The new Sterling by Music Man DarkRay with Darkglass Distortion onboard features two of the drive circuits. This new affordable version could be just what the bass community needs.
DarkRay with Darkglass Distortion
This new budget-friendly Sterling by Music Man DarkRay follows on from the original EBMM version.
EBMM vs Sterling
The original EBMM DarkRay is now available in both 4-string and 5-string variations, plus a range of finishes from Graphite Stone to Starry Night.
Blacked-Out
The Sterling DarkRay comes as a 4-string in a black finish. However, we could potentially see new configurations in the future. I like the blacked-out aesthetic, which includes the pickguard and hardware.
Alpha & Omega
The DarkRay has two blendable distortion circuits called Alpha and Omega.
Darkglass describes the Alpha circuit as “punchy, tight, and with lots of definition” and the Omega as “brutal and raw.”
Players can switch between either circuit using an LED ring and a 3-way selector switch. This is paired with a custom 2-band Active Preamp section with controls for Vol, Gain, Blend, Treble, and Bass.
H – 1 Alnico
The DarkRay includes an H – 1 Alnico humbucking pickup in the bridge position. The 3-way Lever Distortion Selector offers Preamp Only, Preamp+Alpha Distortion, or Preamp+Omega Distortion.
It has a 34″ scale length roasted maple neck with a 9.5″ radius ebony fretboard fitted with 21 medium frets. The neck is attached by a meatysix-bolt plate and should be super stable.
It also has the comfort-contoured StingRay body style made from Nyatoh and comes with the trademark Sterling 3+1 headstock configuration. The hardware includes a classic Sterling by Music Man-designed bridge and a set of open-gear tuners, which should be more than up to the job.
This model also comes with a Deluxe Sterling by Music Man Bag to keep it safe between sessions.
Verdict
Overall, this is one cool-looking bass and I think the new much lower price point will make it appealing to a lot of bass players. The dual Darkglass distortion circuits will certainly give it an edge for some players, and it could be a winner at this price.
MSRP – $1399.99
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