the highs are super crisp with deep hollow bass my kind of sound style, what's the name of the preamp in the sub, looking to mod my cort gd75 I think the pre in it is trash and maybe check out the Seymour pickups too, question do you no if they sell 1 jazz 1 humbuck as a set or I have to get both separate, thanks for any suggestions or info Mr Rock Lobster

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Jonathan! The Preamp is the STC3M3, but they also make one with the blend knob for basses with more than one pickup. I'm not sure if they sell individual jazz pickups, though reaching out to SD themselves or Best Bass Gear may be your best bet to find out! That would be a great upgrade. I have a Cort GB64JJ coming in later this week :)

[@rmccain99]

Hey Joe, go slow with those mods. Take one step at a time. Try strings before swapping things out.

[@jonathanmayfield2603]

I hear you Rich just something to do and the bass is super nice like it alot just trying to get the sound I'm hearing for out of it, the jazz pickup is so much lower than the humbuker, don't get me wrong it sound cool but I've heard and seen mods that changed the game for some basses and wanted to be one of those, get the best out of this thing, thanks for the input though

[@Gulaschguenter]

I built this pickup and preamp into one of my Fleabasses Model 32 back in the day (I bought 3 of them when they were discontinued for only 199€ a piece!) - had to do some modifications to the pickguard and the body, but it was worth it, very solid unit.

[@LowEndLobster]

Awesome! Those Fleabasses are interesting rarities :)

[@MotoMarios]

I think the EMG setup sounds clearer and better overall.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Marios! I agree, the EMG SUB impressed me the most as a combo

[@ek2thehands]

With the slap contour on, it was slightly more bass, muffled a bit. With it off it was cleaner sounding but less bass. I like it off.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you!

[@jdmarino]

I couldn't hear the diff with "slap mode". And honestly, I think I prefer your modded Sterling. Maybe you should start a upgrade shop.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks John! I'm going to be messing with the trim pots on the PCB to see if we can get a bigger scoop going in slap mode. I had a hard time hearing the difference as well, though in my audio recording application the difference between the two was visible. I think some tweaking should result in a more drastic difference. I'm going to have that done before the next video that this is featured in.

[@rmccain99]

Same here.

[@rmccain99]

I would have preferred a Jazz pup with Jazz positioning in the neck position, and slide that alnico 5 Seymour toward jazz bridge position.

[@LowEndLobster]

Interesting thought :)!

[@laserlithuanian]

great tone !!!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Tom! :)

[@raym4694]

too much hum with treble up, gotta shield the control cavity , the SD preamp has a problem with the hum, i had the passive 2 band installed on a Squier MB5 and i noticed that i had the same issue till i shielded the control cavity...other than that that's all that i can say about it, sounds awesome, and btw the MM sounded more muffled than the sub... the sub is clearer and well pronounced with that sdmm p/up.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Ray!

[@DTaylorGuitars]

The MM game is strong with this one. You need at least 15 more in your life bro. Make it happen!

[@LowEndLobster]

This is the way ;P

[@myhapylife]

I like Duncan pickup and electronics better than MMs. To me, it sounds more open. I think MM is putting one capacitor at the input that little bit tame those highs. Which is not bad. I think they come up with that with 3 band eq era or something. Oldschool stingray sounded more open.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Bro! I actually just snagged a 'Ray Classic recently, will be doing a comparison between the oldschool 2 band and the modern era 9v 3-band (not the 18v, too different)

[@seanpowell1496]

you got me pinching that like button like clockwork!!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

:D

[@rmccain99]

The treble is great but I don't know who plays with treatable all the way up.

[@LowEndLobster]

Agreed haha. I usually keep that well under 50%, but I have to appease the metal heads ;P

[@basshoh]

I play my USA 90s model Sterlings with both the bass ans TREBLE up all the way!!!!!!..

[@basshoh]

And yes i am a METALHEAD!!!!...buts i love ma FUNK also!!!!!!

[@rmccain99]

@@basshoh The verdict is still out on that one. I like all music but not bass and treble at 100%

[@vonpipes26]

Great sound! The one weird thing that got my attention was when you said it had a basswood body. When the hell did they switch woods? I have a SUB4, and 5, both mahogany. Absolute tanks, and have to use padded straps. Base models, no upgrades.

[@LowEndLobster]

Great question! Does your headstock have "SUB" in big letters? I think the first gen ones were mahogany, and they switched over to basswood for price. The Ray24CA has the mahogany body now, and then the Ray34 is either Mahogany or Ash depending on the finish. I'm curious to try a 1st gen import SUB (not to be confused with the USA ones from 10-15 years ago) to see the difference in electronics. The current gen SUB pickup sucks IMO, way too hot.

