Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,150

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Discover the vintage charm and distinct tone of the Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass, a true relic from the golden era of rock'n'roll. Crafted with a unique Masonite body, this bass stands out not just for its looks but for its resonant sound and comfortable playability. Its short-length neck combines effortlessly with a scale that leans towards full-sized, offering a playing experience that is both easy and expressive. Perfect for bassists who cherish retro aesthetics and sonic characteristics, the Shorthorn Bass is a nod to the past with its eyes firmly set on the future of music.

Key Features:

  • Unique Masonite body for a distinct vintage tone
  • Comfortable short-length neck with a nearly full-sized scale for effortless playability
  • Ideal for players who value a blend of retro aesthetics and modern performance
  • A piece of rock'n'roll history, produced between 1958 and 1966

Product specs

Brand Danelectro
Model Shorthorn Bass 3412
Finish Copper
Year 1960s
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Gold
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 15
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What is the scale length of the Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass?

The Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass features a short scale length, which is typically around 29.75 inches. This contributes to its unique tonal characteristics and playability.

What type of pickups does the Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass have?

The Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass is equipped with passive pickups, known for delivering a warm, vintage tone that suits a variety of music styles.

Is the Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass's short scale and lightweight design make it a comfortable option for beginners, offering ease of playability and a distinctive sound.

What is the body shape of the Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass?

The Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass features a double cutaway body shape, allowing for easy access to higher frets and contributing to its classic aesthetic.

How many frets does the Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass have?

The Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass comes with 15 frets, which is typical for short-scale basses and influences its playability and tone range.

Lawman Guitars

Lawman Guitars

Used Guitars Sale - 1962 Danelectro Shorthorn Bass 3412 Copper Lipstick Pickup

Video thumbnail for Used Guitars Sale - 1962 Danelectro Shorthorn Bass 3412 Copper Lipstick Pickup by Lawman Guitars

Used Guitars Sale - 1962 Danelectro Shorthorn Bass 3412 Copper Lipstick Pickup

Lawman Guitars

Lawman Guitars

Video thumbnail for Ed's Road Report: Random Sightings - Dano 3412 Shorthorn Bass by Bass Whisperer TV

Ed's Road Report: Random Sightings - Dano 3412 Shorthorn Bass

Bass Whisperer TV

Bass Whisperer TV

Video thumbnail for 1961 Danelectro Shorthorn Copper Bass Model 3412 Short Scale USA Electric by johnnyangel69

1961 Danelectro Shorthorn Copper Bass Model 3412 Short Scale USA Electric

johnnyangel69

johnnyangel69

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass.

Features and functionality

  • The Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass uses the distinctive "lipstick tube" single coil pickup, known for its unique 50s sound.

    Source
  • The distinctive "coke bottle" headstock is a highlight, adding to the bass's vintage aesthetic appeal.

    Source

Build quality

  • Despite its age, a 60s model shows a straight neck after nearly 60 years, indicating sturdy construction.

    Source
  • The art deco styling and unique "coke bottle" headstock are praised for their vintage aesthetic appeal, contributing to its cult following.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate its lightweight design, making it easy to handle during long sessions.

    Source
  • Despite being considered an entry-level instrument, the 60s models are noted for their sturdy construction, with straight necks even after decades.

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  • Owners find the 1960s models surprisingly sturdy, with straight necks after decades, a testament to their durability despite being entry-level instruments.

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Comparisons

  • While not as versatile as other pickups, its sound has a distinct vintage character that appeals to a niche following.

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  • The Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn is compared to entry-level guitars like those sold in Sears catalogs, yet praised for its unique art deco styling and classic vibe.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for recreating classic basslines, providing an authentic 60s vibe.

    Source
  • Ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate vintage aesthetics and are interested in recreating classic basslines from the 50s and 60s.

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  • Enthusiasts are drawn to its ability to authentically recreate 50s basslines, making it ideal for niche vintage sound projects.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Finding original parts may be challenging; reissue model lipstick pickups are available but differ slightly in serial numbers.

    Source
  • The reissued model's lipstick pickups are close in serial number but not identical to the originals, posing a challenge for authentic restoration.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners suggest using a standard wiring diagram for a single coil setup with volume and tone controls when restoring electronics.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Geddy Lee uses Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass

Geddy Lee

Singer, Bassist

Rush

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video on Dee Dee Ramone, a photo of Lee is shown at 5:00, and just behind Lee's head is a Danelectro Shorthorn Bass.

See how Dee Dee Ramone uses Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass

Dee Dee Ramone

Bassist

Ramones

...
Verified via YouTube

Used very early on, purchased from Manny’s 23rd January 1974 the same day Johnny purchased his blue Mosrite. Can be heard on the 915 Demo sessions and at a couple of early CBGB Gigs.

See how Richard Hell uses Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass

Richard Hell

Singer, Bassist

Television

...
Verified via Photo

He used this bass in the early days of Television and The Heartbreakers.

See how Pete Quaife uses Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass

Pete Quaife

Bassist

The Kinks

...
Verified via YouTube

From 1:05 in this lip-synced performance of "Sunny Afternoon" on Top of the Pops, 1966, Pete Quaife is seen playing a short scale Danelectro Shorthorn bass.

Dave Davies remembers: "It sounded great, but had no bottom end. It was a very twangy sounding instrument— like a bass version of the banjo—and it was only good for certain things."

See how Vinyl Williams uses Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass

Vinyl Williams

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Vinyl Williams is seen using a Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass, as evidenced by a user-uploaded photo.

See how Alex St. Clair uses Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass

Alex St. Clair

Guitarist

Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band

...
Verified via Photo

Alex St. Clair can be seen here playing a Danelectro Shorthorn bass.

Album Usage

The Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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