Bass Gear Review

Reviewer	Todd Menard
Experience	7 1/2
Email	spazimoto@msn.com
Review date	June 17 2002
Manufacturer	Ernie Ball (2000 model)
Model	Sterling
Price	$1100.00
Item owned for	1-2 years

Bass type	4 string fretted
Neck join	Bolt-On
Neck construction	maple
Fingerboard	maple
Body	Swamp Ash
Finish	Translucent Green w/ black pearloid pick guard
Pickups	Musicman Humbucking
Hardware	chrome / schaller strap locks
Electronics	Musicman phantom coil

After having my 1998 EB Sterling, I decided to get another. I wanted a backup guitar that was the same as my primary instrument. I thought my new 2000 Sterling was going to be my new primary bass, but that didn't happen. While Ernie ball still makes great basses, I feel that their previous year Sterlings were made with a little more care and attention to detail than year 2000 to present. I bought mine WITHOUT the matching painted headstock. I feel the matching headstock looks like crap. Plus, when you but one with the painted headstock, they also gloss over the back of the neck. This takes away from the natural feel. The neck on my 2000 was a little smoother than my 1998 model, and the 2000 also had a nicer looking piece of wood for the neck. The body was nice with its UGLY snot puke green finish, which is my favorite part of this bass. Ironically, EB doesn't offer this color anymore. This bass is a little more difficult to play than my 1998 version, but still has that famous sound. However, tapping doesn't register as well on the higher frets compared to my 1998. I feel that's not EB's fault. All guitars, no matter how similar, still play differently. The worst part about this bass, is that the neck heel plate is no longer inlayed at the joint of the bass. It's just mounted on top of the back's surface just like a Fender (that's called cutting costs). I do love Sterlings, but I feel, that if you're looking to purchase, go with an older one.

Construction	85%
(Bring back the inlayed neck heel plate)
Appearance	98%
(Very impressive look for an Ernie Ball)
Playability	95%
(good bass to play)
Sound	90%
(Famous EB sound)
Customer Service	75%
Value	95%
Overall	90%