[@vonpipes26]

@@LowEndLobster Nope they do not have the big block letters. I guess luckily for me I received the ones right before the change over to basswood. I have both a Glarry J, and P bass, so I know what basswood feels like. The electronics in my sub's aren't the greatest but they work for what I do. I play through a Peavey Max 208 connected to a Zoom B1 4 pedal. I can pretty much dial in any tone I want. All in all I'm very happy.

[@LowEndLobster]

@@vonpipes26 Interesting... hrm... I'm VERY curious about this changeover and when it happened. When did you get yours roughly? Gonna try and do some digging and get more info!

[@vonpipes26]

@@LowEndLobster Received my 4 in April 2020 from AMS. My 5 I received from Zzounds in August 2020.

[@vonpipes26]

@@LowEndLobster Ray4 April 2020 from AMS. Ray5 August 2020 from Zzounds. They only have the basswood ones now according to their description.

[@daveydoodle1916]

Delano Pickups? You are truly the Lobsterman. 🦞

[@LowEndLobster]

Love me some Delanos! Project Mint-o-ray has a Delano :)

[@daltonbell2907]

Mr. Lobster 🦞 can you plz send me a link to the pickups. Then ones I found didn't have the ears where the screws mount

[@LowEndLobster]

The 5 string ones are the USA-style without the nubs, but the 4 strings are traditional: www.amazon.com/Seymour-Duncan-SMB-4A-Alnico-Replacement/dp/B0002D0B6S/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=seymour+duncan+mm&qid=1603739180&sr=8-4 For a 5, you'd probably need a new pickguard and potentially some modification. However, the 4 string stuff should be drop in.

[@daltonbell2907]

Ok I see.

[@daltonbell2907]

That bass sounds amazing and I have no doubt in my mind it's the electronics. I must say though I have tried seymour duncan pickups with other preamps and have failed to get a good tone. The key with Duncan pickups is that you must pair them with duncan preamps to get the best out of them

[@markbarrett7657]

Would you suggest the same mod for a sterling stingray short scale bass. I would assume the tonal characteristics would be very close if not the same? Great video. Thanks

[@LowEndLobster]

You would need to route a battery box as the short scale is passive. However, you could absolutely use the pickup to replace the stock pickup without issue.

[@Hereweare75]

Extra thumbs up for an AWESOME Cat!

[@anthonycorley3268]

My question is :is it possible to do a pickup and preamp mod on the Sterling Ray 34 ???

[@LowEndLobster]

Of course!

[@anthonycorley3268]

Can the pickup be changed ???

[@williamdeming853]

After watching quite a few of your comparisons the part where you demonstrated the slap knob was the best (in my opinion). I dig you playing but the shorter intervals of playing seem to work better for comparing the different tones. Just a constructive comment. 🦞

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks William!

[@oskarus3]

ANOTHER?

[@LowEndLobster]

They don't stop coming... They just keep showing up. At this point I don't even think I'm running the channel anymore... and the yellow one keeps talking to me....

[@soundzofnoize8603]

Fantastic tones and can we get more Jazzy Da Bass Cat on the show please!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you! She comes and goes as she pleases haha. She was particularly insistent that it was dinner time during the shooting of this vid haha

[@soundzofnoize8603]

@@LowEndLobster Beautiful my friend!

[@wesliggett2454]

I have the 5 string version of this. You made me buy it with your 5 string video. It’s a nice bass for cheap! What setup would you go with for metal? Minto?

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Wes! Nailed it, Minto. You will be happy with the Darkglass preamp in your use case. Very clear and crisp highs while still maintaining a lot of the signature stingray tone.

[@timhegge4883]

Thank you for your videos they are great! Were you able to hear the Seymour Duncan with the stock preamp? I’m going to get the Aguliar or the Seymour Duncan for my sterling sub and keep the stock preamp. I saw your video with the Aguliar using the stock preamp just wondering if the Seymour Duncan would be compatible and sound good with the stock preamp. Thank you.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Tim! Great question. Yes, the SD with the stock pre will sound similar to the Aggie (if wired parallel). Stock pre is definitely serviceable, and I'd definitely recommend pickup first.

[@timhegge4883]

@@LowEndLobster were you ever able to get an output level on the stock pickups? My sterling sub is a few months old and doesn’t seem that hot to me, the pickup measures 6.6 k ohm which seems more like a lower output pickup.

[@gorjesito]

The semyor duncan pickup is passive?

