Sterling by Music Man

collapse expand iconDescription

The Sterling SB14 passive bass brings back the retro vibe and versatility of the original Music Man Sterling model in a slick 4-string package. With its Alnico V parallel humbucker, this bass delivers the warmth and dynamic responsiveness coveted in vintage instruments. Easily shape your tone with the intuitive dual volume and tone controls, complemented by open-gear tuners that provide increased tuning stability. This is the perfect choice for bassists who love the retro aesthetics and stripped-down functionality of a passive bass, but still want the flexibility to dial in sounds for any genre. Don't let its simplicity fool you—the SB14 can pack quite a versatile punch.

Alnico V Parallel Humbucker Provides Vintage-Style Tone

At the heart of the SB14's versatile sound is an Alnico V parallel humbucker that conjures up the warmth and dynamics of vintage instruments. The parallel coil configuration provides enhanced output and reduced noise compared to traditional single-coil designs. You'll get balanced and reliable tone across genres, from smooth, round lows to crisp, articulate highs. The passive electronics ensure your playing dynamics directly impact the feel and response. Dig in for more growl or play lightly for a smoother attack. The Alnico V parallel humbucker gives you vintage character with modern reliability.

Shape Your Sound With Intuitive Dual Controls

It's easy to dial in your perfect tone with the SB14's straightforward control set. The single volume knob lets you go from a whisper quiet rhythm part to a roaring overdriven solo. Use the lone tone knob to shape the EQ from deep, booming lows to bright, cutting highs. Find the sweet spot for your playing style or tweak as needed for different songs and genres. Whether you want a muscular rock tone or a Motown-inspired thump, the SB14 puts responsive tone shaping at your fingertips.

Stay in Tune With Open-Gear Tuners

The SB14's open-gear tuners provide enhanced tuning accuracy and stability compared to traditional enclosed tuners. The exposed mechanism allows the gear ratio to be optimized for precision tuning and greater string tension control. Tuning fluctuations caused by playing dynamics are minimized. Combined with the smooth 34" scale neck, you can count on the SB14 holding tune through even the most aggressive performances. The tuners' retro look perfectly matches the SB14's old school vibe as well.

Versatile Tone in a Retro-Inspired Package

Don't let its simplicity fool you—the SB14 delivers exceptional versatility despite its straightforward design. The smooth neck and slim-profile body make it easy and comfortable to play fast lines or lock into a groove for hours. Lightweight and well balanced, you can effortlessly sling it on stage or in the studio. Beyond classic rock and Motown, the SB14 excels at modern genres too, from indie to metal. Its versatile sound, playability and retro vibe make the SB14 a working musician's dream bass.

Sterling by Music Man Sterling SB14 Passive Bass Guitar Natural
Sterling by Music Man Sterling SB14 Passive Bass Guitar Natural
Sterling by Music Man Sterling SB14 Passive Bass Guitar Natural

collapse expand iconFeatures

  • Alnico V parallel humbucker for vintage-style warmth and responsiveness
  • Hard maple neck and fingerboard
  • 34" scale length
  • 22 medium frets
  • One volume and one tone control for simple tone shaping
  • Open-gear tuners for tuning stability
  • 6-bolt neck attachment
  • Swamp ash body
  • White pickguard
warning

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Nickel (Metallic), which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

collapse expand iconSpecs

Neck
  • Wood: Hard maple
  • Radius: 9.5"
  • Width: 1.5" at nut
  • Neck attachment: 6 bolts
  • Scale length: 34"
  • Truss rod: Dual-action
Pickups
  • Configuration: H-1
  • Type: Ceramic humbucker
  • Controls: 2-band active preamp
Fretboard
  • Material: Hard maple
  • Fret size: Medium
  • Number of frets: 22
  • Fret markers: Black dot markers
  • Pickguard: White
Body
  • Body wood: Swamp ash
Hardware
  • Bridge: Fixed bridge
  • Tuning machines: Open gear