OLP MM5 "STINGRAY" FIVER
£225
Nottingham

petecarlton · Wednesday at 14:03

Very handsome OLP MM5 five-string natural-finish passive Stingray-alike (some dispute online as to whether these were licensed by Ernie Ball Music Man or simply that the headstock shape was).

It’s in pretty good nick (see pix for some very minor dings and wear, especially top of headstock) and definitely does the Ray thing, from clank to warm P-bassish. These were generally considereed at least as good as - if not better than - the first Sterling S.U.B. entry-level Stingrays that were around five years ago.

I bought it a couple of years ago to experiment with fivers and, though I had none of the common issues with the transition from four to five strings, I’ve really had no need for the B, so it seems to be a bit wasted on my wall. I’ve got a Sterling Joe Dart Signature one-knob to scratch my passive Stingray itch anyway (and I’m really loving it!). If I feel the need to drop from low E, I’ll possibly add a Drop D tuner.

String spacing at the bridge is a rather tight, but still very playable, 17mm. Nut width is 44mm. The neck finish is shiny. I suppose it’s gloss, but not at all sticky. Weight is a comfortable, but not lightweight, 4.5 Kg (9lb 14oz), there’s no neck dive and it’s fine on strap or lap.

Currently wearing Rotosound 77 Jazz Bass flats (the bass – not me!), which were about £50 new. I’ll hang on to them and replace the original Ernie Ball Slinkys (I think that’s what they are, anyway). Alternatively, I’ll leave the flats on for another £30 and include the rounds in the sale.

Similarly, it’s currently sporting Schaller S-lock strap buttons. I’ll restore the original buttons or, if you wish, leave the Schallers on (with associated strap mountings) for another £15 and enclose the originals. So:

Bass with original strings and strap buttons: £225

Bass plus flats: £255

Bass plus Schaller S-locks: £240

Bass plus flats and Schaller S-locks: £270

Clear (as mud)!