[@LowEndLobster]

Yes

[@klaymeister]

I bought the ceramic pickup when I got my S.U.B. back in 2014, I see I made the wrong decision lol.

[@LowEndLobster]

;P

[@rmccain99]

That ceramic was hot. Lower the height of it and Get some Dunlop Super Brights 45-105 gage and wow.

[@pabloalarconpuente802]

WHICH PICKUP SEYMOUR DUNCAN IS RECOMMENDED FOR A BASS UPGRADE STERLING RAY24 BY MUSICMAN. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ADVICE

[@LowEndLobster]

Hey Pablo! I'm using the Alnico one, but the Ceramic one is also a good option if you're looking for a more modern tone.

[@pabloalarconpuente802]

@@LowEndLobster thanks for answering. Is it a passive or active pickup? i saw seymour duncan's page and there are several models. Might you help me. thanks again

[@billyhooks99]

Listened to the comparison thru AT-M50 headphones and the 2017 Stingray had by far the best sound. Not a fan of the stingray basses overall anyway but I just love your mods and listening to the different basses. I would love to see you review a Warwick thumb BO.

[@JersonAnthony]

Have you considered upgrading the tuning pegs??

[@LowEndLobster]

Honestly, no. I replaced some SUB tuners in another project, but I don't think they're that atrocious. Perhaps some Wilkinson tuners are in the cards for a future SUB project!

[@JersonAnthony]

@@LowEndLobster looking forward to the next mod!!

[@robertotakahashi9950]

Great video again. Question: what u mean by “bass on two hundred” after testing the bass o. 50%. Sounded as a frequency change to me. And about the noise while boosting the treble do you believe that was the cav shielding?

[@etpslick100]

Like the 2017 stingray.

[@LowEndLobster]

:)

[@Amanet13]

Gotta love that 🐈 ❤️ I was thinking of getting one of Harley Benton Sting Rays 5 .What are your thoughts

[@LowEndLobster]

I have a review on one coming soon.

[@1thess523]

Do you know if this pick up can be used for a passive bass? I got an OLP MM2 for $100 ans it sounds pretty good with the stock pick up because it still has that Stingray growl. I'm thinking of upgrading down the road to a better pick up. This OLP is set up like a jazz bass because it has 2 volumes and 1 tone, so it's a humbucker but it can bw split in half

[@rl-ub9hx]

Seymour Duncan puts out great gear and is friendlier to the wallet than its competitors.

[@LowEndLobster]

The truth!

[@juliangramajo7010]

yeah, i feel too many people use aguilar, it is good gear, but it is a little overpriced for me, and here in Argentina if something is overpriced goes even higher with taxes

[@LowEndLobster]

@@juliangramajo7010 We'll be doing a Tone Monster SUB in my upcoming Ultimate SUB Mod Guide. $110 USD for both pickup and preamp! We'll see how those stack up to the competition. Stay tuned my friends :)

[@anpcm]

Wonder how the Duncan PU sounds without the preamp

[@LowEndLobster]

That would be an interesting test, running full passive. Perhaps in the future we will do a passive 'Ray build.

[@anpcm]

@@LowEndLobster , The EBMM & SBMM Stingray Short Scale basses are Passive with Neodymium pickup.

[@LowEndLobster]

@@anpcm Indeed! A good friend of mine is actually sending over his USA short scale at some point for a review :)

[@anpcm]

@@LowEndLobster , that will be very interesting, your reviews are the best.

[@rmccain99]

I was never happy with there p-bass pickups but maybe active is the way to go.

[@thejoshuatree03]

Where did you put the STC-3M3 preamp in the SUB? It doesn't seem to fit under the control plate anywhere :/

[@LowEndLobster]

At the bottom of the control cavity beneath the 2nd knob. It's a squeeze but it fits without modification.

[@thejoshuatree03]

@@LowEndLobster thank you!

[@darindjking7463]

I've owned an ORIGINAL MMSR made by Leo Fender..it was a 1978 model..I bought it in NYC on 48th street back in the mid 90s..so when I hear someone audition these Ernie and Sterling models, I'm comparing their sound to the original tonal versatility..alas they sound ok...this last Sterling SUB that you modified with the Seymour Duncan Alnico P/U and preamp..in my opinion..having owned and gigged for over a decade with an original Leo Fender model (which was stolen from me😭💔)...came the closest to the authentic tonal quality and versatility I so loved from the 1978 Leo Fender model(s)...what you neglected to observe and mention is that the ORIGINAL MMSR basses also had a different bridge...the classic bridge had black foam rubber dial-in spring mutes in front of the saddles and most importantly, they were ALL STB...This STB feature, in particular, had a marked and distinct effect in boosting not only SUSTAIN but also tonal WARMTH and RICHNESS..that the current Ernie and Sterling Ball models lack all the way around. I have never understood how much more expensive it would have been for them to add this original design feature to the basses overall...one of their "techs" even tried to argue with me that it didn't make a difference!! I, politely as I could informed him that he didn't know what he was talking about if he had never owned and played and gigged with an original model for years at a time. Facts: this bass was designed especially for Louis Johnson of "The Brothers Johnson" who had adopted the "Thumping and Plucking" style of playing pioneered by Larry Graham. There's even a caricature of The Brothers Johnson engraved as an emblem on the headstock..not only on the Leo Fender models but on the earlier Ernie Ball's as well where the capitol M makes the legs of the the guitar playing "Brothers Johnson"..( fyi..the image was taken from their 1st ablum entitled "Look Out for #1)..Louis's knickname was "Thunder Thumbs"...so Leo design the bass to get the pick up configuration out of the way of the vigorous righthand activity intrinsic to the technique. So the original pick ups were designed to be VERY HOT🔥🔥...Because the positioning of the pick up negates the warmth of having a pick up in the neck position..if you haven't seen before or as yet, LJ made an instructional "Star Licks" video that's now on KZbin, where he talks in some detail about what he and Leo did together when this bass was in the design phase..he also plays the bass...and when here the original tone you'll understand EXACTLY what it has taken me this long to describe...take a listen...and THEN make your overall comparison...I ANXIOUSLY await YOURtake on this after you seen and heard LJ's video..😎👍 P.S. sorry this was so lengthy..😳😌 I do however enjoy your videos...I'm making plans now to buy the Kingston Super 5 and possibly a Sterling SUB to modify as a result...Thank You for your labors in this..😊❤

[@ronaldmcquaig2880]

What Brand and gauge are the bass strings on the Sub?

[@LowEndLobster]

Great question! MJC ironworks nickel plated stainless steel 45-105. I put it in the description of my newer videos but this one was before I did that hahaha. I use them for all my basses with rounds

[@ronaldmcquaig2880]

@@LowEndLobster Thanks.

[@JS_bass]

Hi! can I use this pickup with the original preamp? regards...

[@brayandoesstuff]

Idk if anyone will see this comment, but i am looking to upgrade my bass preamp, but my stingray is an HH model. Would this work for it, or would I need a completely different preamp? I've been looking all around and haven't found an answer. Thanks anyways

[@agbesesamuel1938]

Oh boy this sound is crazy af. Crustacean id like you to do a video for people that might like to give out used bass he/she ain't using. It's gonna do a lot of good to people like me that got none. Btw I'm looking forward to your next giveaway

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Samuel! More giveaways coming soon (bass giveaways!), they'll be random drawings per usual but I always appreciate your entries!

[@RayRay-vv7fw]

Hey Lobster! Are the Wilkinson Replacement Pickups for Stingrays an improvement over the stock ones?

[@LowEndLobster]

IMO not really.

[@RayRay-vv7fw]

@@LowEndLobster TY!

[@robertotakahashi9950]

Hmmm comparing to the EMG setup you did, what do you prefer? I guess I know what, but let’s hearing from you :)

[@larumbemar]

The SUB sounds fantastic. I recently got one as well (this is my first bass). I do notice in mine there’s fret buzzing, and I also noticed this in your demos, which was more noticeable when compared with the more expensive one. Is there a way to fix the buzzing from the frets?

[@mattjoe1982]

Link no good. Which version for 5 string sterling

[@kenmorley2339]

That sound so much better than the ray34 .

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Ken!

[@Bass.Player]

The EB sounds a little better, are they running the same strings...

[@LowEndLobster]

Yes, same strings in both basses

[@keithpasculli7465]

Slap tone sounded a little like Mark King. Great upgrade

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Keith!

[@darrylmoore127]

Personally I thought the sub sounded better , I have the same sub , black, only did not change it up like u did , very interesting

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Darryl!

[@samcockrell]

You can never go wrong with stingray or sterling being a stingray player, for years I can’t ever say anything bad but spending $2 grand for any bass should require drug testing. The sub with most modifications offer a better value pickups/preamps and way more sonic coloring no matter, what your style is Lobster it’s guy’s like you who convinced me to go sub 4 sterling body style with rear cavity oppose to plate/stingray WHAT MODELS OFFER THE REAR CAVITY AND SIDE 1/2 input? Last I have an Ernie ball sterling / with lakland pickups/ LAKLAND L3H preamp Sterling sub/bartolini pickups/ 4.6 bartolini preamp sub 4/ Seymour Duncan smb4-A Delano mc4/AL /Mark bass m.b.preamp sub 4/norstrand 2 big man pickups/ nordstrand preamp THANK YOU FOR DEDICATION I have learned a lot from your, channel thanks peace and love lobster

[@LowEndLobster]

Heyo! Hell yeah! Your mod sounds killer! Keep bassin my friend!

[@ramshaar2597]

Both sound great your sting ray sound is a little bit more clean

[@basshoh]

Heyyyyyyy BeBe loves it too!!!!

[@LowEndLobster]

To be fair she loves everything ;P

[@lucybarney1]

Did the same mod on my Indonesian sub ,better to make a little routing for the board as it’s very tight ,so much better than the standard electrics

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Paul! It was a tight squeeze, and you're right - a little bit of routing would make for a more comfortable fit.

[@villusive]

to be honest , for a slap tone , I prefer the SUB bass , ceramic always sounds clearer to me and , alnico kind of sounds like it's under water un the new stingrays

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks villusive! I should mess with more ceramic aftermarkets!

[@MartinoPolizzi]

thanks for this comparison. 2k dollars for an original MM...it worth it

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Martino!

[@bobt5778]

Did you demo this pickup with the stock pre-amp by chance? Maybe I missed that. This is the sound I envision for my Mint-O-Ray!

[@LowEndLobster]

I did not, but you can check out the original mint-o-ray vids to hear the stock pickup. I do love this combo, great value, easy to install, sounds great, and comes with knobs (solid ones too).

[@jkunz27]

I pinched the like button for the cat! 😛

[@FrIgHtNiGhT71]

What sounds better? Sterling SUB 4 w/SD mods hands down!

[@fordhammie]

None sounded better but they both sounded different than each other! :) A sterling/S.Duncan upgrade is also a smarter option.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Anthony :)

[@TheBeardofDOOM]

An obvious price difference shows in the sound. Still prefer old Minty.

[@LowEndLobster]

Agreed! The Minty combo is by far my favorite thus far. Unconventional, yet the final result was epic.

[@JJaguar333]

Thanks lobster. Just ordered my first SUB bass and also ordered the SD smb-4a pickup aswell. Stupid question but will that pickup work with the EMG pre-amp and will it sound as good as this combo? Cheers

[@LowEndLobster]

Happy modding! The pickup will work with an EMG preamp. You can even solder up some of the EMG connectors to make it plug and play. Just make sure you use the passive 250k vol instead of the active 25k vol! Hope that helps!

[@JJaguar333]

@@LowEndLobster thanks. Would like to use the Duncan stc-3m3 ideally but they seem to be hard to find online and I live in New Zealand so expensive.

[@KPJohnson]

I think I preferred the SUB.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Kev!

[@KPJohnson]

@@LowEndLobster It was subtle, but the tone seemed more appealing to me. I prefer it in normal mode, also.

[@LowEndLobster]

@@KPJohnson Thanks man!

[@teukurizkynoer8033]

Love your content man...

[@LowEndLobster]

Thank you Teuku! I appreciate it :D

[@FoamSquatch]

I had this bass. Loved the way it played, but hated the pickup. I could see this pickup fixing that issue, but as you stated early, you are creeping on the cost of a higher end Sub at that point.

[@LowEndLobster]

Indeed! I've had several and that's been consistent. Great playability, terrible pickup. I do enjoy modding these though, and the final result is usually quite nice as well :)

[@FoamSquatch]

@@LowEndLobster I went ahead and got a G&L Kiloton tribute series and love it. Has the features I liked about my sub ray with superior hardware.

[@LowEndLobster]

@@FoamSquatch Nice! I was eyeing those, specifically the "Irish Ale" finish.

[@jaxonvictoria4345]

Just the video I need! I’m looking to upgrade my Ray24CA, but truth be told I don’t think it really needs an upgrade on anything, including the tuners. I do fancy the tone of alnico humbuckers more than ceramic. I’m looking into the Nordstrand MM pickup and this Duncan preamp because of the mid knob. Great stuff as always!

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Jaxon! I have a Ray24 coming in sometime in the next week or so. Excited to see how it compares to both the stock SUB, SD SUB, and my '17 Ray and Ray classic.. Going to throw the classic in the mix to make it 2 band vs 2 band!

[@rmccain99]

Do you know why they stopped making the JH?

[@samlelowitch]

The Sterling sounds very good but I prefer the sound of the USA Stingray. The latter has more richness and balance to my ears.

[@LowEndLobster]

Thanks Sam!

[@rmccain99]

The Duncan preamp would be an upgrade for the USA Ray.